georgia aquarium visit

Georgia Aquarium

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Georgia Aquarium - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

About georgia aquarium directions & parking.

Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta across from Centennial Olympic Park.
For directions from specific highways (I-85, I-75, I-20, etc.) and vehicle height/size restrictions, visit our Directions & Parking FAQ .
Keep Atlanta traffic in mind when you visit the Aquarium. For up-to-date traffic information, route your trip through Google Maps .
We have signs and floor markings to explain where to go upon arrival. Georgia Aquarium is not responsible for valuables left in vehicles.

The official Georgia Aquarium Parking deck is accessible via our entrances on Luckie Street or Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd.

There is no Oversized vehicle parking currently available in our parking deck.

Choose from a selection of our preferred hotel partners close to Georgia Aquarium. Explore our specially crafted packages to make your trip, staycation or visit to Atlanta an amazing one.

Entering Georgia Aquarium The main entrance has reopened with new no-contact turnstiles. Please follow signage onsite to the main entrance. We advise using the east pedestrian walkway via the 2 nd floor of the parking garage to enter the Aquarium.

The official Georgia Aquarium parking deck operates 1,600 safe, secure and well-lit spaces attached to Georgia Aquarium. Covered and rooftop parking is available. You can pay for parking in advance online; just print and bring your pre-paid parking ticket with you to enter the parking deck. You’ll be asked to re-scan your ticket in order to exit the parking deck after your visit. There is no re-entry allowed on pre-paid parking.

If you’re driving and planning to park onsite, use the following street address for a direct route to Georgia Aquarium parking: 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313 .

Please note: After you have parked, follow the signage onsite to the main entrance. You will see overhead sings and painted markings on the ground leading you the elevators to the main entrance.

There is very limited oversized vehicle parking available in our parking deck. Oversized vehicles will need to access the parking deck using the Ivan Allen Entrance, and see an attendant for access to the limited oversized vehicle parking spaces. We cannot guarantee access to the oversized vehicle parking spaces.

Our parking deck has vehicle height restrictions:

Luckie Street entrance#1 – 6’8”
Luckie Street Entrance #2 – 6’8”
Ramp to All Levels – 6’8″
Ivan Allen entrance – 8’2” ( pre-paid parking is not available for vehicles over 6’8″. Very limited parking for vehicles over 6’8″ )

Georgia Aquarium parking passes are valid ONLY for the Georgia Aquarium parking deck, located at 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313. These passes are NOT valid for the World of Coca-Cola parking deck.

For your convenience, you can pay for parking in advance online. You will need to print and bring your pre-paid parking ticket with you in order to enter the parking deck. You will be asked to re-scan your ticket in order to exit the parking deck after your visit. There is no re-entry allowed on pre-paid parking. Click here to purchase a pre-paid parking pass and guarantee your spot . Please note that the entrance to the Aquarium is a short walk outdoors underneath a covered walkway. Please dress appropriately. Georgia Aquarium parking passes are valid ONLY for the Georgia Aquarium parking deck, located at 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313. These passes are NOT valid for the World of Coca-Cola parking deck.

The MARTA fare is $2.50 and customers can also use unlimited weekend, weekly and monthly passes on the route. Breeze fare cards are sold in vending machines in all rail stations. Machines accept credit, debit, and cash. For more information please contact MARTA customer service at 404.848.5000 or visit www.itsmarta.com .

MARTA by Train: The Georgia Aquarium is a 10-15 minute walk from the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station on the Blue/Green line or from the Civic Center or Peachtree Center Stations on the Red/Gold line.

MARTA by Bus: Bus service is available to the Georgia Aquarium from the Civic Center MARTA bus station and Five Points MARTA station via Route 32.

I-20 West Exit 56B Spring Street Right onto Spring Street Left onto Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Right onto Northside Drive Pass GWCC Building C Right onto Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Marshalling Yard is on left after yellow lot

I-20 East Exit 56B Spring Street Left onto Spring Street Left onto Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Right onto Northside Drive Pass GWCC Building C Right onto Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Marshalling Yard is on left after yellow lot

Continue through bus loading/unloading onto Luckie Street Left at next light onto Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Right after the overpass Follow signs to GWCC and Marshalling Yard, which is on the right From the South of Atlanta via I-75/85 I-75/85 North Exit 246 Central Avenue Left onto Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Right onto Northside Drive Pass GWCC Building C Right onto Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Marshalling Yard is on the left after yellow lot

Hourly motorcoach and school bus parking is available at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) Marshalling Yard and is limited. Motorcoaches with group sales tours are required to pay $25 per motorcoach to park at the Marshalling Yard.

For directions to the Aquarium, click here . The motorcoach and school bus loading/unloading zone is located on Luckie Street near the Aquarium main entrance.

Continue on I-20 East Exit at 56B Spring/Windsor Street Turn left onto Spring Street Turn left onto Marietta Street NW Turn right onto Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. The official Georgia Aquarium parking deck is on the right.

Continue on I-20 West Exit at 56B Spring/Windsor Street Turn right onto Spring Street Turn left onto Marietta Street NW Turn right onto Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. The official Georgia Aquarium parking deck is on the right.

About Georgia Aquarium General Information

Georgia Aquarium is committed to creating a safe and enjoyable experience for every guest that comes through our doors. Our team members will always work to support an environment where someone’s visit will not be disrupted by the behavior or actions of other guests. Aquarium team members should be treated with respect at all times. Guests who violate this code of conduct will be required to leave the Aquarium immediately. Our security staff reserves the right to remove, without refund, any and all ticket holders who act inappropriately or behave in a way that makes others uncomfortable.

Georgia Aquarium Code of Conduct:

Guests will be treated courteously by all Aquarium team members.
Guests will treat Aquarium team members courteously.
Guests wearing clothing with obscenities printed on them will not be permitted into the Aquarium.
Guest dressed in sexually explicit or revealing clothing will not be permitted into the Aquarium.
Shirts and footwear are required.
Unauthorized signage is not permitted in the Aquarium.
Disruptive behavior, damaging property, foul or abusive language, obscene gestures, harassing or aggressive behavior is not permitted in the Aquarium.
Stealing is prohibited.
Weapons are prohibited.
Unauthorized use or resale of tickets is prohibited.
Guests are to follow all Aquarium policies and directions given by Aquarium team members at all times.
Guests engaging in fighting, throwing objects or attempting to enter unauthorized areas will be removed immediately from the property without refund.
Guests will remain in authorized guest areas and never impede other guests or block nearby exits, aisles or exhibits.
Guests will provide their tickets when requested by Aquarium team members.
Smoking/vaping is prohibited in the Aquarium.
Guests consuming alcoholic beverages should do so responsibly. Guests becoming overly intoxicated, participating in or contributing to underage drinking will be escorted from the Aquarium without refund.
Guests will comply with team members in emergency response procedures.
Guests with complaints should communicate respectfully with team members regarding any issues or concerns.

Guests who violate the code of conduct or engage in any other behavior that may be deemed by Georgia Aquarium team members to be inappropriate, harassing or threatening may be removed without refund. Behavior which may adversely impact the safety of people, animals or property will be removed from the property and may be subject to arrest.

Our dolphin and sea lion presentations are seated on a first-come, first-served basis using our reservation system. Reservations can be made on the day of your visit, and links are provided with your general admission tickets. We recommend getting in line at least 15-30 minutes before showtime. View times for these presentations on our Daily Schedule.
For updated daily events, check with our Information Desk when you arrive or download our mobile app on the iTunes App Store or the Google Play store and browse our Daily Schedule.
In an effort to conserve paper, Georgia Aquarium no longer prints maps. We encourage our guests to download our mobile app on the iTunes App Store or the Google Play store and to access a map of the Aquarium.
General Admission guests may exit and reenter Georgia Aquarium during their visit by getting their ticket stamped at the Information desk.
Prepaid Parking please note that prepaid parking vouchers are for one-time use and can’t be used a second time when returning in a vehicle.

All guests are required to purchase a general admission ticket for entry to Georgia Aquarium. The Gift Shop inside the Aquarium does not allow guests to just visit the gift shop without being granted admission to the Aquarium. Our online Gift Shop is accessible 24 hours a day through this link.

Showtime Pictures snaps photos as you enter the aquarium and during animal encounters. As you leave the aquarium, you will see our custom photo kiosks in the gift shop where you can view and print your pictures immediately. To order, or view them online please follow this link: https://mygeorgiaaquarium.com/mygallery/

All visitors are expected to ensure their clothing and accessories are appropriate for a family environment. For example, visitors and staff should not wear items during their visit that may be considered offensive, contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendo/suggestions, promote negative ethnic or racial commentary, or hatred/violence in any form.

Georgia Aquarium is glad to offer a variety of branded apparel in our gift shops, however we do not sell Aquarium team member uniforms. For the safety of our guests, team and animals, it is important that we are always able to discern between members of the public and Georgia Aquarium staff and volunteers.

Thank you for your recent visit, and we are sorry to hear that you may have left some items behind. We ask that you please follow the link below, to provide us all the details of what we will be looking for. Upon submission of your lost item report, you will receive further instructions.

Report Lost Item

Upon submission of your lost item report, you will receive further instructions.

Lost & Found Software Provided By Chargerback

Only guide dogs for the blind, service dogs for people with disabilities and working dogs in training are permitted inside Georgia Aquarium. Pets are not permitted. Emotional support animals are not permitted

Pets are not allowed. Only guide dogs for the blind, service dogs for people with disabilities and working dogs in training are permitted inside Georgia Aquarium. Emotional support animals are not permitted

The animals at Georgia Aquarium come to us in a number of ways. Some are rescued animals, that would not be able to survive on their own in their natural habitat. Some examples of rescued animals at the Aquarium include several of our California sea lions, southern sea otters Tank the green sea turtle and the manta ray, Nandi.

Other animals were born at the Aquarium or at other zoological institutions.

Some animals come to Georgia Aquarium from aquaculture facilities – where aquatic animals are bred and reared for places like the Aquarium. Many of our jellies are cultured right here in the Aquarium’s jelly lab. Other species of fish and other animals are cultured elsewhere before coming to the aquarium.

Some animals are carefully collected by the animal experts at Georgia Aquarium so that they can serve as ambassadors for their species in one of our many exhibits. These animals help teach people about their species, the environments they live in and the dangers they face, so that we can take action to help protect them.

Aquarium size can be measured two ways. If you measure the facility by square footage, Georgia Aquarium is more than 600,000 square feet. If you measure by the amount of water in all of the exhibits, Georgia Aquarium contains approximately 10 million gallons of fresh and salt water.

For information about the animals found at Georgia Aquarium, please visit our Animal Guide .

There are no guns, knives, matches, lighters, fishing poles, outside food, beverages, balloons, disposable drinking straws or gum allowed inside Georgia Aquarium.

We have bottle filling stations located throughout the building, and encourage you to bring your refillable bottles and reusable drinking straws during your visit.

Georgia Aquarium has established – and strictly enforces – a “No Weapons” policy that applies to all of our guests. Weapons include (but are not limited to) firearms and knives. This policy was created to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all guests, and to eliminate a potential risk to guests, staff and/or animals. This policy was created based on the findings of a comprehensive threat assessment conducted by Georgia Aquarium. With more than two million guests visiting our facility each year, and thousands of aquatic animals living in 10 million gallons of water behind acrylic, we cannot put ourselves at risk of either an intentional or accidental discharge of a weapon within our facility. Signage has been placed on our property stating that firearms are not permitted. Enforcing this policy and ensuring the safety of aquarium guests and team members is Georgia Aquarium’s 24-hour security staff.

Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street, across the street from the north end of Centennial Olympic Park.

About Georgia Aquarium Security

Food & Drink policy: No outside food or beverages are permitted in the aquarium with the exception of small snacks for children or visitors with food allergies. The aquarium has several water bottle filling stations, we encourage you to bring a refillable water bottle for your visit.
Strollers cannot be larger than 29” (72 cm) in width and 52” (132 cm) in length.
Wagons, wagon strollers, push cars, jogging strollers and ride-ons are not permitted in order to ensure guests of all ages and abilities can maneuver through the Aquarium safely.
Guests that need to utilize specialty strollers or wagons for medical or sensory purposes are exempt from this policy.
Cameras: Cameras are permitted in the Aquarium for personal use ONLY. The use of flash is prohibited in the presence of some animals. Please refrain from taking photos in our sea lion and dolphin presentations. Commercial or professional photos and video are prohibited unless expressly approved. Professional-grade equipment including but not limited to, tripods, monopods, lighting, flashes, microphones, and detachable lenses, are prohibited.
Lost & Found: If you lose an item during your visit, please inquire at the Information Desk before you leave. If you discover you’ve left something behind, call 404.581.4000 between the hours of 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. to see if it has been turned in. Report Lost Item
First Aid: Piedmont Hospital provides staffing for a full first-aid station, located in the restroom hallway between Ocean Voyager and Tropical Diver.
Nursing Mothers: We have a private nursing/pumping room available for mothers on our second floor.
Weapons Policy: Georgia Aquarium has established – and strictly enforces – a “No Weapons” policy. Weapons include (but are not limited to) firearms and knives. This policy was created to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all guests, and to eliminate a potential risk to guests, staff and/or animals. This policy was created based on the findings of a comprehensive threat assessment conducted by Georgia Aquarium. With more than two million guests visiting our facility each year, and thousands of aquatic animals living in 10 million gallons of water behind acrylic, we cannot put ourselves at risk of either an intentional or accidental discharge of a weapon within our facility. Signage has been placed on our property stating that firearms are not permitted. Enforcing this policy and ensuring the safety of aquarium guests and team members is Georgia Aquarium’s 24-hour security staff, which is supplemented by two off-duty Atlanta Police Officers.
To reserve your seats for the dolphin presentation, click here on the day of your visit.
To reserve your seats for the Sea Lion Presentation, click here on the day of your visit.
Lockers: We do not have lockers or coat/bag check services available. You will need to carry anything you bring into the aquarium for the duration of your visit.

Yes. Everyone visiting the Aquarium MUST go through security located outside the Aquarium. Security is your very first stop upon arrival at Georgia Aquarium. Keep in mind that NO guns, knives or lighters are allowed inside Georgia Aquarium. Outside food, beverage and gum are also not allowed in the Aquarium. Security will confiscate these items.

Yes. There are no guns, knives, matches, lighters, fishing poles, outside food, beverages, balloons, disposable drinking straws or gum allowed inside Georgia Aquarium. We have bottle filling stations located throughout the building, and encourage you to bring your refillable bottles and reusable drinking straws during your visit.

