New Fall Experiences at Birch Aquarium

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is about to transform into an underwater playground of epic proportions.

While we’re all eagerly awaiting the grand debut of Living Seas next summer, the aquarium is treating us to a tidal wave of new experiences: Riveropolis, a hands-on water play adventure; the Coral Classroom, offering a behind-the-scenes look at coral conservation; and an expanded Animal Ambassador Program featuring a new Laughing Kookaburra.

Water Wonders and Coral Conservation

First up, Riveropolis is swooping in to quench our thirst for hands-on fun. You’ll be standing on Blue Beach, the Pacific stretching out before you, as you navigate a miniature river system.

kids at birch aquarium

It’s like being a kid again, but with a side of science. Building boats, launching them into the current, and maybe even striking up a friendly rivalry with your fellow mariners—it’s all about teamwork, creativity, and secretly learning about water flow while you’re having a blast.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes in coral care? The Coral Classroom is your all-access pass to the aquarium’s conservation rockstars.

You’ll get an up-close look at how they’re working to save these underwater cities, and it’s way cooler than any science class you’ve ever had.

Coral Classroom

Feathered Friends and Artistic Adventures

Hold onto your hats because there’s a new bird in town. A Laughing Kookaburra is joining the aquarium’s animal ambassador squad this fall. These Aussie natives are known for their infectious “laugh,” so get ready for some serious giggles during your visit.

Laughing Kookaburra

For all you art enthusiasts out there, Embodied Pacific: Ocean Unseen is set to make a splash on October 4. It’s not your average exhibition—immersive installations will have you exploring the ocean through all your senses.

It’s part of the Getty’s PST ART: Art & Science Collide initiative, so you know it’s going to be mind-blowingly cool.

The best part? All these new additions are included with your regular admission.

See you there!

Birch Aquarium is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during the warmer months. Our advice? Snag your tickets in advance here. You won’t want to miss out on these fin-tastic new experiences!

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
Nothing sounds more like the holidays than Karen Carpenter singing “Merry Christmas, Darling.” The Carpenters Songbook: At Christmas brings that sound back to the stage...
Celebrate Christmas with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and their swinging holiday hits
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy brings its Wild and Swingin’ Holiday Party to the historic Balboa Theatre downtown. It’s one night of swing, jazz, and Christmas...
Doggie Street Festival
The Doggie Street Festival San Diego brings together rescue groups, vendors, and pet lovers for a delightful day of fun.
Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
Ho Ho Ho! Little Italy is kicking off the holiday season with its annual Tree Lighting & Christmas Village. The neighborhood turns into a winter...
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Lions Tigers & Bears with rescued big cats
What does Thanksgiving look like for a rescued tiger or bear? You can find out at Lions Tigers & Bears, where the sanctuary’s annual Turkey...
Ocean Beach Makers Market
Experience the Ocean Beach Makers Market, where local makers showcase one-of-a-kind creations in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Recently Featured Restaurants
If you’ve spent any time in the Cedros Design District, you know there’s always been a gap between the galleries and Belly Up. Chef James...
Pamela Peraza and Erik Hobbie have been selling sourdough at the Little Italy Mercato for a while now, and if you’ve crossed paths with their...
goop kitchen del mar
Yes, that goop. Gwyneth Paltrow’s brand just opened its first-ever dine-in restaurant at One Paseo in Del Mar, and it’s a 92-seat space she personally...
City Tacos has been a San Diego staple since 2014. What Gerry Torres is building next makes it look like a warm-up. El Punto at...
Zuma has spent nearly 25 years taking over the world – Hong Kong, Istanbul, Rome, Miami, Madrid, and more. Now they’re open in San Diego,...
Doug and Lara Hamm spent years traveling through the French Riviera, Greek Isles, and Amalfi Coast. By The Sea is what happened when they decided...