Quick Links

Signupform

signupform

Commemorative Walkway Memberships

Commemorative Walkway Membership

Adopt-a-Bird

Adopt-a-Tortoise

Adoption Memberships

Adopt-a-Sea Lion Memberships

Adopt-a-Dolphin Memberships

Adopt-a-Dolphin

Fiscal Year Reports

DNU Interactive Experience

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please note: Last admissions at 2:30 p.m. (Closed on Christmas Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving Day.)

INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES

Dolphin Research Center is located on Grassy Key in the heart of the fabulous Florida Keys. We're a little more than two hours from Miami and about an hour and twenty minutes from Key West. Please take travel time into account when booking your programs!

Bring your family to meet our family of dolphins and sea lions, all of whom live in natural, seawater lagoons in the Gulf of Mexico. Spend a couple of hours or all day, experiencing their personalities in fun-filled, narrated behavior sessions. In between, watch educational presentations, visit the tropical birds, play in the Sprayground or simply enjoy the beautiful, outdoor Florida Keys setting.

The heart of our mission is the welfare of every animal in our family. Whether they are born here, or come from rescue/rehabilitation centers or other facilities, each receives the finest possible care and a safe, healthy, enriching home for life.

Dolphins and sea lions choose to participate in sessions, including interactive programs from the docks or in the water. None are ever forced. Therefore, on any given day, program availability and times may vary based on the needs of the animals.

For the safety and welfare of DRC'S DOLPHIN AND SEA LION FAMILIES.

Please do not bring/use selfie sticks within the facility. Only floatable, waterproof cameras are allowed in in-water interactive program areas. Cell phones or non-floating, non-waterproof cameras are not permitted on underwater program trays, floating docks, or platforms. Drones are not permitted. Thank you for understanding.

We know that many of you travel with your pets. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are always welcome at DRC and can enjoy the grounds with you. However, they are not permitted to go onto boardwalks, floating docks, or in the water. If you want to do one of our fun interactive experiences, your dog must stay with someone from your party who is not doing the program.
We look forward to your visit!

Plan a Programs

General Admission

Open 7 days per week 9.00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Last admissions at 2:30 p.m. Closed on Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day

Get Details

Dolphin Encounter

General Admission Dolphin kiss Dolphin handshake Leave the platform and join a dolphin for a dorsal pull in deep water Guided by your trainer, ask your dolphin for an interactive behavior through a hand signal

Ages

Must be 5 years or older. A paying participating adult (18+Yrs) must accompany a child 5-7 years old.

Duration

30 minutes: Check-in and prepare for the Dolphin Encounter (change clothes, etc.) 20-25 minutes: In-water experience

Get Details

Exclusive Private Dolphin Encounter

Includes a digital photo package of all members of your group; all-day admission; and a one-year membership to DRC for each guest!

Ages

Great for all ages! Children younger than 8 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Duration

30 minutes: Check-in and prepare for the Exclusive Private Dolphin Encounter (change clothes, etc.).15 minutes: Meet with your Marine Mammal Trainer and discuss your goals and requests for your exclusive experience.20-25 minutes: In-water experience

Get Details

Family Dolphin Splash

Includes all-day admission.

Ages

Great for all ages! Children younger than 8 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Duration

30 minutes: Check-in and prepare for the Family Dolphin Splash (change clothes, etc.). 20-25 minutes: In-water on a submerged platform.

Get Details

Memory Maker Meet

Bring home a one-of-a-kind painting for a souvenir and experience you will never forget! Choose two colors and hold a canvas panel while the dolphin artist paints. Collaborate with your new dolphin friend to create a unique 11x14 inch painting. Shake hands and flippers with your new dolphin friend. Feel the smooth texture of a dolphin's skin as they glide under your hand for a back rub.

Ages

1 yr and Up. Children younger than 8 years old must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Duration

30 minutes: Check-in and prepare for the Memory Maker interactive experience (use restroom, etc.). 15 minutes: On a dock with a Marine Mammal Trainer

Get Details