I traveled to Monterey, California to create a podcast tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The Monterey Bay Aquarium was first opened in 1984 and now sits on the former site of a sardine cannery. It is located on Cannery Row directly on the Pacific Ocean side, allowing for many picturesque views of the water and surrounding peninsula. 1.8 million people travel to Monterey to visit the aquarium each year in order to see its 35,000 animals consisting of 623 separate species. In addition to its spectacular views, the costal location of the aquarium allows for a high circulation of fresh ocean water, obtained through pipes that pump it continuously from Monterey Bay.
Hovden Cannery Exhibit Original Image: Enhance.net
While visiting the aquarium I noticed how prevalent technology is incorporated into many of the exhibits. Although these interactive monitors add a fun aspect to the displays, I wondered if they took attention away from the marine life. The entrance to the aquarium is to the left of large glass doors adjacent to Cannery Street. After purchasing your ticket, you can walk into the main entrance area, which is located directly to the right. If you have any questions about the exhibit show times or other information regarding the aquarium, you will find employees here that will answer any initial questions you have. If you want any additional information, there is an information desk located about 100 feet past the entrance and to the right.
As you walk into the aquarium, you can see a life size killer whale dangling from the ceiling above. Directly on your left you should see the Hovden Cannery historical exhibit. Here you can learn about the former sardine cannery that used to be where the Monterey Bay Aquarium now stands. The sardine-fishing boom was at its height in the 1940’s and the Hovden Cannery processed some 250,000 tons of fish a year and was the center of a thriving industry that employed 4,000 people. If you wish to learn more about the history of this building I suggest spending some time at this exhibit. Directly across from the Hovden Cannary exhibit, on the right side as you enter the aquarium, is the gift shop where you can purchase any souvenirs you wish to take home with you.