Manatee Viewing Center — Attraction in Riverview

What an amazing experience! I just happened to be in the area for a medical appointment, and decided to drop by. It was my first time visiting the viewing center.

Upon entering (it opens at 10:00am), I was told that manatees were going to be released into the canal that morning. I couldn't believe it. This was my lucky day! Every staff member that I came across was so excited about it. I can totally see why. Apparently it doesn't happen very often.

I ended up staying there for a full 90 minutes. I just had to see every minute of it. It's an experience. I basically walked down through the mangroves on the Tidal Trail to the viewing area just to see all the manatees and fish that were huddled together in front of the power plant. The trail is very organized with boards describing the wildlife that you may encounter. The staff there are so friendly, and eager to answer any questions. It's so educational!

I was just amazed by all the wildlife that I was seeing around me. Before I knew it, it was already time to view the releasing of the manatees. It was the best experience ever. It's something I never thought I'd ever witness. It's so great to see manatees making this sanctuary their home during the winter months. What an awesome place to view them in their own habitat.

So, Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center is seasonal. It opens daily from November 1st through April 15th. Give yourself plenty of time to explore it. There's normally a Rays Touch Tank for kids to interact with the stingrays. That whole area was not available during my visit. The stingrays were relocated due to damage to their habitat caused by the recent hurricanes. I totally missed seeing the observation tower, but I did go back a second time to visit the education building. There weren't as many manatees the second time around. I'm guessing it wasn't cold enough. I was able to visit the sea turtle rehab center while I was there. It's so great that they offer a complimentary shuttle from the overflow parking lot to both the viewing center and the rehab facility. I can't...

Really glad to have made a visit to this unique place. Visited on a Saturday and there was a large crowd, finding a parking spot required extra time, had to park in the overflow parking lot. Once we had our spot, it was a quick walk to the path leading to the viewing center. Before going to the viewing center, we waited for a shuttle to take us first to the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Building. It was a 5 minute ride over, we didn't wait long for the shuttle to pick us up. Seeing the Hawksbill Sea Turtles was a treat. The wait for a shuttle back took a bit longer, but wasn't excessive. Once back to the path to the viewing center, it's a 10 minute walk to the viewing center, the path leading there is flat and an easy walk for anyone in average shape. The viewing center has a snack bar, gift shop, and restrooms, as well as tables to sit and eat. To see the manatees, walk down the boardwalk that takes you through a mangrove. We found the best vantage point for seeing the manatees was directly across from the power plant. We were not disappointed, we saw literally dozens of these gentle, beautiful, creatures. They are easy to spot. Most would pop up out of the water from time to time, and then slip back beneath the surface. Occasionally a Mannatee would leap out of the water and make a splash. Considering there is no charge to see and do any of this, we felt very lucky. This plave is perfect for animal lovers, nature lovers, families, children, people of all ages. Would absolutely visit again. Highly...

We had an amazing experience at the Manatee Viewing Center! Be prepared to do a lot of walking as there are many beautiful walking trails. We pretty much walked the entire property (about 5 miles). There is a shuttle on site if needed. I recommend getting there at opening as the place tends to get crowded and the parking area closest to the entrance fills up fast (there is over flow parking in the back). Definitely put on your walking shoes as the roads are paved with seashells throughout the trails. Maybe even pack some snack if you have toddlers/infants and definitely stay hydrated! Sunscreen is a good idea too.

This is a well maintained property with lots to offer. The viewing pier gets a bit crowded but luckily manatees gather on all sides so everyone has a chance to see them. There is also a fishing pier as you get further into the property. We also visited the Aquarium where they have rescued turtles. There is also an education building that offers lots of FREE brochures/booklets on wildlife and sea life as well as interactive things for the kiddos while in there!

Staff at the gift shop was very helpful and friendly. Restrooms are kept clean and stocked. You have the option to donate and support via CHECK only. I wish this was something I knew ahead of time but I will definitely be ready on the next visit. And get this, the Manatee Viewing Center is FREE to the public!! Overall, I think this is a great place to check out and we will definitely be visiting again at the end...