What) The Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is a not-for-profit education and research facility that is home to a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. Over half of our family was born at the Center while the other members either have come to us from other facilities or were collected long ago by other management. In addition to maintaining the best possible environment for the dolphins and sea lions at the Center, we also dedicate ourselves to assisting marine mammals in distress in the surrounding waters of the Keys. To reach as many people as possible, the Center provides a variety of educational programs that allow the public a chance to learn firsthand about the world of the dolphin. (1)

    Always a favorite, our Dolphin Encounter program now offers two options! Enter the exciting world of the dolphins, participating in a playful, structured, interactive program. During a workshop, the trainer will explain what to expect and also show you basic hand signals so that YOU can ask the dolphins for a variety of interactive behaviors during your session. The Deep Water Dolphin Encounter includes the energetic dorsal pull. Cost for either Dolphin Encounter program is $189 per person and includes a full day admission, educational materials and a certificate upon completion of your program. (2)

    Where) 58901 Overseas Highway     Open Mon - Fri from 9am - 5pm    Adults $20   1-305-289-0002

    Why) Pam was seriously considering the $189 experience but for some reason we did not even stop into the center for the $20 visit.  I thought that the least I could do is include some nice dolphin pictures from the internet.