Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a year-long series of events and special programming that begins this month.
- The marine park first opened Aug. 14, 1955, making it one of the world’s original oceanariums. Since then, it has evolved into what they describe as a modern hub for marine education, rescue and engagement along the Emerald Coast.
“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate 70 years of inspiring connections between people and marine life,” said Patrick Berry, CEO at the Gulfarium. “This milestone is not just about our past—it’s about our future. We’re looking forward to a year filled with community celebration, conservation, and meaningful moments with our animals and guests.”
The anniversary celebration officially launched in August and will continue throughout the year with special events and programming. From Aug. 10-17, the park is offering reduced pricing on annual memberships during an anniversary membership sale. On Aug. 16-17, guests of all ages can visit the park for $19.55, a price that references the year the Gulfarium opened.
- Additional members-only events and community engagement programs are planned, with more details to be announced.
The anniversary comes after significant recent expansions at the facility. In 2023, the Gulfarium opened Dolphin Oasis, a $24 million expansion featuring new habitats and enhanced guest experiences. The park also added Manatee Cove, a $3.5 million habitat developed in partnership with the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership that provides long-term care for rescued manatees.
One notable resident of Manatee Cove is Romeo, described as the oldest known manatee in human care at over 70 years old.
The park has also expanded its conservation efforts through the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center, which has operated since 2015. The center has rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of endangered sea turtles along the Gulf Coast.
Park officials say the facility has remained focused on its mission to educate, entertain and inspire visitors throughout its seven-decade history.
More information about upcoming anniversary events and merchandise is available at www.gulfarium.com.
