Florida Aquarium secures $15 million for expansion that includes state’s first puffin exhibit

Last week, Tampa’s Community Redevelopment Agency approved $15 million in funding to help the Florida Aquarium greatly expand its offerings. This expansion would include a new penguin and sea lion exhibit, in addition to Florida’s only puffin exhibit. The entire redevelopment project will run $45 million, with the aquarium covering $30 million.

The Florida Aquarium is a Tampa gem that draws crowds from across the country. Officials with the venue estimate it generates more than a quarter of a million dollars in economic impact on the region. 6 out of 7 CRA members voted in favor of providing funding to the aquarium. According to Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Gerrman, the last time the venue received city or tax-payer dollars was back in 1997.

Phase I of the project will transform the existing ballroom space in the Mosaic Center into a 3,700- square foot special exhibit hall. Phase II will transport visitors to the rocky coasts and will feature an extraordinary two-level puffin habitat complete with a kelp forest, Atlantic salmon, and other larger fish species.

Multiple viewing windows measuring over 20’ will allow guests to see the numerous nesting sites and deep dive pool of this 45,000-gallon habitat for the beautiful and fun-to-watch birds.

This is all slated for completion in 2026. If you’re looking for something fun to do now at Tampa gem, consider its underwater walking tours.