How to Get Cheap Tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific, located in Long Beach, California, is one of the most beloved marine life destinations on the West Coast. Home to over 11,000 animals representing more than 500 species, it offers immersive exhibits from the Pacific Ocean’s cold waters to tropical reefs, interactive touch pools, and even a 3D theater. But with ticket prices often exceeding $40 for adults, many families and budget-conscious visitors wonder: How to get cheap tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific without sacrificing the experience?

This guide is your comprehensive, step-by-step resource to securing the lowest possible prices on Aquarium of the Pacific admission. Whether you're a local resident, a tourist planning a trip, or an educator organizing a group visit, understanding the strategies, timing, and tools available can save you hundreds of dollars annually. This isn’t just about discounts—it’s about maximizing value, avoiding hidden fees, and ensuring you get the most out of your visit without overspending.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven methods to find discounted tickets, reveal insider timing tips, list trusted third-party platforms, and share real-world examples of savings. You’ll also learn best practices for planning ahead, leveraging community programs, and using digital tools to track price drops. By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable roadmap to visiting one of California’s top attractions at a fraction of the cost.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the Official Website During Special Promotions

The Aquarium of the Pacific’s official website is the most reliable source for legitimate discounts, but it’s not always obvious where to look. Start by navigating to aquariumofpacific.org and look for banners or links labeled “Special Offers,” “Deals,” or “Save Today.”

One of the most consistent savings opportunities is the “Free Admission for Kids” promotion, typically offered during select weekends in the summer or on holidays like Children’s Day. While adult tickets still apply, this can reduce your total cost by 50% or more if you’re bringing children. Another common promotion is “Buy One, Get One 50% Off,” which applies to general admission tickets when purchased together online.

Always check the “Plan Your Visit” section under the “Tickets” tab. Here, you’ll find details about timed-entry tickets, which often come with lower pricing than walk-up rates. Buying online in advance locks in the promotional rate and avoids the $5–$10 surcharge applied to tickets purchased at the gate.

2. Leverage Local Resident Discounts

If you live in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, or Ventura counties, you’re eligible for a special resident discount. The Aquarium offers up to 25% off general admission for residents of these zip codes. To qualify, you must present a valid photo ID and proof of residency—such as a utility bill, driver’s license, or lease agreement—at the ticket counter.

However, the best way to take advantage of this is to purchase your tickets online using your residential zip code during checkout. The system automatically applies the discount if your address falls within the eligible region. This eliminates the need to carry physical documents and ensures you get the lowest rate upfront.

Pro tip: The discount is available year-round but is most valuable during peak seasons (June–August and December). Plan your visit during these months to maximize savings.

3. Use Museum Pass Programs

Many Southern California libraries, community centers, and cultural institutions participate in museum pass programs that offer free or deeply discounted admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific. Programs like the Library of Things in Long Beach, the LA County Library Museums for All initiative, and the Orange County Library System allow patrons to check out a pass for free admission for up to four people.

To access these passes:

• Visit your local public library’s website.
• Search for “museum passes” or “attraction passes.”
• Reserve your pass online—availability is limited and often first-come, first-served.
• Print or show the digital pass at the Aquarium’s admission desk.

Some libraries allow one pass per household per month, so plan ahead. If you’re a regular visitor, rotate your visits with friends or family who have access to different library systems to extend your savings.

4. Time Your Visit for Discounted Days

Not all days are priced equally. The Aquarium of the Pacific adjusts pricing based on demand. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are consistently cheaper than weekends. Avoid holidays, school breaks, and major events like the Long Beach Grand Prix or summer festivals, when prices spike.

Even better: Visit on the first Tuesday of the month. The Aquarium offers “$1 Tuesdays” for all visitors during the summer months (June–August). This includes general admission only—special exhibits and the 3D theater are extra—but it’s an unbeatable deal for budget travelers.

