Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.
 
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational field trip activities, trip organization and student ticket.
 
 
About Aquarium of the Bay
The Aquarium of the Bay, located at Pier 39 in San Francisco, is a premier marine nature center dedicated to inspiring conservation of the San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waters. The aquarium offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse marine life of the Bay Area through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs.
 
Historical Overview
Foundation: The Aquarium of the Bay opened its doors in 1996. Initially named UnderWater World, it was rebranded in 2001 to emphasize its focus on the unique ecosystems of the San Francisco Bay.
Growth: Over the years, the aquarium has expanded its exhibits and educational outreach, becoming a major attraction for both tourists and locals. It plays a crucial role in marine conservation efforts and environmental education.
 
Key Features and Exhibits
Discover the Bay: This exhibit features eight different habitats that display the rich diversity of marine life found in the San Francisco Bay. Visitors can see everything from colorful rockfish and vibrant sea stars to delicate jellies and dynamic schools of anchovies.
Under the Bay: A series of acrylic tunnels that provide a 360-degree view of marine life. This immersive experience allows visitors to walk through the exhibit and see sharks, rays, and a variety of fish swimming overhead.
Touch the Bay: An interactive touch pool exhibit where visitors can get hands-on with bat rays, skates, sea stars, and other marine animals. This tactile experience helps foster a connection with the marine environment and encourages conservation efforts.
Otters: Watershed Ambassadors: This exhibit showcases the playful and charismatic river otters, emphasizing their role in the ecosystem and the importance of healthy watersheds. Visitors can watch otters swim, play, and interact in their habitat.
Sharks of Alcatraz: Featuring sevengill sharks, the largest predators in the San Francisco Bay, this exhibit provides insight into the role of sharks in marine ecosystems and their importance to ocean health.
 
Interactive Learning
Animal Encounters: The aquarium offers unique opportunities for up-close encounters with some of its resident animals, providing a deeper understanding of their behaviors, habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild.
 
Visiting Tips for Families
Plan Ahead: Check the Aquarium of the Bay’s website for current exhibits, special events, and educational programs to make the most of your visit. 
Dress Comfortably: The aquarium is indoors, but the weather outside can be cool and breezy, especially on the pier. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Engage with Staff: Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who can provide insights and answer questions about the exhibits and marine conservation efforts.
Participate in Activities: Encourage children to participate in the interactive exhibits and family programs to make learning about marine life fun and memorable.
Explore Pier 39: The aquarium is located in a lively area with numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions. Plan to explore Pier 39 to enhance your visit.
 
By visiting the Aquarium of the Bay, students and families can immerse themselves in the diverse marine life of the San Francisco Bay, learn about the importance of marine conservation, and gain a deeper appreciation for the ecosystems that support a wide array of species. The aquarium offers a dynamic and educational environment that inspires a lifelong commitment to protecting our oceans and marine habitats.