Cox Science Center & Aquarium

Cox Science Center and Aquarium combines a general science museum with Aquariums of the Atlantic, a dedicated gallery exploring freshwater and saltwater environments. The aquarium presents marine life through habitats associated with Florida's coral reefs, mangroves, Everglades, Gulf Stream, and open ocean, while also introducing some species from elsewhere. Its approach places individual animals within broader ecological and scientific themes rather than treating the aquarium as a standalone collection.

The 3,000 square foot aquarium gallery includes sharks, stingrays, moray eels, seahorses, schooling fish, invertebrates, and reptiles. Exhibits explore subjects such as shipwrecks, hidden marine creatures, coral ecosystems, mangroves, and turtles, with additional hands-on opportunities involving invertebrates and baby alligators. The surrounding science center adds interactive exhibits, outdoor science experiences, and other educational spaces, making the aquarium part of a broader science-focused visit. It is particularly suited to travelers who want marine wildlife combined with hands-on science rather than an aquarium visit centered solely on animal viewing.