Aquarium of the Pacific

Aquarium of the Pacific combines large indoor galleries with outdoor animal habitats on the Long Beach waterfront. The aquarium lists more than 100 exhibits and 19 major habitats. Families can see sea otters, sharks, penguins, frogs, sea jellies and animals from Northern, Tropical and Southern California waters.

A 3 to 4 hour plan gives children time for the main galleries, outdoor areas and a meal break, though the aquarium does not publish an average visit length.

Shark Lagoon is a major family stop. This 10,000-square-foot outdoor area includes large sharks and rays, touch pools and a water-squirting squid play sculpture. Lorikeet Forest is another outdoor experience where visitors may purchase nectar and have birds land on a hand, arm, shoulder or head.

Families who prefer a quieter visit can focus on the indoor tanks, Jelly Dreamscapes and other galleries.

The aquarium works for a wide age range. Toddlers can watch large animals from a stroller, children ages 3 to 12 can use touch areas and older children can dig into the exhibit information. Children under 3 enter free and do not need a ticket or reservation.

Everyone else needs a daily reservation. Online ticket purchases include a selected arrival time and remain valid for the rest of that day after the reserved hour.

Personal strollers are welcome. The aquarium does not rent strollers, but it loans baby backpacks at the information desk with a credit card. Stroller-parking areas may be set up on busy days. A family nursing area is in the downstairs women's restroom near the Great Hall coffee cart. Complimentary wheelchairs are available first come, first served.

Most exhibits are indoors, but Shark Lagoon and Lorikeet Forest are outside. Rain will reduce part of the experience, even though families can still spend substantial time inside. Café Scuba provides meals and snacks, including grilled cheese, chicken strips, pizza, hot dogs and plant-based choices. Outside food must stay at the plaza picnic tables. Same-day re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp.

Parking is next to the aquarium and costs $8 after validation. The aquarium currently warns that most elevators in the city-owned garage are out of service, so families with mobility needs should use the front drop-off area or call before arrival.