Also consider visiting during “Evening Hours” (typically 4–8 PM on select days). These sessions are less crowded and often come with a 10–15% discount compared to daytime admission. Check the calendar on the official website for scheduled evening events.

5. Join the Aquarium’s Membership Program

While memberships cost $79–$149 annually, they pay for themselves in as few as two visits. Members receive unlimited admission for one year, free parking, discounts on food and gift shop items, and exclusive access to member-only events.

Look for “Membership Specials” during holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or New Year’s Day. These promotions often include a free guest pass, a $20 gift card, or a 20% discount on the first year’s fee. Bundled family memberships (up to two adults and four children) are particularly cost-effective for households.

Tip: If you plan to visit more than twice a year, a membership is almost always the cheapest option. Use the membership calculator on the Aquarium’s website to compare your expected visits against the cost.

6. Use Student, Senior, and Military Discounts

The Aquarium offers tiered discounts for specific groups:

• Students: 20% off with a valid student ID (college or high school). Online verification is not required—just show your ID at the ticket counter.
• Seniors (65+): 15% off with photo ID. Available daily.
• Military Personnel: 10% off for active duty, veterans, and their families. Requires valid military ID. Family members may also qualify under the same discount.

These discounts are not always advertised online. Always ask at the ticket counter or call ahead to confirm eligibility. If you’re purchasing online, select the appropriate ticket type during checkout—some categories are only visible when logged in or when entering a qualifying zip code.

7. Book Through Third-Party Travel Platforms

Platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, and Expedia occasionally bundle Aquarium tickets with other Long Beach attractions. Look for packages like “Aquarium + USS Iowa + Queen Mary” that offer combined discounts of up to 30%.

Compare prices across platforms. Sometimes, a $39 ticket on Viator is cheaper than the $42 online rate on the Aquarium’s site. Be sure to check the fine print: some third-party tickets are non-refundable or have fixed entry times. Avoid buying from resellers on eBay or Craigslist—these are often scams or invalid tickets.

Use Google Shopping or a price comparison tool to monitor fluctuations. Set alerts for “Aquarium of the Pacific tickets” to receive notifications when prices drop.

8. Take Advantage of Corporate and Nonprofit Partnerships

Many employers in Southern California partner with the Aquarium to offer employee discounts. Check your company’s benefits portal or intranet for “Wellness & Recreation” perks. Companies like Disney, Boeing, and local hospitals often provide 20–30% off tickets as part of their wellness programs.

Nonprofit organizations, including churches, scout groups, and community centers, may also qualify for group rates. If you’re organizing a visit for 10 or more people, contact the Aquarium’s group sales team directly via their website. Group rates start at $18 per person for 10–24 guests and drop further for larger groups.

Don’t overlook alumni associations or professional organizations. Some universities and trade groups have reciprocal agreements with cultural institutions, including the Aquarium.

9. Use Cashback and Rewards Apps

Apps like Rakuten, Honey, and Capital One Shopping can earn you cashback on online ticket purchases. Simply install the browser extension, navigate to the Aquarium’s ticket page, and click “Activate Cashback” before completing your purchase.

Rakuten has offered up to 8% cashback on Aquarium tickets in the past. Honey automatically applies coupon codes at checkout—though the Aquarium rarely accepts third-party coupons, it’s worth checking.

Also consider using credit cards with travel rewards. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture offer 2–5% back on “entertainment” purchases. If you’re spending $100 on tickets, that’s $2–$5 in rewards—money you can use toward future visits or travel.

10. Watch for Seasonal and Holiday Sales

Major holidays trigger the most significant discounts:

• Black Friday (November): 25–40% off tickets and memberships.
• Cyber Monday: Online-only deals, often including free parking.
• New Year’s Day: Half-price admission for all visitors.
• Earth Day (April 22): Free admission for all visitors (limited capacity, arrive early).
• Memorial Day & Labor Day Weekends: Early-bird discounts for tickets purchased 7+ days in advance.

