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Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute
La Jolla
view website2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, CA 92093
858-534-3474
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Aquarium
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute Description
The Scripps Institute of Oceanography's Birch Aquarium is a world-class exhibit of sea life, and a richer educational experience than SeaWorld. Located on the bluffs above scenic La Jolla Shores beach, the aquarium greets visitors with life-size bronze fountain statues of gray whales that inspire dropped jaws from approaching children. Modern exhibits include fun hands-on activities that turn marine science into fun, kid-sized projects. On the back patio overlooking the ocean are man-made tide pools that actually raise and lower the water level every six hours (like real tides), revealing such animals as colorful starfish that visitors are allowed to touch. If your group gets hungry during your visit, head to the Splash! Cafe, located on the aquarium's front patio.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Be careful that when young children touch the animals in the tide pools, they are very gentle so as not to hurt the strange creatures.
Planning Notes
- It's feeding time. Check the aquarium's website before your visit to see the day's feeding schedule. During the half-hour show, watch divers feed denizens of the 70,000-gallon tank, which simulates an offshore kelp forest.
- Go for a swim. Though the aquarium discourages swimming with their fishy residents, the gorgeous La Jolla Shores beach is just down the hill, and a great place for your own little guppies to splash around.
Just the Facts
Hours: 9:00-5:00 p.m. daily
Fees: Under $10
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