The Aquarium of the Pacific’s mission is to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems. This aquarium is the fourth most-attended in the nation. It displays about 12,000 animals in more than 100 exhibits that represent the diversity of the Pacific Ocean. Each year more than 1.7 million people visit the Aquarium. Beyond its world-class animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages from hands-on activities to lectures by leading scientists. Founded in June 1998, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.