Hi all-
I've been to the aquarium twice--it's a nice day trip, interesting, lots to do. On one side of the street is the aquarium with exhibits, shark feeding, a movie, a few touch tanks and a walk through lab area. Across the street is the hopspital area where they have more animals--sea turtles and dolphins I remember. I haven't done the affiliated boat ride though, sorry.
It's right off of St. Armand's Circle, which is a very nice dining/shopping downtown area on the key. We usually head to the aquarium when it opens, grab a snack while we're there and then go get late lunch in St. Armand's.
HTH!