The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium in Sanibel, Florida, is recovering from Hurricane Ian. They’re trying to be better than before with more sea shells and a wider variety of displays in the museum. The new design for The Great Hall of Shells will have almost twice as many shells. Displays will focus on Southwest Florida shells and consist of world-record-sized shells and land and aquatic species specimens. @avasnid Sea shell lady was a diva #sanibelisland #sanibel #seashells ♬ The Girl From Ipanema – Astrud Gilberto The sea shell museum has added environmental education exhibits and children’s and family areas. The new design incorporates activity areas with games, art, and books. The online Southwest Florida Shell Guide includes a searchable database where users can discover the identity of shells within their own collections. Image from Facebook. The living gallery allows visitors to see live mollusks and sea critters. There are aquariums and two large touch pools with various sea life from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredits the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium. Image from Facebook. The sea shell museum began with shell collectors and a dream. Combining their passion for shells with a desire to spread knowledge, they formed the committee that led to the museum. Through static displays and live exhibits, the group is fulfilling its dream to educate visitors on the environmental importance of mollusks. The museum highlights Sanibel Island as one of the best shell-hunting spots in the world. Image from Facebook. Whether you prefer the beautiful static displays, the educational opportunities, or the live touch tank exhibits, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium has adventures for everyone. View the creative genius of artists using shells to create masterpieces or watch a seahorse swim. Please share if you just added it to your bucket list. You can find the source of this story’s featured image here and here. The post The Sanibel Sea Shell Museum Is So Much More Than A Pretty Shell Collection! appeared first on InspireMore.