Group Visit
Plan Your Group Visit
Dolphin Research Center is the ideal stop for group tours visiting the Florida Keys. Located at mile marker 59, DRC is home to a pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions that live in a natural lagoon setting in the Gulf of Mexico. DRC’s location right off of the Overseas Highway makes it easily accessible to travelers.
To get a sense of all DRC offers guests, tour operators are welcome to schedule a guided visit of the facility prior to bringing their groups. To make arrangements, please contact Susan at susan@dolphins.org or call 305-289-1121 ext 239, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., eastern time.
Group Visit FAQ
We ask that you contact Susan at susan@dolphins.org or 305-289-1121 ext 239. Reservations can be made a week in advance.
Groups of twenty or more are offered a discounted general admission rate payable by one credit card to ensure quick processing for your group.
*Free admission for tour operators and bus drivers when accompanying groups
DRC does not require a deposit. However, a final head count must be provided 24 hours prior to arrival.
Anchor’s Café is conveniently located on the DRC grounds. Breakfast, lunch, beverages, snacks, and ice cream are available for purchase. There is also a locally-owned restaurant next door. If your group prefers lunch during their visit with us, let us know when you book your tour.
The group rate includes general admission to the facility. Visitors take a self guided tour of the grounds and watch fun-filled, exciting, narrated behavior sessions and educational presentations. There are activities going on every half an hour and a Sprayground for kids of all ages. Stay for an hour or the entire day if you like.
If anyone in your party is interested in participating in an interactive program, we will do our best to accommodate them with one week prior notice. We can also tailor a narrated session to the interests of your guests, such as requesting a research or medical demonstration. Participating in an interactive program is best achieved when you have a couple of hours to spend with us.
Yes. There are pavers throughout the grounds that extend from the Gift Shop to the end of the causeway to ensure that everyone can easily travel through the facility. We also have wheelchairs available for those needing a little extra help, or to make their visit more enjoyable.
There is no fee to park. Visitors can easily disembark in front of the Gift Shop and a staff member will direct the bus driver to the bus parking area.
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Ready to Visit?
We rely on guest visits, participation in our programs, and donations to care for our animals, learn more in research, educate about conservation, help injured manatees and more.