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Birch Aquarium at Scripps

2300 Expedition Way · La Jolla, CA

Why you should go…

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public outreach center for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, home to more than 9,000 animals across over 400 species, including weedy seadragons and little blue penguins. The hilltop site in La Jolla overlooks La Jolla Shores and the Pacific Ocean and pairs marine life exhibits with oceanographic science education. More than half a million people visit the aquarium each year.

  • #aquarium
  • #marine life
  • #science
  • #family
  • #ocean

Good to know

General attractions guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Book the time slot, not just the ticket

    Timed entry is now the norm at big-draw attractions, and online tickets are often cheaper than the gate.

  • Grab the daily schedule on arrival

    Feeding times, keeper talks, and shows run on a posted timetable that changes day to day.

  • The first hour is the quietest

    Queues build through late morning and peak after lunch, so an early start buys you the shortest waits.

  • Budget past the ticket price

    Parking, lockers, strollers, and food inside the gates are common extras worth planning for.

What's around here?

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