After seven decades in operation, the Miami Seaquarium will permanently close its doors this weekend, the facility announced Monday.

The closure follows years of controversy surrounding the care of marine animals at the Virginia Key attraction. While some visitors on Monday said their experience was enjoyable, many were unaware of the facility's troubled legacy.

"He got splashed and the dolphin talked to him—that was fun," said Josie Ventiniglia, a visitor from out of town. "From what I saw, they seemed like they took care of them and the animals seemed really happy."

But animal welfare advocates, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), have long criticized the Seaquarium's treatment of marine life, most notably following the death of Lolita the killer whale.

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