Discover Tampa Bay!

Located on the stunning St. Pete Pier, the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center invites visitors to explore the wonders of our local ecosystem and discover the incredible restoration work of Tampa Bay Watch. Our exhibit gallery features interactive displays, live animals, and a touch tank for hands-on learning. Join us for daily educational programs and exciting wildlife boat tours!

Plan your visit with the information below and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Hours of Operation

The Discovery Center is open 10 AM to 5 PM daily.

July 16, 2026: The Discovery Center will be open 10 AM to 4 PM on July 16, 2026 due to the opening night of our art exhibition, Soul Tides, at 5 PM. Learn more here!

We are closed annually on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Admission Prices

Tickets can be purchased online or at the Discovery Center.

Tampa Bay Watch Members: FREE Adults & Teens (ages 13+): $8.00
Seniors (age 60+): $6.00
Military (with ID): $3.00
Florida Teacher (with ID): $3.00 Children (ages 4-12): $3.00 Children (ages 3 and under): FREE

Get Tickets

Discounted Admission

The Pinellas Public Library Cooperative offers FREE family admission to the Discovery Center through museum passes available at PPLC member libraries.

Through Museums for All, those receiving SNAP benefits can receive discounted admission to the Discovery Center for up to 4 guests by presenting their EBT card and a valid ID.

Splash in with your squad!

Visiting the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is a great activity for groups! A 10% group discount is available when you purchase 10 or more tickets in a single transaction. For more information or to coordinate an advance purchase, please contact guestservices@tampabaywatch.org. 

Getting Here

The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is located on the St. Pete Pier, along the over-water walkway approaching the Pier head.

Our physical address is 700 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.

Parking is available at The Pier’s Pelican Parking Lot on a first-come-first-served basis. For directions and fees, visit the St. Pete Pier website.

The Pier District offers three ADA-compliant trams that run continuously, stopping at the entrance plaza, the Pelican Parking Lot, the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, and the Pier head.

Visitors can also use available on-street parking and nearby parking garages. Those who have parked a considerable distance from our facility should consider using the free St. Petersburg Downtown Looper, a trolley that makes regular stops.

 

Find us on KAYAK

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Not for general admission. Large groups should contact us for advanced ticketing options and programs. Eco-vessel tickets can be purchased in advance.

  • The estuary habitat features a variety of rotating species, including snook, hogfish, parrotfish, trunkfish, cowfish, sheepshead and a wide variety of other fish common to Tampa Bay.

    Our lionfish tank explains the impact of this invasive species.

    Seahorses and pipefish are featured next door to the lionfish tank.

    Our touch tank features smaller species that can be handled or touched.

    We also feature a variety of native and invasive reptiles and amphibians.

  • A variety of programs — for students, adults and families — are offered throughout the year. Please check this page for the latest offerings.

  • Parking for disabled guests with approved handicap access cards is available at The Pier’s Pelican Parking lot (details below) on a first-come, first-served basis.

    The Discovery Center is wheelchair accessible. We can accommodate wheelchairs on our boat-based eco tours upon request.

  • With two-weeks notice, sign language interpreting services can be arranged at no charge. Contact Guest Services at: guestservices@tampabaywatch.org

  • Certified service animals are welcome. They must remain leashed and/or harnessed and under the control of the owner at all times.

  • Parking is available at The Pier’s Pelican Parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis. For directions and fees, visit the St. Pete Pier website.

    The Pier District offers three ADA-compliant trams that run continuously, stopping at the entrance plaza, the Pelican Parking lot, the Tampa Bay Discovery Center and the Pier head. The city’s bike share program will also be available throughout the Pier.

    Visitors can also use available on-street parking and nearby parking garages. Those who have parked a considerable distance from our facility should consider using the free St. Petersburg Downtown Looper, a trolley that makes regular stops.

  • There are a variety of restaurants on the Pier. Downtown St. Pete near the Pier boasts a terrific variety of dining options.

  • For ideas, click here, or ask our front desk team for recommendations!

  • Visit the St. Pete Pier website to find out!

  • Tampa Bay Watch offers several ways that groups and individuals can volunteer their time to restore and conserve the bay. Learn more on our Volunteer page.