Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

If you don't happen to spot any dolphins in the wild, or just want to learn more about some of Florida's marine creatures, you may want to pay a visit to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Though it does feature daily dolphin and sea lion shows, the Gulfarium is no SeaWorld (it doesn't boast large animals or rides). But even with its small size, the park is still a hit with travelers, especially those visiting with children.

When you're not watching dolphins jump through the air, you can learn more about the gators, reptiles, penguins, sea lions and stingrays that call the park home. You can even interact with the dolphins (touch, feed, play and give behavior signals to the animals) and snorkel with the stingrays, if you're willing to hand over a bit more coin for one of the park's Animal Encounters.

Recent visitors recommended spending a few hours here if you're interested in learning more about Florida's marine life; travelers found the staff to be extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Some felt it was a bit of a tourist trap and expensive, but conceded that it's an entertaining place to bring kids, even on rainy days.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located about 6 miles west of downtown Destin. The best way to get there is by car. The park is opens from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily with final admission at 4:30 p.m. Admission for adults ages 13 to 61 costs $23.95; $22.95 for seniors 62 and older; and $15.95 for children between the ages of 3 and 12. Animal encounters cost extra and can be reserved online prior to your visit.