Discover the Mysteries of the Deep at Birch Aquarium

It’s not a very large aquarium and can be walked through at a leisurely pace within 1-2 hours. Free parking, slightly pricey ticket. The diversity of the animals is actually quite nice, there are entire sections devoted to seahorses, coral, and little blue penguins. Very impressed with the staff keeping an eye on children regarding the touch tanks and coral exhibit and gently urging them not to over stimulate the animals. I enjoy places where staff keep the animals wellness in mind while also being informative about their life and behaviour.

We have been visiting Birch Aquarium on and off for several years and it never disappoints. The exhibits are well maintained and provide ample information. The creatures are fascinating and just awe inspiring. The ocean views from their outdoor touch pools are absolutely breathtaking. We also love sitting down and just watching the kelp sway back and forth and the ocean friends go about their day in the aquarium’s large tank. The only downside, when visiting on certain days, the place can get quite busy/packed. We visit maybe 1-2x a year and we would definitely visit again. We paid $84.85 for 2 adult tickets and one child ticket.

*Contribute to Birch Aquarium & research & purchase your very own ceramic star fish showcased on a wall honoring a loved one with their name & personal message. Honor those you loved with a contribution to research. Some of these messages reflect a lifetime of love for the ocean. Very touching.

Unfortunately the aquarium was partially under construction when we went so there wasn't as much variety as we thought and was a shorter visit than expected. What we did see was great though and the staff where knowledgeable and friendly. The penguin exhibit was really great. We got to see one penguin repeatedly steal grass from another penguin's house and bring it to its own house. We also caught one of the penguin feedings which was adorable. The seahorse and sea dragon area was cool too. They had a huge variety of sea horses. The kiddo in our crew lovedddd the river boat building activity and the touch pools. Also all the people at the stations where amazing. They all knew so much about the animals and habitats. It was also pretty good for wheelchair access, but in crowded areas, like by the penguins during feeding, it was hard to navigate.

Never got a chance to visit when I was a student. Didn’t realize the school owns this fabulous place too, wow. Why didn’t I study oceanography or marine biology? Must be super fun. I had a wonderful day here during the homecoming event! Saw lots of amazing creatures.