Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event or your holiday festivities, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has just the right venue to fit your needs.
From mid-size rooms to larger halls to a Chickee Hut that provides a unique outdoor setting with a Southwest Florida feel, our waterfront location showcases everything that is special about Sarasota and her islands.
Each year, millions of visitors travel to Sarasota to enjoy its beautiful beaches and fascinating marine life. Mote is one of Sarasota’s premier attractions, hosting more than 300,000 visitors each year. Our venues offer you and your guests a departure from the ordinary with spectacular animal exhibits and breathtaking views. At Mote, you can have cocktails at the reef, dinner among the sharks, luaus at a tiki hut and rooms with great views. Mote venues are available each day of the week, including weekends. Proceeds generated from rentals support Mote research and public education efforts.
Our Venues
Aquarium Courtyard
Indoor Aquarium Gallery
New Pass Room
The Chickee
WAVE Center
Contact us
Please fill out the form below and we will be happy to assist you. If your question can't be addressed through the form, please reach out to: Annabel Russo; (941) 248-9118; arusso@mote.org
*Ask us about our member and volunteer discounts!
Private Event Software powered by Tripleseat
Unforgettable Weddings
At Mote, your wedding celebration will truly sparkle amid our beautiful waterfront vistas and our Aquarium's vibrant displays of marine life.
- See reviews from brides. Mote has received multiple Couples' Choice Award from WeddingWire:
Did you know that zoos and aquariums are becoming the most popular places for unique wedding experiences? Click here to learn more.
Corporate Events
Looking for a unique venue that is sure to make a splash? Give your employees, clients and colleagues an event they'll never forget, at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium! Whether you're hosting a holiday party, conference, appreciation event, or any other corporate event, our unique venues offer versatile environments to accommodate your needs. Learn more.
Exclusive Caterers
Mote requires that contracting guests select a caterer from the list provided. Our catering partners have been carefully selected to provide exceptional cuisine and outstanding service for your event. Mote's catering partners ensure the highest quality dining experience within any budget range. All venue rentals serving food require a catering staff member to be present on site. Deliveries and drop offs are not allowed. (If you're looking for our preferred vendors, please see the next section below.)
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(941) 388-4441 ext. 511 or 941-302-2883 |
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Preferred Vendors
Mote works with the area’s most reputable event companies to bring your Aquarium event vision to life. For a complete list of professional vendors who are already vetted and in compliance with Mote’s Certificate of Insurance requirements, click the button below. Vendors not on this list may be approved on a case by case basis. For additional recommendations, please contact Mote Event Staff.
Prohibited Items/Activities
The following items are not permitted on Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium grounds for the safety of our animals and guests: weapons or firearms per Florida Statutes Section 790.06(12) {firearms are not allowed at events with alcohol provisions}, or any hazardous items or materials, balloons, plastic straws, food and beverages not provided by approved vendors (water and baby food/formula is allowed), or any other items deemed to be a safety hazard or that may be used to engage in prohibited activities. Smoking and vaping is also prohibited.
