Gonna visit the Aquarium of the Pacific? Here’s how to save a few bucks
While the largest aquarium in SoCal is relatively affordable, it can still add up, especially for families. But discounts are available.
There’s never a shortage of activities to enjoy in Long Beach — art galleries, innumerable restaurants and bars, whale watching, a Japanese garden, a nature center and even historical sites such as ranchos and the Queen Mary. And, of course, there is the Aquarium of the Pacific.
The largest aquarium in Southern California, and second largest in the state, the Aquarium of the Pacific is home to more than 12,000 animals across more than 100 exhibits and was named one of the 16 best aquariums in the country earlier this year.
With tickets ranging from $35 for kids and $45 for adults, the Aquarium of the Pacific is affordable compared to some other day trips in the region, but can still be pricey for many. With that said, there are some ways to save a few bucks on your oceanic adventure.
Explore LA
Last year, the aquarium partnered with the Los Angeles Public Library to offer discounts to library cardholders through its Explore LA Discover & Go program. From June through August, LAPL cardholders in good standing can get adult tickets for $40 and children's tickets for $32. September through December (as well as the last few days of May), tickets are discounted even more to $36 for adults and $29 for kids.
The program also offers discounts on a dual memberships ($169, down from $179) as well as family memberships ($239, down from $249).
LAPL cards are free and the Discover & Go program offers free or low-cost tickets to dozens of museums, science centers, zoos, theaters and more.
Annual Discounts
- AAA - Members get 20% off kids tickets and 10% off adult admissions when purchased at any Southern California Auto Club branch or on the AAA website.
- LA Zoo combo - Make a weekend out of it and visit the Long Beach aquarium and LA Zoo for one price: $58 for adults and $46 for kids.
- Conventioneer Discount - Presenting your Long Beach, LA County or Orange County conventioneer badge at the ticket window after noon gets you an undisclosed discount, which is valid for one week before and after your convention (limit one discount per badge).
- College Discount: Many SoCal universities offer discounted aquarium tickets. Students should check in with their school’s student union or ASI office.
- Military: Discounted tickets may be purchased in advance at any MWR/ITT office on base.
- Union and Professional Organization Discount: Many SoCal unions and professional organizations offer their members discounts on aquarium tickets.
Limited Time Discounts
From time to time, Aquarium of the Pacific tickets are offered for a discounted price at other businesses. Through the end of the month, for instance, shoppers at participating Ralphs grocery store locations can save $7 on adult tickets and $3 off kids tickets.
Click here to stay up to date on current discounts.
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