VIRGINIA KEY, Fla. — The Miami Seaquarium officially closed on Sunday, ending a decades-long chapter marked by public controversy, protests, and animal welfare concerns.

For activists like Susan Hargreaves, who has been pushing for its closure since 1986, the moment was a long-overdue victory.

“The fact is speaking up works. Protesting works,” she said. “Don’t teach your kids to be animal abusers.”

Outside the gates, protesters with the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals stopped cars and urged visitors to reconsider entering on the Seaquarium’s final day.

“Animals want to be free just like you,” one protester shouted.

The Seaquarium, operated by The Dolphin Company, had faced mounting pressure after repeated federal violations and the controversial death of Lolita, the orca who died shortly before plans to move her to a sanctuary could be realized. The company later filed for bankruptcy.

Now, Terra— a local developer —plans to redevelop the site as an aquarium without marine mammals. Still, PETA says the remaining animals should be moved to sanctuaries or released into the wild.

“These animals have been suffering for far too long,” said Amanda Brody, PETA campaign manager.

While many activists welcomed the closure, some longtime visitors said they were sad to see it go.

“That’s how kids learn, too,” said Karen Slusser, who grew up visiting the park and later brought her children.

Media were not allowed inside on its final day, but outside, protesters made it clear: the Seaquarium’s era is over — and they don’t want it coming back.

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