One of the more popular of the many places in the Keys that offer interactive dolphin experiences, the Dolphin Research Center (58901 Overseas Hwy., Grassy Key, 305/289-0002, www.dolphins.org, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. daily, $19.50 adults, $16.50 seniors, $13.50 children, children under 4 free) is also one that’s considerably more forthright in pronouncing its commitment to the health and well-being of the marine mammals in its midst.

While many of the other swim-with-the-dolphins spots are certainly kind to their animals and dedicated to conservation issues, the fact that “research” is part of the name gives visitors some indication as to what the primary focus is; many published scientific papers have originated in research done at the facility, most of which involves ascertaining dolphins’ higher cognitive abilities.

The Dolphin Research Center’s “Trainer for a Day” program ($650) is one of the most, uh, immersive options, with groups limited to four people; guests spend the day interacting with both dolphins and trainers, getting a pretty thorough sense of the relationships that develop between the two.

The “Researcher for a Day” program ($500) puts visitors to work assisting with various projects around the Center, while more straightforward swim, play, meet, and paint with the dolphin experiences range $25–180.