User reviews of Monterey Bay Aquarium
Terrific aquarium
Monterey Bay Aquarium manages that rare trick: to make an educational outing immensely fun. The place is filled with interesting, beautifully designed exhibits. The jellyfish are stunning in person, and we were lucky enough to see the great white shark before they released her. The staff is very knowledgeable and more than happy to answer questions (and they're easy to find - no hunting around looking for somebody who looks like they might work there). The only disappointment was the number of children running around and screaming like they were at the playground, rather than paying attention to the amazing things around them. Too bad they don't include a dose of Ritalin with every children's ticket... Don't miss feeding times in the reef and otter tanks - both are fascinating and entertaining. Also, spend some time on the outside decks soaking in the view.
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(Report Problem)Local gives it 2 thumbs up!
Been going for years and we do have a family membership. The exibits change over time and keep us interested. Choose your visiting times carefully as the place can get packed and makes viewing the exibiits un-fun. Sunday right when they open is good, make plans to leave about 12:30. Good bookstore, lots of things to see, interactive exibits, great for all ages. Wish there were more places to sit and watch from, outside there is plenty of places to sit and look over Monterey Bay but when it rains you are forced inside with everyone and their brother. Neat to hear all the languages spoken by visitors to their family members, truly a great place to visit.
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(Report Problem)It was nice for the kids.
Compared to Sea World it was average. The kids enjoyed it.
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(Report Problem)Great place for family.
This aquarium was a great aquarium, but if you have been to one aquarium you have really been to them all.
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(Report Problem)A wonderful place to visit, solo or with family
The aquarium is attractive, well-maintained, contains impressive displays, and hosts some truly remarkable creatures. I always walk until my feet hurt and they close the doors. The focus is on education, both in the information displays, grouping displays according to the sea creatures life cycles or habitats, and by speakers at announced times. The place is also child-friendly, with things they can interact with and touch, and an entire section designed entirely for younger kids. Don't miss the otters at feeding times, the penguins at feeding times, and the jellyfish exhibit. The shark tank is wonderful to watch, and the kelp tank even has wave motion captured in it (the two story tall kelp strands move in the current). I'd visit every week if I lived in the area.
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(Report Problem)A Must See !!!!!!
A must see ! This exibet is soo real I felt sea sick ! There was an excelent atmosphere; complete with fishes and other marine life from all around the globe.My husband and my kids LOVED it ! Every time we go to Montery I hear ''Can we go to that place again'' or ''Mom, Mom! Let's go to the aquarium''. Even my youngest pitches in "pees ids do muc fun''. If you want a run for your money, an EXCELENT time and so much more... Go to this aquarium !
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(Report Problem)Just OK
I'm it's hard to describe why I was disappointed with this aquarium. I think maybe it was all the hype. I've heard for years about the Monterey Aquarium, so perhaps my expectations were way over blown. It's a nice medium size aquarium. I would not call it spectacular. I'm planning to be in Monterey again soon, and maybe I'll try it again. I think it's great for younger kids -- lots of hands-on exhibits -- but for adults it was just ok.
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(Report Problem)The BEST Aquarium in the world !
1-24-2005 mom / dad / two teens 13 & 16 THE BEST aquarium in the world - Join as a member and get a tax deduction & gift store discounts, too ! Too good to pass up ; Plan for a whole day here ! The great white shark is a sight to behold ! If you want a nicer meal be sure to get a reservation at Portola Cafe ; windows overlook the protected sanctuary and you see otters and seals and more - all during the meal ! snack bar seating offers some window seating too ; try to eat early or late - there is always a lunch rush about noon - 1:00 pm was fine. Our favorite weekend trip !!
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(Report Problem)Life Control Medical
Had the basic information that I needed Thanks!
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