About Georgia Aquarium Sensory Room

All of our sensory bags come equipped with headphones, marble fidget, noddle fidget, tangle fidget and an I.D. card. These bags are available at our Guest Service desks.

The room is specifically designated for guest experiencing sensory issues. Please respect the room and its materials so other guests can enjoy. Guest are limited to 15 minutes at a time unless granted permission for a longer stay.

Yes, there is a 15-minute time limit for each family unless approved for a longer stay.

Guests looking to utilize the sensory room must check in with a staff member in order to gain access to the room. Staff members are located at the Animal Interaction Desk or information desk beside the sensory room.

We believe that ALL individuals regardless of their abilities and/or age are valued members of the community and deserve to be accepted and included. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue. Sensory rooms help create a safe and calming environment for these individuals so they can take a break from the event, decompress, and join the event again.

When individuals or families with sensory needs visit a popular venue, things like loud noises, inconsistent lighting or certain smells can be overwhelming and even physically painful. We have built a sensory room so those with sensory needs can decompress while visiting and rejoin the excitement when they feel ready.

Sensory rooms, from the size, color of the walls, to the elements in the room are all carefully planned by the KultureCity sensory team led by physicians, and board-certified therapists. Some items included in the room are:

Bubble tubes – stimulate the visual and auditory senses
Tactile wall panels – have various activities that stimulate the visual and tactile senses
Bean bags – provide proprioceptive and vestibular regulation
Room color recommendations – promote overall calming visual environment
Visual light panels – stimulate the visual and tactile senses

Tickets & Memberships Membership

If you’re having issues logging into your online account or if you aren’t seeing your memberships in your online account, please email [email protected] letting us know the issue you’re having, the name your membership is under, and the email address you’re using to log in to your online account. We’ll get it all taken care of!

Our guest services team can be reached by calling 404-581-4000.

You can bring your order number to the ticket window along with a photo ID and have a new ticket issued. Also, be sure to check your spam or junk folder to see if was automatically sorted.

For fast, courteous service please call 404-581-4000 to renew your Membership. You may also renew during your next visit to Georgia Aquarium.

The time on your ticket only dictates when you may enter the Aquarium. Once you’ve entered the Aquarium, you can stay until the Aquarium closes. We use a timed ticket entry system to control the flow of visitors and to ensure that you have a pleasant visit.

Your Georgia Aquarium Membership is a revocable license and is valid only for use by the person identified on the card.
Georgia Aquarium may refuse admission to, or eject Card Holder thereof, if Holder is deemed disorderly or fails to comply with these terms or any security measures.
Georgia Aquarium assumes no responsibility and Holder expressly assumes all risk for accident, lost or stolen personal property, or personal injury.
There is no carry-in food or beverage allowed in the Aquarium.
All persons and bags are subject to search and security checks.
Photography, video, pictures or reproductions thereof in any form taken at the Aquarium are not to be used for commercial purposes.
Card Holder grants to the Aquarium the irrevocable permission to use his or her image, likeness, voice or sound recordings in any media and for any purpose whatsoever and without compensation.
Membership Cards are non-transferable and are not for unauthorized resale or promotional use (including, but not limited to, contests, sweepstakes and giveaways) without the prior written permission of the Aquarium.
Duplication of Membership Cards is strictly prohibited.
Members are able to purchase one Guest Pass per Membership. Discounts and promotions do not apply to Guest Pass purchases. Guest pass holders must be accompanied by primary annual pass holder for admission to the Aquarium at all times.

Upgrade your Membership; support Georgia Aquarium’s Annual Fund; volunteer; participate in an interactive program at Georgia Aquarium! There are hundreds of ways to get involved.

Call our Ticketing Specialists at 404-581-4000 for assistance.

There are no refunds for purchased tickets or Memberships. Date changes can be made 24 hours PRIOR to the date of the reservation for a minimal processing fee per ticket. Date changes are not allowed after the date of the original ticket.

If you bring your order number or your order confirmation with a photo ID, we can access your order in our ticketing system to issue your permanent annual membership. Please reserve a time for your visit for the most expedited entry.

You are able to opt-in to our email subscriptions during the Membership purchase process. We offer monthly newsletters and special offers. You can opt-out or updates your preferences at any time using our email preference center.

Welcome to our Georgia Aquarium family of members. If you received a Membership as a gift and the gift-giver purchased the membership through our website. Please follow the instructions below to have the gift-giver transfer your membership to a new website account. Make sure you provide the gift-giver with your email address.

The gift-giver needs to do the following:
Access the Member Login page
Can’t login ? Please contact us at [email protected]
Enter your login and password.
Once they are logged in they will see a list of all memberships purchased through this website account.
They should enter your name and email address as the new account holder.
By clicking the appropriate boxes next to the names on the list they can move your memberships into the new account.
To complete the process, click Transfer Annual Passes.
The new account will be immediately activated.
Once this process is complete, you can enjoy your Annual Membership.

Follow the steps below to transfer a Membership to another account. You will need the email address of the person you are transferring the memberships to.

Can’t login ? Please contact us at [email protected]
Once you are logged in you will see a list of all memberships purchased through this website account.
Enter the name and the email address for the new account holder.
Check the boxes of the memberships that need to be moved into the new account.
Click the Transfer Annual Passes button to complete the process.
Your gift recipient’s new account will be immediately activated.
Your gift recipient can now enjoy their annual membership.

isit our Purchase Tickets page , login to your account, and select your ticket type. Your discount as a Member will be applied at check-out.

Visit our Member Ticketing Page and choose the date and time you would like to visit. You may be required to enter your user ID and password that you created when you first purchased your membership. Members are not required to make a reservation. However, we recommend making reservations for weekends, holidays, school breaks and purchasing tickets for your guests in advance.

For the safety of our animals, guests and team members, all guests must wear a facial covering over their mouth and nose at all times for the duration of the program. Additionally, all guests must consent to a contactless temperature check upon entry.

Members receive email updates on offers & discounts, events and news from Georgia Aquarium.

Members can enter the Aquarium without a reservation using the Member’s Lane during normal operating hours. Guests of members will need to purchase a timed ticket for admission. Guest tickets may be purchased online or at the main entrance. We recommend purchasing your guest tickets in advance for weekends, holidays and school breaks.

Members will pick up their actual card on their first visit to the Aquarium. Please bring your purchase receipt/order number to give to the cashier when you arrive. If you reserved a timed ticket online to visit the Aquarium, bring the receipt, which has a barcode on it. If you reserved a timed ticket through the Call Center, you will need your order number for entry. If you have any additional questions, please contact us at 404.581.4000.

Visit our Member purchase page for your discounted member tickets to various Aquarium activities including Behind the Seas Tours.

You may upgrade your Membership at any time during your Membership year. The expiration date of your current Membership will not change with upgrades. Upgrades are not available online. Visit Georgia Aquarium or call 404-581-4000 for complete details and upgrade options.

Purchasing online is easy: simply \select the membership that’s right for you and your family! Purchasing online also saves you time. Once your purchase is complete, you will receive a confirmation e-mail that includes a Georgia Aquarium e-Ticket that you print at home. With this ticket, you can go directly to the Member Services Desk at Georgia Aquarium during your next visit to receive your Membership cards. You may also purchase a Membership by calling 404-581-4000, or during your next visit.

Salamander Hotels & Resorts presents an exclusive offer to Georgia Aquarium supporters. This is your invitation to share in an exciting summer of savings. Join in the endless family activities at the four luxuriously unique and welcoming resorts.

Yes, if you are a Member, you can purchase a Guest Membership that can be used for admission when you bring friends and family. Guest memberships allow you to bring one guest per membership each visit – limit one Guest Membership per Member. All Membership cards and Guest Memberships are issued for a specific person and are non-transferable. Discounts and promotions do not apply to Guest Pass purchases. Guest pass holders must be accompanied by primary annual pass holder for admission to the Aquarium at all times. Members may also use their member discount to purchase tickets for friends and family.

Your membership is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law; please consult your tax advisor.

Children under the age of three do not require a Membership or a reservation to enter the Aquarium. They’re welcome to enter with a Member or ticket-holding adult.

Yes! Members receive a discount in the Georgia Aquarium parking deck by logging into their online account and pre-purchasing parking or by visiting Member Services to receive your physical membership card.

YES! The family membership includes annual membership benefits for up to 4 members of your household, plus two free General Admission tickets (valid for one-time use during the year of membership). You may purchase memberships for additional family members at a 10% discount. This benefit is only available with the purchase of a Family Membership. Discounts and promotions do not apply to Family Membership purchases .

The family membership is valid for up to 4 members of your household. Each member of your family will receive their own membership card. Each individual membership is valid for that person only and is non-transferable. Each membership card features a photo of the member. If you have a Membership, you can purchase a Guest Membership and bring a different friend or family member with you each time you visit. Discounts and promotions do not apply to Guest Pass purchases. Guest pass holders must be accompanied by primary annual pass holder for admission to the Aquarium at all times.

Tickets & Memberships Tickets

We absolutely encourage you to use your phone to show us your tickets. There is no need to print the email or barcodes. Our contactless turnstiles will allow you to scan the barcode right from your phone.

We ask that you have your phone ready with your email pulled up once you pass through security. Please note that Sleepover Tickets are not viable for entry until 6:00pm, but allow for all day admission the morning after the sleepover.

Each individual general admission ticket includes access to Georgia Aquarium, all Aquarium galleries & exhibits, general-seating Dolphin Presentation*, and Sea Lion Presentation*. $1 of every ticket sold supports ocean conservation and research. Guests typically spend 2-4 hours at the Aquarium, but you’re free to explore as long as you wish during your visit.

**To attend the Dolphin or Sea Lion Presentation, please make reservations at the Aquarium on the day of your visit.

Yes, you can use your credit card for transactions on our website. Please make sure that the address you enter, matches the address that is registered for your credit card.

There are no refunds for purchased tickets. Date changes can be made 24 hours PRIOR to the date of the reservation for a minimal processing fee per ticket. Date changes are not allowed after the date of the ticket.

Yes. Please click here for more information about our tickets.

Yes. Since we have timed ticketing, we recommend buying them in advance. This can be done on our website or by calling the Call Center at 404.581.4000.

Plan Ahead Pricing Plan Ahead Pricing

Our Plan-Ahead Pricing model rewards you for planning your visit in advance. The model allows you to see when we anticipate being busiest (holidays, weekends, school breaks) and when we may be less busy.
If you wait until just before a visit to buy tickets, you may see higher prices if the time or date falls within a peak period for the aquarium.
The Plan-Ahead Pricing tool will consistently update, allowing you to pick a time and date to visit that works best for your schedule and your wallet.
In general, ticket prices may be higher on holidays, school breaks, and weekends when we typically see higher attendance.
In general, ticket prices may be lower purchased further in advance and on days when the Aquarium is less busy.
The best way to take advantage of Plan-Ahead Pricing is to book your visit to the Aquarium, in advance. Tickets purchased in advance and before the day of visit will always cost less than tickets purchased on the day of visit. The farther in advance you purchase, the more likely you are to save!
Check our calendar on our Tickets page.
Ticket prices fluctuate based on several factors including day of week, attendance patterns and holidays.
Advance online tickets are required to save. We recommend buying your online tickets at least 24-hours prior to your visit. Advance tickets purchased online before the day of your visit will offer the lowest price. Please visit the Tickets page for current prices.
The current price listed online will always be the most affordable option. It is possible the price may increase over time, so the further in advance you purchase, the more you save.
If you cannot visit on the date listed on your ticket, you may exchange it for a different day. Please note that, if the price is higher for the new date you select, you’ll need to pay the difference between what you paid and the new price for the date of your new visit. Contact our Call Center at 404-581-4000 to make changes.
No, the cost of membership is not affected by Plan-Ahead Pricing. Membership prices remain the same and are always the best value.

Experiences Behind the Seas Tour: Explore the Surface

All tours can be booked by individuals or by a group. All ages are welcome on our Explore the Surface tour. Any guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants will meet at the desk on the second floor near the Coastline Café . A Behind the Seas Tour sign will identify the tour desk. The tour guide will arrive 10 minutes before the tour start time to check in guests. All tours leave on time. Guests arriving up to 5 minutes late will be escorted to join the rest of the tour already in progress. No refunds will be issued for missing part or all of a tour.

The Explore the Surface Tour may consist of up to 18 guests.

This is the first tour we recommend guests experience. You will see topside views of some of our most popular exhibits.

There is no need to print the email or barcodes. Your tour guide will be able to scan your ticket directly from your phone.

Food and drinks are not permitted during the tour.

Date changes must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time of the tour. We do not offer refunds for guests who do not attend their scheduled tour.

Due to the nature of caring for animals, Georgia Aquarium reserves the right to modify, cancel and/or reschedule programs without notice. Reasonable accommodations will be made to reschedule guests as effectively as possible.

No high heels are allowed on our tours.

Experiences Behind the Seas Tour: Dive Deeper

All tours can be booked by individuals or by a group. Our Dive Deeper tour is not recommended for guests younger than 7 years old. Any guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

The Dive Deeper Tour may consist of up to 12 guests.

We recommend you participate in this tour after you’ve attended an Explore the Surface tour. You will not visit the topside of Ocean Voyager, but you will see many areas not visited on our Explore the Surface tour. This includes areas such as our Filtration Room, Veterinary Suite, and other animal holding spaces.

Please note: Our Dive Deeper tour may access areas that have higher levels of visual and auditory stimulation. If you have a sensitivity to these stimuli, you may consider visiting our Guest Relations Desk to borrow a sensory bag prior to your tour. You can learn more about Georgia Aquarium accessibility and accommodations here »

Experiences Behind the Seas Tour: Private Voyage

This private tour must be booked at least 7 days in advance. Please click on the above link to request a tour date and time. As this tour involves coordination with multiple departments, not all days will be available. All ages are welcome on our Private Voyage tour. Any guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

The initial cost of a Private Voyage , $550, includes up to 6 guests. You may add additional guests for $75 per guest, up to a maximum of 10 guests.

Your Private Voyage includes visits to the topside of some of our most popular exhibits as well as additional behind the scenes areas, such as our Filtration Room, Veterinary Suite, and other animal holding spaces.

