Credit: Isabelle Puaut, FlickrAfter years of controversy, one Florida theme park has officially closed its doors.
Controversy isn’t new to Florida’s theme parks. Disney has faced the repercussions of political battles in recent years, most notably its high-profile clash with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and backlash from temporarily removing late-night host Jimmy Kimmel amid pressure from the Trump administration. Universal is currently tied up in a lawsuit following a guest’s death on its Stardust Racer attraction, while SeaWorld is still shadowed by the Blackfish documentary that exposed its orca practices.
Arguably, Miami Seaquarium has established itself as one of — if not the most — controversial parks in the Sunshine State. The facility has faced repeated federal citations over substandard veterinary care, dilapidated enclosures, and a chronic shortage of qualified staff. In 2024, Miami-Dade County even served the park with an eviction notice, citing numerous violations. Miami Seaquarium continued to operate regardless.
For years, much of the outrage centered on Lolita (also known as Tokitae), the orca who spent decades in isolation in what critics called an inadequate “Whale Bowl” tank.
Her death in 2023, just as plans were underway to relocate her to a sea pen, became a defining moment that many viewed as the ultimate indictment of the park’s long history of mismanagement.
Yet Lolita’s story was only part of the park’s downfall. Financial instability, mounting debts (including approximately $88,000 in unpaid back rent to Miami-Dade County), and the loss of professional accreditations, such as its American Humane Association certification, compounded its problems.
Earlier this year, Miami Seaquarium’s parent company, The Dolphin Company, filed for bankruptcy protection.
Now, Miami Seaquarium has officially closed its doors.
Miami Seaquarium Closes Down For Good
After 70 years of operation – and decades of protests – Sunday (October 12) marked the last day for the South Florida theme park. Animal rights activists celebrated the occasion with a toast outside the park gates.
According to The New York Times, a veterinarian consultancy has been hired to relocate the animals in the coming months. Meanwhile, Miami developer Terra Group has proposed taking over the lease for the spot currently occupied by Miami Seaquarium for $22.5 million. Terra Group plans to create a public bay walk and build a marina, restaurants, and shops.
David Martin, Terra Grou’s chief executive, has also claimed that he would like to include an aquarium free of marine mammals, plus other conservation-related educational offerings.
In September, Miami Seaquarium framed its closure as temporary in an Instagram post. However, the odds of it reopening close to its current form seem slim, with the return of creatures such as dolphins seeming next to impossible.
As announced on September 26, the Company, Miami Seaquarium, received several written offers and verbal expressions of interest to acquire the lease of the Seaquarium. After carefully considering such offers, the Company determined that the offer from Resilient Aquarium LLC, an affiliate of Terra, provided the highest and best offer.
Terra’s proposal contemplates substantial investment in, and renovation of, the Seaquarium to modernize it in a manner that respects the history of the site and is consistent with applicable laws and regulations. In order to begin that modernization process, the final day that guests will be able to visit the park, until the process is complete, will be October 12, 2025.
We thank you for your patronage and support over the years.
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At the time of its closure, the theme park was home to the likes of sea lions, manta rays, flamingos, bamboo sharks, and penguins. Guests also had the option to pay extra for close encounters with select animals, such as swimming with dolphins or interacting with sharks and rays.
In a joint statement shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Raquel Regalado said the deal was a “major step forward” for the county.
The Dolphin Company has announced a new agreement with Terra Group to assume the lease of the Miami Seaquarium, opening a new chapter for this iconic location, the animals in its care, and the people who work and visit there every day. The deal awaits court and Board approval.
The Dolphin Company has announced a new agreement with Terra Group to assume the lease of the Miami Seaquarium, opening a new chapter for this iconic location, the animals in its care, and the people who work and visit there every day. The deal awaits court and Board approval. pic.twitter.com/TWBg6sBZ1O
— Daniella Levine Cava (@MayorDaniella) September 26, 2025
The park described itself as the “premier aquarium in Florida” with “unparalleled experiences for visitors of all ages.” It also made several promising claims about its commitment to conservation and animal care that contradicted its more recent headlines.
“Since 1955, Miami Seaquarium has consistently prioritized conservation and care,” it said. “Our commitment is evident in the dedication of our staff, extensive educational outreach, and initiatives aimed at creating a better world. From beach cleanups to the compassionate care of animals and the education of the next generation, everything we do is centered around the key principles of Conservation and Care. Our rich history reflects a legacy of passion, marked by the tireless dedication of our staff. We are dedicated to continuous improvement, recognizing that these principles not only shape our past but also guide our ongoing mission for a more sustainable world.”
This is the latest Dolphin Company park to close. Gulf World Marine Park was shuttered in May, having also faced public scrutiny over the welfare of its animal residents. Its closure followed the death of a bottlenose dolphin named Samira – the latest in a line of dolphin deaths – and a state raid.
Did you ever visit Miami Seaquarium?