The Dawn of a New Era: Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) Opens October 8 in Sarasota

Sarasota is about to make waves. On October 8, 2025, the much-anticipated Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) opens to the public—ushering in a new chapter both for marine science education and for the community at large. Located at 225 University Town Center Drive, at Nathan Benderson Park, this state-of-the-art facility not only replaces the former City Island aquarium; it expands what the Mote mission can achieve in ocean literacy, research, and immersive experience.

What is Mote SEA?

Mote SEA is more than an aquarium. It’s a world-class, 146,000-square-foot facility, built on 12 acres, designed to be a hub for marine science research, education, and public engagement.

Here are some of the standout features:

• Galleries and exhibits that bring you face-to-face with coastal, reef, and ocean ecosystems. From Florida Waters to Indo-Pacific exhibits, expect vibrant biodiversity under one roof.

• STEM teaching labs – three immersive labs for K-12 students, offered free to public schools in Sarasota, Manatee, and nearby counties. These labs cover topics like ocean engineering, immunology, biomedical science, and microbiology.

• Workforce development labs geared toward high school, undergraduate, and graduate students – offering professional-level research experience in aquaculture, fisheries, and other marine science sectors.

• Venue rentals & event spaces: Picture beautiful aquatic vistas for weddings or corporate functions, not to mention a café (“Bite Café”) and stations for coffees, snacks, gelato.

  
  

Why It Matters: Impact on Education, Conservation & the Community

Mote SEA isn’t just about awe and photo opportunities—though there will be plenty of those. Its broader impact is significant:

1. Expanding access to marine science education: Over 70,000 K-12 students are expected to benefit annually, free of charge. These programs aim to reach more diverse audiences, including underrepresented schools across Sarasota and Manatee counties.

2. Strengthening Mote’s research mission: The facility is built to integrate scientific work with public understanding. Laboratories, exhibits, and research spaces blend to allow visitors to witness science in action—and even participate.

3. Boosting tourism & local economy: With its prime location near University Town Center and Interstate-75, Mote SEA is poised to attract visitors from far beyond Sarasota. The facility’s construction cost (~$130–132 million) was supported by tourism tax funding and private donations, underscoring its regional importance.

4. Modernizing the Mote experience: The original City Island aquarium closed on July 6, 2025 to allow the animals to move and adapt, and to enable the transition. The new facility provides upgraded habitats, expanded space, and improved visitor experience.

   
   

What You Need to Know Before You Visit

To make the most of your trip, here are logistics and tips for visiting Mote SEA:

Detail	Information
Opening to Public	October 8, 2025. Members get early access/pre-views October 6-7.
Location & Hours	225 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL 34243. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ticketing	Timed-entry tickets. Plan ahead; weekends & holidays likely to sell out. Members get free admission (with reservation).
Pricing	Approximately $34 for adults; around $26 for youth (3-12). Children under 3 are free.
Amenities	Onsite café, mobile food & gelato stations, water refill stations, accessibility features, sensory-friendly accommodations.
Parking & Access	Free guest parking on west side; drop-off loop and directions from I-75 available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mote SEA replacing the old Mote Aquarium? Yes. The original City Island facility has closed to visitors (July 6, 2025) as part of the transition. Animal habitats have been relocated, and once SEA opens, the new facility becomes the public face of Mote’s aquarium & educational outreach.

Do I need to be a member to visit? No. General admission entry is available to all with timed tickets. However, members get perks: free admission, early access for previews, and reserved slots.

How long should I plan to visit? To enjoy all the galleries, labs, and amenities without rushing, plan for 1.5 to 3 hours depending on interest levels (kids, science exhibits, etc.).

Final Thoughts

Mote SEA represents a bold investment in the future, of education, conservation, and community engagement. For Sarasota and surrounding regions, this isn’t just another aquarium—it’s a gathering place where visitors will learn, be inspired, and gain a deeper understanding of the oceans that connect us all.

Whether you're planning a family outing, school field trip, or just looking for something enriching to do on a weekend, mark your calendar for October 8, 2025. The new Mote SEA is ready to show you science isn’t just something you learn—it’s something you can live.