What You'll Pay for Aquarium of the Pacific Admission

General admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California costs around $30 to $35 for adults, $20 to $25 for children ages 3 to 11, and seniors 62 and older pay roughly $25 to $30. Prices vary depending on the day you visit — weekdays are typically cheaper than weekends and holidays. Children under 3 enter free.

The aquarium does not charge a single flat rate year-round. Instead, they use a tiered pricing system where peak days (weekends, school holidays, summer months) cost more than off-peak days (weekday mornings in winter and spring). You can see the exact price for your chosen date on their official website before you buy.

These prices are for standard admission only. Special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, or dining packages cost extra and are sold separately.

Key Takeaways

  • General admission ranges from $20 to $35 depending on age and the day you visit, with weekends and holidays costing more than weekdays.
  • The aquarium uses dynamic pricing, so the exact cost for your visit date appears on their website when you check availability.
  • Children under 3 are free, and seniors 62 and older receive a discount.
  • Annual memberships are available and pay for themselves after three to four visits if you plan to return multiple times per year.
  • Some discounts are available through military verification, AAA membership, and certain employer programs.

How Dynamic Pricing Works at the Aquarium

The Aquarium of the Pacific adjusts ticket prices based on demand, similar to how airlines and hotels price their offerings. A Tuesday morning in February costs less than a Saturday in July. This means you cannot know the exact price until you select your specific date on their ticketing page.

The aquarium typically publishes pricing calendars several months in advance, so you can plan ahead if you have flexibility with your visit date. Visiting on a weekday morning or during the school year (outside of spring break and winter holidays) will save you money compared to peak summer and holiday periods.

Annual Memberships and Passes

An annual membership to the Aquarium of the Pacific costs between $100 and $200 per person, depending on membership level. The basic membership includes unlimited visits for a year, free parking, and discounts at the gift shop and restaurant. Higher tiers add guest passes and additional perks.

If you plan to visit three or four times in a year, a membership typically pays for itself compared to buying individual tickets. Members also skip the ticket line and can bring guests at discounted rates, which adds value if you visit with family or friends regularly.

Discounts and Special Offers

The aquarium offers reduced admission for military personnel with valid ID, AAA members, and employees of certain Southern California companies. Some employers offer discounted tickets through their benefits programs, so check with your human resources department before buying at full price.

Occasionally the aquarium runs promotions during slower seasons or for specific groups. These are advertised on their website and social media, but they are not permanent. Discounts for residents of certain cities or counties may also be available — ask at the ticket counter or check their website for your area.

What's Included in Your Admission

Your ticket gives you access to all permanent exhibits, including the shark lagoon, jellyfish galleries, sea otters, and interactive touch pools. You can spend as much time as you want in each area — there is no time limit on your visit. Most people spend three to four hours exploring the full aquarium.

Admission does not include special experiences like the Lorikeet Forest (a separate paid area where you hand-feed colorful birds), animal encounters, or the 4D theater. These are add-ons you purchase at the time of your visit or in advance online. Food and beverages are also sold separately.

Parking and Transportation Costs

Parking at the Aquarium of the Pacific costs $15 for standard parking and $25 for preferred parking closer to the entrance. Annual members receive free standard parking as part of their membership. If you have a disability placard, you can park in accessible spaces for free.

The aquarium is located at 100 Aquarium Way in Long Beach's waterfront district. You can reach it by public transit using the Long Beach Transit bus system or the Metro Blue Line, which may be cheaper than parking if you are coming from elsewhere in Los Angeles County.

How to Buy Tickets Online vs. At the Gate

Buying tickets online in advance is usually slightly cheaper than purchasing at the gate, and it guarantees entry on busy days when the aquarium occasionally reaches capacity. Online tickets are purchased through their official website, and you receive a confirmation email with a barcode you scan at entry.

If you buy at the gate, you pay the same price as online (or sometimes slightly more), but you risk waiting in line during peak hours and potentially being turned away if the aquarium is at full capacity. Online purchase also lets you lock in your price before dynamic pricing increases as your chosen date approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy tickets in advance or can I show up the day of?

You can buy tickets at the gate, but online purchase is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Buying ahead guarantees entry and often costs the same or less. During very busy periods, the aquarium may reach capacity and stop selling tickets, so advance purchase removes that risk.

Are there discounts for large groups?

Yes. Groups of 15 or more people typically receive a discount. Contact the aquarium's group sales department through their website to arrange group rates and potentially reserve a specific entry time.

Can I bring my own food and drinks inside?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the aquarium. However, you can leave and re-enter with your ticket, so you could eat at nearby restaurants and return. The aquarium has a cafe and snack bar inside, though prices are higher than outside vendors.

What if I want to visit multiple times — is a membership worth it?

If you plan to visit three or more times in a year, a membership usually costs less than buying individual tickets, especially if you visit on peak days. Members also get free parking and gift shop discounts, which add additional savings.

Do senior and child discounts explore to every ticket price?

Yes. Children ages 3 to 11 and seniors 62 and older receive a discount on every admission price, whether you visit on a cheap weekday or an expensive weekend. The discount percentage stays the same; only the base price changes with dynamic pricing.