NOW OPEN
The Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc. board of directors and staff are pleased to announce the Roundhouse Re-Opening after more than a year temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting on April 3, 2021, the Roundhouse Aquarium will reopen to the general public and guests will once again have the opportunity to visit the aquarium to explore its marine life exhibits and learn about southern California’s tidelands, beaches and ocean.
To ensure an enjoyable and safe guest visit at the Roundhouse Aquarium, OTS is implementing a phased approach to reopening which includes a reservation process, increased hygiene and sanitation practices, physical distancing and other safety measures.
• In order to visit the aquarium, guests and visitors are requested to make advanced reservations. Reservations may be made at the Roundhouse Aquarium website. To reserve your spot, visit https://roundhouseaquarium.org/health-and-safety-guidelines/.
• There is no charge for a reservation, although we encourage donations from visitors.
• Each reservation will be for a 15-minute period.
• The number of guests and visitors allowed in the Roundhouse Aquarium will be limited by our maximum allowed occupancy, as determined by government guidelines. The maximum allowed occupancy may not be exceeded under any circumstance.
• All aquarium staff and volunteers must go through health screening, including a contactless temperature check prior to entering the building. Any guest exhibiting a fever of 100.4 or higher, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, or any other sign of COVID-19 infection will be requested to visit another day.
• Appropriate masks must be worn by all staff, volunteers and guests over the age of 2. Masks will be available to guests who might need one for a donation.
• Hand sanitizers will be available at the entrance and exit of the aquarium and should be used prior to entering and upon leaving the aquarium.
• Physical distancing of six feet between guests (other than household members) will be required during guest visits.
• High touch areas such as handrails, push buttons and handles will be cleaned and sanitized frequently.
• No strollers, luggage larger than overhead compartment size, food or drinks will be allowed in the aquarium.
• Dogs may be carried if a support animal or allowed in the aquarium if a service dog.
The public hours will be 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. Guests without reservations may enter based on available spots at the time of visit, otherwise they will be asked to secure a time slot online for a future visit.
“We are excited to welcome our guests and patrons back to the Roundhouse Aquarium,” said John Roberts, PhD, OTS’ president and chairman of the board. “We are looking forward to showcasing the incredible marine life at the Roundhouse that we are so fortunate to teach about and share with our guests.”
For additional information, visit the website at https://roundhouseaquarium.org/.