The Reviews Are In: Mote Aquarium is Tops

Travelers have spoken and Mote Aquarium made the Top 10 list of best U.S. aquariums, so says TripAdvisor, which announced their 2014 Traveler’s Choice awards this week.

The awards honor top travel spots worldwide based on the millions of reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travelers. "Mote is one of our top attractions because it is such an inviting way for families to explore the sea and learn together," said Virginia Haley, President of Visit Sarasota. "It's a special place because it directly connects visitors to marine science research in an entertaining way."

Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews for zoos and aquariums worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period. “For those wanting to see the world's most wondrous creatures, TripAdvisor has named the Travelers' Choice Zoos and Aquariums, as chosen by the community of millions,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. “Travelers can enjoy a fun and educational experience at any of these popular award-winning attractions around the globe.”

Here’s what one happy visitor from the UK had to say: “Every time we visit Sarasota we call in at Mote. It is a great place for all the family. Kids love to see the manatees and dolphins, wife and I check in on Hang Tough, the blind turtle. So much for everyone to see here, and the new attraction “Survivors” is brilliant. Will never forget the flamboyant cuttlefish nor the mantis shrimp…”

Speaking of our newest limited-time exhibit — “Survivors: Beautiful and Extreme Adaptations,” which highlights the unique methods that some animals use to survive and thrive — it will only be open through Sept. 14, so be sure to visit soon!