The New Mote Aquarium Opens in Downtown Sarasota in Late 2025

Mote Marine Laboratory is building a new public aquarium in downtown Sarasota, scheduled to open in the fall of 2025. The facility will be located at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, on the grounds of the existing Mote facility near Sarasota Bay. This is a separate venue from the current Mote Aquarium at Island Park, which will remain open during construction and after the new building launches.

The new aquarium will focus on interactive exhibits about Florida's marine ecosystems, with particular emphasis on sea turtles, sharks, and coral restoration. Mote Marine Laboratory is a working research institution, so the new public space will showcase both education and the organization's ongoing conservation work in the Gulf of Mexico and beyond.

Key Takeaways

  • The new Mote Aquarium is expected to open in fall 2025 at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway in downtown Sarasota.
  • The current Mote Aquarium at Island Park will continue operating and is not being replaced by the new location.
  • The new facility will feature interactive exhibits on Florida marine life, sea turtle rehabilitation, and coral restoration research.
  • Mote Marine Laboratory is a research organization, so the aquarium will display both public exhibits and active scientific work.

Location and Parking for the New Facility

The new aquarium sits at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, which is on the southern tip of Sarasota, near the bay and close to Siesta Key. This location puts it near other Sarasota attractions and waterfront areas. Parking details for opening day have not been finalized, but the site is designed as a public destination with vehicle access planned.

The address is on the same grounds where Mote Marine Laboratory's research facilities already operate. If you are familiar with the current Mote location, the new aquarium will be a visible expansion of that campus rather than a completely separate site across town.

What to Expect Inside the New Building

The new aquarium will feature large tank systems with species native to Florida waters and the Gulf of Mexico. Sea turtles are a major focus—Mote runs one of the largest sea turtle rehabilitation programs in the United States, and the new aquarium will display this work. Visitors will see tanks with sharks, rays, and other fish species that live in local waters.

The design includes interactive elements where visitors can learn how marine research happens. Because Mote is a working laboratory, some exhibits will show actual research in progress rather than only static displays. The building itself is being constructed to meet modern aquarium standards for animal care and visitor experience.

Current Mote Aquarium at Island Park Stays Open

The existing Mote Aquarium at Island Park, located at 1200 Ken Thompson Parkway, will remain open during construction of the new facility and after it opens. You do not have to wait for the new building to visit Mote—the current location continues to operate with its own exhibits and programs.

Both locations will operate independently once the new aquarium launches. Mote has not announced plans to close the Island Park facility, so visitors will have two options in the Sarasota area.

Admission Pricing and Hours (Not Yet Released)

Mote Marine Laboratory has not released admission prices or operating hours for the new aquarium. These details typically become public a few months before opening. You can check the official Mote Marine Laboratory website or contact them directly for the most current information as the fall 2025 opening approaches.

The current Island Park location charges admission, so the new facility will likely follow a similar model, but exact pricing has not been announced. Early announcements often include discounts for members or advance bookings, so watching Mote's official channels will help you plan a visit.

How to Stay Updated on the Opening

Mote Marine Laboratory maintains an official website and social media accounts where opening announcements, ticket information, and exhibit details will be posted. Signing up for their email list or following their social media pages is the most direct way to learn about opening day, special events, and any early-access opportunities.

Local Sarasota news outlets have also covered the aquarium project, so checking regional news sources may provide updates on construction progress and opening preparations. Mote's main phone line can also answer questions about the project timeline.

Why Mote Built a Second Aquarium

Mote Marine Laboratory decided to expand its public-facing facilities to reach more visitors and better showcase its research mission. The new building allows the organization to display more exhibits and accommodate larger crowds than the current Island Park location. It also positions Mote's work more visibly in downtown Sarasota's waterfront area.

The new aquarium is part of Mote's broader effort to connect the public with marine science and conservation. By building a dedicated space for education and research display, Mote can explain why its work matters and how visitors can support marine protection in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the old Mote Aquarium close when the new one opens?

No. Mote has stated that the Island Park location will remain open. Both facilities will operate as separate venues, giving visitors two options in the Sarasota area.

What is the exact opening date in fall 2025?

Mote has announced a fall 2025 target but has not released a specific date. Check the official Mote Marine Laboratory website or contact them directly for updates as the opening approaches.

Can I visit Mote while the new aquarium is being built?

Yes. The current Mote Aquarium at Island Park remains open during construction. You can visit the existing facility without waiting for the new building to launch.

How far is the new aquarium from downtown Sarasota?

The new facility is located at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway on Sarasota's southern waterfront, near Siesta Key. It is a short drive from downtown Sarasota and other bay-area attractions.

Will the new aquarium have the same exhibits as the current one?

The new facility will have its own exhibits and focus areas, though both locations will feature Mote's marine research and local species. Mote has not released a detailed comparison of exhibits between the two sites.