How to Save on Aquarium Tickets in Long Beach

The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is one of the most beloved marine education and conservation centers on the West Coast. With over 12,000 animals representing more than 500 species, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences like the Shark Lagoon and Jellyfish Gallery, it’s no surprise that thousands of visitors flock here annually. But with general admission prices often exceeding $40 per adult, many families and budget-conscious travelers wonder: How can I save on aquarium tickets in Long Beach? The answer lies in strategic planning, leveraging local discounts, timing your visit, and using underutilized resources. This comprehensive guide reveals proven, actionable methods to significantly reduce — or even eliminate — your aquarium ticket costs while maximizing your experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Purchase Tickets Online in Advance

One of the simplest and most effective ways to save is by buying your tickets directly from the Aquarium of the Pacific’s official website before you arrive. Online ticket prices are consistently $3–$5 lower per person than walk-up rates at the box office. Additionally, online purchases often include access to timed entry slots, which help you avoid long queues during peak hours. This small upfront step can save a family of four over $20.

When purchasing online, always check for seasonal promotions. The aquarium frequently runs limited-time discounts during slower months (January–February, September–October) or in conjunction with local events. Signing up for their email newsletter at the bottom of the homepage ensures you receive these offers directly.

2. Utilize Local Resident Discounts

If you live in Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, or San Bernardino counties, you qualify for a special “Local Resident Discount.” This offer typically provides a 25% reduction on general admission tickets for residents with valid photo ID and proof of address (such as a utility bill or driver’s license). The discount applies to up to four people per household and is available year-round.

To claim this discount, visit the ticket counter in person and present your documents. While online purchases don’t currently auto-apply this discount, you can still buy your tickets online and then visit the box office to receive the reduced rate upon verification. Always confirm current eligibility requirements on the aquarium’s website, as county boundaries and documentation rules may change.

3. Take Advantage of Free Admission Days

The Aquarium of the Pacific offers select days each year when admission is completely free to the public. These are typically held on the first Tuesday of every month from September through June (excluding holidays), and on specific community days like Earth Day and National Marine Sanctuaries Month.

Free admission days are extremely popular, so arrive early — often before 9:00 a.m. — to avoid long lines and ensure entry. Capacity is limited, and once the daily quota is reached, no additional guests are admitted. Plan your visit around these dates if you’re flexible with your schedule. These days are ideal for families, school groups, and seniors who want to experience the aquarium without spending a dime.

4. Use Museum Pass Programs

Many public libraries in Southern California participate in museum pass programs that allow patrons to check out free or deeply discounted aquarium tickets. Libraries such as the Long Beach Public Library, Los Angeles Public Library, and Orange County Public Libraries offer passes that grant free general admission for up to four people.

To access this benefit:

• Visit your local library’s website and search for “museum passes” or “cultural passes.”
• Reserve your pass online using your library card.
• Print the pass or show the digital version at the aquarium’s entrance.

Passes are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis and may require a 3–7 day advance reservation. Some libraries limit usage to once per calendar year per household, so plan ahead. This is one of the most underused but highly valuable savings methods available to local residents.

5. Combine Visits with Public Transit and Parking Savings

While not a direct ticket discount, saving on transportation can effectively reduce your total outing cost. The Aquarium of the Pacific is located within walking distance of the Long Beach Transit’s Downtown Station and the Long Beach Airport light rail stop. Taking public transit eliminates parking fees, which can range from $15–$25 per day at nearby garages.

Additionally, if you’re staying at a hotel in Long Beach, many partner with the aquarium to offer discounted admission as part of a “Stay & Save” package. Always ask your hotel front desk if they have a partnership with the aquarium — some offer 10–20% off tickets when you mention your stay.

6. Join the Aquarium as a Member

If you plan to visit more than twice a year, membership is a smart financial decision. Annual memberships start at $79 for individuals and $109 for families (up to two adults and four children). Members receive unlimited admission for one year, free parking, exclusive member-only events, discounts on food and gift shop items, and early access to ticketed exhibits.

Membership also includes reciprocal benefits with over 300 other North American aquariums and science centers through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Reciprocal Network. This means your Long Beach membership can grant you free or discounted entry at places like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seattle Aquarium, and even the Smithsonian National Zoo.

Look for membership promotions during holidays like Black Friday or Mother’s Day, when the aquarium often offers bonus gifts (like a free tote bag or animal adoption certificate) with new sign-ups.

7. Leverage Student, Military, and Senior Discounts

The aquarium offers reduced admission rates for specific groups:

• Students: Valid student ID with photo receives a $5 discount on general admission.
• Seniors (65+): $5 off with valid ID.
• Active and veteran military personnel: Free admission for the service member and up to three guests with valid military ID (must be presented in person).

These discounts are not always advertised prominently on the website, so always ask at the ticket counter. Some travel bloggers and local news outlets also report on “Military Appreciation Days,” where additional perks like free guided tours are offered.

8. Visit During Off-Peak Hours and Seasons

Ticket prices don’t change based on time of day, but your experience and opportunity to save do. Visiting during weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) significantly reduces crowds, making it easier to enjoy exhibits without waiting. Weekends and school holidays see the highest traffic and often trigger higher demand for parking and food services.

