Gulf World Marine Park

The new owners of Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach recently invested nearly $1 million in upgrades, renovations and new construction. Established in 1969, Gulf World is licensed by the federal government as a marine mammal display facility. It serves as the area coordinator for the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Network and is an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. It also is a source of family fun in the form of dolphin shows, magic shows, concerts, exhibits and more.

Visit the indoor tropical rainforest and see the colorful birds. View the live penguins, sting ray and sea lion exhibits. Have lunch at the outdoor grill dining area. Enjoy the nightly laser light show, or have a personal dolphin encounter. You can also go to the park website to print a coupon for $3 off general admission for up to five people.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. from the last week of May until the first week in September; open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. the rest of the year. (Suggested entry by 12:30 p.m. to see all of the shows.) Admission: $24 for adults; $15 for children ages 5 to 11; children under 4 are free.

>>Read about the park's award-winning magician Noah Wells<<

>>Meet Sandy, the dolphin matriarch of Gulf World, and see video and photos<<