Birch Aquarium
at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Fifteen minutes north of downtown San Diego, you will find Birch Aquarium, a hidden gem nestled among the cliffs of La Jolla. As the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium’s hands-on exhibits explore the latest in oceanographic discovery, while introducing guests to a variety of amazing creatures.
What really sets Birch Aquarium apart from other aquariums is the connection to Scripps Oceanography, which allows them to bring the latest in scientific discovery to life through innovative exhibits.
Last summer Birch Aquarium opened Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins, an all new exhibit featuring the smallest penguin species in the world. The exhibit follows these tiny penguins on their journey from hatchlings to adults, highlighting the challenges they face in a changing climate while celebrating the features that make them so unique (and adorable).
In the Hall of Fishes guests come face to face with a Giant Pacific Octopus, a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Moon Jellies and Leopard Sharks, to name a few.
Out on Tide Pool Plaza, you will take in stunning ocean views while getting hands-on with local tide pool animals including juvenile sharks. Then it’s off to Oddities, a comic book-themed exhibit that features strange specimens from the Scripps Oceanographic Collections.
For guests looking to explore more, the aquarium also offers limited behind-the-scenes Giant Pacific Octopus, Seahorses and Little Blue Penguin Tours.
From May 28 to September 4, Birch Aquarium will be open most days from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. On days when private events have been booked, the aquarium will close at 5 p.m.
Tickets are $24.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 3-17 (free ages 2 and under). Parking is free for three hours. Advanced reservations are required. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information and to reserve tickets.
Location
Located in La Jolla
2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 534-3474
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Hours of Operation:
Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. dail
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Exhibits
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