Birch Aquarium: Window to the Pacific

Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of marine research and ocean conservation. Founded in 1903 as part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the aquarium has evolved from a small laboratory to a leading public outreach center. Today, it welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually, including 40,000 students, with a mission to inspire understanding and protection of our ocean planet.The aquarium's exhibits showcase a diverse range of marine habitats and species. The Adam R. Scripps Living Seas Gallery takes you on an immersive journey through the Pacific Ocean's most vibrant ecosystems, from the chilly waters of the Pacific Northwest to the colorful reefs of the tropics. Don't miss the Giant Pacific Octopus, the Scripps Pier habitat, and the Open Ocean habitat with its rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle.Tide-Pool Plaza offers a hands-on experience with local marine life, allowing visitors to gently touch and learn about animals like starfish and sea anemones. The Seadragons & Seahorses exhibit features one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world, highlighting the aquarium's successful seahorse propagation program. The Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins exhibit is the only place in the western U.S. where you can observe these charming seabirds.Beyond its exhibits, Birch Aquarium is committed to education and conservation. The aquarium's climate-based programming reaches over 40,000 students each year. The aquarium also participates in conservation breeding programs and collaborates with community and experts for the greater good of the ocean.