Showtime Pictures will join us at the topside of an exhibit to snap a photo of your group. As you leave the aquarium, you will see our custom photo kiosks in the gift shop where you can view and print your pictures immediately. To order or view them online, please visit mygeorgiaaquarium.com .

Experiences Beluga Encounter

Please bring:

A photo I.D.
Appropriate footwear and attire that can be splashed.
The beluga habitat is kept cool, and guests should consider wearing attire that will keep them comfortable in an air-conditioned space.

Guests may not bring personal cameras into sea otter program areas.

Please Note: For the safety of the animals, guests participating in the animal interaction may be required to remove jewelry and sunglasses prior to entering the animal spaces (prescription lenses worn for vision correction is an exception to this guideline).

You can complete the waiver using this link prior to your arrival for your encounter: Animal Interactive Waiver

Please Note:

Georgia Aquarium does not require that all guests wear masks during their programs; however, these animals can be susceptible to respiratory illnesses, and any participant managing respiratory issues (coughing, sneezing, runny nose) are asked to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth during the encounter.
Guests clearly symptomatic will be required to wear a mask through the duration of the program or be excused from the program. This is to ensure the safest environment for the animals, our staff, and fellow guests.

Cancellation and Date Change Policy:

The program fee is non-refundable; however, the program will be rescheduled whenever possible. The Aquarium will reschedule your encounter if given notice more than 48 hours in advance. There will be a change fee of $20 per ticket if notice is given within 14 days of the original reservation date. To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 581-4000. Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled .
Guests must check in at the Animal Interaction desk, located on the second floor, 15 minutes prior to the start of their program. Guests arriving late will not be permitted to participate in the program and will not be refunded or rescheduled. We encourage guests to arrive at the Aquarium with plenty of time to park, enter, and check into the program. Please plan accordingly.

Please Note: Due to the nature of caring for animals, Georgia Aquarium reserves the right to modify, cancel and/or reschedule programs without notice. Reasonable accommodations will be made to reschedule guests as effectively as possible.

For guests with special needs, every effort will be made to allow participation in our Beluga Encounter. Please call 404-581-4000 to make a reservation and let the reservists know you have special needs and someone from the program will call you prior to your visit to review your options.

The entire Beluga Encounter Program occurs behind the scenes and is not viewable by the public. Only participants in the program will be taken to the program area. Guests will not be able to watch you interact with the belugas. Any guests that you would like to be a part of this poolside experience will also have to purchase a ticket.

Please ensure that your party adheres to the age requirements for this Animal Interactive.

Must be 7+ to participate.
Guests 15 years of age and under must come with a participating adult (3:1 child to adult ratio required).
All participants must be ticketed for the Interaction.
Guests 17 and under must have a program liability waiver signed and dated by a parent or court appointed legal guardian.

If you do not follow the requirements, your program will be cancelled.

We strongly encourage guests to pre-register to guarantee your experience. Spaces are limited to 8 participants per scheduled program and walk-ups can only be accommodated if there are spaces available that day.

*While up to 8 participants may be able to participate per program time: Parties larger than 4 participants will be divided between different animals due to the space limitation. Parties of 2 or 3 participants may be divided between different animals due to the space limitation.

You can make a reservation on this site, or by calling Georgia Aquarium Call Center at 404.581.4000.

After you have purchased your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email that will include instructions how to supply additional information and submit the waivers required to participate in the program. All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating in the program. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian .

The Beluga Encounter program lasts 15-minutes and includes approximately 8 minutes of interaction with a beluga. During this fast-paced program you will go behind the scenes of our Cold Water Quest Gallery to meet, and interact with one of our beluga whales. You’ll see up-close many of the ways we care for our belugas and participate in a training session during this hands-on poolside encounter.

Guests will have the opportunity to have an intimate, up-close experience with the beluga whales. There are a variety of activities that can take place at the discretion of the training staff while interacting with and even touching the whale. Participating in training techniques and feeding may be part of the experience if it is appropriate to do so based upon the behavior of the animals being interacted with and behavior of the participants involved in the program. Animal trainers will tailor each program to ensure a safe and engaging experience for both our animals and our guests. As a result, each program may be a little different.

Experiences Dolphin Encounter

Cancellation and Date Change Policy: The program fee is non-refundable; however, the program will be rescheduled whenever possible based upon program availability. The Aquarium will reschedule your encounter free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days in advance of the original date of visit. If the change is made less than 14 days prior to the original date of your visit, a $20 change fee per reservation will be charged. No changes can be made less than 48 hours prior to the date of your original visit, and the guest will be charged the full program cost.

Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled . To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquarium Call Center at 404.581.4000.

Guests must check in at the Animal Interaction desk, located next to the Ocean Voyager Built by The Home Depot gallery, 15 minutes prior to the start of their program. Guests arriving late will not be permitted to participate in the program and will not be refunded or rescheduled. We encourage guests to arrive at the Aquarium with plenty of time to park, enter, and check into the program. Please plan accordingly.

Guests will not be able to watch you interact with the dolphins. Any guests that you would like to be a part of this poolside experience will also have to purchase a ticket.

Please go to the Animal Interactions desk, on the second floor next to the Ray Touch Pool, to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your Dolphin Encounter.

Minimum age is 7 years. All guests ages 16 and under must be accompanied during the program by a participating adult. All participants must be ticketed for the encounter. There is a maximum of 3 children per participating adult. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian.

You can make a reservation by calling Georgia Aquarium Call Center at 404.581.4000. After you have purchased your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email that will include instructions how to supply additional information and submit the waivers required to participate in the program. All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating in the program. Guests age 17 and under must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian .

Reservations are not required. However, we strongly encourage reservations to guarantee your experience as spaces are limited. Space is currently limited to only 4 participants per dolphin per program. While up to 8 participants may be able to participate per program time:

Parties larger than 4 participants will be divided between different animals due to the space limitation. Parties of 2 or 3 participants may be divided between different animals due to the space limitation.

For the safety of our animals, guests and team members, all program participants must wear a facial covering over their mouth and nose at all times for the duration of the program. Additionally, all guests must consent to a contactless temperature check upon entry.

A photo I.D., appropriate footwear, attire that can be splashed and your sense of adventure! Guests may not bring personal cameras into dolphin program areas.

The Dolphin Encounter program lasts 15-minutes and includes approximately 8 minutes of interaction with a dolphin. During this fast-paced program you will go backstage at our dolphin theater to meet, touch and feed one of the dolphin stars of our spectacular Dolphin Celebration presentation. See up-close many of the ways we care for our dolphins and participate in a training session during this hands-on poolside encounter.

Experiences Dolphin Presentation

It is recommended that guests plan ahead to enter the Dolphin Coast gallery about 15-30 minutes before presentation time, to allow time to enter the dolphin theater, find your seats and enjoy the educational dolphin presentation pre-show entertainment. If you miss your scheduled dolphin presentation, Georgia Aquarium cannot guarantee you a preferred seat in another dolphin presentation.

In the event that a dolphin presentation is cancelled, guests who purchased preferred seats will be issued a refund for the full cost of their preferred seating.

About 15-30 minutes before the scheduled dolphin presentation, you should make your way to the Dolphin Coast gallery entrance in the main Atrium, take the escalator upstairs and continue through the Dolphin Coast lobby until reaching the queue space for the dolphin theater. Follow signs for the separate line for preferred seating. No refunds will be issued unless the presentation is cancelled.

Typically, preferred seats are available for purchase for all dolphin presentations throughout the day, although this may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on preferred seat availability, visit our website, the Georgia Aquarium app, or inquire at the information desk in our main Atrium.

A certain number of seats in the dolphin theater are designated as preferred seating. The preferred seating is a VIP area directly above the splash zone in the center of the Dolphin Coast theater.

Yes. You may purchase preferred seats for as many dolphin presentations as you would like. You will need to make a separate purchase for each dolphin presentation you would like to attend with preferred seats.

A limited number of seats in the dolphin theater are included in the preferred seating option. The exact number may vary depending on availability. We recommend planning ahead and purchasing preferred seats ahead of time.

No, tickets must be purchased on our website, at one of Georgia Aquarium’s ticketing windows, or at the information desk in the main Atrium. You may also purchase a preferred seat on Georgia Aquarium’s mobile app.

Preferred seating for the dolphin presentation may be purchased on our website, at one of Georgia Aquarium’s ticketing windows, or at the information desk in the main Atrium. You may also purchase a preferred seat on Georgia Aquarium’s mobile app.

Preferred seats may be purchased for any dolphin presentation up until 15 minutes before presentation time, while space is available.

The price of preferred seats in the dolphin presentation is $5 plus tax for members as well as general admission guests of Georgia Aquarium.

No, the dolphin presentation is included with your general admission ticket. However you will need to reserve seats for the presentation when you arrive through our informational kiosks or via your mobile phone. You will have the option to purchase preferred seats to dolphin presentations in advance of your arrival.

Please be advised that the use of visual stimuli, including flashing lights or patterns, theatrical fog, and lighting effects along with loud music are in use on this property. If you have health problems that could be affected by these types of conditions, please take that into consideration before participating.

Experiences Journey with Gentle Giants — Swim

Cameras are permitted on deck but not in the water. Friends and family may take photos of you from the tunnel or main gallery window while you are participating in the experience. A complimentary souvenir photo is provided and a video that highlights the program will be available for purchase.

Yes. There are eight slots per program and each slot must be purchased to ensure a private experience. Please contact our call center (404) 581-4000 for assistance with your booking.

Participants can purchase professionally shot and edited HD video of the program experience. Additional t-shirts, hats, and reusable bags can also be purchased on-site.

Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled. To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquariu m Call Center at 404-581-4000.

Late arrivals will not be able to participate in the program, so please arrive early.

No. The swim is for observation only. Participants are not permitted to touch the animals.

Refunds are not offered, but a date may be changed free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days in advance of the original date of your visit.

If the change is made less than 14 days prior to the original date, a $50 change fee per ticket will be charged. Cancellations within 48 hours and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled.

To change your reservation, please contact Georgia Aquarium’s Call Center at (404) 581-4000.

Reservations can be made online here or by calling (404) 581-4000. You will receive a confirmation email after purchase with an additional information packet and waivers required to participate in the program. Please be sure to review this information before arriving.

All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court – appointed legal guardian.

Yes. Three professional divers will be in the water with you at all times during the guided tour. Dive team members are certified in CPR, first aid, and in providing emergency oxygen.

Yes, friends and family can watch from the Ocean Voyager tunnel and main window, but they must purchase a General Admission ticket.

If staffing allows, guests will be escorted by a volunteer OR directed to where to go for the best opportunity to see the participants. Staff and volunteers cannot offer care for any minors – they must be accompanied by an adult.

Participants must be able to dress themselves, swim themselves and climb a 3 ft vertical ladder in and out of the habitat. Swimmers who need help dressing themselves must provide their own assistance.

Our swim vests can accommodate guests with a waist measuring 59.5 inches (151cm) or less AND weigh no more than 400lbs (181kg). Guests are not allowed to bring outside gear that allows them to exceed this size.

Dive Immersion reserves the right to cancel any reservation due to concerns for the health or physical safety of participants. Please email [email protected] if there are concerns with these limitations before booking.

Generally, yes! However, any impairments or disabilities MUST be discussed with the Dive Team BEFORE booking. Every person is different, and Dive Immersion strives to make reasonable accommodations to ensure a positive and safe experience for all participants.

Please contact [email protected] so we can discuss available arrangements. Failure to do so could result in delay or cancellation of your program.

Guests are encouraged to pre-register. Spaces are limited to 8 participants per program and walk-ups can only be accommodated if there is space available.

You will need to bring your swimsuit. All equipment, comfortable changing rooms with showers, lockers and towels are supplied. Personal masks/snorkels are permitted but must be disinfected by staff prior to swimming. Please refrain from wearing jewelry, excessive makeup or hair products.

The exhibit contains 6.3 million gallons of water and ranges from 20 to 30 feet deep (6-9 m) with water temperature controlled at 76°F (24°C). This exhibit houses thousands of fish including whale sharks, zebra sharks, and several species of rays, just to name a few!

The experience is approximately 2.5 hours, so please plan accordingly. The experience consists of a dive team member picking you up from the desk, a brief tour of the top side of the Ocean Voyager exhibit, a safety briefing that highlights the animals of Ocean Voyager and a 30-minute guided swim. A souvenir photo and a program t-shirt are included, and guests will have the option to view and purchase the video of their experience.

All necessary equipment is included in the price of the Swim Program, including a flotation device, mask, snorkel, gloves, booties and wetsuit. Personal masks and snorkels are permitted but must be disinfected by staff prior to swim.

The program is offered daily at 4:30 p.m.

All participants must be at least 12 years of age. All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult in the water .

EACH child 12-14 years old must be accompanied by a participating adult. There is a 1:1 child to adult ratio for children 12-14 years old.
If one or more of the children are 15 years old or older, there can be one participating adult. There is a 1:7 child to adult ratio for children 15-17 years old.

Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian.

Experiences Journey with Gentle Giants — Dive

We welcome certified autonomous divers of all experience levels. If you have not been diving in a while, we suggest heading to your local dive shop for a skills-refresher course before participating.

We welcome all certified autonomous divers of all experience levels. For those of you who are highly experiences and looking for an adventure, consider signing up for the Dive Program’s Rebreather Experience.

PLEASE NOTE: This program is currently unavailable.

You must be a certified Open Water diver to participate in the scuba program. Georgia Aquarium offers a swim program t o those who are not certified.

Participants must be able to dress themselves, dive autonomously with no physical assistance, and climb a 3ft vertical ladder in/out of the habitat unassisted. Divers who need help dressing themselves must provide their own assistance.

Our dive and safety equipment can accommodate guests that have a waist measuring 66.5” (169cm) or less AND weigh no more than 400lbs (181 kgs). Guests may not bring outside gear that allows them to exceed these limits.

Cameras are permitted on deck before and after your experience but not in the water. Friends and family may take photos of you from the tunnel or main gallery window while you are participating in the experience. A digital souvenir photo is included and a video that highlights the program will be available for purchase following your program.

Yes. There are eight slots per program and each slot must be purchased to ensure a private experience.

Please call (404) 581-4000 for assistance.

Participants can purchase on-site:

Professionally shot and edited HD video of the program experience
Additional program t-shirts
Program logo hat
Program logo mask strap
Program logo reusable bags

Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled. Guests arriving after the required program check-in time will not be permitted to participate and will not be refunded or rescheduled.

