Current admission prices at the Aquarium of the Pacific
General admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California costs $30.95 for adults, $19.95 for children ages 3 to 11, and $27.95 for seniors 62 and older. Children under 3 enter free. These prices are for standard daytime entry and do not include parking, food, or special exhibits that may charge extra fees.
Prices vary depending on when you visit. Weekday tickets sometimes cost less than weekend tickets at certain times of year, though the aquarium does not always advertise these discounts on the main website. Calling ahead or checking their ticketing page directly before your visit can reveal whether a lower rate applies to your specific date.
The aquarium occasionally runs promotions tied to local events, school breaks, or membership drives. These are not permanent and change throughout the year. If you plan to visit more than once, a membership often costs less than buying two or three separate tickets.
Key Takeaways
- Standard adult admission is $30.95, with reduced rates for children ages 3 to 11 at $19.95 and seniors 62 and older at $27.95.
- Children under 3 enter at no charge, but you will still need to purchase your own ticket.
- Weekday and weekend prices may differ, so check the ticketing page for your specific visit date before buying.
- An annual membership can be cheaper than multiple single-day visits if you plan to return.
- Parking, food, and special temporary exhibits are not included in general admission and cost extra.
Membership and annual pass costs
An annual membership to the Aquarium of the Pacific starts at $99.95 for a single adult and goes up to $249.95 for a family membership that covers up to four people. Members receive unlimited visits, discounts on food and gift shop purchases, and sometimes early access to special events. The break-even point is typically three to four visits per year, depending on which membership tier you choose.
The aquarium offers different membership levels. A dual membership for two adults costs $179.95. Family memberships vary in price based on how many people are included and what benefits are attached. Some memberships include reciprocal access to other aquariums and zoos across the country, which adds value if you travel or live near other institutions.
Parking and additional costs
Parking at the Aquarium of the Pacific is not free. The parking structure on site charges a flat rate, though the exact amount changes and is best confirmed by calling the aquarium directly or checking their website before your visit. Some visitors park in nearby lots or street parking in Long Beach to avoid the fee, though availability and walking distance vary by location and time of day.
Food and beverages inside the aquarium are priced like most venue concessions — higher than grocery store prices. A meal typically costs $12 to $20 per person. The aquarium allows outside food and drinks in some areas, so bringing your own snacks and a refillable water bottle can reduce costs significantly.
Special exhibits and add-on experiences
The Aquarium of the Pacific occasionally features temporary special exhibits beyond the main galleries. These exhibits may charge an additional fee on top of general admission, usually $5 to $10 extra. Examples have included interactive touch pools, behind-the-scenes animal encounters, and traveling exhibits from other institutions. Not all special exhibits cost extra — some are included with admission.
The aquarium also offers paid experiences like animal encounters, where you can feed or touch certain species under staff supervision. These experiences typically cost $20 to $50 per person and must be booked in advance. They are not required for a full visit but are available if you want a more interactive experience.
Group rates and discounts
Groups of 15 or more people may receive a discounted rate per person. The exact discount depends on group size and the date of your visit. To arrange a group visit, you typically need to contact the aquarium's group sales department directly rather than buying tickets online.
Local residents, military personnel, and students sometimes receive discounts, though these offers change and are not always advertised prominently. Checking the aquarium's website or calling their main line before your visit can reveal whether you may have access to for a reduced rate based on your status.
How to buy tickets and best times to visit
Tickets can be purchased online through the Aquarium of the Pacific website, at the gate on the day of your visit, or by phone. Buying online in advance sometimes offers a small discount compared to gate prices, though the savings are usually modest — typically $1 to $3 per ticket. Online tickets are often faster at entry because you skip the ticket line.
Weekday visits, especially on school days during the academic year, tend to be less crowded than weekends and school breaks. Visiting on a weekday may mean shorter lines and a more relaxed experience, though ticket prices do not always reflect this difference. Early morning visits, shortly after the aquarium opens, are generally less crowded than afternoon hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do children under 3 need a ticket?
Children under 3 enter free, but they do not need their own ticket. You straightforward bring them with you. You will still need to purchase your own admission ticket to enter.
Is parking included with admission?
No. Parking is a separate charge at the on-site parking structure. Some visitors choose to park elsewhere in Long Beach to avoid this fee, though you should research nearby parking options and walking distances before your visit.
Can I bring my own food and drinks inside?
The aquarium allows outside food and drinks in designated areas, though policies can vary by location within the facility. Bringing your own snacks and a refillable water bottle is a practical way to reduce food costs during your visit.
What is the cheapest way to visit multiple times?
An annual membership typically becomes cheaper than single-day tickets after three to four visits. If you plan to visit more than once a year, comparing the cost of a membership to the cost of individual tickets for your expected number of visits can help you decide which option saves money.
Do I get a discount if I buy tickets online?
Online tickets sometimes cost slightly less than gate prices, usually $1 to $3 per ticket, and they let you skip the ticket line. The savings are modest, but buying ahead is faster and more convenient if you know your visit date.