LA JOLLA–After three days of member previews, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego officially reopened to the public.
Those returning to the aquarium will notice a number of changes aimed at keeping guests — as well as staff and volunteers — safe and healthy. Guest capacity will be limited during this initial phase, so advanced reservations are now required for all guests, including members. Timed tickets are available online here.
“Our dedicated team has put a lot of effort into making the aquarium a safe place to visit and we look forward to reopening Birch Aquarium and welcoming back our members and guests,” said Executive Director Harry Helling. “We will continue to follow guidance from state and local authorities as we navigate this ever-changing situation.”
Birch Aquarium is implementing a one-way pathway throughout the aquarium to encourage social distancing; increasing the number of handwashing and sanitizing stations throughout the aquarium; upgrading the HVAC system, and requiring face coverings for guests ages 2 and above. As an added safety measure, Birch Aquarium staff will also be completing daily symptom screenings and temperature checks, as well as frequent COVID-19 testing.
During this initial opening phase, activities where large numbers of people typically gather, such as dive shows and feedings, will be cancelled. High-touch exhibit elements such as the water tables, playground and touch screens have also been removed, though many exhibits have newly-integrated QR codes to allow guests to engage in new ways from the safety of their cell phones.
https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/get-involved/membershipIn addition to heightened health and safety measures, returning guests will also notice some exciting additions to the aquarium including a new eatery and a new mobile exhibit in the Galleria.
Shark Café is located on the south side of the aquarium and boasts an authentic French-inspired menu, along with stunning ocean views. Operated by The French Gourmet, Shark Café’s exclusive menu features decadent pastries, scrumptious salads and sandwiches, and delicious desserts. Seating is limited and meals must be ordered online in advance. Full menu and reservation information can be found here.
In the Galleria, guests will see the big impacts of small creatures in a new exhibit featuring the work of Scripps Oceanography’s Ron Burton. Copepods, or tiny crustaceans, provide a unique perspective on how life of all sizes can adapt to a changing climate.
More details on Birch Aquarium’s reopening, including important details for guests planning their next visit, can be found on the Know Before You Visit page. To help support the aquarium on its mission to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet, visit the Giving page.
Timed tickets for both members and the general public can be reserved here. Admission is $19.50 for adults, $15 for children (3 to 17). Annual memberships are also available.
