Marine Science Center — Attraction in Ponce Inlet

I Love getting to go here everytime we go to Florida. My favorite part of the Marine Science Center, is getting to pet the Stingrays. A few of the rays, Gracie, Chip, and Pancake, were extremely excited to interact with the people at the touch tank. They kept popping their heads out of the water, begging to get pet! It was adorable! If you look by the front desk, where you buy your tickets, they have a list of when all of the feeding times and/or talks will be for that day. Listed are the feeding times for the different animals in the separate tanks. They intentionally schedule them at alternating times. That way, you don't have to miss out on anything. For example: There was a talk about the variety of sea turtles they have rescued and one's they are currently rehabilitating to hopefully release back into the ocean someday. The next thing we saw, were the Seahorses getting fed as the staff members gave us interesting facts about them. But they were also encouraging anyone to ask any questions that they had at the time. Then there was a short wait before they did the next talking and feeding event for the Stingrays. This small break allowed people time to look around at some of the other tanks, and read the information cards about all the different animals that they have in each one. The only real downside this time, was that in the out door bird rescue section, some of the birds were in quarantine for the avian flu. So unfortunately we didn't get to see nearly as many birds this time. But these things do happen, and they needed to do what was best for the animals and the visitors to keep everyone safe! All in all, it is a super fun and highly educational place to spend a few hours, especially if you have kids! The staff are also all very well informed about the animals, extremely helpful, and just lovely, kind people. I had a minor medical emergency occur while we were there. (I have a heart condition) So when my service dog alerted me to my extremely low blood pressure and pulse, I had to lay down with my feet up, so that I didn't pass out (and unfortunately, this can look kinda funny and/or concerning). We did what we needed to do to take care of it, but while it was happening, the staff frequently asked if I was ok or if there was anything they could do to help and I greatly appreciated that. They definitely deserve each and every one of those five stars! For their conservation and rehabilitation efforts, and their ability to educate people on how to help and how to advocate for the needs of all of...

Not much going on. The lady that checked me in was just going to send me on my way after I purchased my way in, I had to ask for proof that I bought a ticket because she didn't give me anything, no ticket or receipt or anything. So then she gave me a stamp on my arm that was almost invisible, I asked for a second coat and after that it still looked like I had gotten the stamp yesterday, slept on it, then returned today. AFTER purchasing my ticket she told me the sea turtles are not there due to construction or something. I can't complain too much since the price was only $5. But I truly wouldn't even feel it was worth that. The exhibit was so small and there wasn't hardly anything to do or look at (which at a science center I'd expect a little more hands-on things). The bird sanctuary was a very short walk. Beautiful birds- but it ended quickly like everything else. The stingrays might've been a nice touch but the associates were so strict and naggy that it ruined the experience. I ended up feeling so ridiculed that I left the stingray pool before I even got to touch one. My husband used to work at Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, MO and their stingray pool is so much better and more friendly and enjoyable. You get plenty of sweet moments with the stingrays of all ages and sizes. So I guess I might just not be used to such a small and strict version of the experience. Aside from one lady talking about the stingrays there weren't other teachings or demonstrations going on so it was just very disappointing. Again it was only $5 and kids are $2-$4 so it might be good for a quick and affordable stop for families with kids that might enjoy it a little. On the brighter side the ladies in the gift shop were very friendly and helpful and we did enjoy ourselves there. My family and I decided to view our ticket prices as donations for the rehabilitation of the animals because the center itself didn't seem worth it. But we're happy to contribute to the rehab they do for...

This was our second visit to the Marine Science Center. The center did not disappoint. Educational, informative and hands-on experiences give each visitor a chance to see just how invaluable the Center is. The sting ray and aquatic reef touch tanks are fun and amusing. Getting to touch a cownose ray, starfish, and other interesting sea life make the guests feel like a marine scientist. After exploring the inside of the museum head outside to the turtle hospital area. Guests can overlook seven turtle hospital pools from the Turtle Terrace. These pools house sick and injured sea turtles, hatchlings, and washbacks under rehabilitation. Majestic turtles are healing and recovering in clean observation pools. Now change it up and go bird watching. This bird rehabilitation facility is fully equipped to care and treat injured and sick birds. Upon full recovery, a healthy bird will be released into its natural habitat. Some birds become ambassadors for their species and are a part of education programs and the guest viewing area of the Marine Science Center. Finally, take a walk on the nature trail to the observation tower. Thanks to facilities like the Marine Science Center our wildlife has a...