Birch Aquarium at Scripps

If you're looking for a San Diego aquarium, look no further than Birch Aquarium at Scripps in La Jolla.

Normal price: up to

$29.95

Family-friendly

Indoors

What you'll do

Learn about coral reefs, watch baby seahorses play, listen to whale songs, and even pet sea stars at this immersive aquarium in San Diego.

You'll see everything from sharks and lobsters to turtles while learning all about ocean science and the marine environment. There are daily feedings and sea life interactions to watch, and if you want to get hands-on, you can head to the touch pool and pet sea stars and crabs.

The Birch Aquarium interprets the research and discoveries of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography – a world leader in marine science – so you'll be learning straight from the source.

Birch Aquarium highlights

Tide Pool Plaza

Have the unique opportunity to touch local tide pool creatures like sea anemones, sea stars and sea urchins.

Seadragons & Seahorses

View one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world.

Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins

Don’t miss the only opportunity in the western U.S. to see Little Blue Penguins.

Embodied Pacific: Ocean Unseen

Explore Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Indigenous science through the eyes of contemporary artists. Ten installations offer guests the chance to engage in scientific exploration through immersive, interactive experiences.

Riveropolis

Experience water-play that uses play and the magic of flowing water to inspire creativity and community building through an interactive miniature river.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Available as add-ons.

Daily feedings and talks

: Getting in
Please go to the ticket booth at the front entrance to exchange your pass for a Birch Aquarium ticket upon arrival.
: What is Birch Aquarium at Scripps?
Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a public exploration center and aquarium that is part of the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
What kind of exhibits can I find at Birch Aquarium at Scripps?
At Birch Aquarium at Scripps, you can find a variety of exhibits featuring marine life from the Pacific Ocean, including sharks, seahorses, jellyfish, and more.
Is there anything to do for kids at Birch Aquarium at Scripps?
Yes! Birch Aquarium at Scripps has a variety of programs and exhibits designed specifically for kids, including a touch tank, a tide pool plaza, and interactive exhibits.
Are there any outdoor exhibits at Birch Aquarium at Scripps?
Yes, Birch Aquarium at Scripps has several outdoor exhibits, including the Tide Pool Plaza, which showcases the diverse creatures that live in rocky intertidal habitats.
Is there anything special happening at Birch Aquarium at Scripps right now?
Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, including special exhibits, concerts, and outdoor movie nights.
Can I bring my own food to Birch Aquarium at Scripps?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside Birch Aquarium at Scripps, but there is a café on-site that offers a variety of food and beverage options.
Is there parking at the Aquarium?
Yes, Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers 3 hours of parking. Designated handicapped parking stalls are located next to the traffic circle at the front of the aquarium. Additional 3-hour parking is available on Expedition Way from June 1 through September 15.
For more information, visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps website.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps.
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Where you'll be

2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, San Diego, US

Operating hours

Daily: 9AM – 7PM

We recommend checking directly with the attraction's own website for updates on opening hours as the aquarium may close early for events.

Closings & holidays

The aquarium will be closed on the following dates:

Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Closed on September 30, 2024 - October 3, 2024.

All holiday hours are subject to change without notice.

Find out more

For more information, visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps website.

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