Set calendar reminders for these dates and sign up for the Aquarium’s email newsletter. They send exclusive promo codes 3–5 days before major sales. Avoid waiting until the last minute—these deals sell out quickly.

Best Practices

Always Book Online in Advance

Regardless of the discount method you use, always purchase tickets online. Walk-up prices are higher, and popular days sell out. Online booking guarantees entry, locks in your rate, and reduces wait times at the entrance.

Compare Prices Across Multiple Channels

Never assume the official site has the lowest price. Cross-check with library passes, third-party platforms, and membership deals. A $40 ticket on the website might be $32 with a library pass and $35 with a student discount. Always calculate your net savings.

Avoid Peak Times to Maximize Value

Weekends, holidays, and school breaks mean higher prices and longer lines. Tuesday–Thursday afternoons are the sweet spot: lower crowds, lower prices, and better photo opportunities.

Combine Discounts Strategically

You can’t stack multiple discounts (e.g., student + resident), but you can combine a discount with a cashback offer. For example: use a library pass for free admission, then use Rakuten cashback on a $10 gift shop purchase. This turns a free visit into a profitable experience.

Sign Up for the Email Newsletter

The Aquarium sends weekly updates with upcoming events, flash sales, and member-exclusive previews. Subscribers often receive early access to discounted tickets before the public. Opt in with a secondary email to avoid clutter.

Check for Weather-Based Promotions

On rainy or overcast days, the Aquarium sometimes offers “Bad Weather Discounts” via social media. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook. They’ll post last-minute deals to encourage attendance during slow periods.

Bring Your Own Snacks and Water

Food inside the Aquarium is expensive. Bring a reusable water bottle (they have refill stations) and non-perishable snacks. This can save $15–$25 per person, effectively lowering your total cost of attendance.

Plan Your Route to Avoid Parking Fees

On-site parking costs $15. Use public transit: the Long Beach Transit Green Line stops within walking distance. If driving, park at the Long Beach City College garage ($5/day) and take the free shuttle. Always check the Aquarium’s website for parking deals on event days.

Visit During Off-Season for Maximum Savings

January–March and September–October are the quietest months. Prices are lowest, crowds are minimal, and staff are more available for interactive experiences. This is the ideal time for photography, educational visits, and leisurely exploration.

Tools and Resources

Official Aquarium of the Pacific Website

aquariumofpacific.org is your primary source for accurate pricing, event calendars, and policy updates. Bookmark it and check it weekly.

Library of Things & Museum Pass Programs

Check your local library’s website for digital pass inventories. Key systems include:

• Long Beach Public Library: www.longbeach.gov/library/
• Los Angeles County Library: www.lacountylibrary.org/
• Orange County Public Library: www.ocpl.org/

Price Comparison Tools

Use these browser extensions to monitor ticket prices:

• Rakuten: cashback on purchases
• Honey: auto-applies coupons
• Google Shopping: compares prices across retailers

Travel Deal Aggregators

Check these sites for bundled deals:

• GetYourGuide: www.getyourguide.com/
• Viator: www.viator.com/
• Expedia: www.expedia.com/

Mobile Apps

Download the Aquarium’s official app for real-time updates on crowd levels, showtimes, and exclusive in-app discounts. Also install:

• Citymapper: for public transit routes to the Aquarium
• Google Maps: to locate free parking and shuttle stops

Community Boards and Social Media

Join Facebook groups like “Long Beach Family Events” or “Southern California Free Things to Do.” Members frequently post about upcoming free admission days or group discounts. Follow the Aquarium’s Instagram and Twitter for real-time flash sales.

Membership Calculator

Use the Aquarium’s online membership calculator to determine if a membership is worth it. Input your expected number of visits per year, and the tool shows your break-even point. Most families break even after 2–3 visits.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Garcia Family (4 People)

The Garcias live in Long Beach and plan to visit the Aquarium twice a year. Without discounts, tickets would cost $160 ($40 x 4). Instead, they:

• Used their library’s museum pass for free admission in June (saving $160).
• Purchased a $79 family membership in November during a Black Friday sale (20% off).
• Used their membership for a second visit in February, saving another $160.

