If you’ve ever needed a reason to love Florida even more, here it is — Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach has officially been named one of the top 10 free attractions in America by USA Today.
And just in time: manatee season kicks off again on November 1.
Where Warm Water Meets Gentle Giants
Every winter, Florida’s beloved sea cows (aka manatees) head toward warmer waters — and Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station delivers just that. The plant uses bay water for cooling, then sends it back out clean and warm. The manatees, naturally, show up like it’s a spa day.
To protect and celebrate these slow-moving icons, Tampa Electric built the Manatee Viewing Center, now a state and federally designated sanctuary where you can see hundreds of manatees gathered together in one peaceful spot.
A Record-Breaking Season
Last year, the Viewing Center hit an impressive milestone — 1,100 manatees showed up at once. That shattered the previous record of 850 and proved just how magical a cold Florida winter can be.
“This season has been consistently chilly, which has allowed us to see more manatees at one time than ever before,” said Stan Kroh, manager of Land and Stewardship Programs for Tampa Electric. “We’re proud to be such a coveted destination – and a showcase for Tampa Electric’s commitment to environmental stewardship.”
That commitment clearly resonates — in 2023 alone, nearly half a million visitors came to the 50-acre site. Since opening in 1986, more than 7.4 million people have experienced the center.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 6990 Dickman Rd., Apollo Beach, FL 33572
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Trails close at 4 p.m.)
Season: November 1 through mid-April
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter
Admission & Parking: 100% free
Bring the kids, the camera, and a bit of patience — because watching these gentle giants glide through the water never gets old.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
Beyond the manatees, the center offers walking trails, educational exhibits, and a 50-foot observation tower with panoramic views of Tampa Bay. You can even spot stingrays, fish, and birds while you’re there.
For locals, it’s a must-do every winter. For visitors, it’s one of the most heartwarming (and wallet-friendly)experiences Florida has to offer.
Ready to See the Manatees?
The Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center reopens November 1 — just in time for cooler weather and manatee cuddles (from a distance, of course).
Learn more or plan your visit at tampaelectric.com/manatee.
