Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography 
 
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037   
Info:   858-534-FISH 
 

The Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO), University of California San Diego, has been in existence for over 90 years.  During nearly a century of change, it has been renamed, building facilities have changed several times and displays have reflected interests, trends and up to date information obtained through the institute's cutting edge research. 

 

Some things such as the institute's mission have not changed, however. Marine research, a desire to increase public understanding of the oceans and presentation of scientific endeavors for a lay audience have continued to be top priorities and its primary focus.

 

Kids Vacations - Aquariums & Zoos

 

Located atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean on the college campus, Birch Aquarium at Scripps opened its doors and started greeting guestss  in 1992. Designed around a central lobby, the facility branches into three interpretive areas which include Hall of Fishes with 33 tanks, Hall of Oceanography and a demonstration tide pool - discovery station. Hall of Fishes sports a huge 70,000 gallon tank among it collection but the  aquarium is especially proud of its display on oceanographic sciences which is considered the largest in the United States. 

 

 

        Photo ©  Debbie Stock 

 

Thanks to a $6 million donation from the Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation and a  $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, the aquarium's extensive facilities include  two seawater-equipped classrooms adjoining the public display areas.

 

The new facility, four times the size of its predecessor, is a physical   reflection of the aquarium's expanded mission. The hilltop site  provides a spectacular overview of the Scripps Institution of  Oceanography campus and the Pacific beyond. Exhibits in the  greatly enhanced museum offer a window on global research  projects being conducted in the SIO laboratories and at sea with  the Scripps fleet. The aquarium includes a gallery on tropical marine habitats.

 

Photo ©  Debbie Stock 

     

    For current hours, admission and other information, call 858-534-FISH or visit their web site, http://aquarium.ucsd.edu/

    Open daily, except holidays, the admission price is affordable.

    To drive there, take Interstate 5 and exit at  La Jolla Village Drive. Head west.  La Jolla Village Drive will become North Torrey Pines Road  (approx. 1 mile).  Turn left on Expedition Way.  Parking is to your left, at the bottom of the hill. There is a parking fee charged. 

    Enjoy changing exhibits and special events such as the annual whale migration along the California coast and a special day, where winners of a contest paint with the famous Laguna Beach artist, Wyland. 

 
 

You don't have to live in La Jolla to be involved. You can join the Scripps Oceanographic Society (SOS.  Become a member by phone! Call the Membership Office at (858) 534-5771 or (858) 534-6945 or visit their web site for secure, on line payment web: http://aquarium.ucsd.edu/  Send mail inquiries to: Scripps Oceanographic Society   9500 Gilman Drive La Jolla, Ca, 92093-0207