Yes, Mermaids Do Exist. See for Yourself at The Florida Aquarium

Here's your chance to see the legendary sea creatures that have haunted sailors for centuries. 

The Florida Aquarium, 702 Channelside Dr., Tampa, now has mermaids on exhibit.

OK, maybe they aren't actually women with fish tails in lieu of legs but they're the closest thing to it. 

The aquarium has recruited three young women divers who suit up in fishtail costumes and pose underwater for visitors. 

Dressed in sequined bustiers and iridescent fish tails, "mermaids" Erin, Lauren and Katie swim, wave and frolic as aquarium guests gawk and take photographs through the glass.

The mermaids are part of the aquarium's "Summer Fun Nights," taking place June 27, July 11, 18 and 25, and Aug. 1 and 8. On those nights the aquarium has extended its hours to 8 p.m. 

The best part is the cost. Visitors can enjoy $15 admission after 4 p.m. on Summer Fun Nights. 

It's a great place to escape the summer heat while getting up close and personal with marine life from all over the world.

Visitors can take a stroll along the expanded Wetlands Trail to see Florida's wildlife, touch rays and sharks at the  new Stingray Beach and see a performance by The Florida Aquarium Mermaids at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. 

Don’t forget to bring the kids’ swimsuits so they can splash away in Explore A Shore, the aquarium's outdoor water adventure zone. 

Café Ray and the Caribbean Cantina will be open and serving dinner.  And visitors can enjoy family-friendly live entertainment outside by the bay.

In addition, the aquarium's Wild Dolphin Boat Cruise will be available on Summer Fun Nights departing at 6:30 p.m. Go to www.flaquarium.org to purchase tickets for the Summer Fun Night Wild Dolphin Cruise.

For more information, call 813-273-4000 or visit www.flaquarium.org.