Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, CA

What are the hours of operation? 

Birch Aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Birch Aquarium is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. 

Is parking provided? 

Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers 3-hour free parking. Designated handicapped parking stalls are located next to the traffic circle at the front of the aquarium. Additional 3-hour parking is available on Expedition Way from June 1 through September 15. Due to space restrictions, parking for buses and large vehicles, such as RVs or trailers is not allowed in the parking lot. There is public parking along La Jolla Shores Drive that may accommodate large vehicles. 

What should I wear? 

There is no formal dress code, but guests are required to wear clothes and shoes for their safety. 

Where is it located? 

2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037. 

Is the tour/attraction/activity appropriate for children? 

Yes, this is a family-friendly aquarium.

Is the attraction/tour/activity wheelchair accessible? 

Birch Aquarium strives to be fully accessible. Wheelchairs are available free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis at the Information Desk located in the Galleria. 

Can I leave and re-enter on the same day? 

Guests are welcome to leave and re-enter Birch Aquarium at Scripps on the same day. Upon leaving, guests may receive a hand stamp for re-entry. 

Can I bring my camera? 

Guests are encouraged to take photos and video for personal use. Flash photography is allowed inside the aquarium, except where noted. No tripods. 

How long is the tour? 

Most guests find that two to three hours is the right amount of time to visit Birch Aquarium at Scripps. 

Can I bring my own food/beverages? 

Food and beverages are permitted inside Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Guests are welcome to bring a picnic lunch or purchase coffee, snacks, or a delicious meal from Splash Cafe by The French Gourmet. 

Can I bring my pet? 

Only trained service animals are permitted inside Birch Aquarium at Scripps. For the health and safety of your pets, we request they not be left in cars in our parking lot. If a pet is found in a car, they may be removed and held by the University of California San Diego police. 

Can I bring my stroller inside? 

Strollers are permitted throughout Birch Aquarium at Scripps, with the exception of the Infinity Cube. We ask that guests be considerate of others, especially when navigating dark galleries to see the exhibits. 

What is the smoking policy? 

For the health and safety of our guests and animals, smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed anywhere on Birch Aquarium at Scripps property, including outdoor exhibits, sidewalks, Splash Cafe, and the parking lot.