Total spent: $79. Total saved: $241. Net savings: $162.

Example 2: College Student Group (5 Students)

Five college students from USC planned a weekend trip. They:

• Purchased tickets online using their student IDs (20% off = $32 each).
• Used a Rakuten cashback link (6% back = $1.92 per person).
• Arrived at 4 PM for evening pricing (10% off = $28.80 each).

Original price: $200. Final price: $144. Total saved: $56.

Example 3: Military Family Visit

A veteran and his family of five visited during a military appreciation weekend. They received:

• 10% off adult tickets ($40 → $36)
• 15% off child tickets ($30 → $25.50)
• Free parking with military ID

Original cost: $190. Final cost: $150. Savings: $40 + $15 parking = $55.

Example 4: Teacher Group (20 Students + 2 Adults)

A public school teacher organized a field trip. They:

• Applied for a group rate (10+ people = $18 per person).
• Used a nonprofit education grant to cover 50% of the cost.
• Arrived on a Tuesday for additional $1 discount per person.

Original cost: $920. Final cost: $360. Savings: $560.

FAQs

Can I get free admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific?

Yes, on select days like Earth Day (April 22) and New Year’s Day. Some library museum passes also provide free entry. Check the official calendar for upcoming free admission dates.

Are there discounts for seniors or students?

Yes. Seniors (65+) get 15% off, and students with valid ID get 20% off. These are applied at the ticket counter or during online checkout.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No. Digital tickets on your phone are accepted at the entrance. Keep your confirmation email handy in case of technical issues.

Can I use a coupon code from a third-party site?

The Aquarium rarely accepts third-party coupon codes. Discounts are typically built into the ticket type (e.g., “student,” “resident,” “member”). Always purchase through official channels to avoid fraud.

Is parking free with discounted tickets?

No. Parking is $15 unless you’re a member, military personnel, or visiting during a special event with a parking waiver. Use public transit or nearby paid garages for savings.

Do I need to reserve a time slot?

Yes. The Aquarium uses timed-entry tickets to manage capacity. Even with a discount, you must select a visit window during checkout.

Can I get a refund if I can’t use my ticket?

Tickets are non-refundable but can be exchanged for another date within 90 days, subject to availability. Check the ticket terms during purchase.

What’s the best time of year to visit for low prices?

January through March and September through October offer the lowest prices and fewest crowds. Avoid summer and holidays for maximum savings.

Are there any hidden fees I should know about?

There are no hidden fees for general admission. However, special exhibits (like the 3D theater or behind-the-scenes tours) cost extra. Always review your final checkout total before paying.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes. Service animals are welcome throughout the Aquarium. Emotional support animals are not permitted.

Conclusion

Getting cheap tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific isn’t a matter of luck—it’s a matter of strategy. By combining resident discounts, library passes, timed visits, membership deals, and cashback tools, you can reduce your admission cost by 50% or more. Whether you’re a family, a student, a senior, or a teacher organizing a group, the tools and knowledge outlined in this guide empower you to visit one of California’s most enriching cultural institutions without straining your budget.

The key is planning ahead. Don’t wait until the day of your visit to search for deals. Bookmark this guide, set calendar reminders for holiday sales, and sign up for the Aquarium’s newsletter. With the right approach, your next visit won’t just be memorable—it’ll be affordable.

Remember: the true value of the Aquarium isn’t just in the price of the ticket. It’s in the wonder of seeing a shark glide through a 330,000-gallon ocean habitat, the awe of touching a sea star, or the quiet joy of watching a penguin waddle across its enclosure. With these tips, you’re not just saving money—you’re investing in experiences that inspire curiosity, connection, and conservation.