Located on the over-water walkway approaching the Pier head, the Discovery Center presents all you need to know about Tampa Bay’s unique ecosystem in a way that’s entertaining and hands-on. The indoor Exhibit Gallery features an Estuary Habitat that showcases a variety of species found in local waters. Visitors can also experience interactive displays, video presentations, a touch tank and docent-led tours.
Adjacent to the exhibit gallery is a state-of-the-art classroom that accommodates school field trips and programs for students of all ages. But the Discovery Center is not strictly an indoor experience. The “wet classroom” offers larger outdoor demonstrations and lectures. It’s bordered by walkways and railings, and includes an amphitheater-style observation deck.
Coming soon, a new “floating classroom” — a certified catamaran Eco-Vessel — will be launched, adding on-the-water tour options right from the Discovery Center dock.
The Discovery Center is a significant new addition to the education and conservation efforts of Tampa Bay Watch, and is integral to the advancement of our mission. The facility allows us to vastly expand our reach to local, national and international visitors.
A nonprofit organization founded in 1993, Tampa Bay Watch leads habitat restoration and protection activities throughout the year. Thousands of volunteers contribute their time to help the bay recover from its environmental challenges and to ensure its long-term health.
People of all ages — as part of community groups, schools and other organizations — participate in salt marsh plantings, storm drain markings, oyster bar creation, coastal cleanups and wildlife protection. This collective effort amounts to environmental stewardship in its purest form.
The goal of the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is to advance environmental stewardship by engaging, informing and inspiring visitors with our success story about the recovery of Tampa Bay.
By becoming a member, you provide direct support to our programs and mission.
