Aquarium of the Pacific: explore the underwater wonders of the Pacific
Founded in 1998, the Aquarium of the Pacific is Southern California’s largest aquarium and the third largest cultural attraction in Los Angeles, welcoming more than 1.4 million visitors annually. Home to more than 12,500 animals, representing nearly 500 species, the Aquarium’s mission is to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems.
The Aquarium features 19 major habitats and 32 exhibits. Visitors can explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean as they walk through the many exhibits and participate in hands-on activities. The Southern California/Baja gallery showcases the diverse marine life of the coast through 18 of the Aquarium exhibits.
The Blue Cavern is an impressive 3-story high exhibit featuring giant swaying kelp, spined sea stars, scorpionfish and more. There is also a seal and sea lion habitat. Then, check out the Sea of Cortez exhibit which features butterflyfishes, large silvery fish called Mexican lookdowns and more. Get hands-on in the Ray touch pool and wetlands exhibit. Then, head outside and check out the Shark Lagoon and the Lorikeet Forest aviary, offering an outdoor adventure in Explorer's Cove.
Visitors can even experience the underwater wonders in 3-D! The Aquarium’s 3-D experience includes Monsters of the Abyss and A Fish Story. In Monsters of the Abyss, viewers will journey to the deep sea and discover underwater volcanoes, animals and more. Then, in A Fish Story, follow the adventure of Deepo, the fish and meet his undersea friends. These films are an extra cost from the general admission, $3 per film or $5 for both.
In addition to providing a fun and educational experience for families of all ages and backgrounds through our interactive exhibits and daily presentations, the Aquarium hosts a variety of educational programs, cultural festivals and more.
Save money and purchase your tickets online, there are also discounts available for AAA members and military persons.
The Aquarium is located minutes from Downtown Long Beach, the Long Beach Convention Center and the Queen Mary. Visitors will find a large selection of restaurants, shops and other entertainment venues nearby.
- by Jennifer Pruett, Long Beach Reporter for HelloMetro
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Jennifer PruettA self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.
