The End of an Era: Reflecting on 70 Years of the Miami Seaquarium

After seventy years of operation, the Miami Seaquarium will close to the public this weekend, ending its long tenure as a South Florida attraction. October 12, 2025, is the final day the Miami Seaquarium will be open to the public.

The closure follows years of controversy and scrutiny over animal welfare at the Virginia Key location. Despite some visitors expressing satisfaction with their experiences, many were unaware of the criticism and concerns that have surrounded the facility for years, especially after the death of Lolita the orca in 2023.

Animal welfare advocates, including PETA, have been vocal in their criticism, and are publicly supporting the closure. Emily Lively, PETA’s legal counsel and marine mammal specialist, called for the remaining animals to be relocated to seaside sanctuaries rather than other Dolphin Company-owned venues.

The Seaquarium’s management has not addressed questions regarding its recent eviction proceedings from Miami-Dade County or its bankruptcy filings. They have also not released any details about the transition plans for the animals currently housed at the facility, which include bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, manatees, and various fish species.

A potential new developer has indicated plans to maintain an aquarium on the site, but without marine mammals or animal performances. Their stated vision is to create a publicly accessible, family-friendly destination that appeals to both residents and tourists.

In the coming months, the remaining 16 bottlenose dolphins and other animals will be relocated, though specifics remain unclear.

The closure marks the end of an era for the Miami Seaquarium, a facility that has been both a major tourist draw and a focal point of ongoing animal welfare debates.