Page 152 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2020

LEISURE
Discover a World
of Natural Wonders
story by Lynn Lofton photos by James Edward Bates
The long awaited opening of Mississippi Aquarium took place late last month amid fanfare and excitement. Situated on 5.8 acres in downtown Gulfport, the attraction has 80,000 square feet of exhibits and promises to be an asset to Coast tourism.
President and CEO Kurt Allen said at the time of the opening that he was excited, nervous and proud. “I am extremely excited to be part of this incredible, transformational project. The Aquarium is something of which all Mississippians can be proud. The Aquarium would not be where it is today without the dedication of an incredible staff. I’m proud of each and every crew member.”
Allen points out that visitors to the Aquarium can come multiple times over several months and see different things, including resident animals, experiences and educational programs. “Mississippi Aquarium is a brand new facility and with that comes the excitement of the ongoing acquisition process for new animals,” he said. “Guests are sure to experience something new with each visit; whether it’s a new bird species or a new fish. We are constantly welcoming new residents.”
Additionally, Allen says guests can look forward to featured experiences that will be rolled out and get a
closer look into the exhibits to experience and help the staff care for the animals. “Guest and animal interaction is taken to the next level through Sea Trek, a helmet diving experience in which guests fully immerse into the main Aquatic Wonders habitat where they get up close and personal with fish, sharks, rays and much more,” he said.
Dolphin and penguin experiences will be available for
152 | September 2020
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