It’s that time of the year – when the sun starts to feel a little too much like an oven and the air feels like a wet wool blanket.

Yes, it’s almost the good, ol’ summertime here in Florida. That means hot days are here to stay. But just because it’s warm outside doesn’t mean that you have to stay at home in the cool of your air conditioner. There are lots of activities in the Tampa area that were built with comfort in mind during the summer’s heat, from museums and theaters to even indoor playgrounds. There is also one jewel of the sea just a short drive from Westchase – the Florida Aquarium.

The aquarium is nestled on the banks of Hillsborough Bay in the Channelside District. Many miss it unless they are specifically heading down to that area. If you have not been to the aquarium yet, or it has been a while since your last visit, you are in for a treat this summer. There are so many exhibits and activities to spark the wonder of your imagination that you’ll enjoy every minute of it.

The Florida Aquarium focuses on flora and fauna native to the Florida habitat. Highlights include the Florida Wetlands Gallery and the Florida Bays and Beaches Gallery. That, however, is just the beginning. Here is a sampling of some of the other activities and exhibits now playing at the aquarium:

Penguin Promenade

Yes, this is the Florida Aquarium, not the Alaska Aquarium we are talking about. But did you know that penguins also live in Africa? The penguins on parade at the Florida Aquarium are the African Black-Footed Penguin, so the temperatures here make them feel right at home.

During this daily event, your fellow visitors and you become the rope line as the penguins waddle down the red carpet. These little guys aren’t shy – don’t be surprised if they come over for a chat! It’s exciting, even for us adults, and the kids get a big kick out of it! The Penguin Promenade is at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily, but check for show times when you arrive as they may change.

Behind the Scenes Tours

They may seem just like big fish tanks, but there is a lot going on behind the scenes to maintain a living and breathing ecosystem like the one housed at the Florida Aquarium. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to work at an aquarium, or just how they feed their thousands of fish, be sure to check out the Behind the Scenes Tours.

On the tours you’ll see marine staff and volunteers hard at work keeping the aquarium a great learning environment. Tours are held at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily (except for Sunday and Tuesday). The cost is $12 per person for non-members.

Explore a Shore

A place to learn and have fun splashing in the cool water, Explore a Shore is a two-acre water adventure that kids can explore while their parents keep cool in the shade. There is a pirate ship, a racing slide, gushing geysers and even a giant tidal wave that will have the kids hangin’ ten. Plan for your kids to get wet, because the more soaked they become, the more fun they’ll have!

The list of activities goes on and on. For more information on other activities, exhibits, tickets and hours, be sure to check out www.flaaquarium.net or call 273-4000. The Web site also has information about volunteering, another great way to involve the kids.

Enjoy!

Photos courtesy of the Florida Aquarium.