Monterey Bay Aquarium offers Monterey County residents free admission September 8-20, 2026

Monterey Bay Aquarium shows its appreciation for the local community by offering complimentary tickets for Monterey County residents from September 8-20, 2026.

Free tickets are limited and will be available for reservation on a first-come, first-served basis starting August 12 on the Aquarium’s website.

“I’ve felt truly welcomed by the community since joining the Aquarium this spring,” said Dr. Jenny Gray, Monterey Bay Aquarium Nancy Burgermiester chief executive officer. “This has reinforced to me your important role in supporting our mission and conservation work. I’m thrilled to continue offering this small appreciation.” 

Eligible residents can reserve up to six tickets per reservation. The special tickets allow entry into the Aquarium starting at 12 p.m. PT on the reserved date in September. All guests, including children under four, must have a ticket to enter using this promotion. Guests age 18 and over must present a photo ID and proof of Monterey County residency with their tickets.

Details about how Monterey County residents can acquire free tickets follows:

• Information and reservations: www.montereybayaquarium.org/locals
• August 12: Reserve tickets on the Aquarium’s website for September 8-20, 2026
• Tickets available to Monterey County residents only. Valid proof of residency is required, and includes:
  • Government issued photo ID with address
  • Matricula Consular with Monterey County address
  • Current student identification from any university or community college located within Monterey County
  • Utility bill with Monterey County address
  • Monthly bus pass for Monterey-Salinas Transit
  • Document verifying your residence at a group home, such as a senior living center 
• Tickets valid for entry to the Aquarium starting at 12 p.m. on the reserved day

For more information or to make reservations starting August 12, visit www.montereybayaquarium.org/locals.

About Monterey Bay Aquarium

With a mission to inspire conservation of the ocean, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the most admired aquarium in the United States, a leader in science education, and a voice for ocean conservation through comprehensive programs in marine science and public policy. Everything we do works in concert to protect the future of our blue planet. More information at MontereyBayAquarium.org.