Quick Take:
The aquarium will reopen May 15 with masks required and limited capacity. Some play areas, scheduled feedings, and other activities that would encourage congregation will remain closed.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has been closed since March 12, 2020, will be reopening on Saturday, May 15.
Tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 5, though members can reserve tickets starting April 26, and the aquarium will open for special member days May 1–14.
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The visiting experience will be slightly different, with masks required, limited capacity, and a prescribed one-way track through the aquarium. Some play areas, scheduled feedings, and other activities that would encourage congregation will remain closed.
“We’ve missed welcoming our visitors to the aquarium and have been looking forward to this day for too long,” Executive Director Julie Packard said in a statement.
“Social media and our online experiences have allowed us to stay connected with people virtually, but we know that people are looking forward to reconnecting with favorite exhibits and animals in person. Everyone can expect an outstanding experience that puts the well-being of our guests, staff and volunteers front and center.”
The opening schedule will be limited through the spring — the aquarium will be open Thursdays through Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until Memorial Day Weekend, when the aquarium will be open seven days a week.
The announcement about the aquarium came one day after another major California tourist attraction in the region, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, unveiled its reopening plan. The Boardwalk is set to reopen Thursday with limited capacity.