What To Know
- The parking fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the stay.
- While free parking is not available at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, there are several alternative parking options nearby.
- Parking fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the stay.
Planning a visit to the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium can be an exciting endeavor. However, one question that often arises is whether the aquarium provides free parking. This blog post delves into this topic, exploring the availability of free parking and alternative options for visitors.
Free Parking at Monterey Bay Aquarium
Unfortunately, Monterey Bay Aquarium does not offer free parking. Visitors are required to pay for parking in designated lots. The parking fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the stay.
Parking Fees
The current parking fees at Monterey Bay Aquarium are as follows:
- Cars: $12 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $36
- Oversized Vehicles: $15 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $45
- RVs and Buses: $20 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $60
Alternative Parking Options
While free parking is not available at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, there are several alternative parking options nearby:
- Nearby Parking Lots: There are several paid parking lots within walking distance of the aquarium, with rates typically ranging from $10 to $20 per day.
- Street Parking: Limited street parking is available in the surrounding area, but it is often difficult to find and may have time restrictions.
- Public Transportation: Monterey Bay Aquarium is accessible via public transportation. The Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus line 20 runs directly to the aquarium, and the MST bus line 1 runs nearby.
- Carpooling or Ridesharing: Carpooling or using a ride-sharing service can help reduce parking costs.
Tips for Saving on Parking
Here are some tips for saving on parking at Monterey Bay Aquarium:
- Arrive Early: Arriving early can help you secure a parking spot closer to the aquarium, reducing the amount of time you spend walking.
- Consider Off-Season: Visiting during the off-season or on weekdays can often result in lower parking fees.
- Explore Alternative Options: Consider using public transportation, carpooling, or ridesharing to save on parking costs.
Other Parking Information
- Parking Validation: Monterey Bay Aquarium does not offer parking validation.
- Accessible Parking: Accessible parking spaces are available in designated areas.
- Overflow Parking: During peak season, overflow parking may be available at nearby locations.
Wrap-Up: Exploring Parking Options
While Monterey Bay Aquarium does not offer free parking, there are several alternative parking options available nearby. By considering these options and following the tips provided, visitors can plan their trip to the aquarium while minimizing parking expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there any free parking near Monterey Bay Aquarium?
A1: No, there is no free parking available at or near Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Q2: What is the cost of parking at Monterey Bay Aquarium?
A2: Parking fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the stay. Current rates are:
- Cars: $12 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $36
- Oversized Vehicles: $15 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $45
- RVs and Buses: $20 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $60
Q3: Are there any discounts on parking?
A3: Monterey Bay Aquarium does not offer parking discounts. However, arriving early, visiting during the off-season, or exploring alternative parking options can help reduce parking costs.
