The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the world’s most renowned aquariums, attracting millions of visitors each year. Located in Monterey, California, it is known for its stunning exhibits featuring marine life from around the globe, including sharks, sea otters, and jellyfish. As one of the top tourist destinations in the region, parking can be a challenge, especially during peak season. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best options for parking at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, including on-site parking, nearby parking lots, and alternative transportation options.
For visitors planning to spend the day at the aquarium, it is essential to know where to park and how to navigate the surrounding area. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. In this article, we will break down the different parking options, including their pros and cons, prices, and accessibility features. We will also provide tips on how to make the most of your visit and make the most of your time at the aquarium.
On-Site Parking at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers on-site parking for visitors, which is conveniently located near the main entrance of the aquarium. There are several parking lots available, including a large parking garage and several surface lots.
Pros and Cons of On-Site Parking
Pros:
- Conveniently located near the main entrance
- Easy to find a parking spot, especially during off-peak hours
- Accessible parking options available for visitors with disabilities
Cons:
- Parking fees apply, which can be expensive during peak season
- Parking lots can fill up quickly during peak hours
- No free parking options available
Parking Fees and Hours
The parking fees at the Monterey Bay Aquarium vary depending on the time of day and the type of parking option chosen. Here are the current parking fees and hours:
| Parking Option | Parking Fee | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Large Parking Garage | $15-$20 per day | 8am-6pm, Monday-Sunday |
| Surface Lots | $10-$15 per day | 8am-6pm, Monday-Sunday |
Accessible Parking Options
The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers accessible parking options for visitors with disabilities. These parking spots are located near the main entrance and are marked with a blue sign. Visitors with disabilities can also use the accessible parking lot located near the aquarium’s main entrance.
Nearby Parking Lots and Garages
For visitors who prefer to park off-site, there are several nearby parking lots and garages that offer convenient and affordable parking options. These parking lots are located within walking distance of the aquarium and offer a range of amenities, including restrooms, vending machines, and parking attendants. (See Also: What Does Activated Carbon Do for Aquarium? Boosting Water Clarity)
Pros and Cons of Nearby Parking Lots and Garages
Pros:
- Less expensive than on-site parking options
- More parking options available, reducing the risk of full parking lots
- Conveniently located within walking distance of the aquarium
Cons:
- May require a short walk to the aquarium, which can be challenging for visitors with mobility issues
- May not offer accessible parking options
- Parking attendants may not be available to assist with parking
Nearby Parking Lots and Garages
Here are some nearby parking lots and garages that offer convenient and affordable parking options:
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Parking Lot – Located at 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940. This parking lot offers 500 parking spaces and is located within walking distance of the aquarium.
- Monterey Bay Parking Garage – Located at 700 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940. This parking garage offers 1,000 parking spaces and is located near the aquarium.
- Monterey City Parking Lot – Located at 600 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940. This parking lot offers 200 parking spaces and is located near the aquarium.
Alternative Transportation Options
For visitors who prefer not to drive or park, there are several alternative transportation options available. These options include public transportation, ride-sharing services, and bike rentals.
Public Transportation
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is accessible by public transportation, including buses and shuttles. Visitors can take the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus, which stops near the aquarium. The bus ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes from downtown Monterey.
Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Monterey. Visitors can use these services to get to the aquarium from their hotel or other locations in the area.
Bike Rentals
For visitors who prefer to bike, there are several bike rental shops in Monterey that offer rentals for the day. Biking is a great way to get to the aquarium, as it offers a scenic route along the waterfront and a chance to enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. (See Also: How Much Is The Monterey Bay Aquarium? Insider’s Guide)
Walking and Pedestrian Access
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also accessible on foot, with a pedestrian path that connects the aquarium to the waterfront. Visitors can walk along the path and enjoy the scenic views of the bay and the surrounding area.
Additional Tips and Information
Here are some additional tips and information to help visitors plan their trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium:
Arrival and Departure Times
Visitors are encouraged to arrive at the aquarium at least 30 minutes before their scheduled visit time to allow for parking and security checks.
Security Checks
The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a strict security policy, which includes bag checks and metal detectors. Visitors are required to pass through security checks before entering the aquarium.
Accessibility Features
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all exhibits and facilities. Visitors with disabilities can also use the accessible parking lot and restrooms.
Recap and Key Points
In conclusion, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a range of parking options, including on-site parking, nearby parking lots, and alternative transportation options. Visitors can choose from a variety of parking options, depending on their needs and preferences. Here are the key points to remember:
- On-site parking is available near the main entrance of the aquarium.
- Nearby parking lots and garages offer convenient and affordable parking options.
- Alternative transportation options include public transportation, ride-sharing services, and bike rentals.
- The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all exhibits and facilities.
- Visitors are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled visit time to allow for parking and security checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park my car near the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers on-site parking, as well as nearby parking lots and garages. Visitors can choose from a variety of parking options, depending on their needs and preferences.
How much does parking cost at the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
Parking fees at the Monterey Bay Aquarium vary depending on the time of day and the type of parking option chosen. On-site parking costs $15-$20 per day, while nearby parking lots and garages cost $10-$15 per day. (See Also: Do I Need An Aquarium Heater? Find Out Now)
Is parking available for visitors with disabilities?
Is parking available for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers accessible parking options for visitors with disabilities. These parking spots are located near the main entrance and are marked with a blue sign. Visitors with disabilities can also use the accessible parking lot located near the aquarium’s main entrance.
Can I park my car and then take a shuttle to the aquarium?
No, the Monterey Bay Aquarium does not offer a shuttle service from nearby parking lots. Visitors can park their cars and walk to the aquarium, or use alternative transportation options such as public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Are there any free parking options available near the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
No, there are no free parking options available near the Monterey Bay Aquarium. However, visitors can consider parking in nearby lots or garages, which may offer more affordable parking options.
Can I park my RV or trailer near the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
No, the Monterey Bay Aquarium does not offer parking for RVs or trailers. Visitors can consider parking in nearby lots or garages, which may offer more suitable parking options for larger vehicles.