Uncover the secret to free parking at the acclaimed monterey bay aquarium

For nature enthusiasts and marine life lovers, a visit to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is an unforgettable experience. But before embarking on this aquatic adventure, one essential question arises: is Monterey Bay Aquarium parking free? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of parking options, fees, and alternative transportation methods to help you plan a stress-free visit.

Parking Options and Fees

The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers two main parking options:

1. Aquarium Parking Lot:

• Located adjacent to the aquarium, this lot provides the closest and most convenient parking.
• Cost: $10 per vehicle for up to 3 hours, $12 per vehicle for up to 5 hours, and $14 per vehicle for all-day parking.

2. Cannery Row Parking Garage:

• Located a short walk from the aquarium, this garage offers a covered and secure parking experience.
• Cost: $8 per vehicle for up to 3 hours, $10 per vehicle for up to 5 hours, and $12 per vehicle for all-day parking.

Free Parking Alternatives

While the aquarium does not offer free parking, there are a few alternatives to consider:

1. Street Parking:

• Limited street parking is available in the surrounding area, but it can be difficult to find and may have time restrictions.

2. Public Transportation:

• Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) buses stop directly in front of the aquarium. Check the MST website for schedules and fares.

3. Ridesharing:

• Services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off and pick you up right at the aquarium.

Tips for Saving on Parking

1. Arrive Early:

• Parking rates increase as the day progresses. Aim to arrive early in the morning to secure cheaper parking options.

2. Consider Weekdays:

• Parking tends to be more expensive on weekends and holidays. Visit during the week for potential savings.

3. Park at a Distance:

• If you’re willing to walk a bit, you may find free or cheaper parking options further away from the aquarium.

Other Visitor Information

1. Aquarium Hours:

• The Monterey Bay Aquarium is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

2. Admission Fees:

• Adult admission: $49.95
• Child admission (3-12 years): $29.95
• Children under 3: Free

3. Accessibility:

• The aquarium is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.

4. Food and Drinks:

• The aquarium offers a variety of dining options, including a café and a full-service restaurant.

Alternatives to Parking

If parking costs are a concern, consider these alternatives to visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium:

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium Live:

• This virtual tour offers an immersive experience from the comfort of your own home.

2. Aquarium of the Pacific:

• Located in Long Beach, California, this aquarium offers a similar experience with comparable parking options.

Popular Questions

1. Can I park for free at the Monterey Bay Aquarium?

• No, the aquarium does not offer free parking.

2. What is the cheapest parking option?

• Street parking is free, but availability is limited.

3. How much does it cost to park at the aquarium?

• Aquarium Parking Lot: $10-$14
• Cannery Row Parking Garage: $8-$12

4. Can I bring my own food and drinks into the aquarium?

• No, outside food and drinks are not permitted.

5. What are the aquarium’s hours of operation?

• 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.