However, we know you're sometimes short on time. If you don't want to miss the Monterey Bay Aquarium but are in a hurry, follow these tips:
- Order Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets online ahead of time so won't have to stand in line at the ticket office.
- Avoid exhibits during feeding time. They're crowded, it's hard to see and take too long for someone in a hurry. Try to get to the otters, kelp forest and outer bay at least half an hour before feeding time.
Highlights of the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Starting from the aquarium's main entrance, focus on these highlights in the order listed (unless you need to skip one because of feeding time):- Kelp Forest: Go left from the entry area to see a microcosm of the Monterey Bay, filled with local fishes and swaying kelp.
- Touch Pools: Go right to the Touch Pools, where you'll get a chance to pet a bat ray, touch a starfish and find out how prickly a sea urchin can be.
- Sea Otters: You might call them the aquarium's poster child, and they're just as cute as you imagined. View them swimming underwater or go upstairs to see them on land.
- Drifters Gallery: Go upstairs toward Ocean's Edge and walk under the tank of circling anchovies to see a fascinating bunch of jellyfish and other drifting sea creatures.
- Outer Bay: Get a look at the million-gallon tank full of mid-ocean fish, sharks and other creatures.
- Special Exhibit: Downstairs below the Ocean's Edge, the exhibit changes every few years. Starting in March, 2007, you'll enjoy two species of river otters and learn more about their habits and habitat.
- Exit through the back door for a quick look at the bay, or if you still have time to spare, go upstairs, across the sky bridge and downstairs to the kelp forest. Veer left to see one of the aquarium's under-appreciated stars, a fascinating octopus. If you've got kids or penguin-lovers in tow, stay on the upper level and to go Splash Zone which offers a fun kids' play area and some cute penguins on display.
