Aquarium of the Bay and PIER 39 announce the Grand Opening of the Sea Lion Center at PIER 39 on Friday, January 17, 2014. Operated and managed by Aquarium of the Bay, the Sea Lion Center is a free nature center where guests can learn about the world famous California sea lions that inhabit the docks at the end of PIER 39.

The Sea Lion Center overlooks PIER 39's K-Dock, the usual hangout of these charismatic mammals that mysteriously made this their home in January 1990, shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake. The Sea Lion Center features interactive displays, educational videos, fascinating presentations and one-on-one interactions with naturalists. Guests can touch real sea lion artifacts including pelts and skulls, and size themselves up next to a life-size sea lion skeleton.

“We are excited about this opportunity to continue to share the importance and wonder of San Francisco Bay,” said John Frawley, President and CEO of Aquarium of the Bay. “The Sea Lion Center helps visitors learn about the sea lions at PIER 39, their role in the ecosystem and the steps we can take to protect the sea lions and their habitats.”

The Sea Lion Center is proud to have the San Francisco Bar Pilots as its first official partner, who will help to support the Center's objective of protecting the Bay. Guests will be able to learn more about the San Francisco Bar Pilots by visiting a display at the Sea Lion Center.

The Grand Opening of the Sea Lion Center kicks off the celebration of the 24th Anniversary of the Sea Lions' arrival to PIER 39.  From January 17-20, the public can enjoy the Sea Lion Encounter, a free educational walking tour that ends at the Sea Lion Center.  Tour participants will also be treated to complimentary refreshments at Neptune's Waterfront Grill & Bar, discounts at participating PIER 39 businesses and a chance to meet Salty the Sea Lion.  Tours depart on the hour from 11am – 4pm from the Sea Lion Statue near the Entrance Plaza. For more information about Sea Lion Encounters, visit www.pier39.com.

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The Sea Lion Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.  The Center is open daily from 10am – 5pm.  For more information visit www.sealioncenter.org.