The biggest attraction here, Snooty the manatee will celebrate her 70th birthday in 2018. Other manatees being rehabbed join her from time to time to star in educational feeding presentations. Manatee exhibits further educate.

The main museum runs too in a natural science vein in a big way with prehistoric animal replications and complex habitat vignettes showcasing flora and fauna of pine uplands, riverine, gulf, and more. And how could the kids resist the fossil feces collection?!

The second floor deals with the Bradenton area’s cultural history and the outdoor courtyard replicates a Spanish chapel and other homages to Hernando de Soto. The all-digital Bishop Planetarium Theater visits the stars and shows IMAX-quality films.

The Museum hosts Family Night the first Saturday of most months with reduced rates after 3 p.m. Discovery Place is a hands-on education center just for kids.

Hours
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 12 noon to 5 p.m. Sunday