The Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea LabImagine, if you will, a place where you can learn about four key habitats of Coastal Alabama: the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, the barrier islands, and the northern Gulf of Mexico. A place where you can touch a stingray and see more than 100 coastal species.

The Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) is just such a place. Dauphin Island Sea Lab was founded in 1971 by the Alabama legislature to provide marine science programs for many of the state’s colleges and universities. Today, this has expanded to include K-12 education, professional development and the public aquarium, all using Mobile Bay – the fourth largest estuary system in the United States – as its educational base.

The aquarium is open to the public seven days a week. Check the website for the current hours of operation. A free Boardwalk Talk program is held twice monthly, giving the public an opportunity to engage with the experts at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab.

Inside the 10,000-square-foot exhibit hall, you’ll enjoy visiting 31 aquariums and learning about the plants, animals and other natural resources found in the estuary and its nearby habitats.

When looking for a beautiful and unique place to arrange a corporate function, wedding or other event, you’ll be drawn to the spectacular views of Mobile Bay in the outdoor area, and the inside galleries that seat up to 150 guests.