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Birch Aquarium at Scripps

A $12.00 value, included in the Go San Diego Card!

 
5 stars
Birch Aquarium at Scripps

From its unforgettable view of the Pacific Ocean to its memorable marine life exhibits, this aquarium is a must-see for every landlubber. Learn about living coral reefs, watch baby seahorses play and listen to whale song. You can even pet some starfish!

Discover a stunning variety of marine habitats, along with an unforgettable view overlooking La Jolla and the Pacific Ocean! Enter the world of sharks, seahorses, living coral reefs and more, and dive into exhibits that showcase the mysteries of ocean, air, and life, through interactive displays and multimedia. Birch Aquarium is the public exploration center for world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California at San Diego. For more than a century, this aquarium-museum has delighted San Diego's residents and visitors with the wonders of the ocean.

Each of the exhibits at Birch Aquarium brings to life a unique aspect of ocean life.

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Included Extra(s)

10% savings on Splash Cafe and bookshop with the Go San Diego Card.
  • Not seasonal
  • Good for families
  • Parking available
  • Restaurant or snack bar
  • Restrooms
  • Disabled access
  • Reservations not required

Hours

Daily, 9:00 am-5:00 pm

Closed

Thanksgiving Day,Chirstmas Day,New Year's Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice.

Redemption Instructions

Included general admission with the Go San Diego Card.

Address

2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, CA 92037

Driving Directions

I-5 to La Jolla Village Drive exit, head west. La Jolla Village Drive becomes North Torrey Pines Road (approx. 1 mile). Turn left on Expedition Way. Parking is to your left, at the bottom of the hill. Three hour parking is included with admission.

Public Transportation

By Bus: Bus #34 to Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Get off at Downwind Way and La Jolla Shores. Walk up Downwind Way to aquarium.

Here are the ongoing exhibits you won't want to miss:

  • Feeling the Heat: The Climate Challenge: Birch Aquarium presents the science of global climate change, backed by 50 years of research from Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Check out a futuristic news report showing what the weather may look like in 2050, and test your knowledge of the extent to which everyday items impact the environment.
  • There’s Something About Seahorses: Did you know male seahorses can become pregnant? Visit their babies in the seahorse nursery!
  • Whales: Voices in the Sea: The coast of California is home to a variety of migrating whale species, and what better place to learn about them than San Diego's Birch Aquarium? This exhibit features an interactive display showing how whales use sound to communicate. You can even try recording your own whale calls.
  • Wonders of Water: Birch Aquarium really has it all, including a place for young mariners to roll up their sleeves and play...while learning, of course.
  • Coral Displays: Coral reefs are not just collections of dead rocks, they are living, breathing ecosystems with some very surprising benefits for humans and fish alike. This exhibit will teach you why they are disappearing, and what's being done about it.
  • Hall of Fishes & Shark Reef: More than 60 habitats are housed here, including a 70,000-gallon kelp forest tank, and creatures found from the Pacific Northwest to the tropical waters of Mexico. What aquarium visit would be complete without a visit to the shark reef? Some of the world's most beautiful species are housed here, including whitetip and blacktip reef sharks. If you're lucky, you might even catch a live shark-feeding!
  • Living Tide Pools: Get your hands wet and take an up-close look at "life on the edge" of the ocean. Check out the habitats of seastars, lobsters, and sea cucumbers—all natives of San Diego's coastal waters.

The Birch Aquarium gives children and adults alike a fascinating look at marine life, while allowing for hands-on science education, and teaching lessons you're not likely to forget. Thanks to the research and dedication of Scripps Institution of Oceanography, thousands of visitors leave each year feeling inspired to respect and preserve marine life. Don't miss this unique experience! Grab your San Diego pass and enjoy one of the best deals at Birch Aquarium today.

Product Rating
 
5 stars
 (3 Ratings)
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3 Reviews
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5 stars
(based on 3 reviews)
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[0 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

 
Definitely worth the time
By amylynna Verified Reviewer from Gilbert, Az on 8/2/2011
Pros:
Great visit with family, Beautiful exhibits
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about Smart Destinations Birch Aquarium at Scripps:

The view from the building over looking the ocean is absolutely breath-taking. We loved the tidepool on the outside where the children had hands on access to various sea-life. They also had an outdoor play area that was educational for the children.I was very impressed with the selection of marine life. This is a great little trip to start out your day while visiting La Jolla.

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[0 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

 
Lots of fun, even for our toddler!
By OCmommie Verified Reviewer from Laguna Niguel, CA on 4/9/2011
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about Smart Destinations Birch Aquarium at Scripps:

We LOVED this aquarium! I wish there was something like this near where we lived. My 18 month-old had so much fun watching all the fish & sea life. It was easier for him to see and engage here than even the Zoo (animals are still hard for him to find when they are hiding) or Sea World. It's North in La Jolla, so you have to drive to the aquarium... but it's worth it. There is a large deck with fantastic ocean views.

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[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

 
Beautiful location at sunset!
By Wade C. Verified Reviewer from Anaheim, CA on 4/6/2011
Pros:
Silver school of sardines
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about Smart Destinations Birch Aquarium at Scripps:

Best to visit in late afternoon, just before sunset. Sardine tank not to be missed, take a picture outside of the beautiful beaches below, while the sun is setting behind the ocean!

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At a Glance

Address

2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, CA 92037

Phone: 858-534-FISH (3474)

Website: Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Adult Gate PriceChild Gate Price
$12.00$8.50
 

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