After years of controversy, one Florida theme park has officially closed its doors.
The decision brings an end to a facility that had operated for seven decades on Virginia Key in Miami. In recent years, the park faced mounting scrutiny from federal regulators, animal welfare advocates, and county officials, who cited problems ranging from veterinary care to the condition of its aging enclosures.
The closure also comes amid broader challenges for its parent operator, The Dolphin Company, which sought bankruptcy protection earlier this year and also closed another park, Gulf World Marine Park.
A Park Defined by Controversy
Arguably, Miami Seaquarium has established itself as one of — if not the most — controversial parks in the Sunshine State. Over the years, federal agencies cited it for substandard conditions, and Miami-Dade County served an eviction notice in 2024. Despite these actions, the park continued to operate.
For decades, much of the criticism focused on Lolita, also known as Tokitae. The orca lived for more than 50 years in what activists called an inadequate “Whale Bowl.” Her death in 2023, just as plans were underway to relocate her to a sea pen, became a defining moment for the park’s critics.
Financial pressures added to the difficulties. By 2025, the Seaquarium faced approximately $88,000 in unpaid back rent and had lost accreditations, including its American Humane Association certification.
What Happens Next?
Sunday, October 12, marked the park’s last day of operation. Outside the gates, activists gathered to mark the end of a long-running campaign.
“As announced on September 26, the Company, Miami Seaquarium, received several written offers and verbal expressions of interest to acquire the lease of the Seaquarium,” the park said in a statement on Instagram. “After carefully considering such offers, the Company determined that the offer from Resilient Aquarium LLC, an affiliate of Terra, provided the highest and best offer.”
Miami-based Terra Group has agreed to take over the lease with a $22.5 million proposal. According to the company, plans include a public bay walk, marina, shops, and restaurants. Chief executive David Martin has also stated he would like to create an aquarium without marine mammals and expand conservation-related educational programs.
The New York Times reported that a veterinary consultancy has been hired to relocate the remaining animals, including sea lions, penguins, manta rays, flamingos, bamboo sharks, and others.
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Raquel Regalado called the deal a “major step forward” in a joint statement shared on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The Dolphin Company has announced a new agreement with Terra Group to assume the lease of the Miami Seaquarium, opening a new chapter for this iconic location, the animals in its care, and the people who work and visit there every day. The deal awaits court and Board approval.
The Dolphin Company has announced a new agreement with Terra Group to assume the lease of the Miami Seaquarium, opening a new chapter for this iconic location, the animals in its care, and the people who work and visit there every day. The deal awaits court and Board approval. pic.twitter.com/TWBg6sBZ1O
— Daniella Levine Cava (@MayorDaniella) September 26, 2025
The Seaquarium described itself as Florida’s “premier aquarium” and claimed, “Since 1955, Miami Seaquarium has consistently prioritized conservation and care… From beach cleanups to the compassionate care of animals and the education of the next generation, everything we do is centered around the key principles of Conservation and Care.”
Did you ever visit Miami Seaquarium? Share your thoughts on the park's closure!
