THE HOBNOB-DESTIN NEWS

15 August, 2010             Destin’s Hippest News Source

............WHAT’S HAPPENING!!..............

A VISIT TO THE GULFARIUM

As I mentioned in a previous article, I’ve recently returned to the beautiful beaches of the Emerald Coast. The once quaint fishing village of Destin has grown up...really grown up! So much has changed but, a lot of things are still the same. Having spent my childhood and teen years in the shadow of New York City, the big joke was that no one I knew ever visited the great museums, the Empire State Building or Bronx Zoo. We just took it for granted that they would always be there and someday we’d get around to visiting. Well, it’s the same here for residents. When was the last time you visited The Track, The Zoo out Navarre way or Big Kahuna’s? How about the Grand Daddy of them all, The Gulfarium?

Having practically raised our kids at The Gulfarium, my wife and I decided to pay this long-time Okaloosa Island landmark a visit. It’s hard to believe that in this age of giant multi-national amusement conglomerates that our own hometown attraction really is hometown owned.  Delilah, the long time dolphin star (36 years old) is still happily performing and I’d swear that she recognized us prior to the show! All the great animals and shows are there plus a few surprises as well and what with the slowdown in tourism, now is the perfect time for us locals to get out and enjoy the show.

As always you’ll be met by a very friendly staff of folks that truly enjoy their work. The lines are short and you’d be helping to support a member of our community. I just learned that every child in the pediatric ward at the hospital receives a free plush dolphin to ease their pains. It’s gestures like this that make you feel good about a business. From the hand painted murals in the lobby, (local talent) to the entertaining shows, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this wonderful hometown attraction. Take my word for it...you’ll have a most memorable experience!

HobNob Dave – Reporter-at-large