In Marathon, Florida, the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters is an interactive marine park opened in 2014, offering hands-on experiences with tropical sea life. At 11710 Overseas Highway, it features guided tours through coral reef tanks, stingray touch pools, and predator lagoons with sharks and groupers. Unique encounters include snorkeling in a 200,000-gallon reef tank ($95) or feeding stingrays ($50), with educational talks on conservation. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., admission is $25 for adults, $20 for children 4-12, free under 4. Reviews average 4.5 stars, lauding interactive fun and staff expertise. For Keys beach vacations, it complements Sombrero Beach’s sands—snorkel tanks after ocean swims or learn about reefs post-shelling. Its location near diving sites enhances eco-adventures. As a family-friendly attraction, it transforms coastal trips into marine discoveries, blending education and excitement in Florida’s turquoise paradise. (158 words)
