Institute For Marine Mammal Studies
The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies is an aquarium and research center in Gulfport dedicated to caring for and studying marine mammals including dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, and reptiles. The facility features large indoor tanks and outdoor pools where animals live, along with areas for daily demonstrations and educational presentations.
The facility was founded many years ago to rescue injured and stranded marine animals while educating the public about their importance. From those early rescue efforts, it has grown into a modern research and education center that continues helping animals in need.
The institute's name reflects its mission to study and care for ocean animals in a hands-on way. Visitors witness dolphins and sea lions living in spacious pools and engaging daily with staff, demonstrating how these creatures thrive under human care and attention.
The site is located on Dolphin Lane in Gulfport and easily walkable from nearby hotels and restaurants. It is open daily to visitors of all ages, so checking show times in advance and dressing for the weather is sensible since some activities take place outdoors.
The institute plays a vital role in rescuing and rehabilitating injured or stranded marine animals, giving them a chance to heal before returning to the wild. Many of the dolphins and sea lions that visitors see are rescue animals with remarkable recovery stories.
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