- Attraction: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
- Location: 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
- Industry: Museum
- Website: https://www.frostscience.org/
Hammerhead sharks glide overhead while you peer up through a massive 31-foot circular window into their underwater world. Since opening its doors in May 2017, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has redefined what a science museum can be, combining Miami’s only planetarium, aquarium, and science museum into one spectacular 250,000-square-foot campus in downtown Miami’s Museum Park.
This architectural marvel designed by Grimshaw Architects stands as one of only a few institutions worldwide to house both a state-of-the-art planetarium and cutting-edge aquarium under one roof. Located on four acres of beautiful bayfront land overlooking Biscayne Bay, Frost Science offers an immersive experience where visitors journey from the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, all with the Miami skyline as a stunning backdrop.
Aquarium Highlights & Marine Wonders
The Iconic Oculus Experience: The crown jewel of Frost Science is its breathtaking 31-foot circular window at the bottom of the Gulf Stream Aquarium, creating one of the most mesmerizing views in American museums.
You’ll stare up into an underwater world where hammerhead sharks, manta rays, mahi-mahi, and 7,000 shiny bait fish create an Instagram-worthy spectacle that’s unlike anything else.
Three-Level Gulf Stream Aquarium: The stunning 500,000-gallon, cone-shaped aquarium lets you experience marine life from multiple perspectives across three levels.
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Keep Exploring →Start at the Royal Caribbean Vista level where you can peer down into the open water tank as sharks and stingrays cruise the surface with the Miami skyline in the background, then descend through nearly 30 smaller aquariums showcasing everything from colorful damselfish to parrotfish swimming amid coral heads.
Touch Tank Adventures: The Florida Bay Touch Experience allows you to safely pet Atlantic and Southern rays, giving you the chance to interact with some of the ocean’s coolest-looking creatures. You’ll also find opportunities to touch stingrays and get up close with marine life throughout your aquarium journey.
Virtual Gulf Stream: This 55-foot-wide by 10-foot-tall circular screen puts you right in the middle of jellyfish, sharks, and even occasional whales. As you move through and touch the screen, schools of fish and large creatures react to your presence with immersive surround sound, just as they might if you were swimming among them.
Tropical Ecosystems: Explore recreated South Florida ecosystems including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and sandy beaches. The museum’s commitment to conservation shines through exhibits dedicated to Florida’s biodiversity and the ReeFLorida initiative, which works to create a healthy and sustainable future for Florida’s coral reef.
Planetarium & Space Exploration
State-of-the-Art Technology: The Frost Planetarium features one of the most powerful and high-definition systems on the planet, with six 3D-capable projectors displaying 16 million colors through an 8K visual system.
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Discover MoreThe 250-seat auditorium is tilted forward at a 23.5-degree angle, offering viewers a nearly 360-degree virtual experience inside the planetarium’s 67-foot span.
Immersive Space Shows: Whether you’re tumbling through space, exploring the ocean’s depths, or stargazing, the planetarium provides an exciting educational experience.
You’ll hurtle through space, slide down a double helix, or climb aboard an asteroid during these captivating 20-25 minute shows that also serve as a welcomed break from Miami’s heat.
Laser Light Shows: Enjoy electrifying monthly laser light shows featuring mesmerizing visuals set to iconic music from bands like Pink Floyd and Queen, creating a unique fusion of science and entertainment.
Interactive Exhibits & Hands-On Learning
Feathers to the Stars: This thought-provoking exhibit explores how birds evolved to fly and how humans used that evolution to propel ourselves into the sky.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll encounter a 30-foot Yutyrannus huali feathered dinosaur, see life-sized airplanes suspended from the ceiling, and have the chance to land a spaceship on Mars.
MeLab Experience: This interactive laboratory focuses on the human body and health, featuring a dance floor and hands-on exhibits that let you explore everything from the biology of the human mind to the science behind staying healthy. The immersive experiences appeal to both children and adults.
Power of Science: Discover how science pushes the boundaries of possibility through exhibits showcasing past achievements of scientists and researchers while exploring the future of science and innovation.
AI: More Than Human: The museum’s special exhibition explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in modern life through interactive displays, thought-provoking art, and hands-on experiments.
Atmosphere & Design
Architectural Marvel: The museum’s striking design features four interconnected buildings with contrasting shapes that form a sculptural ensemble. The spherical planetarium, cone-shaped aquarium, and modern North and West Wings create an impressive silhouette on Miami’s skyline that’s impossible to miss when driving into downtown.
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Discover MoreIndoor-Outdoor Campus: The open-air campus connects the buildings through courtyards and walkways, allowing you to move between indoor exhibitions and outdoor terraces while enjoying views of both Biscayne Bay and the sparkling city surrounding it. The indoor-outdoor nature reminds you of the natural worlds around you.
Rooftop Experiences: The sixth floor’s rooftop features The Sun Spot solar terrace, where you’ll experience the power of the sun and renewable energy. The rooftop also offers stunning panoramic views of Miami Beach and downtown Miami, making it one of the best vantage points in the city.
Natural Light & Views: Walkways connecting exhibit rooms offer breathtaking views to Biscayne Bay, while native flora fills the landscape throughout the campus. The architecture subtly reminds you of the natural and scientific worlds we engage every day.
Practical Information
Admission Pricing: Explorer tickets start at $29.95 for adults and $24.95 for children ages 4-11, with kids 3 and under entering free. Miami-Dade residents receive a 15% discount, and various discount options exist for seniors, military personnel, first responders, and educators.
Free Access Options: Miami-Dade library cardholders can check out free family passes, and the museum participates in the Blue Star Museums program offering free admission to active military families. First responders, veterans, and educators also receive free admission with proper ID.
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Keep Exploring →Parking & Transportation: Onsite parking costs $18 (members get $7 discount), but the museum is easily accessible via the Metromover’s Museum Park station, Brightline train, and various bus routes. The location next to Pérez Art Museum Miami makes it perfect for a cultural day in Museum Park.
Planning Your Visit: You’ll want to set aside several hours to explore the massive museum fully. Planetarium shows tend to sell out quickly, so booking online in advance is recommended. The museum operates daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and arriving early helps you avoid crowds and get the most from your experience.
Family-Friendly Features: The museum caters to all ages with interactive exhibits specifically designed for children while maintaining educational value for adults. Special programs include summer camps, sensory-friendly events, and hands-on workshops.
Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
📍 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
