After seven decades as a major South Florida attraction, the Miami Seaquarium is officially closing its doors this weekend – marking the end of a facility long criticised for its treatment of marine animals. The death in 2023 of the park’s only remaining orca, Lolita, sparked renewed calls for the closure of the facility. The Seaquarium has faced years of scrutiny, including animal welfare investigations, bankruptcy filings, and eviction proceedings from Miami-Dade County.
A potential developer has proposed a revamped public destination promising no marine mammals or animal performances. October 12, 2025, is the final day open to the public for the Miami Seaquarium, rather than an absolute cessation of all operations. The remaining 16 bottlenose dolphins will be relocated in the coming months; however, details about their move and that of the other animals remain unclear. The Miami Seaquarium also houses a wide array of marine life, including sea lions, manatees, and various species of fish.
