What you'll pay for parking at the aquarium
Parking costs at aquariums vary widely depending on which aquarium you visit and where it is located. Most major aquariums charge between $10 and $20 per vehicle for standard parking, though some in expensive urban areas charge $15 to $25. A few aquariums offer free parking in their own lots, while others have no dedicated lot and direct visitors to nearby paid garages or street parking.
The price you pay depends on three things: the aquarium's location (downtown aquariums cost more than suburban ones), whether you park in the aquarium's own lot or a nearby garage, and whether you prepay online or pay at the gate. Some aquariums offer discounts if you purchase your parking ticket with your admission ticket as a package.
Key Takeaways
- Most aquariums charge $10 to $20 for standard parking, with urban locations charging more.
- Some aquariums offer free parking in their own lots, so check the specific aquarium's website before you visit.
- Prepaying for parking online sometimes costs less than paying at the gate on the day of your visit.
- Many aquariums offer package deals that bundle parking and admission at a lower combined price than buying them separately.
- Street parking and nearby public garages are often cheaper alternatives if the aquarium's lot is full or expensive.
How to find the parking cost for your specific aquarium
The easiest way to find out what you will pay is to visit the aquarium's official website and look for a "Parking" or "Visit" section. Most aquariums list their parking rates, hours, and whether they offer discounts for online prepayment. If the website does not clearly state the cost, call the aquarium's main phone number — the parking attendant or information desk can tell you the exact rate and whether any discounts are running.
When you call or check online, also ask whether the aquarium offers validation or discounts for nearby parking garages. Some aquariums partner with adjacent garages to offer reduced rates for visitors. A few also offer discounted rates for members, seniors, or military personnel, so mention your status if it applies.
Prepaying online versus paying at the gate
Many aquariums allow you to buy your parking ticket online before you arrive. Prepaying usually costs the same as paying at the gate, but some aquariums offer a small discount — typically $1 to $3 off — if you prepay. The real advantage of prepaying is that you skip the line at the parking booth and can drive straight to your spot.
If you are visiting on a busy day (weekends, holidays, school breaks), prepaying saves time and guarantees you a spot in the lot. If the lot fills up, the aquarium may close it to new arrivals, and you will have to use a nearby garage instead. Prepaying does not reserve a spot, but it does let you enter the lot without waiting to pay at the entrance.
Free and low-cost parking alternatives
If the aquarium's parking is expensive or full, look for street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. Many aquariums are located near public streets where parking is free or costs only a few dollars per hour. Check for parking meters, time limits, and permit requirements before you leave your car. Some neighborhoods require a permit for daytime parking, so read the signs carefully.
Public parking garages near the aquarium often charge $5 to $15 per day, depending on the location and time of day. Some garages offer reduced rates if you validate your ticket at a nearby restaurant or shop. A few aquariums are also accessible by public transit (bus, train, or trolley), which may cost less than parking and eliminates the need to find a spot.
Parking packages bundled with admission
Some aquariums sell combination tickets that include both admission and parking at a discounted rate. These packages typically save you $3 to $8 compared to buying parking and admission separately. The savings are usually small, but they add up if you are visiting with a family or group.
To find out whether your aquarium offers a parking-and-admission package, check the "Tickets" or "Plan Your Visit" section of the website. You can usually purchase these packages online and print them at home or display them on your phone. If you buy the package online, you often get the discount automatically without needing a promo code.
What to expect when you arrive
When you drive up to the aquarium's parking lot, look for signs directing you to the parking booth or payment station. If you prepaid online, you may be able to enter using a barcode or license plate number — the instructions will be on your confirmation email. If you are paying at the gate, have your payment method ready (cash, card, or mobile payment).
Most aquarium parking lots are staffed during operating hours, so you can ask the attendant for directions to the entrance or information about validation if you are eating at an on-site restaurant. Keep your parking ticket or receipt with you in case you need to show it when you leave. Some aquariums require you to display your ticket on your dashboard so attendants can see you have paid.
Parking for people with disabilities
Most aquariums offer free or reduced-cost accessible parking for visitors with a valid disability parking permit or license plate. These spaces are usually located near the entrance for easier access. To use accessible parking, you must display your permit or plate — the aquarium will not charge you the standard parking fee.
If you have a disability permit but are unsure whether the aquarium honors it, call ahead and ask. Some aquariums also offer complimentary parking for caregivers or companions of visitors with disabilities, though policies vary. Bring your permit or plate with you and have it visible when you park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my parking money back if I don't go into the aquarium?
Most aquariums do not refund parking fees once you have paid, even if you decide not to enter. Parking is treated as a separate transaction from admission. If you prepaid online and change your plans, check the aquarium's refund policy — some allow cancellations up to a certain time before your visit, but others do not.
Is parking included with my aquarium membership?
Many aquariums offer free or discounted parking to members as a benefit of membership. Check your membership card or the aquarium's website to see what parking benefits you have. You may need to show your membership card at the parking booth to receive the discount.
What if the parking lot is full when I arrive?
If the aquarium's lot is full, staff will direct you to overflow parking or nearby public garages. You may have to pay a different rate for overflow parking, and it could be farther from the entrance. On very busy days, arriving early (before 10 a.m. on weekends) increases your chances of finding a spot in the main lot.
Do I have to pay for parking if I'm just dropping someone off?
Most aquariums charge for any vehicle that enters the lot, even for drop-off. However, some allow a short grace period (usually 10 to 15 minutes) for drop-off without charging. Ask the parking attendant or check the website to confirm the drop-off policy before you arrive.
Can I leave and come back the same day without paying twice?
Policies vary by aquarium. Some allow you to re-enter the lot on the same day with your original parking ticket or receipt. Others charge you again if you leave and return. Ask the parking attendant when you pay, or check the aquarium's website for the re-entry policy.