Late arrivals will not be able to participate in the program, so please arrive early.

We provide all the gear you will use: a mask, fins, tank, buoyancy device, regulator, weights, wetsuit, gloves, and booties – just bring a swimsuit, your certification card, and your enthusiasm!

Note: Personal masks and dive computers are permitted but must be disinfected by staff before use. No other personal dive equipment is permitted.

The program is offered at 3 p.m. on Monday – Friday and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The program has a maximum of 8 participants per event.

No. The dive is for observation only. Participants are not allowed to touch the animals.

We do not offer refunds, but a date may be changed free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days before the original date of your visit. Dates changed less than 14 days prior to the original date of your visit will be charged $50 per ticket. To change your reservation, please contact Georgia Aquarium’s Call Center at (404) 581-4000.

Reservations can be made online or by calling (404) 581-4000. You will receive a confirmation email after purchase with an additional information packet and waivers required to participate in the program. Please be sure to review this information before arriving.

Yes, friends and family are welcome to watch from the Ocean Voyager tunnel and main gallery window, but they must purchase a General Admission ticket to enter the Aquarium.

If staffing allows, guests will be escorted by a volunteer OR directed to where to go for the best viewing opportunity. Staff cannot offer care for any minors – they must be accompanied by an adult.

Please contact [email protected] so we can discuss available arrangements. Failure to do so could result in delay or cancellation of your program.

We encourage guests to pre-register. Spaces are limited to 8 participants per program and walk-ups can only be accommodated if there are spaces available that day.

All you will need to bring is your swimsuit, proof of open water certification from a nationally or internationally recognized organization and photo identification. Georgia Aquarium supplies all needed dive equipment and changing rooms with showers, lockers and towels. Personal masks and dive computers are permitted but must be disinfected by staff before use.

Please do not bring any other equipment and refrain from wearing jewelry, excessive makeup or hair products.

Yes. Proof of an autonomous Open Water certification from a nationally or internationally recognized agency must be provided.

Please note: The PADI “Scuba Diver” card is not an autonomous diver card and cannot be accepted.

Ocean Voyager contains 6.3 million gallons of water and ranges in depth from 20 to 30 feet (6-9 m) deep. The water temperature is 76 degrees Fahrenheit. The exhibit houses thousands of fish, whale sharks, manta rays, and Tank, our green sea turtle.

The dive program is approximately 2.5 hours long, so please plan accordingly. The experience consists of a dive team member picking you up from the check-in desk, a brief tour of the top side of the Ocean Voyager exhibit, a safety briefing that highlights the animals of Ocean Voyager and a 30-minute guided scuba dive. A souvenir photo and a program t-shirt are included, and guests will have the option to view and purchase the video of their experience.

Experiences Penguin Encounter

Georgia Aquarium makes every effort to accommodate guests with special needs. Please be aware that to participate in this program, guests must be able to navigate the animal habitat spaces with minimal assistance, and must be able to understand and take direction in English from staff members. To ensure the best experience, please contact the Call Center at 404.581.4000 to make a reservation, and be sure to let the reservists know you have special needs. Someone from the program will contact you prior to your visit to review your options. Should you have special needs but not provide notice, it may not be possible to accommodate your program and you may be required to reschedule your experience.

The entire Penguin Encounter Program , including the animal experience, occurs behind the scenes and may not be viewable by the public. Only participants in the program will be taken to the interactive areas.

Cancellation and Date Change Policy : The program fee is non-refundable; however the program will be rescheduled whenever possible based upon program availability. The Aquarium will reschedule your encounter free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days in advance of the original date of visit. If the change is made less than 14 days prior to the original date of your visit, a $20 change fee per ticket will be charged. No changes can be made less than 48 hours prior to the date of your original visit, and the guest will be charged the full program cost. Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled . To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 581-4000.

Please go to the Animal Interactions desk, located next to the Ocean Voyager Built by The Home Depot gallery, to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your Penguin Encounter.

Guests arriving late will not be permitted to participate in the program and will not be refunded or rescheduled. We encourage guests to arrive at the Aquarium with plenty of time to park, enter, and check into the program. Please plan accordingly.

Please go to the Animal Interactions desk, located on the second floor across from the ray touch pool, to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your Penguin Encounter.

There can be up to 10 participants per scheduled program.

You can make a reservation on this page, or by calling Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 5814000. After you have purchased your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email that will include instructions how to supply additional information and submit the waivers required to participate in the program. All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating in the program. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian .

A photo I.D. Closed toe shoes are recommended, but not required. The area where you’ll have your personal penguin experience is kept cool and guests should consider wearing attire that will keep them comfortable in an air-conditioned space. Guests may not bring personal cameras to the penguin encounter program and will be required to set their loose belongings and phones in a designated area prior to the encounter.

Please note: for the safety of the animals, guests participating in the animal interaction may be required to remove jewelry and sunglasses prior to entering the animal spaces (prescription lenses worn for vision correction is an exception to this guideline).

Participants in the Penguin Encounter get an exclusive and up-close meeting with one of our resident African penguins. The level of interaction between the penguins and the program participants is variable and dependent upon the behavior of the individual animals, the conduct of the guests in the program, and the discretion of the animal trainer working with the penguin during the program. Our goal is to provide an engaging, interactive encounter experience for not only the guests participating, but for the penguins as well.

Participants in the Penguin Encounter get an exclusive and up close meeting with one of our resident African penguins. The level of interaction between the penguins and the program participants is variable and dependent upon the behavior of the individual animals, the conduct of the guests in the program, and the discretion of the animal trainers working with the penguin during the program. Our goal is to provide an engaging, interactive encounter experience for not only the guests participating, but for the penguins as well.

Experiences Scouting Out Conservation

No, however these programs are designed so that individuals are able to achieve a badge at the end! If you would like to have any special accommodations or add something to the program, feel free to let us know.

Unfortunately there are no bathrooms on the trail. These lessons are to prepare scouts for future outdoor activities, which may involve using the bathroom in the wild. We encourage scouts to bring toilet paper/hand sanitizer and instructors will have trowels if needed.

All of the Georgia Aquarium staff are CPR and First Aid certified so they will be able to assess the injury and provide care, or call for outside care if needed.

No, some of the badges require extra activities to be completed before or after the lesson. Additionally, Georgia Aquarium does not provide physical badges , but certificates of completion to collect badges.

Yes, our staff at the site are merit badge counselors, are certified and able to give badges.

No, not necessarily. We do however require a 15 person minimum for these programs to run. This 15 does include both siblings and adults.

We have attached a packing list for all parents and troop leaders! Be sure to look through the provided list and make sure your Scouts have everything they may need.

No, you can do one or both! For more information, visit Sleep Under the Sea .

We have provided a map of Sope Creek ! Parking is $5 if you choose to stay and hike while your Scout is there or if you are staying to participate in the program. Carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited .

No, parking is on a first come, first served basis and is open to the general public.

No, there will be no food or drink provided. Scouts are encouraged to bring their own snack if needed and their own bottle of water.

There will be two staff members per group. We do require a minimum of one additional adult present from the group, such as a troop leader. And yes, you may join as long as you purchase a ticket!

Yes, we can host up to a total of 90 adults and scouts. Parking is limited, so please plan accordingly.

This program will run from 9:00am -12:00pm, approximately 3 hours .

No, there is not a water fountain. We ask that all Scouts bring a water bottle and prefer that it is a reusable water bottle .

Minimum Age – 5 years old
Maximum Age – There is none! Please note that there will hiking and other physical activities involved.

The hike is fairly easy to navigate and the terrain gently slopes. Please be aware that conditions may not be suitable for everyone.

Experiences Sea Otter Encounter

To provide an engaging, educational and inspirational experience by connecting our guests to some of Georgia Aquarium’s most fascinating resident marine animals to inspire stewardship in conservation, research and a greater appreciation for the animal world. The program is an exploration into the behind the scenes of the Cold Water Quest gallery and an in-depth look into Georgia Aquarium’s care of and conservation efforts with sea otters. The 40-minute program includes an educational orientation where participants learn about the biology, care, training and study of sea otters and Georgia Aquarium’s role in the conservation of this fascinating species.

For guests with special needs, every effort will be made to allow participation in our Encounter. Please be aware that to participate in this program, guests must be able to navigate the animal habitat spaces with minimal assistance. Please call 404-581-4000 to make a reservation and let the reservists know you have special needs and someone from the program will call you prior to your visit to review your options.

The entire Sea Otter Encounter Program, including the animal experience, occurs behind the scenes and may not be viewable by the public. Only participants in the program will be taken to the interactive areas.

Please go to the Animal Interactions desk, on the second floor next to the Ray Touch Pool, to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your Sea Otter Encounter.

We strongly encourage guests to pre-register. Spaces are limited to 5 participants per scheduled program and walk-ups can only be accommodated if there are spaces available that day.

Please bring:

The sea otter habitat is kept cool, and guests should consider wearing attire that will keep them comfortable in an air-conditioned space.

The Sea Otter Encounter lasts approximately 30 minutes. During your personal animal experience, you will go behind the scenes of the sea otter habitat in Cold Water Quest, enjoy an educational presentation about sea otters, help prepare a sea otter meal, participate in a training session, and meet one of our resident sea otters.

Experiences Sea Lion Encounter

To provide an engaging, educational and inspirational experience by connecting our guests to some of Georgia Aquarium’s most fascinating resident marine animals to inspire stewardship in conservation, research and a greater appreciation for the animal world. The program is an exploration behind the scenes and an in-depth look into Georgia Aquarium’s care of sea lions. The 30-minute program includes an educational orientation where participants learn about the biology, care, training and study of sea lions.

Georgia Aquarium makes every effort to accommodate guests with special needs. Please be aware that to participate in this program, guests must be able to navigate the animal habitat spaces with minimal assistance and must be able to understand and take direction in English from staff members. To ensure the best experience, please contact the Call Center at 404.581.4000 to make a reservation and be sure to communicate that you have special needs. Someone from the program will contact you prior to your visit to review your options. Should you have special needs but not provide notice, it may not be possible to accommodate your program and you may be required to reschedule your program.

The entire Sea Lion Encounter Program, including the animal experience, occurs behind the scenes and may not be viewable by the public. Only participants in the program will be taken to the interactive areas.

Cancellation and Date Change Policy: The program fee is non-refundable; however, the program will be rescheduled whenever possible based upon program availability. The Aquarium will reschedule your encounter free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days in advance of the original date of visit. If the change is made less than 14 days prior to the original date of your visit, a $20 change fee per ticket will be charged. No changes can be made less than 48 hours prior to the date of your original visit, and the guest will be charged the full program cost. Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled. To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 581-4000.

Please go to the Animal Interactions desk, on the second floor next to the Ray Touch Pool, to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your Sea Lion Encounter.

Reservations are not required. However, we strongly encourage reservations to guarantee your experience as spaces are limited. Space is currently limited to eight participants per scheduled program.

You can make a reservation on this site, or by calling Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 581-4000. After you have purchased your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email that will include instructions how to supply additional information and submit the waivers required to participate in the program. All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating in the program. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian .

A photo I.D., appropriate footwear and attire that can be splashed, and your sense of adventure! The sea lion habitat is cool and guests should consider wearing attire that will keep them comfortable in an air-conditioned space. Guests may not bring personal cameras into sea lion program areas.

The Sea Lion Encounter lasts approximately 30 minutes. During your personal animal experience, you will go behind the scenes of the sea lion habitat, enjoy an educational presentation about sea lions, participate in a training session, and meet one of our resident sea lions.

Experiences Sea Lion Presentation

Experiences seal encounter.

Cancellation and Date Change Policy: The program fee is non-refundable; however, the program will be rescheduled whenever possible based upon program availability. The Aquarium will reschedule your encounter free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days in advance of the original date of visit. If the change is made less than 14 days prior to the original date of your visit, a $20 change fee per ticket will be charged. No changes can be made less than 48 hours prior to the date of your original visit, and the guest will be charged the full program cost. Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled. To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 581-4000.

To provide an engaging, educational and inspiration experience by connecting our guests to some of Georgia Aquarium’s most fascinating resident marine animals to inspire stewardship in conservation, research and a greater appreciation for the animal world. The program is an exploration into the behind the scenes of the Cold Water Quest gallery and an in-depth look into Georgia Aquarium’s care of seals. The 30-minute program includes an educational orientation where participants learn about the biology, care, training and study of seals.

The Seal Encounter lasts approximately 30 minutes. During your personal animal experience, you will go behind the scenes of the seal habitat in Cold Water Quest, enjoy an educational presentation about seals, participate in a training session, and meet one of our resident seals.

A photo I.D., appropriate footwear and attire that can be splashed, and your sense of adventure! The seal habitat is kept cool and guests should consider wearing attire that will keep them comfortable in an air-conditioned space. Guests may not bring personal cameras into seal program areas.

Please Note : For the safety of the animals, guests participating in the animal interaction may be required to remove jewelry and sunglasses prior to entering the animal spaces (prescription lenses worn for vision correction is an exception to this guideline).

You can make a reservation online or by calling Georgia Aquarium Call Center at (404) 581-4000. After you have purchased your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email that will include instructions how to supply any additional information and submit the waivers required to participate in the program. All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating in the program. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian.

Must be 7+ to participate. All guests 15 and under must be accompanied by a participating adult. Limit 3 children 15 and under per participating adult. All participants must be ticketed for the encounter. Parents or court appointed legal guardians must sign program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines for guests under 18.

Please go to the Animal Interactions desk, on the second floor next to the Ray Touch Pool to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your Seal Encounter.

The entire Seal Encounter Program, including the animal experience, occurs behind the scenes and may not be viewable by the public. Only participants in the program will be taken to the interactive areas.

Experiences Shark and Ray Interaction

The habitat is kept at about 76 degrees F. Guests will be provided Georgia Aquarium wetsuits similar to what our divers wear to ensure that the experience is comfortable.

To provide an engaging, educational, and inspirational experience by connecting our guests, in an interactive manner, to some of Georgia Aquarium’s most fascinating resident animals. The program is an exploration into the behind the scenes of the Sharks! Predators of the Deep gallery and an in-depth look into Georgia Aquarium’s research and conservation efforts with sharks and rays. The 90 minute program includes a classroom orientation where participants learn about the biology, care, training and study of these amazing animals and Georgia Aquarium’s role in shark and ray conservation.

