If your family is looking for a fun, educational, and breezy break from the Sacramento summer heat, let me introduce you to your next favorite escape: the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Just a 3.5-hour drive from Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, and Carmichael, Monterey offers the kind of cool ocean breeze and laid-back coastal charm that makes you want to exhale deeply the minute you arrive. We were lucky enough to be hosted for the day by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and I can’t wait to tell you about it — because this is the kind of trip your kids will talk about for weeks.
Getting There & Getting Around
The drive to Monterey is scenic and simple enough for even the wiggliest little ones. Once you’re in town, skip the parking headaches — there’s a free trolley that runs between popular tourist destinations, including Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and of course, the aquarium. It’s easy, convenient, and fun for kids (who doesn’t love a trolley ride?).
All About the Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium truly is the crown jewel of the area. We arrived just after opening at 10:00am and stayed until nearly 3:00pm — and even then, the kids weren’t ready to leave!
The exhibits are incredible, interactive, and perfect for families. Some of our favorite highlights:
- Touch pools where our kids (ages 3–8) spent forever chatting with the friendly, knowledgeable volunteers
- Animal feedings, which felt like mini shows — both educational and super engaging
- Hands-on exhibits, where kids could learn, build, explore, and touch their way through the underwater world
The entire space is clean, safe, and stroller-friendly, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the view of the ocean.
Family-Friendly Eats
We had lunch at the on-site café, which had a solid mix of options for kids and grown-ups (and a view that’s hard to beat). We also saw plenty of families who had brought their own food, enjoying it at the outdoor seating areas. Just be sure to check the Monterey Bay Aquarium website for the latest rules and guidelines about food and drink.
Cannery Row Adventures
Before or after your aquarium visit, make sure to spend some time walking around Cannery Row. There’s great shopping, coastal views, and tons of family-friendly restaurants for snack breaks or sit-down meals. It’s all walkable and feels safe and welcoming — even with younger kids in tow.
Plan Your Trip
If you’re thinking of making the drive, here are a few quick tips:
- Check the aquarium website before you go for updated hours, feeding times, exhibits, and safety rules
- Arrive early to get the most out of your day (you’ll want the full experience!)
- Wear layers — it’s much cooler on the coast, even in summer
- Bring snacks or plan to eat at the café
We left Monterey tired, happy, and filled with new knowledge about sea otters, jellies, and ocean conservation. If you're looking to combine learning with memory-making, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a can’t-miss summer adventure.
š Learn more and plan your visit: montereybayaquarium.org
š© Want more family day trip ideas like this? Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter to stay in the know on family fun in and around Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, and Carmichael!
This article is sponsored content and reflects a hosted visit. All opinions are honest and my own.
