![]() ![]() This is at another location in downtown Clearwater, and there’s a trolley that shuttles visitors back and forth as part of the admission fee. There is also a “behind-the-scenes” exhibition about the making of “A Dolphin Tale” movie. There are really only a few tanks with dolphins, sea otters, turtles, stingrays, and sharks, but they do have some entertaining shows featuring their healthy marine residents knowledgeable staff and volunteers to answer questions and a couple of theaters with interesting documentaries, including one about Winter’s rescue and rehabilitation. (And, if you get an early start and leave around lunchtime, you can spend the rest of the day at Clearwater Beach for unbeatable sand, surf, and sun!) Once you’re inside the aquarium – which looks a lot like it does in the movie because much of the filming was done onsite – you’ll be able to see the animals pretty quickly. Otherwise, go as early as possible in the morning we went when it opened, and by the time we left at around 1:00 p.m., the line was twice as long and the place was packed. You can also buy regular admission tickets online to pick up at “Will Call” and avoid the long entrance line. If you want to wade with one of the dolphins, for example, you should reserve 4-6 months in advance, especially during peak times like Spring Break. There are various hands-on dolphin experiences, plus a “trainer for the day” program (that my 12-year old loved!), but they book up fast. ![]() As soon as you think you’ll be going, go to their web site and figure out what you want to do. At least until the Winter mania dies down, you’ll want to prepare for your visit as far in advance as possible. The CMA’s dedicated staff and volunteers have done a commendable job handling their new-found popularity, but it has not come without growing pains. Essentially that hasn’t changed however, now they’ve got an adorable celebrity on their hands and flocks of fans eager to see her. Before Winter’s courageous tale (no pun intended!) hit the big screen, CMA was an obscure non-profit, rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals. Be prepared, however, for big crowds and not as many animals as you might expect at a regular aquarium. If you’re in Clearwater, be sure to pay a visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) to see Winter, of “A Dolphin Tale” fame, and his friends. ![]()
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