The program lasts for approximately 90 minutes and includes an educational and engaging orientation on the biology, care, training, study, and conservation of different shark and ray species; an exclusive behind the scenes look at the shark habitat; an immersive encounter experience, and presentation of a souvenir photograph.

The Shark and Ray Interaction is an immersive experience in Georgia Aquarium’s newest gallery. In addition to meeting age, height and weight requirements, guests must also possess a minimum level of physical dexterity. Participants do not swim freely with the sharks, but will enter the water with the animals. Comfort in and around water is necessary to ensure a safe and engaging experience.

All you will need to bring is a personal swimsuit. Appropriate personal swimwear is required to be worn beneath the suit. Georgia Aquarium will supply all equipment and a towel. Comfortable changing rooms with showers and lockers are provided. A small bag will be provided for wet items following the experience.

While there is not technically a minimum age, all participants must be at least 48 inches tall and weigh less than or equal to 300 pounds . Each guest age 15 and under must be accompanied by a participating adult (one adult per minor required). All participants must be ticketed for the Interaction. Participants ages 17 and under must have a program liability waiver signed and dated by a parent or court appointed legal guardian.

The Shark and Ray Interaction occurs in the shark habitat, but in an area that is entirely behind the scenes. Only participants in the program will be taken to the behind the scenes areas.

There will be a Georgia Aquarium staff member with you for the duration of the program.

Please check in at the Animal Interactions desk, located on the second floor by the Ray Touch Pool, at least 15-30 minutes prior to your experience.

You can make a reservation online or calling 404.581.4000. After you have purchased your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email that will include instructions how to supply additional information and submit the waivers required to participate in the program. All participants must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated prior to participating in the program. Guests under the age of 18 must have the program liability waiver and animal interactive program guidelines signed and dated by their parent or court appointed legal guardian .

The program fee is non-refundable; however, a date may be changed free of charge if the change is made at least 14 days in advance of the original date of your visit. If the change is made less than 14 days prior to the original date of your visit, a $50 change fee per ticket will be charged. No changes can be made less than 48 hours prior to the date of your original visit, and the guest will be charged the full program cost. Cancellations and no-shows will not be refunded or rescheduled. We encourage guests to arrive at the Aquarium with plenty of time to park, enter and check into the program. Please plan accordingly. To change your reservation, please contact the Georgia Aquarium Call Center at 404-581-4000.

Guests will have the opportunity to have an intimate, up-close experience with sharks and rays. There are a variety of activities that can take place at the discretion of the Aquarium staff while interacting with and even touching the animals. Participating in training techniques and feeding may be part of the experience if it is appropriate to do so based upon the discretion of the program staff. Each program is tailored to ensure a safe and engaging experience for both our animals and our guests. As a result, each program may be a little different.

Yes. There are four slots per program.

All necessary equipment and a wetsuit will be provided. Appropriate personal swimwear (bathing suit) is required to be worn beneath the suit.

We can accommodate guests at least 48 inches tall and up to 300 lbs . Guests MUST be able to change themselves into a wetsuit and navigate the animal habitat spaces with minimal assistance. Appropriate personal swimwear is required to be worn beneath the suit.

No. A souvenir photo will be provided to participating guests. Photos and video taken during the Shark and Ray Interaction are the property of Georgia Aquarium. We reserve the right to use any photos and video for promotional purposes. For the safety of the animals and quality of the program, photos and video may only be taken by Georgia Aquarium designates.

Yes. Walk-up tickets can be purchased at our Animal Interactions kiosk if available, but advance purchase is highly recommended.

Georgia Aquarium makes every effort to accommodate guests with special needs. Please be aware that to participate in this program, guests MUST be able to change themselves into a wetsuit, navigate the animal habitat spaces with minimal assistance, and must be able to understand and take direction in English from staff members. To ensure the best experience, please contact the Call Center at 404.581.4000 to make a reservation, and be sure to let the reservists know you have special needs. Someone from the program will contact you prior to your visit to review your options.

Should you have special needs but not provide notice, it may NOT be possible to accommodate your program and you could be required to reschedule.

Experiences Sleep Under the Sea

Showers are not available during our overnight events.

Yes! You can view or download a copy of the handbook here . The link to this handbook is included in your confirmation email after you’ve purchased your sleepover.

As our guests, you will have the opportunity to sleep in front of one of our magnificent exhibits in galleries such as:

· Ocean Voyager built by The Home Depot

· Tropical Diver Gallery

· Cold Water Quest Gallery

· Southern Company River Scout

· Sharks! Predators of the Deep Gallery

We cannot guarantee sleeping locations. Assignments are made after all guests have checked in, and are based upon the group make-up, size and needs. Additionally, partial or entire galleries may be unavailable due to other activities and/or animal care taking place.

Minimum age requirement for sleepovers, unless otherwise specified (i.e. middle school, adult) is 7 years old. Any guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult of 21 years of age or older. Adult sleepovers have a minimum age of 21+.

All sleepovers must be reserved and paid in full at least 30 days before the desired sleepover date.

Sleepovers sell out fast! We encourage all guests to make reservations at least one month in advance.

Please be advised that all Sleepovers WILL NOT include dinner but will include a bedtime snack and a breakfast option. Coastline Café will be open daily until 30 minutes before Aquarium closes for guests wishing to purchase food before their sleepover. Large groups are encouraged to plan ahead and purchase café vouchers in advance for $13 each.

Group Tickets Education

Please email [email protected]

All tickets include Aquarium admission, all available shows, and all available animal galleries. Shows are subject to availability and are on a first come, first served basis. Show times are subject to change without notice. For current show times, click here . Remember: Georgia Aquarium is located in the Eastern Time Zone. Please plan accordingly.

If your group needs to purchase pre-paid bus parking, you may do so through the Georgia World Congress Center Marshalling Yard. Click here for information on how to purchase.

Please make arrangements prior to your visit to Georgia Aquarium if your group is traveling with pre-packaged lunches or ask us about purchasing group lunches from our onsite cafe, Coastline Café.

Share this important information with parents and fellow teachers using our Field Trip Guide! Click here to download this year’s field trip guide and share it with all adults accompanying your group.

If you have not done so already, please contact our office at [email protected] to finalize your numbers and make your final payment.

Group Tickets General Info

Hours of operation vary daily; please check our calendar before your visit.
Purchase tickets online to save money. Choose the date and time of your arrival, and arrive within an hour of your selected time.
Plan your day ahead of time by downloading our mobile app on the iTunes App Store or the Google Play store and browse our Daily Schedule to view times for our dolphin presentation and our Under the Boardwalk sea lion presentation, gallery features and more.
Guests typically spend 2-4 hours at the Aquarium, but you’re free to explore as long as you wish during your visit.
Weekends are our busiest times, so be sure to arrive early.
We offer daily military discounts of 10% with a valid military ID, and free admission for active military through our Military Mondays program.
Visiting several Atlanta attractions? Save 42% on admission to Atlanta’s top 5 attractions with Atlanta CityPASS® tickets . Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money. Learn more .

Conveniently located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium is within walking distance of numerous downtown hotels. Use the group rates hotel inquiry form for more information.

Georgia Aquarium Group Sales can offer group rates based on group minimums listed below:

General Admission, Imagination Nights, or CityPASS: Groups of 15 or more
Sleepovers: Groups of 10 or more children (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Youth Groups, School Groups); All other groups require groups of 15 or more
Education: General Admission: Groups of 15 or more students
Education: Instructor-Led Program: Groups of 15 or more students in same grade level
Journey with Gentle Giants Swim/Dive: Groups of 4 (maximum 8)

Georgia Aquarium Group Sales can offer group rates based on group minimums listed above:

You can make a group reservation through the Georgia Aquarium Group Sales Office. Please submit a request for a reservation packet or email [email protected] . After returning a reservation form and non-refundable deposit, we will make a reservation for you and send you an invoice for your balance via e-mail. Please note that all group reservations must be made in advance and require payment in full before your group arrives.

Absolutely not! When making an initial reservation, we just need to know your tentative numbers. We understand that you will most likely need to collect money from everyone in your group and you probably don’t have commitments from everyone in your group as of yet. We do not need to know your final numbers and need your final payment until later. The final visitor headcount and payment due dates are as follows:

General Admission/Combo Passes – Due 2 weeks prior to visit
Education General Admission – Due 2 weeks prior to visit
Education Instructor-led Program – Due 2 weeks prior to visit
Journey with the Gentle Giants Dive – Due 1 month prior to visit
Overnight/Sleepover Program – Due 1 month prior to visit

All ticket orders and reservations made through the Group Sales office must be paid for in advance in order to take advantage of the special pricing and perks. Final payments (and final visitor headcount) are due as follows:

General Admission/Combo Passes –– Due 2 weeks prior to visit
Education General Admission –– Due 2 weeks prior to visit
Education, Instructor-led Program –– Due 2 weeks prior to visit
Journey with the Gentle Giants Dive –– Due 1 month prior to visit
Overnight/Sleepover Program –– Due 1 month prior to visit

Definitely! Once you return your reservation form, you will receive an invoice showing your confirmation number and balance. You will also receive an updated invoice after each payment or change to your reservation is made. When contacting Georgia Aquarium Group Sales, please reference your confirmation number for faster service.

Free shipping of tickets is offered for groups via UPS. Remaining balance must be paid on reservations for tickets to be mailed.

The Will Call window is located in the Georgia Aquarium plaza at the main entrance to Georgia Aquarium. The Will Call window is the window furthest to the right if you are facing the ticketing windows.

All Group Sales ticket orders and reservations must be paid for in advance and all changes must be made through the Group Sales office. The Group Sales office can be reached at 404-581-4121. The Group Sales office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am until 5:00pm.

Wait times at the Will Call window vary. We suggest arriving at least 30 minutes earlier than your anticipated entry time to allow for ticket pick up.

Groups who already have their tickets can proceed to the main entrance of the aquarium and make their way through the security line.

Membership provides you the ability to visit Georgia Aquarium again and again for a whole year of imagination and wonder! Enjoy offers & discounts, insider information and invitations to events with your Membership. To find out which Membership is right for you, visit the membership page to learn more about each level and to join today!

Group Tickets General/Youth

Please check-in for your Animal Encounter experience no later than 15 minutes prior to the encounter. Late check-ins are subject to a shortened and revised version of their program due to timing or a cancellation altogether. The check-in location is at the entrance to the Ocean Voyager gallery at the Animal Interactions kiosk.

Please check in for your Behind-The-Seas experience no later than 15 minutes prior to the tour. Late check-ins are subject to a shortened and revised version of their program due to timing or cancellation altogether. The check-in location is next to the Ray Touch Pool and to the left on the second level of the aquarium.

Group Tickets Sleepovers

If you have not done so already, please contact our office at [email protected] to finalize your numbers and make your final payment. Final payment for all sleepover groups is 30 days prior to the overnight date.

Group Tickets Sponsored Education Admission

Buses park in the Georgia World Congress Center Marshaling Yard. Information on how to purchase bus parking will be included in acceptance letters.

Unfortunately, we are unable to allow outside food or drink into the facility, and we are unable to store any lunches or coolers you have so plan ahead! There are multiple areas to picnic near Georgia Aquarium, and we have meal options available for our group to purchase in advance.

You can visit during the school year, during the school week – January through May. To have the best experience and for the best availability, keep the following in mind:

Try to come on a Monday or Tuesday
Avoid arriving around 9:30am or 10:00am

We accept applications on a rolling basis and do our best to send confirmation emails as quickly as possible. Applications may take up to 4 weeks to be reviewed. We thank you in advance for your patience!

Your group will receive a certain number of complimentary adults based on the number of students your group has been approved for. Please note, if your student count decreases, your adult count will also decrease. Please see below for add on pricing:

Parking Deck Pre-Paid Parking: $10.00 per vehicle
Bus Parking: $28.29 per bus (blackout dates apply)
Additional Adults: $30.99 plus tax

The SEA grant is available for:

Title 1 schools

School must be in the State of Georgia
At least 60% of the student population served must receive free or reduced lunch

Non-profit organizations

Must be registered in the State of Georgia
Have education as a part of its mission

Please note the following:

If you submit a reservation form for a paid field trip to Georgia Aquarium, you will be disqualified from receiving the SEA grant.
There is a maximum of 150 students per group.
There is a maximum of 3 groups per school.
Limit 1 application per educator.
Approved groups from your school must visit on different days.
All SEA visits are self-guided admission only.

Step 1: Add us to your email address book. If you are accepted, a confirmation email will be sent to you from [email protected] . Add this email address to your email address book now so that you don’t miss any important information!

Step 2: Fill out the application. Please fill out the application in its entirety. Please only submit the application once. Multiple applications may delay your acceptance. No phone calls. Please note, applications may take up to 4 weeks to be reviewed. Step 3: Watch your e-mail! Letters of acceptance are e-mailed to the e-mail address provided on your application. This letter will include contact information, instructions on what to do when you arrive, etc. Step 4: Confirm your visit! You will receive a Visit Confirmation email 6 weeks prior to your visit date. Please confirm your scheduled date by responding directly to the email.

Step 5: Update your numbers. Two weeks before your visit, please either e-mail or give us a call to update your count with us so we are prepared with the correct number of staff members to welcome your group.

Please email [email protected]

We understand that many groups travel with pre-packaged lunches and coolers. Please note, Georgia Aquarium does not allow any outside food and drink into our facility. Additionally, we are unable to store lunches or coolers during your visit. Please make arrangements prior to your visit to Georgia Aquarium if your group is traveling with pre-packaged lunches .

NEW THIS YEAR! SEA groups can now purchase lunches at a reduced rate! For more information, please email [email protected] .

If you have not done so already, please contact our office at [email protected] to give us your final student count.

Your confirmation email will contain information on how many adult tickets your group will receive. If you need to purchase additional adult tickets, please reference your confirmation email for instructions on how to make that purchase.

Group Tickets Sponsored Outreach

You can participate in an outreach program by Georgia Aquarium during the school year, during the school week, August through May on Tuesdays and Thursday only.

The SOP grant is available for:

Title 1 Schools

Within 50 miles of Georgia Aquarium

Please note:

If you submit a reservation form for a paid outreach program, you will be disqualified from receiving the SOP grant.
There is a maximum of 150 students per visit.
There is a maximum of 2 visits per school.

