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Aquarium of the Pacific Adds New Exhibits

Two new exhibits recently opened at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, which first opened its doors in June 2008. Since then the aquarium has continued to expand in hopes to educate visitors about our oceans. The Aquarium features more than 11,000 inhabitants representing almost 500 different species in over 50 exhibits.

Arctic & Antarctic exhibit-our polar regions in peril

Take a journey to the Earth's icy poles at the Arctic & Antarctic exhibit. The exhibit features a sea jelly touch tank, red king crab, arctic fish and two arctic fox pups. This exhibit calls attention to the animals of the icy poles and the impact of climate changes on them. Climate change is causing warmer sea temperatures, rising sea levels and melting ice caps. Through this new exhibit the public can learn what to do to help protect the ecosystems and the inhabitants of the Arctic and Antarctic (hint: Think Green). A short film "Poles in Peril" featured in the Great Hall coincides with this exhibit.

Ocean Science Center

Using the cutting edge technology of Science on a Sphere (link with ) to explore the atmosphere, ocean, and continents, the Ocean Science Center is a must-see. The Science on a Sphere is a 6 foot in diameter global display that uses projected video and computers to display data in a captivating way. Information about the complexities of our weather system is easily displayed with this dynamic display. In this permanent exhibit, you'll be able to see how climate change and maritime trade and ports impact our lives no matter where we live on the planet.


Molina Animal Care Center
This newly improved care center is better equipped to help the inhabitants of the Aquarium as well as provide yet another proponent of education for the public about the husbandry of the Aquarium's inhabitants. With larger examination areas and new holding tanks for the animals, the care center goes above and beyond in animal care. Have you ever wanted to watch a sea lion get his teeth brushed? The Molina Animal Care Center allows visitors of the Aquarium to view surgeries and examinations (and teeth brushing) through large glass windows. The Aquarium also hopes to partner with the Miller Children's Hospital at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center to have a live video feed for young patients at hospital of the care center. They will even have the opportunity to interact with the staff. Several educational shows will be available throughout the day. There, the staff is at hand to provide educational programs, display creatures and answer questions.

Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 590-3100
More Info

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (except Christmas day and April 15-17).
Admission: $24.95 General (12+), $21.95 Senior (62+), $12.95 Child (3-11) and free for children under age 3 and Aquarium members.
Membership: $115 for a family membership. Membership includes unlimited free admission for one year with no black out dates and discounts on food and gifts and other benefits.

Desiree Eaglin is a Day Tripping Mom and a lover of all things Pacific Ocean-worthy.

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