The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Long Beach, California, and for good reason. With over 11,000 animals from more than 500 species, it’s an underwater wonderland that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your visit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best things to do at the Aquarium of the Pacific, from exhibits to interactive experiences to behind-the-scenes tours.
Exhibits and Galleries
The Aquarium of the Pacific is home to a variety of exhibits and galleries that showcase the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. From the shallow waters of the kelp forests to the deep-sea creatures of the abyssal zone, each exhibit is designed to educate and entertain visitors.
The Southern California/Baja Gallery
This exhibit features a variety of marine animals that can be found in the waters off the coast of Southern California and Baja, Mexico. Highlights include a large tank filled with sharks, rays, and sea turtles, as well as a touch pool where visitors can get up close and personal with marine animals like sea stars and anemones.
The Kelp Forest
This exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in marine life. The kelp forest is a large tank filled with giant kelp, a type of seaweed that can grow up to 100 feet tall. The tank is home to a variety of fish, invertebrates, and even a few sharks and rays.
The Tropical Pacific Gallery
This exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, featuring a variety of marine animals from the coral reefs of Hawaii to the rainforests of the South Pacific. Highlights include a large tank filled with colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a few sharks.
The Shark Encounter
This exhibit is a thrilling experience for anyone who loves sharks. The Shark Encounter features a large tank filled with a variety of shark species, including hammerheads, tiger sharks, and even a few great whites. Visitors can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures through a large viewing window.
The Northern Pacific Gallery
This exhibit features a variety of marine animals from the cold waters of the Northern Pacific Ocean, including sea otters, harbor seals, and even a few species of fish that can be found in the icy waters of Alaska. (See Also: How Often Do Aquarium Snails Reproduce? Surprising Facts Revealed)
The Sea Otter Habitat
This exhibit is a must-see for anyone who loves sea otters. The Sea Otter Habitat features a large tank filled with these adorable creatures, as well as a variety of other marine animals like sea urchins and anemones. Visitors can get up close and personal with the sea otters through a large viewing window.
Interactive Experiences
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of interactive experiences that allow visitors to get hands-on with marine life. From touch pools to behind-the-scenes tours, there’s something for everyone.
Touch Pools
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers several touch pools throughout the facility, where visitors can get up close and personal with marine animals like sea stars, anemones, and even a few species of fish. The touch pools are a great way to learn about the marine animals and get a sense of their texture and movement.
The Behind-the-Scenes Tour
This tour takes visitors behind the scenes of the Aquarium of the Pacific, where they can see the marine animals up close and learn about the daily operations of the aquarium. The tour includes a visit to the animal hospital, where visitors can see the aquarium’s veterinarians and animal care staff at work.
The Shark Encounter Interactive Experience
This interactive experience takes visitors on a journey through the Shark Encounter exhibit, where they can learn about the different species of sharks and even get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. The experience includes a visit to the shark touch pool, where visitors can touch and learn about the different species of sharks.
Special Events and Programs
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, from lectures and workshops to behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. (See Also: Where Is the Monterey Bay Aquarium? Discover Its Beauty)
Lectures and Workshops
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of lectures and workshops throughout the year, covering topics like marine biology, conservation, and even shark behavior. The lectures and workshops are a great way to learn about the marine animals and get a deeper understanding of the aquarium’s mission and goals.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of behind-the-scenes tours throughout the year, including tours of the animal hospital, the shark touch pool, and even the aquarium’s state-of-the-art life support systems. The tours are a great way to learn about the daily operations of the aquarium and get a closer look at the marine animals.
Animal Encounters
The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of animal encounters throughout the year, from sea otter feedings to shark feedings and even animal encounters with the aquarium’s resident sea turtles. The animal encounters are a great way to get up close and personal with the marine animals and learn about their behavior and habitat.
Recap
In conclusion, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves marine life. With its diverse exhibits, interactive experiences, and special events and programs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a marine biology enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience for the whole family, the Aquarium of the Pacific is the perfect destination.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific?
The best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific is during the week, when it is less crowded. If you can, try to avoid visiting during peak summer months, when the aquarium is busiest.
What is the cost of admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific?
The cost of admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific varies depending on the time of year and the type of ticket you purchase. General admission tickets start at around $30 for adults and $20 for children, while premium tickets that include behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters start at around $50 for adults and $30 for children. (See Also: What Temperature Should a Freshwater Aquarium be? For Optimal Fish Health)
Is the Aquarium of the Pacific wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Aquarium of the Pacific is wheelchair accessible. The aquarium has ramps and elevators throughout the facility, making it easy for visitors with mobility impairments to get around. The aquarium also offers wheelchair and stroller rentals for visitors who need them.
Can I bring my pet to the Aquarium of the Pacific?
No, pets are not allowed at the Aquarium of the Pacific, with the exception of service animals. The aquarium is a public facility and has strict rules against bringing pets, to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and the visitors.
What is the Aquarium of the Pacific’s policy on photography?
The Aquarium of the Pacific allows visitors to take photographs for personal use, but does not allow commercial photography or videography without permission. Visitors are also not allowed to use flash photography or tripods, to avoid disturbing the marine animals and other visitors.