ZooTampa Opens Florida Waters Exhibit Featuring Manatee Rescue Center and Native Species

ZooTampa at Lowry Park unveiled its Florida Waters expansion on March 19. This marks the biggest growth in zoo history. Visitors at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. can now witness manatee rescue operations, river otters, stingrays, reptiles, and jellies spread across several habitats.

According to That's So Tampa, the Straz Family Manatee Rescue anchors everything. It's the David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center — what the facility claims is the world's largest nonprofit center built for this purpose.

A mangrove walk-through tunnel winds through the expansion. Aquariums recreate Florida's freshwater springs, saltwater, and brackish water ecosystems. Guests watch live veterinary procedures. Staff members work on sick, injured, and orphaned manatees while people observe.

Otter Oasis gives above-and-below-water views. River otters swim and play from different vantage points.

Reptile and Amphibian Discovery spotlights native Florida species. This space shows visitors how the zoo protects local wildlife.

Stingray Shores lets guests feed stingrays by hand. Want more? In-water encounters can be booked.

The new ZT Saves Conservation Gift Shop sits beside the animal habitats. It connects to the facility's mission: teaching visitors about protecting local wildlife.

The preview opening hit during spring break programming. Extended hours run throughout the season.

Florida Waters links guests with aquatic wildlife through hands-on elements built for families. The area demonstrates the zoo's manatee rescue and native species protection work.

Naturalistic designs mimic local ecosystems throughout the expansion. Guests witness how the zoo rehabilitates animals and then returns them to wild habitats where they belong.