Travel bucket list idea:
Swim with dolphins, Dolphin Research Center, Florida
Grassy Key, Florida, United States of America (USA)
Last updated: 31 July, 2025
Located on the scenic waterfront of Grassy Key in the Florida Keys, the Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is a nonprofit education and research facility that has operated since 1984. Set around natural seawater lagoons, it offers visitors the chance to observe and interact with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in a tranquil, respectful environment.
There are a variety of programmes on offer to suiot all ages and mobilities, including shallow-water encounters, swim sessions, and interactive research experiences.
Unlike many commercial marine parks, DRC’s mission is rooted in marine mammal research, education, and rescue. Dolphins are not released into the wild, as they would not survive independently. The centre has a quiet setting, a strong conservation ethos, and a deep respect for its animals. If you can’t and/or prefer not to do a wild dolphin swim, this is one of the best places in the world to swim with captive ones.
Logistics
Price from: £170
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 3+
When: All year around
Duration: 1 hour
Getting there & doing it
The Center is located on Grassy Key, about a 2-hour drive south of Miami on the Overseas Highway. The best way to get there is by rental car; parking is available on-site.
Programmes start with a land-based meet and greet for very young kids and the less mobile. Swimming experiences and trainer-for-a-day are for kids aged 5 and up.
The whole experience takes around an hour, including preparation. You’ll spend around 20-25 minutes in the water for the swimming experience.
When to do it
It’s open daily, all year round. The ideal time to do it is between November and April, when the Florida Keys enjoy mild, dry weather. The heat and humidity of summer can make outdoor activities more taxing, especially for families with young children.