Step 2: Fill out the application. Please fill out the application in its entirety. Please only submit the application once. Multiple applications may delay your acceptance. No phone calls. If you’d like to check on the status of your application, please e-mail [email protected] . Please note, applications may take up to 4 weeks to be reviewed. Step 3: Watch your e-mail! Letters of acceptance are e-mailed to the e-mail address provided on your application. This letter will include contact information, instructions on what to do when you arrive, etc. Step 4: Confirm your visit! You will receive a Visit Confirmation email 6 weeks prior to your program date. Please confirm your scheduled date by responding directly to the email or by emailing [email protected] .

Step 5: Update your numbers. Two weeks before your program, please e-mail to update your student count with us so we are prepared with the correct number of staff members.

Events Sound Waves Music Series

Attendees of Sound Waves Music Series can receive validated parking during the event. Park inside Georgia Aquarium’s parking deck and bring your parking ticket to be validated during the event. Space is limited. First come, first served.

Sound Waves Music Series happens every Friday from April 26 to May 31, starting at 5:00 PM and ending at 8:00 PM.

Access to Sound Waves Music Series is included with general admission to Georgia Aquarium. Get tickets »

Events Girl Scout Night

Yes! Friends and family members are welcome to attend the event with their girl scout.

Unfortunately, memberships and resident passes are not permissible for event entry.

No, the Aquarium will close at 5:00pm to the general public and then reopen at 6:00pm for Girl Scout Night. Your Girl Scout Night ticket grants you entry beginning at 6:00pm.

The first 2000 scouts in attendance will receive our special Georgia Aquarium patch.

Yes! The Girls Scouts of Greater Atlanta will be offering badge programming opportunities. Upon completion, the badges must be purchased from the Girl Scouts. Badges will not be available at the Aquarium.

Coastline Café will open daily 30 minutes after Aquarium and will close 30 minutes before Aquarium if you would like to purchase food. The Café typically had food options such as hamburgers, hotdogs, pizzas, etc.

Your ticket will include access to all of our galleries and exhibits. Optional costs include the gift shop or café, should you choose to make a purchase.

If you purchase a general admission ticket, you will enter through our Main Entrance. If you purchased an Overnight ticket, you will enter in through our Group Entrance so that the sleepover team can check you in.

Yes! Please click here for our sleepover handbook. The main change will be the timing of the sleepover, as it will not begin until 9:00pm once the Girl Scout night event has concluded.

Unfortunately, we do not have a waitlist for the sleepover.

Events Manta Race 5K

0-9, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

Every participant will receive a finisher medal upon completion of the race.

The 5K’s top three male and female finishers from each age group will receive one General Admission ticket to Georgia Aquarium.
The top male and female finishers in the Master’s age group (40+) will win an up-close animal encounter for two (valued up to $130).
The top overall male and female finishers will win an up-close animal encounter for two (valued up to $130) and a Big Peach Running Co. gift card!

Children may participate in the 5k run, so long as they complete the course at the minimum pace of 20 minutes per mile.

Registration includes a race bib, drawstring bag, t-shirt, access to our post-race celebration and $10 off a General Admission Georgia Aquarium ticket in the month of March.

Yes, but they must show proof of purchase.

Events Turtle Trot 5k

We cannot provide refunds or transfers of race registrations. All registrations are final.

Every participant will receive a finisher medal upon completion of the race. The top male and female finishers from each age group will receive one general admission ticket to Georgia Aquarium. The top male and female finishers in the Masters age group (40+) will win an up-close animal encounter for two (valued up to $130). The top overall male and female finishers will win an up-close animal encounter for two (valued up to $130) and a Big Peach Running Co. gift card!

Yes, the post-race celebration is open to all runners’ friends, families and support systems!

Please, no pets, alcohol or glass bottles. Strollers are allowed at the post-race celebration as well as on the race course.

No bag check will be available, but Pemberton Place is conveniently located just a few minutes from Georgia Aquarium’s parking garage.

Take the red or gold lines to the Civic Center or Peachtree Center stops; both are less than a 15-minute walk from Pemberton Place.

No, parking is not included. Discounted parking at $5 per vehicle will be available in the official Georgia Aquarium parking garage with proof of participation in the race (valid proof is limited to a race bib). Please consider taking public transportation, as there may be heavy traffic the morning of the race due to road closures.

Runners can register in-person at both packet pickup locations for $35 as well as on race day for $40. Online registration will close on May 29 at midnight.

Registration includes a race bib, drawstring bag, t-shirt, fun giveaway, access to our post-race celebration, and $10 off a General Admission Georgia Aquarium ticket in the month of June.

No, runners have the option of picking up their packet (which includes their bib number and safety pins, drawstring bag, a t-shirt and a fun giveaway) at the following times and dates:

Thursday, May 30 from 4-8pm at Big Peach Running Midtown
Friday, May 31 from 11am-2pm in Georgia Aquarium’s parking garage
Saturday, June 1 starting at 6:30am in Pemberton Place

We highly recommend runners attend one of the pre-race packet pickup options. We cannot guarantee that all runners who choose to pick up their packet the morning of the race will receive their packet before the shotgun start.

Host an Event Birthday Parties

This is dependent upon ballroom availability and could incur additional charges. Please consult with your sales manager for more details.

We do offer aquarium admission as an add-on to any event. Please consult with your sales manager for more details.

Yes, please consult with your sales manager for more details.

Yes, it is 85 decibels, and our staff diligently works together to maintain acceptable levels for the health and safety of our animals.

Yes, as long as they follow the guidelines of the contract. All setup and breakdown of any items not provided by Georgia Aquarium or Wolfgang Puck Catering are the responsibility of the client. Load in/out times and locations will be established by the Georgia Aquarium Event Sales & Services Team prior to your event.

The room rental is a separate fee which goes to supporting the Aquarium operations, and therefore does not apply to your food and beverage minimum.

As part of hosting an event at Georgia Aquarium, your room rental charge includes tables, chairs, black or white linen, glassware, flatware, choice of ceiling lighting, security, onsite event coordination and once in a lifetime views into our aquatic habitats.

Of course! Please complete the reservation form, located on the right hand side of the screen, to receive more information.

Host an Event Galas & Fundraisers

Host an event meetings.

Audio Visual and Event Technology are a very important part of your meeting or event. Georgia Aquarium has partnered with Active Production and Design, Inc. as our exclusive Audio-Visual company. The Active AV team will work with you directly in designing the perfect audio-visual experience for your special event.

No, there isn’t! We have crafted packages for small meetings.

Host an Event Wedding

White Basic Linens (floor-length linens are available at an additional cost)
Wedding Cake Table
Groom’s Cake Table
Guest Book Table

*All events are based on a four-hour time block with additional set-up time. Please consult your sales manager for available set-up times.

This room is used as a part of the ballroom space and is not rented individually.

Yes, we will be happy to provide a champagne toast in lieu of dessert if you would like to provide your own wedding cake in place of Wolfgang Puck Catering dessert.

Once you select a date with your sales manager and they confirm availability, we will send you a contract to confirm the date and times. We ask that you wait to send out any invitations for the event until all parties have signed the contract.

We are delighted to slice and serve your cake at no additional charge if the cake is provided by Wolfgang Puck Catering. If the cake is provided by an outside vendor, we do apply a $5 per person cake cutting fee.

Yes, it is 85 decibels, and our staff diligently works together to maintain acceptable levels.

Yes, as long as all animals remain in the street and all guests remain on the sidewalk. You must submit a lane closure request to the City of Atlanta for approval (please allow 4-6 weeks for the approval process).

Yes, as long as they follow the guidelines of the contract. All setup and breakdown of any items not provided by Georgia Aquarium or Wolfgang Puck Catering are the responsibility of the client.

Yes, but the crowd holding sparklers must begin past the ceiling overhang of the ballroom entrance.

Yes, we can offer space for the bridal party to assemble before the wedding. Please ask your sales manager for details.

Dependent upon operating hours and other events, the bride and groom may be able to take pictures in some of the exhibits.

Our animals follow a natural lighting cycle that reflects outdoor conditions (i.e. setting sun or cloudy sky) which prevents us from altering their lighting.

For the health and safety of our animals, they are unable to be guests or participants in your wedding festivities.

For the health and safety of our animals, we are unable to utilize the habitats as an event space.

This is dependent upon ballroom availability, and could incur additional charges. Please consult with your sales manager for more details.

The Oceans Ballroom can accommodate 800-1,200 people based on the setup. Wedding events with fewer than 800 guests may not need to use the entire ballroom. Please consult with your sales manager on space needed and pricing for individual rooms.

We do not and strongly recommend that you hire a coordinator for your day.

Initiatives Seafood Savvy

Choosing sustainable seafood has several benefits. It ensures that fish populations will thrive which ensures that we can continue consuming seafood for generations to come. This chain reaction also impacts our economy. With plentiful seafood stocks, fishing companies will remain in business, and our seafood prices are more likely to be at an affordable price. Not only will this benefit us, but it will keep aquatic ecosystems in check, affecting many different aquatic species and their ecosystems.

For additional information about sustainable seafood, visit Seafood Watch , Marine Stewardship Council, and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration . These organizations are also dedicated to the sustainability and protection of the ocean and global fisheries.

As we discover new information about our oceans and the fish populations, sustainable seafood items may change. Stay up to date here.

We do our research and ensure we’re using sustainable food for our animals as most of the animals at Georgia Aquarium eat aquatic food. The fish products that we purchase for the animals to consume are restaurant quality fish just like humans would eat. We support sustainable fisheries to feed the animals, and we even grow some of the food in-house to protect populations in our ocean.

Careers & Volunteers Internships

For additional questions, please email [email protected] .Please allow at least 48-72 hours for response.

Thoroughly review the internship description for your department(s) of interest.
Before the semester deadline, submit your resume and other requested documents by clicking “apply”. You may apply for more than one internship, but will need to submit separate applications.
If the department is interested, you will be contacted directly for an interview.
Due to the number of applicants, not all will be contacted.
Interns are typically selected 1-4 weeks after the department deadline.
If you are selected, you will be contacted to complete your background check, drug screen, and other onboarding processes.

For departments that list an “application period”, you may only submit your application during the listed time period for the semester you are interested in. For all other departments, you may submit your application any time before the listed deadline.

The goal of the Georgia Aquarium internship experience is to support Aquarium departments and provide pre-professional, learning opportunities for individuals. Interns shadow and are mentored by seasoned staff under close supervision to learn and observe best practices of the industry in an educational environment.

Georgia Aquarium’s Volunteer Programs Department will contact selected interns via phone and email to complete various paperwork—background check, drug screen, internship offer letter and online registration.
When background check (approximately 2-3 weeks) and drug screen results return to Volunteer Programs Department, interns are contacted to schedule an Orientation class and their first day.
Interns will receive the Georgia Aquarium Intern Guide and confirmation of Orientation class date.
Interns complete Orientation class on scheduled date.
Interns begin with their department following the agreed schedule.

Please see your professor, advisor or career counselor at your school for specific details. You will need to obtain an instructor or professor from your school to oversee your internship and complete the necessary paperwork before your internship begins. You must also notify your department you are interested in earning school credit prior to accepting the internship and the department must agree to all required paperwork. You will be responsible for completing all paperwork and assignments involved.

Georgia Aquarium policy prohibits volunteering and holding an internship at the same time. After completing the internship, interns are welcome to explore volunteer opportunities at Georgia Aquarium. Please note interns are not guaranteed a volunteer position in the same department as volunteers are placed as needed.

No. Georgia Aquarium policy prohibits employees from interning even with other departments. You can research paid job opportunities at Georgia Aquarium, Inc. by clicking here.

You may submit your resume at any time before the application deadline for your semester of interest, but this does not increase the likelihood of being selected.

For the safety of our team and living collection, interns typically do not have direct contact with our animals. However, there may be supervised opportunities where animal contact may occur.

Yes. Graduate students or students who have recently graduated college are welcome to apply. This does not increase the likelihood of being selected.

No. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED. We encourage you to consider Georgia Aquarium’s Volunteer Programs. Click here to read more.

Yes. International students are welcome to apply. However, Georgia Aquarium is unable to sponsor, sign or fund visas or other travel documentation. The applicant must secure a visa such as a work visa on their own without assistance from Georgia Aquarium and be able to pass a background check and drug screen. If accepted, interns must secure their own housing and transportation.

No. Please refer to the website for application deadlines and full requirements.

Yes. Applicants may apply for as many internships as they would like and as they are qualified. If selected for an internship, please notify other departments you may have interviewed with as a courtesy. Please only apply once per semester for each department.

All Georgia Aquarium interns commit to at least 20 hours per week, but no more than 40 hours per week for 8-12 consecutive weeks. Exact hours or shifts vary according to the time of year, departmental schedule and the objectives of the program. Hours are determined during your interview or upon acceptance. Please check the website for specific weekly requirements as it varies by department. Exact start and/or end dates may be flexible if needed.

In addition to the opportunity to intern at one of the world’s best aquariums, interns receive various discounts around Georgia Aquarium including the gift shop, Coastline Café, general admission tickets, and programs. Interns also receive free admission for themselves and parking during their internship. Upon satisfactory completion of their internship, interns may be eligible to receive additional benefits such as free admission tickets, programs and more. All Georgia Aquarium internships are experience based, paid internships.

Interns are trained alongside staff through learning experiences, however, a paid position at Georgia Aquarium is not an outcome of an internship.

Yes. Upon taking Orientation, Interns are provided an access badge to gain free entry to the Georgia Aquarium parking deck during shifts.

No. We do not provide housing, transportation or stipends for living expenses.

Due to the high volume of applicants, not all applicants are contacted. Please note most departments begin reviewing applicants after the application deadline listed on the website.

Careers & Volunteers Volunteer

You may contact the Volunteer Programs Department via email at [email protected]

Our mailing address is:

Georgia Aquarium Attn: Volunteer Programs 225 Baker Street Atlanta, GA 30313

Day use lockers are available on a first come, first served basis. Items may not be left over night and if storing valuables you should bring a lock.

You will be emailed directions 2-3 days before each class. Please allow extra time to arrive because traffic around the Aquarium can be congested, especially on weekends. If you are running late, please report directly to Aquarium Security, who will direct you to the appropriate classroom.

On days that you are volunteering, you may park in the parking deck attached to Georgia Aquarium for free. The entrance to the deck is located on Luckie Street.

For every 150 hours you volunteer, you are eligible for a free uniform shirt. Volunteers must visit the volunteer office to order their free shirt. Additionally, volunteers are able to purchase additional Georgia Aquarium uniform items via check or money order.

