During World War II, Key West became a vital naval outpost, and the aquarium’s role shifted accordingly. Parts of the facility were repurposed for military use, and tourism all but vanished as travel restrictions and wartime priorities reshaped daily life. Many of the aquarium’s exhibits were dismantled or fell into disrepair during this period

In its early years, the Key West Aquarium showcased a remarkable array of marine species native to the waters of the Florida Keys. Visitors could observe sea turtles, tarpon, groupers, eels, stingrays, and colorful reef fish up close — creatures that many had only seen in books or from the decks of boats. The open-air design allowed sunlight to i

The concept for the Key West Aquarium was championed by local leaders who recognized that the island’s natural environment — particularly its coral reefs and marine biodiversity — could serve as both an educational and tourist attraction. It was envisioned not merely as a facility for entertainment, but as a place that would showcase the wond

Origins in a Changing World In the heart of the Florida Keys, where turquoise waters meet coral reefs and mangrove forests, stands one of the most enduring landmarks of Florida’s maritime history — the Key West Aquarium. Today it is known as one of the oldest aquariums in Florida and a cornerstone of the island’s cultural and environmental h