The Aquarium of the Pacific is a public aquarium for adults and children of all ages where they can become one with some of nature's most amazing aquatic animals. Located on Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach, California, the Aquarium of the Pacific is home to more than 500 species of Pacific Ocean marine animals and birds in various-sized exhibits. The Aquarium of the Pacific also plays host to several local cultural events each year including the Pacific Islander Festival and the African Heritage Festival.
Best and worst time to go to Aquarium of the Pacific
Like many Southern California attractions, the Aquarium of the Pacific can get quite crowded on weekends, holidays and from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Weekdays during the school year are a great time to visit because there are minimal crowds, which allow users a more intimate look at the exhibits. If you do decide to visit on a weekend, it's best to arrive before 10 a.m. and leave by 2 p.m.
Must see/do at Aquarium of the Pacific
Aquarium of the Pacific houses 19 major habitats, 32 focus exhibits and an amazing schedule of activities throughout the year. The "June Keyes Penguin Habitat" allows guests to get up-close with more than a dozen Magellanic penguins. The exhibit is a beach and rocky area similar to a penguin's natural habitat, complete with nesting areas and a pool for swimming. The "Jellies" exhibit is an intriguing collection of sea jellies including films, programs and more. Finally, get an underwater look at the "BP Sea Otter Habitat" and watch them swim, interact and live in their busy world.
Admission to Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is open every day of the year except Christmas and during the Grand Prix of Long Beach. Tickets are reasonably priced for a Southern California tourist attraction with discounts for children and seniors; however, if you plan on visiting often throughout the year, a membership is more economical. Guests can also receive discounts on admission to nearby Long Beach attractions by purchasing them with the aquarium admission. Behind-the-scene tours as well as admission to 3D films inside the aquarium's theaters are extra.
Parking at Aquarium of the Pacific
Guests can park in the paid parking structure on the water side of Shoreline Drive between Aquarium Way and Chestnut Place. Overnight parking is not allowed, and credit cards are accepted. Overflow parking is available at the Pike Parking Structure.
Public Transportation to Aquarium of the Pacific
Long Beach Transit's Free Passport bus serves the Aquarium of the Pacific and the nearby Queen Mary. Customers can board along Pine Avenue with departures every eight to 12 minutes.
Food at Aquarium of the Pacific
While food is not allowed throughout the aquarium, guests can visit Cafe Scuba for a snack or meal. It offers daily specials, as well as classic cafe foods such as hamburgers, hot dogs, fries and more. There is also a small snack bar on the first floor that sells coffee, soda and light treats. Tables are on the front grass areas for families who wish to picnic at the aquarium.
Insider tip for visitors to Aquarium of the Pacific
On various occasions, the Aquarium of the Pacific is open with extended hours. Admission is less, and the crowds are fewer. This is a great time to go if you only plan on spending three hours or less at the aquarium. It's also very cool to see some of the animals in the moonlight.
Author's bio: Mary Beth Adomaitis is a freelance writer from Southern California. She loves to visit exciting and new places with her family. In the summer of 2014, she drove cross-country from California to Ohio, visiting 14 states in two weeks.