Splash Zone at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Starts in 2008

The best family exhibits at the nation’s No. 1 family aquarium are getting bigger and better than ever with the opening of the revamped and expanded “Splash Zone: Ocean Homes” galleries at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California.

Starting March 17, 2008 visitors can journey through an enchanting underwater forest, stroll beneath a sunlit kelp canopy, delight in the wonders of pot-bellied seahorses and pharaoh cuttlefish, pop up next to penguins and much more.

“Splash Zone: Ocean Homes” is a dramatic transformation of the award-winning family exhibit, which opened in April 2000 and has been drawing praise ever since for its engaging and playful atmosphere. The expanded “Splash Zone” doubles the space where families with children can play and learn together about the ocean.

The renovated galleries explore three ocean habitats – the Enchanted Kelp Forest, Coral Reef Kingdom and Rugged Rocky Shore – and combine new interactive experiences, games and live animals with visitor favorites from the original galleries.

Children can crawl through a coral reef cave, make waves along the rocky shore and investigate creatures that live in a kelp holdfast. It’s all designed for family fun, and to build magical and lasting connections with the ocean for children of all ages.

“Splash Zone: Ocean Homes” is included with regular aquarium admission of $24.95 adult; $22.95 senior (65+) and student (full-time college, with I.D.); and $15.95 children 3-12 and the disabled. (2008 rates) Children under 3 are admitted free of charge. Discounted tickets for members of the military and their families can be purchased in advance at many California and Nevada installations.

The aquarium is located on historic Cannery Row in Monterey. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and in summer and major holiday periods from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed Christmas Day).

More information about “Splash Zone: Ocean Homes” and the aquarium in general is available at www.montereybayaquarium.org; or by calling (831) 648-4888. Advance tickets can be purchased online or by phone from the aquarium at 1-800-756-3737.