Yes. However, note that 34 of the 50 hours required to apply for behind the scenes positions must be spent volunteering with the public.

Yes, all team members must wear the approved uniform while “on duty” at the Aquarium. The Aquarium uniform consists of a tucked-in blue shirt (one provided); a name tag (provided); your Aquarium Volunteer Membership Pass with your picture; black pants (you provide); and black closed toe shoes (you provide).

Service hours are earned by completing volunteer shifts (most are 4 hours each) and by attending training classes.

The administrative fee is non-refundable as this goes toward processing your background check and other items.

Background checks take one to three weeks to complete. Regardless of outcome, you will be notified.

If you are interested in a behind the scenes position, you must first become an active volunteer with at least 50 volunteer hours and complete any trainings and certifications required for the particular position. Then you may apply to volunteer behind the scenes. Volunteers are selected for behind the scenes positions based on interview, experience and availability.

More information about behind the scenes positions is provided in the Volunteer Information Session for prospective volunteers.

The non-refundable administrative fee goes toward defraying the costs of the background check, uniform, security badges, training material and other items.

Complete the online application. You will receive a confirmation email we received it.
Selected applicants are invited to attend a Volunteer Information Session at the Aquarium, which covers our volunteer opportunities, pre-requisites, benefits and requirements. Information Session occur on the first Saturday of each month and every other month on a weekday.
You pay a non-refundable Administrative Fee of $60, sign a Volunteer Commitment Form and provide a copy of your current US issued Photo ID
You complete an online background check within 72 hours of completion of the Volunteer Information Session
Applicants who clear background screening will be invited to attend Orientation class.
Upon completing Orientation, you are able to begin volunteering and complete additional trainings.

Volunteer Programs staff use email as the primary method of communication and will keep you informed during each step of the volunteer process.

The benefits of volunteering at Georgia Aquarium include the following:

Giving back to the Atlanta community
A Volunteer Membership Pass, valid for the duration of your volunteer time with Georgia Aquarium
Discounts on merchandise in the gift shop, food/beverages within the Aquarium
Discounts on Aquarium programs, tickets, tours, and more
Opportunities to earn free daily tickets
Award and Recognition Program
Training classes
Opportunities to attend lectures, special events and aquatic tours
Opportunities to meet new people and have fun!
A Volunteer Annual Pass
Discounts on merchandise in the gift shop, food/beverages within the Aquarium and a limited number of additional Annual Passes, general admission daily tickets, and Behind the Seas Tours
Opportunities to earn free daily tickets and a complimentary Friend and Family Annual Pass
Volunteer newsletter

Still Need Help? Contact Us.

For more information, email us at [email protected] or call (404) 581-4000.

Welcome to the Georgia Aquarium, where the ocean’s vibrant pulse beats in the heart of Atlanta. We’re not just an aquatic spectacle; we’re a tapestry woven with science, education, and boundless wonder. Dive into our depths and discover a world teeming with life, where playful penguins waddle alongside majestic whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs whisper secrets of the deep.

A Beacon of Exploration:

Our mission is as vast and boundless as the ocean itself:

Igniting Curiosity: We believe in the transformative power of wonder. Our exhibits are crafted to spark imaginations, ignite a thirst for knowledge, and foster a deep appreciation for the ocean’s delicate balance.
Setting the Gold Standard: From meticulously maintained habitats to cutting-edge research, we strive for excellence in all we do. Our commitment to quality ensures every visitor has an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Unforgettable Adventures: We craft immersive journeys that go beyond glass walls. From interactive exhibits to behind-the-scenes peeks, we invite you to become part of the aquatic story, forging memories that shimmer long after your visit.
Ocean Guardians: We’re not just captivated by the beauty of the deep; we’re fiercely dedicated to its protection. Through research, education, and advocacy, we champion the cause of ocean health, ensuring future generations can inherit the same awe-inspiring wonders we cherish today.

A Team Driven by Passion:

The Georgia Aquarium is more than bricks and mortar; it’s a vibrant community bound by a shared love for the ocean. Our team is a mosaic of passionate scientists, dedicated educators, and expert animal care specialists. We’re united by a common thread: the desire to share the ocean’s magic and inspire others to become its protectors.

Making Waves of Impact:

Since our grand opening in 2005, we’ve welcomed millions of visitors, weaving a tapestry of memories and sparking a wave of ocean appreciation. But our impact extends far beyond our walls:

Championing Conservation: We’ve played a pivotal role in protecting endangered species, restoring critical habitats, and raising awareness about the importance of ocean health.
Inspiring the Next Generation: We’re nurturing a future generation of ocean stewards through immersive educational programs that ignite curiosity and empower young minds to take action.
Building a Community of Ocean Champions: We foster a vibrant network of supporters and partners, working together to ensure the ocean’s health and beauty endure for generations to come.

Join the Adventure:

The Georgia Aquarium awaits, beckoning you to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a wide-eyed novice, there’s something waiting to capture your heart within our walls. So, take a deep breath, plunge into our vibrant world, and discover the magic that lies beneath the surface.

We invite you to explore our website further, delve into our blog for fascinating ocean insights, and follow us on social media to stay connected with the latest happenings at the Georgia Aquarium. Together, let’s unlock the ocean’s secrets and ensure its boundless wonder continues to inspire future generations.

Remember, the Georgia Aquarium is more than just an attraction; it’s an invitation to dive deeper, explore further, and become a champion for the ocean’s boundless beauty.

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Helpful Tips for Visiting the Georgia Aquarium

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The Georgia Aquarium is located in Atlanta, Georgia, and it’s one of the most popular things to do in Downtown Atlanta —making it a must-visit attraction during your vacation to Atlanta!

The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the western hemisphere, with over ten million gallons of water, and it’s the only aquarium in North America with whale sharks, the world’s largest fish.

Since the Georgia Aquarium is so large, it’s helpful to know some Georgia Aquarium tips before visiting to have a fun, seamless experience. This blog outlines some general questions you may have about visiting the aquarium, the aquarium’s exhibits and shows, and some tips for visiting the Georgia Aquarium!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Is the Georgia Aquarium Worth the Price?

Tickets to the Georgia Aquarium aren’t cheap, but they are worth the price. Your ticket includes admission to all the exhibits and shows, including the dolphin show and sea lion show.

You can easily spend four hours at the Georgia Aquarium, and it’s possible to spend an entire day here. Since general admission is $39.95 for adults, that breaks down to roughly $10 (or less!) per hour. That’s some inexpensive entertainment! Personally, the Georgia Aquarium is my favorite aquarium I’ve ever visited, and I think the visit was worth every penny.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Georgia Aquarium?

The Georgia Aquarium is a great year-round attraction in Atlanta, Georgia. The entire aquarium is inside, so it’s an excellent activity for a cold, rainy day. However, it’s best to visit the Georgia Aquarium on the weekdays, if possible. The aquarium is packed on the weekends. It’s also best to visit the aquarium right when they open, in the morning, or in the evenings, when the afternoon rush leaves for dinner.

The Georgia Aquarium is open from 9 AM – 9 PM on Monday – Thursday and 8 AM – 9 PM on Friday – Sunday, so you’ll have plenty of time to see all the attractions.

Tickets to the Georgia Aquarium

It’s wise to purchase your tickets to the Georgia Aquarium before visiting, so you don’t have to wait in line and can get a headstart on sightseeing. You can purchase skip-the-line tickets to the Georgia Aquarium by clicking the widget below!

How Much Time Should I Plan to Spend at the Georgia Aquarium ?

I’d recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to walk through all the exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium. If you’re planning to watch the shows, plan to spend at least five hours .

We arrived at the Georgia Aquarium at 10 AM and stayed until 2 PM. We walked through all the exhibits, watched the dolphin show, and did the virtual reality simulator for reference!

Georgia Aquarium Exhibits

Aquanaut adventure .

Aquanaut Adventure is a unique exhibit located on the second floor of the Georgia Aquarium. Unlike the other exhibits, featuring lots of marine animals, this exhibit is more like a museum and shares information about how aquatic life survives in some of the harshest climates and conditions on earth.

My favorite part of this exhibit was the screen that showed all of the marine animals, like dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and more, that the Georgia Aquarium had tagged to track their migration and travel patterns. You could also see where the animals were located in real-time, and it was shocking to see how many sharks and other creatures were found right along the coast of beaches across the world. It was fascinating!

Cold Water Quest

Cold Water Quest features marine animals found in cold ocean waters across the globe. You’ll see African Penguins, Beluga Whales, Harbor Seals, Horned Puffins, and Southern Sea Otters in this exhibit.

Since it’s rare for aquariums to house Beluga Whales, I loved watching these dynamic creatures swim around. They’re so friendly, and they were trying to entertain us the whole time!

If you’d like, you can purchase a Beluga Interaction, Sea Otter Interaction, or Penguin Encounter to upgrade your experience at the aquarium to come face-to-face with these beautiful creatures.

Georgia Aquarium Tips - Beluga Whale - Travel by Brit

Dolphin Coast

Dolphin Coast is the Georgia Aquarium’s exhibit showcasing their Bottlenose Dolphins and also the location of the aquarium’s dolphin show, Dolphins in Depth.

We didn’t spend much time at this exhibit aside from the show, but I’d highly recommend attending the show! Dolphins are such intelligent creatures, and it was so fun to watch them showcase their skills.

Ocean Voyager

Ocean Voyager is the Georgia Aquarium’s largest exhibit, featuring two Whale Sharks, along with Bowmouth Guitarfish, Green Moray Eels, Green Sea Turtles, Manta Rays, Sandbar Sharks, and other creatures found in the oceans across the globe.

This exhibit has two unique features—an acrylic tunnel you can ride through on a conveyer belt to watch marine animals, like Whale Sharks, swim over your head. After riding through the tunnel, you can sit on the stadium seating at the exhibit’s viewing window. We spent at least half an hour here watching the animals swim past, and we loved listening to the aquarium staff’s informative commentary.

Georgia Aquarium Tips - Whale Shark - Travel by Brit

Predators of the Deep

Predators of the Deep is the Georgia Aquarium’s newest exhibit featuring four types of sharks. There’s a massive tank at the center of this gallery filled with sharks and other ocean predators, and you can walk around and view them from different perspectives throughout the exhibit.

You’ll be able to see Great Hammerhead Sharks, Sand Tiger Sharks, Silvertip Sharks, and Tiger Sharks in this exhibit. You’ll also be able to learn how to identify each shark’s unique features.

River Scout

River Scout is an exhibit that highlights animals found in rivers and other freshwater environments worldwide, including Africa, South America, Asia, and even Georgia!

You’ll be able to see Asian Small-Clawed Otters, Black Spot Piranhas, Giant Puffers, Red-Eared Slider Turtles, Yellow-Bellied Slider Turtles, and White Alligators. We loved the glass-bottom White Alligator exhibit because you can see them from this two-story exhibit’s bottom floor and top floor.

Georgia Aquarium Tips - White Alligator - Travel by Brit

Tropical Diver

Tropical Diver was one of my favorite exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium. I loved seeing colorful tropical fish, coral, and more in this exhibit. It reminded me of snorkeling in Hawaii!

Here, you can see Big-Bellied Seahorses, Clown Anemonefish (aka “Nemo”), Pacific Sea Nettle Jellyfish, Purple Striped Jellies, and more!

Georgia Aquarium Tips - Jellyfish - Travel by Brit

Georgia Aquarium Shows

The Georgia Aquarium’s shows are included in your ticket price, aside from the Virtual Reality Simulator. You must sign up for a show time once you arrive at the aquarium. Here are the shows you can enjoy during your time at the Georgia Aquarium:

Dolphin Presentation

“Dolphins in Depth” is the Georgia Aquarium’s dolphin show. During this fifteen-minute show, you can watch dolphins perform incredible tricks, observe dolphin behavior, get splashed, and learn how to train a dolphin.

Sea Lion Presentation

“Under the Boardwalk” is the Georgia Aquarium’s sea lion show. You’ll watch sea lions in action, see the trainers in action, and get splashed. The performances are typically 20-25 minutes, so plan accordingly!

4D Theater

The 4D Theater is an interactive opportunity to see how animals view the underwater world, complete with state-of-the-art sound, special effects, and educational movies.

Virtual Reality Simulator

For just $11 per person, you can be transported “back in time” to prehistoric marine life on a five-minute virtual reality ride. My husband is obsessed with virtual reality, so we paid for this experience during our time at the aquarium, and it was cool! However, I don’t t think it’s a must-do attraction, especially since it’s not included in your ticket price.

Helpful Georgia Aquarium Tips

1. buy your tickets early .

It’s best to purchase tickets online before visiting the Georgia Aquarium to secure the perfect date and timeslot. Plus, you can enjoy “early bird” discounts and skip-the-line access to the aquarium.

2. Pay for parking ahead of time

You can pay for parking ahead of time through the Georgia Aquarium, which I recommend if your hotel isn’t within walking distance of the aquarium.

Parking in Downtown Atlanta is expensive, and it’s convenient to have your car in the garage that connects to the aquarium. Plus, parking for aquarium guests who pre-purchase parking only costs $12 per day, and the normal rate for parking in the same garage costs $17 per day.

3. Stay in a hotel that offers discounts

One of the best tips for visiting the Georgia Aquarium is to stay at one of the aquarium’s hotel partners to get exclusive General Admission Anytime tickets. You can learn more about the hotel partnership details on the Georgia Aquarium’s website. Many of the hotels are within walking distance of the aquarium, too, so you don’t have to buy a parking pass or pay for parking in Downtown Atlanta.

Here are a few of the hotels you can choose from on the Georgia Aquarium’s preferred hotel list:

The Westin Peachtree Plaza —Stay within walking distance from the Georgia Aquarium and enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness center and three-story lounge.
Hyatt Regency Atlanta —Just a short walk from the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium, this hotel has three on-site eateries, a lounge, and a season swimming pool.
Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center —This luxury hotel is connected to State Farm Arena and the Georgia World Congress Center. It has a heated pool, hot tub, sophisticated sports lounge, and many more excellent amenities.
Atlanta Marriott Marquis —This hotel is located a short distance from the Georgia Aquarium and has an on-site fitness center, swimming pool, and casual eatery.
The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta —Stay in style at the Ritz-Carlton and enjoy luxury rooms, live entertainment, and upscale restaurants, all within walking distance of the Georgia Aquarium!

