yatrasuchiThe Georgia Aquarium is a brand-new aquarium. Atlanta is one of the most unique and culturally rich cities with world-class museums, theater, and arts. Located here in the center of the city. It is one of the largest aquariums in the world with over 10,000 animals, including brand new shore birds, pink spoonbill and whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, penguins, and scarlet ibis. One of Atlanta’s must-see attractions is the Georgia Aquarium. Watch a dolphin show, don a suit, and attempt an underwater encounter with sting rays and sharks, or go behind the scenes with sea lions.
Georgia Aquarium Tickets
The admission fee is $47.99 when bought on the day of your visit or $42.99 for those purchasing one day or more in advance; children aged 2 and younger enter free of charge. Alternatively, you can opt for an Atlanta City pass, which grants entry to the aquarium. All ticket types include access to the property’s galleries, animal shows, cafe, phone charging lounge, restrooms, theater, and gift shop. Various add-ons are offered, such as a Behind the Scenes Highlights tour of the aquarium, available for an extra $16.
Animal Interactions & Encounters
Finally, there are programs, opportunities for animal interactions/encounters, and various ways to enrich your experience at the aquarium. These additional activities come with separate fees beyond the general admission. We’ve already participated in some of them and are eagerly looking forward to exploring the remaining options!
Journey with Gentle Giants ($260 – $338)
If the whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium pique your curiosity, you may dive or snorkel with them to get an even closer look at these amazing animals.
Beluga Interaction Program ($81)
Gear up and wade into the beluga habitat alongside the whale trainers, immersing yourself in knowledge about the biology of these creatures, conservation efforts, training techniques, and much more.
Penguin Encounter ($72)
During our most recent visit, we had the opportunity to engage with an African Penguin, the same species we encountered at Boulder Beach in South Africa! Following an informative session about these fascinating creatures, the trainers introduced a penguin into the room, and everyone eagerly lined up for a photo opportunity. Subsequently, a second penguin was brought in and placed on a 3×3 platform, providing a space for them to engage, greet visitors, or simply enjoy their surroundings. Depending on the penguin’s temperament, there was a chance to gently pet it along its back.
Dolphin Tales Georgia Aquarium
Witness the incredible agility of bottlenose dolphins as they soar through the air and engage with their trainers. This entertaining performance is suitable for all ages and stands out for its educational value compared to other dolphin shows we’ve attended. Situated in the first few rows, the splash zone offers more than just a light sprinkle – be prepared for an immersive experience.
Pier 225 (Sea Lions under the boardwalk)
Attend this entertaining sea lion presentation! The performance varies seasonally, but it’s consistently enjoyable to witness their impressive abilities.
1. Ocean Voyager
My preferred section of the aquarium is where you can observe the graceful movement of Whale Sharks through a sizable viewing window, an extensive tunnel, and numerous other windows. This area provides a genuine sense of life beneath the water’s surface, showcasing not only Whale Sharks but also various sharks, manta rays, and a plethora of other fascinating sea creatures.
2. Tropical Diver
Esther particularly enjoys this part of the aquarium because she is fascinated with jellyfish. Here, you can explore one of the world’s largest living reef exhibits, featuring enchanting and mesmerizing jellyfish, along with an incredibly diverse array of colorful fish.
3. River Scout
Rivers abound with aquatic life, showcasing their remarkable diversity and introducing you to some renowned river inhabitants often referred to as “river monsters.” In this exhibit, you’ll encounter Asian small-clawed otters, American alligators (including some albino specimens), black spot piranhas, and other fascinating species.
4. Coldwater Quest
In this area, you can observe Beluga whales, sea otters, African penguins, and various other cold ocean inhabitants.
What’s Nearby Georgia Aquarium
- Hawks Game at Philips Arena (.7 mi / 4 mins away)
- World of Coca-Cola (.3 mi / 2 mins away)
- Atlanta Botanical Garden (2.7 mi / 9 mins away)
- Center CNN Studio Tour (.5 mi / 3 mins away)
- Fernbank Museum (5 mi / 11 mins away)
- Zoo Atlanta (4.3 mi / 9 mins away)
- High Museum of Art (2.4 mi / 6 mins away)
Essential Tips for the Georgia Aquarium
Save money and bypass the ticket purchase line by securing your tickets online. Although you need to choose a specific time and day, you have the flexibility to arrive within an hour of that selected time.
Go as early or late in the day as you can to get away from the crowds. Weekends are far more crowded than weekdays.
Allow between 3 to 4 hours to spend in the aquarium. You will then have enough time to visit the displays of sea Lions and dolphins situated within the aquarium’s four main sections.
Arrive at the shows well in advance, preferably 45 minutes to an hour before the scheduled time, to secure a prime seat during peak hours. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a good seat and wish to be prepared for the show, arriving 30 minutes beforehand is recommended.
Hotels Near Georgia Aquarium
Hyatt Place Atlanta/Centennial Park and SpringHill Suites by Marriott Atlanta Downtown are situated directly across the street from the aquarium. Additional lodging choices close include Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown, Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park, and Hyatt House Atlanta/Downtown, all positioned just one block away.
Best Time to Visit Georgia Aquarium
The best time to visit the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is any time. But it is less crowded compared to weekdays and non-holidays. If you want to come to this place on a less crowded day. So came on a working day.
However, the Georgia Aquarium may be less crowded during the fall and winter months. Because tourists usually go outside in winter.
Georgia Aquarium Parking
Accessing the aquarium is possible through either driving or utilizing public transportation. The Atlanta Streetcar has a stop at Centennial Olympic Park, a short walking distance away, and MARTA’s Civic Center train station is approximately half a mile from the aquarium. On-site parking is available at an additional cost, with a standard rate of $17; however, aquarium visitors benefit from a discounted rate of $12.
How to Reach Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta, making it easily accessible through various means of transportation. Here are some common ways to get to the Georgia Aquarium:
By Road: You can easily reach Georgia Aquarium by road.
Public Transportation: MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority): The closest MARTA station to the Georgia Aquarium is the Dome/GWCC/Phillips Arena/CNN Center station (W1) on the Blue and Green lines. From the station, the Georgia Aquarium is just a short walk away.
Streetcar: The Atlanta Streetcar has a bus stop near the Georgia Aquarium. Which provides public transportation options.
Taxi or ride-sharing services: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available in Atlanta and provide convenient door-to-door service.
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