Out And About: Monterey Bay Aquarium
Our first thought upon learning that we were moving to Monterey
was, "The Aquarium!" Though it had been years since
either of us had been there, the impressions were still strong.
We juggled the budget a little, and handed over the money for
an annual pass. It has been one of the best value-for-dollar
investments we've ever made! It's entertaining, educational and
unlike anything either of us has ever seen.
Highlights:
Paul says: "The
Outer Bay main exhibit is incredible! Where else can you stand
a foot from a shark or sea turtle without getting wet? This is
a thrilling experience that I could never tire of. Elisha, 5,
was not too sure about standing against the glass with his face
meeting a shark, but he quickly warmed to the idea and was as
fascinated as the rest of us.
In the same area, I think the backlighting for the jelly fish exhibits is magnificent, and lends an almost other-realm quality to the tanks. I could have stood there all day watching these extraordinary creatures move, were it not for the gentle tugging and urging of Jenna, 8, "Can we go to the Kelp Lab now?" The Kelp Lab is small and tucked away on the second floor, but it's wonderful! Knowledgeable docents, like Judi and Richard, patiently teach the kids (and adults) about various plants and animals living in the sea. If you find the "petting area" too crowded, the Kelp Lab is more personal and slower paced, yet still offers the hands-on experience.
I really appreciate the fact that there is seating in almost every area of the Aquarium. It's nice to be able to rest and still look at the exhibits."
Julie adds: "David, 6, has always had a connection with animals. This was evidenced in the bat ray tank. Most of the rays are shy, especially when there is a crowd, but several came to David's immersed hand to be stroked and petted. They have the consistency of firm mushrooms, and if you can catch them on a friendly day, you'll be rewarded with a wonderful experience.
Don't take the younger kids to Flippers, Fins & Flukes first. You'll have a difficult time getting them to leave! Better to visit this interesting, interactive, discovery-type play area when your feet are needing a rest. There's plenty of seating for grownups, and a lot for the little ones to do. It's a favorite place and an attraction in itself."
Other things not to be missed include:
· The baby sea otter nursery on the third floor. This is easily missed, but a treasure. He is so cute and always playful!
· The Inside Story A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run the Aquarium. It's interesting for adults, and has plenty of hands-on things for the children. Lizzie, 3, loved running the "pig" to clean out the pipes.
· Outside Exhibits From the "shows" to the research boat exhibit, there's a lot to do outside as well. Play "I spy" with the telescopes as you watch seals sun themselves. Try to spot sea otters. Pretend you're the captain of the boat running an expedition. Great imagination starters and learning tools.
· The Atrium A small walk-through home for recovered shorebirds. Watch them scurry from the water and look for dinner. The best part of this exhibit, however, is watching the shark and rays when the wave machine mimics the tidal pull. See one of the weirdest looking fish in the world here - he's sand colored and looks like he's swimming on his side.
It's near impossible to see everything in one trip. That's one of the benefits of the Family Pass. If the past two months are any indication, we will likely make 3 dozen trips this year, ranging from one hour "errand breaks" to full day Family Outings. All promise to be fun, educational, entertaining and full of wonder!
Out & About Helpful Hints: Pay the extra couple of dollars and park in a lot. It's hard to enjoy the Aquarium if you're worried about your meter. Also, buy the annual pass if you'll go more than once in a year (you will!).
Kid Safety Considerations: If you have more than one child per adult, you may want to dress them in bright shirts. Especially on the weekends, the Aquarium can be a sea of faces, and it is easy for a child to be distracted by the many neat things to see and do.
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At A Glance Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row, Monterey (Metered or lot parking) (831) 648-4800, open 10-6 daily, $15.95 adults, $12.95 seniors/students, $6.95 (3-12) Appropriate for all ages Annual Family passes for two adults and minor children: $75; with two guest cards $125 |
(c) 2000 Paul
and Julie Gentry. Note: this article first appeared in Monterey
County Family Magazine
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