How She Does It

The Aquarium of the Pacific has a new addition. It’s the first major expansion since the Aquarium was founded in 1998, Pacific Visions!

At 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, California, we can now visit the two story wing which brings science and art together through multi sensory activities all within 29,000 square feet. There’s so much to do for all ages and abilities!

I got to take a special tour in partnership with #WeAllGrow Summit “Experience Long Beach Like A Local” field trip. Walking up to the entrance, we can see how the building’s design, which was inspired by water, is brought to life in a very unique way. Its exterior was designed with individual glass panels to shimmer like sunlight rippling through water.

From the first floor to the second, you’ll find art, open spaces to sit and talk about what is around you, and many play to learn activities. Among these interactive activities are touch screen games where you can play to learn about our earth’s ecosystem and its sustainability.

With a variety of activities within this space there’s no chance of anyone getting bored here! This makes for a different experience with each visit. My bet is that the Honda Pacific Visions Theater will be a family favorite. Why? For starters the seats rumble! The theater has been enhanced with smell, fog, wind, and strobe light effects.

For the first time in any aquarium there will be ultrasonic handset available for visitors who are deaf and blind to feel the film. The Ultrahaptic device allows them to waive their hand over to feel ultrasonic shapes or sensations that help interpret the film for them such as bubbles popping, the splashing of water, lightning, and more. Isn’t that amazing?!

Visiting Pacific Visions was a highlight on our Long Beach tour. Put Aquarium of the Pacific on your Summer-must-do list! Tickets are affordable and they also have packages to include visits with other attractions in the Long Beach area. Definitely some deals there. When you visit, let me know how you like it!