Parking costs vary by location, but most aquariums charge $15 to $20 per vehicle

The amount you pay to park at an aquarium depends entirely on which aquarium you visit and whether you use the facility's own lot or a nearby garage. Major aquariums in cities like San Francisco, New York, and San Diego each set their own rates. Some charge a flat daily rate; others charge by the hour. A few offer free parking in certain lots or during specific hours.

If you are planning a visit, contact the aquarium directly or check its website before you arrive. Parking information is usually listed under "Visit" or "Plan Your Visit" on the main site, alongside admission prices and hours. Many aquariums also list nearby paid lots and street parking options so you can compare costs.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major aquariums charge between $15 and $20 per day for parking in their own lots.
  • Some aquariums offer free parking for members, for vehicles that arrive before a certain time, or in designated overflow lots.
  • Street parking and nearby commercial garages may cost less than the aquarium's own facility, though availability varies by location and time of day.
  • The aquarium's official website or a direct phone call will give you the exact current rate and any discounts that explore to your visit.

Parking rates at major U.S. aquariums

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta charges $15 for standard parking in its own lot. The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California charges $15 for the first three hours and $5 for each additional hour, with a daily maximum of $20. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago charges $28 for standard parking, though rates are lower if you book online in advance. The New York Aquarium in Brooklyn charges $17 for the first two hours and $3 for each additional hour.

These rates change without notice, and some aquariums adjust pricing by season or during special events. A few facilities offer reduced rates for seniors, people with disabilities, or visitors who arrive during off-peak hours. Always check the specific aquarium's website or call ahead to confirm the current rate before your visit.

Free and discounted parking options

Some aquariums offer free parking to annual members or season pass holders. Others provide free parking in overflow lots during busy periods, though these lots may be farther from the entrance. A few facilities waive parking fees for visitors who spend a certain amount at the gift shop or restaurant, though this is uncommon.

Street parking near the aquarium may be free or metered, depending on the neighborhood and time of day. In downtown areas, street spots fill quickly during peak hours. Nearby commercial parking garages often charge less than the aquarium's own lot, but you will need to walk farther or use a shuttle service if one is available. Check Google Maps or the parking app SpotHero to see what is available near the specific aquarium you plan to visit.

How to find current parking rates before you visit

The fastest way to get accurate pricing is to visit the aquarium's official website and search for "parking" or "visit information." Most sites display the rate, hours, and payment methods clearly. If the information is not straightforward to find online, call the aquarium's main number and ask the visitor services desk. They can tell you the current rate, whether discounts are available, and whether the lot is likely to be full on the day you plan to visit.

Some aquariums use third-party parking apps like ParkWhiz or SpotHero, which may show rates that differ from the facility's own website. Always verify the rate on the aquarium's official site to avoid surprises at the gate. If you are visiting during a holiday or special event, rates may be higher than usual.

Comparing parking to admission and total visit cost

Parking is usually a small part of your total aquarium expense. Admission typically ranges from $25 to $40 per adult, depending on the facility and whether you buy tickets online in advance. Parking of $15 to $20 adds roughly 40 to 80 percent to the cost of a single ticket. If you are visiting with a family of four, parking becomes a smaller percentage of the total but still worth planning for.

Some visitors save money by purchasing a membership or annual pass, which often includes free parking. If you plan to visit the same aquarium more than once a year, the membership may pay for itself through parking savings alone, plus free or discounted admission. Check the membership page on the aquarium's website to see whether parking is included.

Parking for people with disabilities

Most aquariums offer accessible parking spaces near the entrance at no extra charge if you display a valid disability permit or license plate. These spaces are usually located in the main lot and are clearly marked. Some facilities also offer valet parking for visitors with mobility limitations, though you may need to request this in advance.

If you have a disability permit, bring it with you and display it on your dashboard. If you are unsure whether the aquarium has accessible parking or valet services, call ahead and ask. The visitor services team can tell you where to park and what to expect when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I pay for parking but don't go into the aquarium?

Most aquariums do not refund parking fees once you have paid, even if you decide not to enter the facility. Parking is typically treated as a separate transaction from admission. Check the aquarium's parking policy on its website or ask at the parking booth before you pay.

Is parking cheaper if I buy a ticket online in advance?

Parking and admission are usually separate charges, so buying your ticket online does not reduce the parking fee. However, some aquariums offer discounted parking rates if you book a parking spot through a third-party app like ParkWhiz. Check both the aquarium's website and these apps to compare rates.

What time should I arrive to find parking easily?

Parking lots fill fastest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., especially on weekends and school holidays. Arriving before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. usually means shorter waits and more available spaces. Call the aquarium if you are visiting on a holiday or during a special event, as parking may fill earlier than usual.

Do I have to use the aquarium's parking lot, or can I park elsewhere?

You can park on the street or in nearby commercial lots if you prefer. Street parking may be free or metered depending on the neighborhood. Commercial garages sometimes charge less than the aquarium's lot, but compare rates and walking distance before you decide. Use Google Maps or a parking app to see your options.

Are there any aquariums with free parking?

A few smaller or suburban aquariums offer free parking, but most major facilities charge a fee. Some aquariums offer free parking to members or during certain hours. Check the specific aquarium's website or call to ask whether free parking is available on the day you plan to visit.