Title: Dolphin Research Center Tours - Book Now | Expedia.com

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# Dolphin Research Center Tours

![Dolphin Research Center showing a statue or sculpture and signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6069241/06098647-0cf2-444a-a5ad-496d92022883.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Dolphin Research Center showing a statue or sculpture and signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6069241/06098647-0cf2-444a-a5ad-496d92022883.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Dolphin Research Center which includes a statue or sculpture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6069241/3b719bf0-74fa-4004-8815-568e0ac942bf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Dolphin Research Center showing signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6069241/563a894a-a12a-4d37-92cf-7adafd4a7678.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Marathon_DolphinResearchCenter-0004](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6069241/597d2546-fb03-4d94-b0c5-e96181232a69.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

## Visit Dolphin Research Center

Activities

Reviews

[Marathon Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Marathon.dx2437)

Private & custom tours

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Tours & day trips

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History & culture

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Classes & workshops

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Water activities

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#### Learn about the playful nature of dolphins before swimming alongside these clever marine mammals at this entertaining research facility.

For more than half a century, Grassy Key has been home to one of the most progressive and dedicated dolphinariums in the United States: the Dolphin Research Center. The facility comprises a series of enclosed lagoons covering more than 2 acres (0.87 hectares). Swim with the dolphins or learn how to communicate with these exceptional creatures as you discover their gentle and playful nature.

The Dolphin Research Center began life as a small vacation attraction when a local fisherman opened an open-air aquarium on the side of the Overseas Highway. In the decades since, the center has undergone many transformations and is today operated by a team of trainers, scientists and environmentalists who strive to build awareness of the plight of dolphins and sea lions.

As one of the most visited attractions in the Florida Keys, the Dolphin Research Center can get very busy during public holidays and weekends. Make a reservation to swim with the dolphins and hold on as you’re pushed through the water. Feel the smooth skin of the dolphins as they nuzzle your hand. During the session you’ll be learning about the hand gestures used by trainers to communicate with the dolphins.

Professional photographs of your experience with the dolphins can be purchased from the Dolphin Research Center, making for a great souvenir. Take your own photographs at the large viewing platforms as you watch the animals play in the shallow end of the lagoons.

Before you leave, make your way across the center to visit the equally playful and cute sea lions. After you’ve dried off, stop by the café for refreshments or a quick meal. The in-house children’s play area will keep your children occupied while you sit back with a sandwich or a coffee.

The Dolphin Research Center is located just off the Overseas Highway on Grassy Key and is best reached by car. Free parking is available on-site. An admission fee applies, and reservations are necessary if you’d like to interact with the dolphins.

## Plan a trip to see Dolphin Research Center

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

![President Hotel Villa](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/11000000/10620000/10612900/10612810/06988314_y.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

### President Hotel Villa

South Beach

$660

per person

Apr 30 - May 5

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Boston (BOS) to Miami (MIA)

8.2/10 Very Good! (997 reviews)

nice location, good room. nice breakfast and evening reception

Reviewed on Feb 22, 2026

![Casablanca Miami Beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/32000000/31660000/31652200/31652150/628e521a_y.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

### Casablanca Miami Beach

North Beach

$2,075

per person

May 18 - May 22

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Boston (BOS) to Miami (MIA)

5.8/10 (311 reviews)

Room was clean and great location beside the beach. Room had kitchette and big fridge, microwave etc. so was great. It was dated and internet didn't work in our room but worked well in the lobby. Great value for money :) happy with it.

Reviewed on Feb 22, 2026

![The Retreat Collection at 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/13000000/12320000/12316600/12316590/dffb9d2c_y.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

### The Retreat Collection at 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach

South Beach

$7,390

per person

May 7 - May 11

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Boston (BOS) to Miami (MIA)

8/10 Very Good! (1 review)

## Reviews of Dolphin Research Center

4.5

Top Destination

5 - Excellent

124

4 - Good

52

3 - Okay

16

2 - Disappointing

1

1 - Terrible

1

### 5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Favorite part of our trip...

### 5/5 - Excellent

R3R

pricey, but remember they are a RESEARCH center and are supporting marine mammals. Great learning experience and amazing adventure to be with the dolphins.

### 5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Place was informative with various talks and dolphins doing little tricks.

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## Best Lodging Options Near Dolphin Research Center

## Check availability on hotels close to Dolphin Research Center

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 Marathon FL

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 Marathon FL

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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