The Monterey Family Guide: 10 Things I Would 1000% Do Again With Kids
If you’re visiting Monterey with kids, these are the stops I would absolutely do again. I’ve visited countless times with my family, and Monterey Bay never disappoints. Most people think the trip is just about the aquarium—but there’s so much more to experience. Here are place to visit for an unforgettable Monterey adventure 1. Monterey Bay Aquarium (Plan It Strategically) Of course, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the star attraction. But the key is visiting strategically. Address:886 Cannery RowMonterey, CA 93940 Parking is available in nearby garages along Cannery Row, but they fill up quickly during weekends and holidays, so arriving early in the morning can make a big difference. Monterey Bay Aquarium After visiting many times with my family, these are the exhibits you should not miss: The Kelp Forest Exhibit — one of the tallest aquarium tanks in the world and one of the most iconic displays. Watching the giant kelp sway with schools of fish is mesmerizing. Sea Otters — always a favorite with kids. They are playful, curious, and incredibly entertaining to watch. The Jellyfish Gallery — one of the most beautiful areas in the aquarium. The lighting and movement make it feel almost like an art installation. The Open Sea (Outer Bay) Exhibit — a massive tank where you’ll see tuna, sharks, sea turtles, and huge schools of fish moving together. Diver Feeding (A Must-See) One of the most memorable moments at the aquarium happens in the famous Kelp Forest exhibit, where a scuba diver enters the tank and feeds the fish while a naturalist explains what’s happening. It’s interactive and fascinating for both kids and adults. Typical diver feeding time: Around 12:30 PM. The presentation usually lasts about 15 minutes. Schedules occasionally change, so it’s always a good idea to check when you arrive. If You Only Have a Few Hours If you’re short on time, start with these exhibits in this order: This route lets you see the aquarium’s most impressive exhibits in about 1.5–2 hours. Food Options Inside the Aquarium If you’re visiting with kids, eating inside the aquarium can save time. Popular options include: The Café – casual dining with sandwiches, salads, pizza, and kid-friendly meals. Seafood Watch Restaurant – a great spot with ocean views and seafood options based on sustainable recommendations. Yes! it is price if you want to save money you can pack a picnic and…
