City of Pompano Beach celebrates opening of unique jellyfish museum bringing a world-class marine attraction to South Florida

Pompano Beach, Florida – Along the shoreline of Pompano Beach, a new attraction is preparing to open its doors—one that promises to immerse visitors in a world that is both mysterious and mesmerizing. City leaders and local officials recently announced the arrival of the Jellyfish Museum, a unique marine destination set to debut in mid-April 2026. With its focus on science, art, and the quiet beauty of ocean life, the museum is expected to become one of the most distinctive attractions in South Florida.

The nearly 10,000-square-foot facility will be located at Jellyfish Museum and will feature more than 6,000 square feet of exhibition space dedicated entirely to jellyfish. City officials say the museum is the only attraction of its kind in the United States. Through a combination of carefully designed displays and educational exhibits, the space will offer visitors an opportunity to observe these ancient marine animals in an environment designed to evoke calm and curiosity.

The official celebration will begin with a grand opening event scheduled for March 27 at 11:00 a.m., followed by the museum opening to the public later that afternoon at 3:00 p.m. Tickets will be required for entry.

Local leaders believe the project represents another step in the city’s effort to grow as a cultural and tourism destination. Mayor Rex Hardin praised the project as both an economic and educational investment for the community.

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“This museum is a shining example of how Pompano Beach is evolving into a premier destination for unique cultural and educational experiences,” said Mayor Rex Hardin. “By bringing such a specialized, world-class attraction to our City, we are not only enhancing our local economy but also providing a landmark that reflects our deep connection to the ocean and our commitment to vibrant, family-friendly growth.”

Behind the project are founders Alex Yanovsky and Yana Yanovsky, entrepreneurs who have previously created successful aquariums and a jellyfish museum in Europe. Their experience in marine exhibitions helped shape the concept now taking form in South Florida.

The couple expressed appreciation for the collaboration with the City of Pompano Beach and the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, whose support played an important role in turning the idea into a reality.

“The support we received from the City of Pompano Beach and the CRA has been instrumental in establishing our business here,” the Yanovskys stated. “Their guidance and resources allowed us to transform our vision into a reality, and we are excited to contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of this beautiful coastal City.”

Inside the museum, visitors will encounter approximately 21 species of jellyfish displayed in custom-built tanks designed specifically for their biological needs. Each exhibit will highlight different life stages of the animals, offering an educational look at how these creatures grow, survive, and interact within marine ecosystems.

Despite their delicate appearance, jellyfish are among the oldest living organisms on Earth. Scientists estimate they have existed for more than 500 million years, surviving massive changes in the planet’s oceans. All jellyfish featured in the museum will come from licensed aquaculture partners who focus on sustainable breeding and responsible marine care.

The idea for the museum began during one of the founders’ earlier aquarium projects. While observing visitors moving through the facility, they noticed something surprising—people consistently lingered at the jellyfish exhibit longer than anywhere else.

That moment sparked a realization. Instead of treating jellyfish as a single attraction inside a larger aquarium, why not build an entire museum dedicated to them?

“Seeing how deeply people connected with the jellyfish inspired us to develop a refined, education-driven concept and bring that experience to South Florida, a region so closely tied to the ocean,” stated Yana. “Jellyfish are some of the most resilient creatures on Earth. While they lack a brain, they maintain a simple nerve net that allows them to respond to their environment. Their movement is mesmerizing, almost meditative, and they play an important role in marine ecosystems.”

The museum will place a strong emphasis on that ecological role. Exhibits will explain how jellyfish contribute to marine food webs and why understanding ocean ecosystems is essential for conservation.

Beyond traditional displays, the museum plans to offer guided tours led by trained educators who will walk visitors through the exhibits while explaining the science behind jellyfish biology and ocean sustainability. Interactive elements will allow guests to explore the fascinating adaptations that have allowed these animals to survive for hundreds of millions of years.

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Designers also aimed to create an atmosphere that feels calm and reflective. With soft lighting and the slow, rhythmic movement of jellyfish drifting through illuminated tanks, the museum experience is intended to be as relaxing as it is educational.

City officials believe the attraction will appeal to families, tourists, and marine enthusiasts alike, while also adding a distinctive cultural element to the city’s growing list of waterfront experiences.

As the opening day approaches, community members and visitors are encouraged to reserve their tickets early. Organizers expect strong interest from those eager to explore this unusual and captivating new addition to South Florida’s coastal attractions.

With its blend of marine science, artistic design, and environmental education, the Jellyfish Museum represents more than just a new tourist destination—it offers a chance for visitors to pause, observe, and reconnect with the quiet wonders of the ocean.