Sarasota’s Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is undergoing a transformation, and if you’ve been following its journey, there’s plenty to be excited about in 2025.
Mote Marine Laboratory has been an important part of Sarasota for many years, but now it’s getting a brand-new home. The new Mote SEA is under construction at Nathan Benderson Park, a well-known location near The Mall at UTC and Interstate 75.
This massive new aquarium is set to open in early 2025, possibly in March. Once completed, it will be one of the most impressive marine research and education centers in Florida.
This new center is designed to be much larger and more interactive than the current facility. It spreads over 110,000 square feet of space, almost doubling the size of the current facility. Also, there’s a $130 million budget assigned to the project.
Mote SEA will house 1 million gallons of animal habitats, featuring brand-new exhibits, three stories of hands-on teaching labs, onsite diving programs, larger-than-life murals, and interactive ocean demonstrations.
Mote SEA will feature:
- A stunning 400,000-gallon tank showcasing a Gulf of Mexico habitat, complete with sharks, rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
- Three STEM teaching laboratories, where nearly 70,000 students from Sarasota and Manatee counties will receive free hands-on marine science education.
- Interactive technology and educational displays make learning fun and engaging.
- A biomedical lab, where students can explore topics like marine medicine and conservation genetics.
- Family Day passes to 24,000 Title 1 schools each year, free of charge.
The aquarium is expected to bring in over 700,000 visitors annually, and of course, this will make it a key player in Sarasota’s tourism and environmental education efforts.
What’s Happening with the Original Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium?
While the focus has largely shifted to the upcoming Mote SEA, the existing Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium on City Island remains fully operational. This facility will continue to function primarily as a research center, housing some of Mote’s most significant marine science programs.
The original aquarium, which has served the community for decades, will still be an essential part of Mote’s ecosystem, particularly for marine animal rehabilitation and research.
What Else Is Happening in Sarasota?
The opening of the new Mote SEA is just one part of Sarasota’s growth in 2025. The city is also welcoming numerous new developments, including:
- An 825-square-foot flight observation deck at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
- The highly anticipated 20th anniversary of Savor Sarasota
- The launch of the luxurious St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, which features an 18-acre beachfront property, spa facilities, pools, cabanas, and a 350,000-gallon lagoon filled with nearly 50 rays and over 2,800 fish from 40 different species.
Also, Sarasota’s Legacy Trail, a 20-mile cycling and walking path, is receiving upgrades, including new overpass crossings for improved pedestrian safety.
Meanwhile, a brand-new sports park complex is under development at 17th Street Regional Park. This facility is expected to include state-of-the-art women’s softball fields, cage tunnels, and multipurpose turf fields.
Now’s the Time to Visit the Mote Marine Aquarium!
If you’ve been thinking about visiting Sarasota, now is the perfect time to explore one of its most fascinating attractions. Right now, you have the chance to experience Mote in its current form, before it transforms into something even more groundbreaking.
Think of it as witnessing history in the making, seeing the aquarium as it stands today, and returning later to marvel at its evolution.
Of course, a trip to Sarasota isn’t complete without the perfect place to stay, and that’s why you need Jennette Properties to help you find a luxurious waterfront home or any other type of property you’re looking to rent close to Mote Marine and Sarasota’s world-famous beaches. Make your visit now, and make it unforgettable with Jennette Properties. Contact us today!
