How to Visit Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific, located along the Pacific coast in Long Beach, California, is devoted to the animals and ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean. The aquarium, which opened in 1998, features more than 156,000 square feet of gallery space and welcomes 1.3 million visitors each year. Read on to learn how to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Get tickets. Tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific are available at the attraction's ticket desk or online via their website. Unlike most attractions, tickets to the aquarium are less expensive if you purchase them in advance via the website. Discounts are given to those 62 and older and children between three and 11 years of age. The Aquarium is open every day, except Christmas Day and during the Long Beach Grand Prix, which takes place in mid-April each year.
2. View the galleries. The Aquarium of the Pacific concentrates exclusively on animals and plants found in the Pacific Ocean. The more than 12,000 animals are divided into three display areas: Southern California and Baja, Northern Pacific and Tropical Pacific.
3. Take a behind-the-scenes tour. Get a sneak peek at what goes on behind closed doors at the aquarium. You'll see the water filtration system, learn how the animals are fed and cared for, and learn fun facts about the facility. An additional fee is charged for the tour.
4. Sign up for the Ocean Experience. Intrepid visitors can take a 90-minute cruise from Long Beach Harbor, beside the aquarium. During the voyage, guests can look at plankton and other microscopic creatures in samples of the harbor mud and identify harbor fish and mammals. This tour also carries an additional fee.