Birch Aquarium Vs Aquarium Of The Pacific
Introduction
When it comes to visiting an aquarium in Southern California, two popular options are the Birch Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Both are great options for a family outing, but how do they compare? In this article, we will take a closer look at the similarities and differences between these two aquariums.
Location
The Birch Aquarium is located in La Jolla, California, which is about 15 miles north of downtown San Diego. On the other hand, the Aquarium of the Pacific is located in Long Beach, California, which is about 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Depending on where you are located, one aquarium may be more convenient to visit than the other.
Exhibits
Both aquariums have a variety of exhibits that showcase marine life from around the world. The Birch Aquarium focuses on the marine life of the Pacific Northwest, while the Aquarium of the Pacific includes exhibits featuring marine life from the Pacific Ocean, the Southern California Bight, and the Gulf of California. Both aquariums have touch tanks where visitors can interact with sea creatures, such as starfish and sea cucumbers.
Size
The Aquarium of the Pacific is larger than the Birch Aquarium in terms of the number of exhibits and the size of the aquarium. The Aquarium of the Pacific covers 5 acres of land and has more than 50 exhibits, while the Birch Aquarium covers 3 acres of land and has around 60 exhibits.
Admission Prices
The admission prices for both aquariums are similar, with the Birch Aquarium charging $19.50 for adults and $15 for children, while the Aquarium of the Pacific charges $34.95 for adults and $24.95 for children. However, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers more discounts, such as military and student discounts, which can make it a more affordable option for some visitors.
Accessibility
Both aquariums are accessible for visitors with disabilities, with wheelchair rentals available at both locations. However, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers more accessibility options, such as audio tours in multiple languages and sign language interpreters for certain exhibits.
Events and Programs
Both aquariums offer a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as summer camps, sleepovers, and special exhibits. The Birch Aquarium also offers whale watching tours during certain times of the year, while the Aquarium of the Pacific has a variety of animal encounters, such as penguin encounters and shark encounters.
Conclusion
Both the Birch Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific are excellent choices for a family outing or a day trip. Depending on your location, budget, and interests, one aquarium may be a better fit for you than the other. However, both aquariums offer a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with the fascinating world of marine life.