Seasonally, the best time to visit for both savings and comfort is late September through November and January through March. These months have fewer tourists, cooler weather, and more availability for discounts. Avoid July and August, when prices are at their peak due to summer vacation demand.

9. Bundle with Other Local Attractions

Several local tourism platforms offer bundled deals that include the Aquarium of the Pacific along with other attractions. For example:

• The Go City All-Inclusive Pass includes the aquarium plus 30+ other Southern California attractions like the California Science Center, USS Iowa, and the Long Beach Pike.
• The Los Angeles Attractions Pass offers a 20–30% discount when you combine the aquarium with a city tour or harbor cruise.

These passes are cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple sites over a few days. Compare the total cost of individual tickets versus the pass price — often, you break even after just two or three attractions.

10. Participate in Community and Corporate Sponsorship Programs

Local businesses, nonprofits, and civic organizations occasionally sponsor free or discounted aquarium tickets for families in need, educators, or community groups. Organizations like the Long Beach Community Foundation, United Way, and local PTAs sometimes distribute vouchers through their networks.

Additionally, some employers in Long Beach offer employee wellness or community engagement benefits that include cultural institution access. Check with your HR department or internal benefits portal — you might be eligible for free or reduced tickets without even knowing it.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead — Don’t Wait Until the Day Of

Impulse visits rarely lead to savings. The most successful visitors plan their trip at least two weeks in advance. This allows time to research discounts, reserve museum passes, check for free admission days, and coordinate transportation. Planning also reduces stress and increases the likelihood of experiencing your favorite exhibits without overcrowding.

Always Verify Discount Eligibility

Discounts change frequently. What was valid last year may not be available this season. Always confirm current offers on the official Aquarium of the Pacific website or by calling their visitor services line (not customer care). Avoid third-party ticket resellers — they rarely offer better deals and often add hidden fees.

Bring Proper Identification

Many discounts require proof of residency, age, military status, or student enrollment. Carry your driver’s license, library card, student ID, or military ID with you. Even if you’ve already purchased tickets online, presenting documentation at the box office can still unlock a refund or upgrade.

Travel in Groups Strategically

Group discounts are rarely available for general admission, but families of five or more may qualify for special pricing during off-peak times if arranged in advance. Contact the aquarium’s education or group sales department directly — not through a general inquiry form — to ask about custom group rates.

Use Cashback and Rewards Apps

Apps like Rakuten, Honey, and Ibotta occasionally offer cashback on online ticket purchases for major attractions. While not always available for the Aquarium of the Pacific, it’s worth checking before you pay. Some credit cards also offer travel rewards that can be redeemed for attraction tickets — review your card’s benefits portal.

Follow the Aquarium on Social Media

Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are where the aquarium announces flash sales, last-minute free tickets for educators, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. Following them ensures you don’t miss time-sensitive opportunities. Many promotions are only available for 24–48 hours.

Combine Your Visit with Educational Programs

The aquarium offers free or low-cost educational workshops, animal feedings, and keeper talks that are included with admission. These are not just entertaining — they’re educational value-adds that make your visit more worthwhile. Plan your day around these scheduled events to maximize your experience without spending more.

Consider Visiting After 3 PM

While not officially discounted, visiting in the late afternoon often means shorter lines and fewer crowds. You’ll have more time to explore exhibits at your own pace, and the lighting in the jellyfish and coral reef tanks is especially stunning near closing time. Some visitors report that staff are more willing to offer impromptu upgrades or complimentary souvenirs during quieter hours.

Tools and Resources

Official Aquarium of the Pacific Website

aquariumofpacific.org is your primary resource. It features real-time ticket pricing, event calendars, free admission day announcements, and downloadable maps. Bookmark this site and check it weekly for updates.

Library Museum Pass Portal

Visit your local library’s website and search for “museum passes.” Key portals include:

• Long Beach Public Library: longbeach.gov/library
• Los Angeles Public Library: lapl.org
• Orange County Public Libraries: ocls.info

These sites allow you to reserve passes online using your library card number.

Go City Pass

gocity.com offers bundled attraction passes for Southern California. Use their interactive map to compare the value of including the Aquarium of the Pacific in your itinerary. The pass pays for itself after two or three attractions.

Google Maps and Local Event Calendars

Search “Aquarium of the Pacific free admission” on Google and filter results by the past month to see historical patterns. Also check the City of Long Beach’s official events calendar: longbeach.gov/events. Many community events include free admission as part of a larger celebration.

Reddit and Facebook Groups

Join local community groups like “Long Beach Families” or “SoCal Attractions Deals” on Facebook. Members often post about last-minute ticket giveaways, shared passes, or group discounts. Reddit’s r/LongBeach and r/California are also valuable for insider tips.

YouTube and Travel Blogs

Search “Aquarium of the Pacific budget tips” on YouTube. Many local vloggers share day-in-the-life tours that include cost-saving strategies. Blogs like “Family Travel in SoCal” and “The Budget Traveler LA” regularly publish updated guides on attraction discounts.

