Aquarium of the Pacific

Courtesy of my animal loving daughter, a picture overload of Aquarium of the Pacific. I would call this a hidden gem, located in Long Beach, California. The aquarium is probably overshadowed by SeaWorld. And if you are anything like me, you figure not much can top SeaWorld when it comes to displaying sea life. Oh, but I was wrong. I love a smaller aquarium because they often focus on the regional habitants. Don't you want to know what is swimming around your toes at the beaches, rivers, or lakes in your area? Ok, maybe we are better off not knowing! If you have irrational fears like me, that is ;)

I loved this gigantic wall tank. I would have been happy to pay my admission and sit in front of this tank all day.

But I have kids who have LOTS of energy! Plus, there was so much to see.

Jellyfish get my vote for best exhibit at any aquarium. Aquarium of the Pacific has lots of jellyfish. There is a jellyfish petting tank. Not sure how that works but for the brave. 

Yep, that is my kid. Hanging on the aquarium :/

Don't judge!

Hands down, the most number of interactive exhibits of any aquarium we've visited. Which is only like 7 aquariums total. But still.

More jellies!

The outside of the aquarium after we were all evacuated because of a fire alarm.

Does anyone else find it ironic to be evacuated. for a fire. at an aquarium.

Haha…we heard it was a false alarm and eventually went back inside.

I'm giving this aquarium a thumbs up. There is a lot to do. Not only the aquariums and interactive exhibits but there are animal shows outside as well. A shark tank, which you may have seen on Instagram, and a bird aviary where you can feed lorikeets. 

I have a feeling we will be back later this year because our Marine Corps Ball is in the area. 

It's a nice smallish place for the kids to explore without the stress of keeping tabs on them.  Winning!