Monterey Aquarium

travel wonder in America

Why the

Monterey Aquarium

is special

Of all the world's major aquariums, this one is the most successful at being simultaneously very educational and interesting.

This institution in Monterey, California is large, and so are many of its exhibits. It does a fine job recreating natural habitats, as opposed to using standard fish tank style presentations normally used in public aquariums.

Must-sees

There are two dozen significant indoor and outdoor exhibits, habitats and galleries. The most popular include:

Kelp Forest - This glass-fronted three-story affair has a multitude of fish swimming around towering kelp (see photo). If possible, be there at feeding time when divers hand-feed the denizens.

Outer Bay - It boasts the world's largest Plexiglas viewing window, allowing you to see up close a slew of large-fish species in a single glance.

Sea Otters - Observe energetic, fun-loving sea otters as they dash about in and out of the water.

Tidal Pool - It teems with natural inhabitants including crabs, anemones and sea stars.

Ocean's Edge - See a giant octopus and walk through a special wave-crash tunnel.

Special Exhibits - There are non-permanent presentations, often stimulating.

Monterey Aquarium
tips & insights

A visit will please both adults and children. There are exciting touch-the-sea-life opportunities for them.

The coastal area is extremely rich in varied sea life - and the staff's primary focus is showcasing that ecosystem.

The building complex is a former fish-processing factory located in the historic Cannery Row.

The Monterey Aquarium attracts over two million visitors per year.

As part of its educational mission, this ocean museum encourages people to eat fish (in an eco-friendly way) and to cook it properly.

American cuisine

I hope your America travel dreams come true - and that 

my Monterey Aquarium page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications