Open 11 am - 4 pm
Exhibits
Exhibits & Experiences at Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter
Welcome to a world of wonders under the sea… and in the air! Explore 20+ exhibits full of magical aquatic creatures, rescued birds, and hands-on interactions. Whether you're fascinated by tiny sea stars or want to pet stingrays, we’ve got something unforgettable for everyone.
Over 20 exhibits of aquatic wonders, rescued birds, and hands-on interactions — just minutes from Crystal River.
Come explore our magical underwater world and vibrant aviary, where learning and fun go hand-in-hand.
Macaws — Rescued & hybrid macaws who love to show off their colors, chatter, and pose for photos. READ MORE ABOUT OUR MACAWS...
Conservation & Care
We believe visitors learn best when they feel connected. We care deeply about:
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Rescue, rehousing, and breeding programs.
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Enrichment and welfare for every animal in our care.
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Educating guests about local ecosystems like estuaries, springs, reefs.
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Inspiring respect for wildlife and the environments that sustain them.
Interactive & Touch Experiences
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Tide Pool Findings Touch Tank — Wash your hands, then gently pet sea stars, sea urchins, and other echinoderms. READ MORE ABOUT OUR TIDE POOL...
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Ray Bay — (Again) Feed the rays, touch them after washing hands, and learn how we care for them (all de-barbed, etc.). READ MORE ABOUT RAY BAY...
Florida River Wonders — A serene tank with gar fish, tortoises, and lush aquatic plant life, reminiscent of the springs around Crystal River.
Ray Bay Touch Tank — Feed and gently touch friendly rays. See species like Atlantic, cownose, bluespotted, and bat rays in a safe, interactive touch tank. READ MORE ABOUT RAY BAY...
Epaulette & Bamboo Sharks Tank — Low to the ground, awesome for all ages. Hide among the coral formations and see if you can spot a mermaid purse! READ MORE ABOUT OUR SHARKS...
Tide Pool Findings Touch Tank — Wash your hands, then gently pet sea stars, sea urchins, and other echinoderms. READ MORE ABOUT OUR TIDE POOL...
Russian Tortoise — Meet Poe — our slow-moving shell friend who knows how to relax under his heat lamp.
360° Tank — Hermit crabs, scallops, sea stars, shrimp — and that thrilling moment when you enter the splash zone.
Two-Spot Octopus — Meet Octavia: color changer, shy, playful, hiding among kelp (and sometimes stealing hats?).