Mobile App: Aquarium of the Pacific

Download the official mobile app (available on iOS and Android). It provides real-time exhibit wait times, interactive maps, audio guides, and push notifications for flash sales or free admission alerts. The app is free and enhances your visit without extra cost.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Garcia Family — Saving $108

The Garcias are a family of four from Long Beach. They planned a weekend trip to the aquarium in October. Instead of paying $172 at the door ($43 per adult, $43 per child), they:

• Purchased tickets online for $38 each ($152 total).
• Used their Long Beach Public Library museum pass to get two free child tickets.
• Presented their driver’s licenses for the Local Resident Discount, reducing adult tickets to $32 each ($64 total).

Total spent: $64 (adults) + $0 (children) = $64. Savings: $108 — nearly 63% off.

Example 2: Maria, a College Student — Saving $38

Maria, a 20-year-old student at CSU Long Beach, wanted to visit the aquarium with her friend. She:

• Used her student ID for the $5 discount, paying $38 instead of $43.
• Chose a Tuesday in November — a free admission day — and arrived at 8:45 a.m.
• Used public transit (bus fare: $1.75), avoiding $20 parking.

Total spent: $1.75. She got a full day of exhibits, a free guided tour, and even a free animal adoption certificate. Her friend, who didn’t know about the free day, paid $43. Maria saved $41.25.

Example 3: The Rodriguez Family — Membership Pays Off

The Rodriguezes visited the aquarium four times in one year. They paid $172 for their first visit, then purchased an annual family membership for $109. For their next three visits, they paid $0 for admission, saved $60 on parking, and received 10% off gift shop purchases ($25 in savings). Total cost: $109. Without membership: $172 + $180 (three more visits) + $60 (parking) = $412. Savings: $303.

Example 4: Military Family — Free Admission

A veteran and his wife, with two children, visited on a Friday. With their military ID, they received free admission for all four family members. They also received a complimentary aquarium-themed activity book and priority access to the penguin exhibit. They spent only $5 on snacks — a full day of learning and fun at no cost.

FAQs

Can I get free aquarium tickets with my EBT card?

Yes. The Aquarium of the Pacific participates in the Museums for All program, which offers free or discounted admission to individuals with an EBT card. Present your EBT card and a valid photo ID at the ticket counter to receive one free admission per cardholder (up to four people). This is available year-round.

Do children under a certain age get in free?

Children aged 2 and under receive free admission regardless of the ticket type. All children aged 3–11 must have a child ticket, but discounts apply through the methods listed above.

Are there discounts for teachers or educators?

Yes. Pre-K through 12 educators with a valid school ID or employment verification receive a 50% discount on general admission. This applies to one educator per visit. Group tours for schools are arranged separately through the education department.

Can I use a coupon from Groupon or LivingSocial?

While third-party sites occasionally list aquarium tickets, the aquarium does not partner with these platforms. Tickets sold on Groupon or similar sites are often outdated, non-refundable, or invalid. Always purchase directly from the official website or authorized partners like library passes or Go City.

What if I arrive and realize I qualify for a discount?

Don’t panic. You can still receive the discount by visiting the ticket counter with your documentation. The staff will often adjust your ticket price or issue a refund if you’ve already paid full price. Bring proof — even a screenshot of the discount policy on the website helps.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?

General admission tickets are non-transferable and tied to the purchaser’s name and date of visit. However, if you have a membership or a museum pass, those can often be used by immediate family members. Check the terms on your specific pass or ticket.

Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible? Are there discounts for disabled visitors?

The aquarium is fully ADA compliant with ramps, elevators, and sensory-friendly guides. While there is no separate discount for disabled visitors, companions of guests with disabilities receive free admission when accompanying a ticketed guest. Present documentation at the ticket counter to claim this benefit.

Do I need to reserve a time slot for my visit?

Reservations are required during peak seasons (June–August) and on free admission days. For regular days, you can walk in, but timed entry reduces wait times. Online ticket purchases include a recommended entry window.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes. The aquarium allows visitors to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. There are designated picnic areas near the entrance and on the outdoor terrace. This can save you $15–$25 per person on meals inside.

What’s the best way to stay updated on discounts?

Subscribe to the aquarium’s email newsletter, follow their social media accounts, and check the “Plan Your Visit” section of their website monthly. Local news outlets like the Long Beach Press-Telegram and LAist also report on upcoming deals.

Conclusion

Saving on aquarium tickets in Long Beach isn’t about luck — it’s about strategy. Whether you’re a local resident, a student, a military family, or a budget-conscious traveler, there are multiple legitimate, proven ways to reduce or eliminate your admission costs. From museum passes and free admission days to resident discounts and strategic timing, the opportunities are abundant if you know where to look.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is more than just an attraction — it’s a gateway to marine science, conservation awareness, and unforgettable family experiences. By applying the methods outlined in this guide, you not only save money but also deepen your connection to the ocean and its ecosystems. Remember: the most rewarding visits aren’t always the most expensive ones.

Start planning your next trip today. Check the calendar, call your local library, sign up for the newsletter, and prepare your ID. With the right approach, your next visit to the Aquarium of the Pacific could cost you nothing at all — and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.