Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City, FL

Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City, FL is a marine public display facility licensed by the federal government. It was established in 1969. It is the area coordinator for the Marine Mammal Stranding Network. The marine park is also an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquarium.
The facility presents live shows with dolphins, sea lions and tropical birds. There are numerous animal exhibits with creatures such iguanas, penguins, flamingos, sea turtles, otters, alligators and sharks.
Gulf World Marine Park is open daily at 9 am. It's closed for statutory holidays like Thanksgiving. The facility is also closed from November 25 to Christmas day, and reopens the day after Christmas.

General admission is $24 plus tax for adults and $15 plus tax for children five to 11. Children under four are admitted for free. General admission includes viewing the animals, a visit to the Tropical Gardens, and the Sting Ray Petting Zoo.

Gulf World Marine Park offers special programs like Swim with a Dolphin, Dolphin Day Camp, Trainer for a Day, and Snooze with the Sea Life for groups only.

During peak summer season visitors can pay $150 to swim beside a dolphin. The price includes general park admission. Reservations are required. Children are permitted to do this special activity if they are five years old and older.

Dolphin Day camp is a one-day event for children eight to 13. They get to participate in training sessions, learn how to prepare food for animals, and learn fun facts about marine life. Campers also get a Gulf World Marine Park T-shirt. Cost is $65 for a day that starts at 8:30 am and ends at 3 pm.

Trainer for a Day costs $199 plus tax and Snooze with the Sea Life is $45 per child.