Tourist Destination in Monterey
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the top tourist destinations in the area. Because it is so popular, it takes a little extra planning to make sure you have an enjoyable visit. Consider these tips before you head out for the day.
The Cost
When planning your vacation budget, you need to consider the cost of the Aquarium. Ticket prices are high. An adult ticket is $49.95. A child’s ticket for children aged 3-12 costs $29.95. A senior ticket for those older than 65 costs $39.95. Students 13-17 and those with a college ID will pay $39.95 to enter. Children three and younger are free.
The Hours
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The restaurant and cafe aren’t open all the hours that the Aquarium is open. Although the Aquarium is open every day of the year, it is highly recommended that you visit during the week and in the off-season. Like any tourist destination, the Aquarium can become extremely crowded during the summer and on weekends.
If you can’t avoid the busy season, consider arriving at the Aquarium when they are open, and then leaving. Return around 2:30 or 3. Don’t forget to get your hand stamped so you can re-enter without paying.
The Location
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located at 886 Cannery Row in Monterey, California.
Where to Park
There is a map on the Aquarium’s website that shows the location of three parking lots within walking distance to the Aquarium. It is not clear whether any of the lots are free, but some reviewers say that the lots tend to fill up early in the day. Plan on paying $10 or $15 a day for the paid lots nearby.
Instead of driving to the Aquarium, you may consider taking the free trolley that runs throughout Monterey. You not only will save money by not having to pay for parking, but you also won’t have the hassle of driving to a congested area. Plus, it’s kind of fun to ride a trolley.
Learn the Feeding Schedule
It is important to arrive at the Aquarium when it opens. Getting there early means that you will be present to watch the sea otter and penguin feedings. We recommend visiting the penguins first since there is only one other feeding time for them scheduled throughout the rest of the day. You would have two additional opportunities to see the feeding of the sea otters.
Besides being present at the feedings, learn the schedule for the other educational shows. Most of the are only 15 minutes long, and they will enhance your visit to the Aquarium.
Sleepovers
You may consider having a sleepover at the Aquarium. Not only will you have access to some of the Aquarium’s exhibits during off-hours, but you can tell others that you plan to “sleep with the fishes” that night.
Enjoy your experience at the Monterey Aquarium.
