Birch Aquarium

A bit depressing but maybe it would be fun for someone. The trip left a lot to be desired honestly, apparently to my sister there was a big chunk of the aquarium that was closed off. So there was only half of the aquarium, but still there was a bit of stuff. I petted a mini shark that was asleep, it was a bit lack luster but cool. But also, I got to pet 2 sea cucumbers, and a star fish. They were slimy and didn’t move at all, it made me feel bad for them. They seemed depressed a bit, and I’m sure other people where more rough with them then I was. And after that there was tiny aquariums with small fish inside of the building, the building was small but it wasn’t really cramped. I thought the sea horses were cool, so I did enjoy seeing them. The penguin aquarium was so small also, it was a bit depressing. The penguins were all right, they didn’t really do any thing but I felt weird looking at them. After that, i was in the back of the aquarium already, in the blue section where you can make a boat. I made one and raced it along the water they have there, it was pretty fun but it was sort of lack luster. Behind there was an Aquarium sort of with a few dishes. Some of them were swimming but another one, a flounder, was just staring at me. I didn’t really enjoy it. It had 2 eyes on one side of its face so it was definitely a fish that doesn’t move. The aquarium just sort of felt lackluster and really small. By the end, I was using the restroom, and there was a sign of the penguins, it said “They poop up to 145 times a day” with a picture of a penguin. It was a little funny, but it also made me sad because I already seen the penguins and I can’t go back now and they where so morning. The coolest thing was the shark statues at the start of the entrance.

A fairly small public aquarium outside San Diego. At the time of our visit part of the building was closed for refurbishment, so it probably took around an hour to look around. Some of the exhibits were impressive. Not sure they covered all aspects of the ocean life, but they had a good try. Staff were lovely, helpful and knowledgeable. Free car park.

The Birch Aquarium is currently doing a partnership with the San Diego Air & Apace Museum and tickets were free! It was a shame that they're renovating, but if the new exhibits are as cool as the existing ones, I sure it will be even better, if that's possible. I really enjoyed the projection art and contemporary pieces throughout the different areas as well as the sensory spaces all over the aquarium. It was a really cool place to go to and the staff were very friendly and funny. If I was still in the area this summer I would definitely go see the new exhibit.

This was a cute little aquarium with a lot of beautiful things I haven’t seen at other aquariums. It is VERY quaint, we were done in 40 minutes but enjoyed our time there . For reference I have an 8 year old . A smaller child may want to spend more time there . The staff is very kind , the view and location is gorgeous. My only gripe would be the cost. $55 for us both to get in and the gift shop is obscenely expensive. Like $20 for a jar of slime with toppings, $29 for a baby t shirt.

If you like sea animals, Birch Aquarium is a must visit! I absolutely love those quirky Little Blue Penguins, the Dancing Seadragons, and the friendly Leopard Sharks. Plus that gorgeous seaside view just incredible! It’s a perfect place for kids and families even couples!