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Monterey Bay Aquarium

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Animated character Dory peeking from behind pink jellyfish with the text 'have you seen her? Finding Dory at Monterey Bay Aquarium June 17' as a movie promotion.

Last month, I had the amazing opportunity to fly out to Monterey California for the Finding Dory Event. This was a quick but incredible trip where we had the chance to learn all things behind the scenes for the Finding Dory Movie. Disney Pixar Finding Dory will be in theaters June 17, 2016 and is definitely a not to miss movie! My kids are counting down the days until this movie comes out and are especially excited to see their favorite Finding Nemo characters and meeting new friends!

Animated shark and fish swimming underwater at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

While at this event, I had the amazing opportunity to spend some time at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I had been to this Aquarium about 10-15 years ago so it was fun being able to explore the aquarium and see everything that it offered. It was amazing. I'll be honest, though... I wished that my kids had been with me every second of the day!

Panoramic view of the coastal town near Monterey Bay Aquarium with historic buildings and a clear view of the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

Cannery Row was amazing and I had the most incredible view from my hotel room. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is just a short walk away and on the far left side of this photo above. It was so nice being able to leave behind the cold Utah weather and enjoy a beautiful California day. Where it was still pretty chilly, the views in all directions were amazing.

Monterey Bay Aquarium signage and the building exterior.

There is so much to see at do and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. You could spend hours walking around and seeing all of their animals. You could enjoy different behind the scenes experiences and learning sessions where you can learn more about the different animals and see them being taught by their trainers. I always find that the behind the scenes are the moments I learn most about the marine life. There is so much to learn at this Aquarium. I wish I could have had more time. I'll definitely have to come back with my kids!

A group of seals resting on coastal rocks near turbulent sea waters at Monterey Bay Aquarium.

One of the highlights of visiting the Aquarium was that a baby Otter had been born just 2 days earlier. The mom was on a rock with her baby and we had the opportunity to see them. We later were able to enjoy a behind the scenes with the Otters and learn all kinds of neat things about them. Fun fact: Did you know otters have a million hairs per square inch? Thats as much as a cat per square inch! I wish that I could touch an otter because they must be really soft!

A collage of four images showcasing various species of jellyfish in blue aquatic environments at Monterey Bay Aquarium.

I could spend hours watching the Jelly Fish. They are the most amazing creatures. At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, you can view different kinds in all different sizes. It is amazing how small they can be as well as how large they can get!

A group of penguins at the Monterey Bay Aquarium on rocky terrain by the water's edge.

The Penguins is another exhibit that I could spend hours at. Seriously, they always look like they are having so much fun swimming around.

A vibrant underwater scene at the Monterey Bay Aquarium with various tropical fish and coral formations.

It only took me two days, but you'll be happy to know that I found both Dory and Nemo! 🙂  At the Finding Dory Event, it is definitely important that I locate them!

An event held at the Monterey Bay Aquarium with guests, catering stations, and mood lighting.One really special event that we were able to attend was an evening reception at the Aquarium. This was amazing. Not only was the food delicious and the company wonderful but the Aquarium makes the most stunning back drops to a reception. It was fun having the aquarium closed and being able to enjoy it after hours. It truly was an amazing event and I loved the behind the scenes for Finding Dory. Here is the trailer for your enjoyment:

Finding Dory will be in theaters June 17, 2016!

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