Mote's Marine Science Education & Outreach Center
Visitor information
Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day on the Anna Maria City Pier. Free to visit. Fun and educational for all ages!
Details
Mote's Marine Science Education & Outreach Center brings the wonders beneath the waves to visitors of all ages on the historic Anna Maria City Pier. Visitors will learn about the local marine environment and the research conducted by Mote Marine Laboratory scientists every day.
The concept for the Center grew from Mote’s deep roots in the Anna Maria community, which was a location beloved by Mote’s namesake, Mr. Bill Mote. The Center opened in May 2023 and is one of many expansions to fulfill a key part of Mote’s mission: Translate and transfer marine science as a public service to increase ocean literacy.
Visitors to Mote's new Center will overlook Tampa Bay, have an underwater view of everything happening below the pier and engage with Mote educators and volunteers to learn about this critical coastal habitat.The focal point of the Center will be an interactive touch pool exhibit where guests can literally reach into the water and get in touch with local marine life. A “Draw Alive” station will bring guests’ drawings to life, and a multi-station microscope will bring out their inner scientists. Guests will leave with a new appreciation of mangroves, seagrass beds and the living world directly beneath the City Pier.