4. Eat a big breakfast

Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the Georgia Aquarium, so one of my best Georgia Aquarium tips is to eat a big breakfast (or lunch) before arriving at the aquarium.

Atlanta Breakfast Club is a popular breakfast joint located across the street from the aquarium that serves Chicken & Waffles, Chicken Biscuits, and other southern specialties. We visited and enjoyed our meal, and it’s conveniently located, so I’d recommend stopping here!

5. Go early or late

Typically, the Georgia Aquarium is the least busy in the early morning hours, between 8 AM and 11 AM. If you can arrive right when they open, you’ll be able to see plenty of exhibits before the crowds arrive!

Another alternative is to visit the aquarium in the evenings after the crowds have left. If you’re not a morning person, try visiting between 5 PM and 9 PM for a quieter environment.

6. Visit on the weekdays

Weekends at the Georgia Aquarium are much busier than weekdays. If possible, I recommend visiting on Monday – Thursday. We visited the Georgia Aquarium on a Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM. While it was certainly busy, it was manageable! I’m glad we visited in the morning, though. By the time we were leaving, the exhibits were getting much more crowded.

7. Register for shows immediately

As I mentioned earlier, the Dolphin Presentation, Sea Lion Presentation, and 4D Presentation are all included in your ticket price. However, you do have to sign-up for a timeslot for the shows to attend them. Typically, the showtimes fill up quickly, so I recommend reserving your times when you arrive to ensure you’ll be able to see all the shows.

You can reserve your showtimes on the Georgia Aquarium’s website, and when we visited, they had QR codes around the aquarium you could scan. Then, you can see the exhibits between the showtimes.

I’d recommend scheduling your showtimes in the late morning or early afternoon, when the aquarium starts to get busier, so you can avoid the crowds in the exhibits while watching the shows.

8. Try a CityPA SS

If you’re planning to visit lots of other popular attractions in Atlanta, like Zoo Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola, and the College Football Hall of Fame, you may benefit from purchasing an Atlanta CityPASS .

The Atlanta CityPASS is a ticket you can purchase that grants you access to some of Atlanta’s top attractions, including the Georiga Aquarium, during your trip to Atlanta. It’s convenient to have all your tickets in one place, and you can save up to 44% at top attractions by purchasing the CityPASS instead of buying each ticket individually.

9. Bring a refillable water bottle

As I mentioned earlier, no outside food or drinks are allowed in the Georgia Aquarium. One of my Georgia Aquarium tips is to bring a refillable water bottle, like a HydroFlask, to refill at the water stations when you’re at the aquarium. Since you’ll be at the aquarium for several hours, this is a great way to stay hydrated without purchasing the aquarium’s expensive bottles at Café Aquaria.

10. Visit Ocean Voyager first

After you register for shows, I recommend visiting the Ocean Voyager exhibit first (if you’re arriving in the morning). This exhibit is extremely popular because of the whale sharks, and the conveyer belt can get congested later in the day. You’ll have a better view of the marine animals (and better photo opportunities!) if you visit the exhibit before the crowds arrive.

Have a Memorable Time at the Georgia Aquarium with These Georgia Aquarium Tips

Now that you know the best Georgia Aquarium tips, you’re ready to have a fantastic time exploring this world-famous aquarium! Which exhibit or show sounds the most interesting to you?

Save These Georgia Aquarium Tips for Later!

Did you love these Georgia Aquarium tips? Check out these other posts about things to do in Atlanta and other popular cities in Georgia:

Ultimate 3-Day Weekend Itinerary for Atlanta
12 Best Things to Do During the Perfect Weekend in Savannah
14 Best Places to Eat in Savannah
6 Haunted Places in Savannah You Have to Visit
Charleston vs. Savannah: Which Southern City is Better?

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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Tips for making your visit to the Georgia Aquarium

I t's getting to be very hot in Atlanta this week, and (for a couple more weeks, at least) kids are out of school. Few places offer accommodations to those two factors as well as the Georgia Aquarium .

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the jewels of Downtown Atlanta's tourist district, the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and a staple both for summer camp groups and families from around the region, as well as visitors from around the world.

Naturally, that also makes it a magnet for summer crowds.

RELATED: Concert series, new exhibit and more | Georgia Aquarium announces summer fun on World Ocean Day

If you're looking to maximize your experience and make it as smooth as possible, here are some tips we'd recommend.

Georgia Aquarium peak times

We reached out to the aquarium for a sense of when you can best map out a visit, and they told us that peak attendance time is usually between noon and 4 p.m.

The good news is that there are large windows when you could go outside those midday hours. The Georgia Aquarium is open from 9 a.m.-9 .m. Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m.-9 p-.m. Friday-Sunday.

"We highly recommend guests plan their visit during our morning or evening hours, as the afternoon tends to be our busiest entrance and exit time," the Georgia Aquarium told us.

They also specified that to make things easiest, it's best to purchase tickets in advance and make pre-reservations for shows like the Dolphin Show and Sea Lion Show . Those are free with ticket purchases but seats can fill up fast on busy days.

Georgia Aquarium parking

The aquarium has one main garage on site , costing $20 as a general rate that you can purchase in advance here .

The main issue with parking isn't so much accessibility - the entrance is pretty easily reachable on Luckie Street, and it has seven levels with lots of spaces near elevators. But with the huge summer crowds, there can come a crunch for spaces.

Keep in mind there are more than a few paid parking lots in Downtown Atlanta within a short walk of the aquarium, and taking MARTA to the Georgia World Congress Center/CNN Center stop would also drop you off within a reasonable walk's distance.

If you're parking in the Georgia Aquarium garage and find yourself struggling to find an open spot, also remember - keep moving. There are a lot more spaces than you realize, and even if you have to park on one of the upper levels, the elevator availability means you'll have an easy route in and out.

Georgia Aquarium ticket information

Worth remembering - a single-entry ticket costs $47.99 if you buy it the day you're going to the aquarium, but if you purchase in advance it's discounted to $42.99.

If you're a resident of metro Atlanta or the broader Southeast region, also keep in mind a yearly pass is $95 - meaning if you're planning to go twice or more in a year, it makes a lot of sense to just go with the membership. It's also discounted to roughly $80 per person if you get passes for a family of four at $320.

If it is really crowded when you visit, don't panic. There are five main exhibit halls - Ocean Voyager, Cold Water Quest, River Scout, Tropical Diver, and Sharks! Predators of the Deep, plus the underrated Aquanuts zone , and you swing through all of them easily in a couple of hours on a less-busy day - meaning if it's not a less-busy day, you'll still have plenty of time to see everything.

There's also the Dolphin Coast and Sea Lion Theater areas for those shows, plus the cafe area if you need to stop for lunch.

If you're looking to really savor the big notes, Ocean Voyager will bring you through the underwater tunnel and iconic main tank viewing room, Cold Water Quest takes you to the beluga whales and penguins, and Sharks! Predators of the Deep features, well, sharks.

We'd add though that the jellyfish and tropical tank viewing room in Tropical Diver and the alligator viewing area in River Scout are well worth your time, also.

Tips for making your visit to the Georgia Aquarium

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Georgia Aquarium

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225 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-581-4000

Georgia Aquarium has officially reopened, guests can now visit the Aquarium to explore and enjoy its galleries and over 10 million gallons of water, but with some changes. Georgia Aquarium takes the safety of its guests and staff very seriously. The Aquarium established time blocks with limited capacity, new cleaning and sanitization protocols, and updated processes to ensure the Aquarium is operating in accordance with the advice of the state and federal governments and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Come explore and learn at Georgia Aquarium, the nation's largest and most magical aquarium! Our 10 million gallons of fresh and salt water house the largest single aquarium habitat in the world and more aquatic life than any other aquarium in North America. Georgia Aquarium offers shows, interactive animal interactions, animal encounters, Behind the Seas tours and more.

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How to Get to Georgia Aquarium by Marta: A Step-by-Step Guide for Visitors

Looking to visit the Georgia Aquarium but not sure how to get there? Fortunately, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, or MARTA for short, has you covered. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, taking MARTA to the Georgia Aquarium is a convenient, affordable, and environmentally-friendly way to explore all the wonders of the deep blue sea. Located in downtown Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life.

From the massive whale sharks to the playful otters, this aquarium is home to over 100,000 animals representing 700 different species. But getting there can be a challenge, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city’s traffic and parking situation. That’s where MARTA comes in.

As Atlanta’s public transportation system, MARTA offers a variety of options to get you to the Georgia Aquarium, including bus routes and rail lines. With multiple stops located just a short walk from the aquarium’s entrance, MARTA is the perfect way to skip the headaches of parking and navigating downtown traffic. But taking MARTA isn’t just a smart choice for your convenience – it’s also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while exploring the city.

By choosing public transit over single-occupancy vehicles, you can help reduce air pollution and traffic congestion in downtown Atlanta. So why not hop on MARTA and enjoy a stress-free, eco-friendly journey to the Georgia Aquarium? With easy access to all the attractions of downtown Atlanta, taking public transit is an affordable and sustainable way to make the most of your visit.

What is Marta?

If you’re wondering how to get to the Georgia Aquarium by Marta, you’re in luck. Marta is short for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, and it’s a transit system that serves the city of Atlanta. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the many popular attractions that can be accessed by taking the Marta system.

To get to the Georgia Aquarium, you’ll want to take the Marta Red or Gold line to the Peachtree Center Station. From there, you can exit the station and follow the signs to the aquarium, which is about a six-minute walk away. Marta is a great way to get around Atlanta, and it’s especially convenient for visitors who want to explore the city without the hassle of driving or parking.

So, if you’re planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium, be sure to take advantage of this convenient transit system and enjoy all that Atlanta has to offer.

Explanation of Marta’s public transport system

Marta is the primary public transport system in Atlanta, Georgia. It stands for Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority and has been providing transportation services for over four decades. With its extensive network of buses, trains, and streetcars, it has become an integral part of the city’s transportation infrastructure.

From downtown Atlanta to the suburbs, Marta can take you anywhere you need to go. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, Marta is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. With the recent addition of new routes and modernizations to existing stations, it has become even more user-friendly and accessible.

So, if you want to avoid the hassle of driving in Atlanta’s traffic, hop on a Marta train or bus, and enjoy the ride.

Which Marta route should I take?

If you’re looking to visit the Georgia Aquarium via Marta, there are a few routes you can take depending on where you’re coming from. To start, you’ll want to take the Marta train to the Peachtree Center Station. From there, you can transfer onto either the red or gold line and take it to the Arts Center Station.

Once you’re at the Arts Center Station, you can take the MARTA bus route 110 to the Georgia Aquarium. Alternatively, you could take the red or gold line all the way to the North Avenue station and walk about 15 minutes to the aquarium. No matter which route you take, be sure to check the Marta schedule and plan your trip accordingly.

Happy exploring!

Explanation of the Marta routes that go to Georgia Aquarium

If you’re planning a trip to the Georgia Aquarium and wondering which Marta route to take, you have a few options. The most direct route is to take the blue or green line to the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the aquarium.

Alternatively, you can take the red or gold line to the Five Points Station and transfer to the blue or green line. If you’re not familiar with the Marta system, it can be a bit confusing at first, but don’t worry – there are plenty of signs and maps to help you navigate. Just be sure to plan your route in advance and give yourself plenty of time to get to the aquarium.

With over 10 million gallons of water and thousands of animals to see, you don’t want to miss out on all the fun!

How much does it cost?

If you’re using MARTA to get to the Georgia Aquarium, the cost will depend on a few factors. A standard one-way fare costs $50, but if you plan to use MARTA frequently during your visit, a day pass may be a better choice.

A day pass costs $9 and allows unlimited rides on the MARTA system for the day of purchase. Keep in mind that if you’re using a Breeze Card, there is a one-time cost of $2 to purchase and activate the card. Overall, using MARTA to get to the Georgia Aquarium is an affordable and convenient option for budget-conscious travelers.

Breakdown of Marta fares

Marta fares can sometimes be confusing to understand, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. The cost of a Marta ride depends on the distance of your trip, the types of services you choose, and the time of day you’re travelling. A one-way ride on Marta costs $

50, but if you’re planning on taking multiple rides, you might want to consider buying a Marta breeze card. The card can be loaded with up to $400, and each ride only costs $ A 7-day pass costs $2

75 and a 30-day pass costs $95, which might be a better option if you plan on travelling frequently. Keep in mind that these fares don’t apply to the airport shuttle, which costs $50 one-way and $5 round trip.

Remember, always check the Marta website for the most up-to-date information on fares and fees, and make sure to plan your trip ahead to avoid any confusion on the day of your travels.

Where do I get off?

If you’re trying to make your way to the Georgia Aquarium using MARTA, getting off at the correct stop can seem like a daunting task. Luckily, MARTA trains run directly to the aquarium, with the closest station being the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the aquarium entrance.

However, it’s important to note that this station can become incredibly busy during events at the nearby Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena, so plan accordingly and arrive early to avoid crowds. If you’re traveling during a less busy time, keep in mind that trains typically run every 10-20 minutes, so be sure to check the schedule beforehand to ensure you don’t miss your train. With MARTA being a quick and convenient way to reach the aquarium, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the incredible exhibits and attractions without the hassle of parking.

Directions to the Georgia Aquarium from Marta stops

If you’re planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium and are wondering about getting there using public transportation, you’ll be happy to know that the aquarium is very accessible by MARTA train. So, where do you get off? There are a few MARTA stations that you can choose from, all of which are a short walk away from the aquarium. The closest station to the aquarium is the Peachtree Center Station, which is just a five-minute walk away.

You can also get off at the Civic Center Station, which is a ten-minute walk away, or the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Station, which is a 15-minute walk away. Whichever station you choose, be sure to follow the signs or ask around for directions to the aquarium. Once you get there, you’ll be amazed by the incredible marine life on display, and all the fun and informative exhibits that the Georgia Aquarium has to offer.

Tips for riding Marta to Georgia Aquarium

Are you planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium and wondering how to get there by MARTA? MARTA, Atlanta’s rapid transit system, is a convenient and affordable way to reach the aquarium. The closest station to the aquarium is the Dome/GWCC/State Farm Arena/CNN Center station, which is just a short walk away. From there, follow the signs to the aquarium, and you’ll be there in no time.

When using MARTA, make sure to purchase a Breeze Card or a ticket from the vending machines at the station. You’ll need to tap the card or insert the ticket to enter and exit the station. Also, be aware of the operating hours of the trains, especially if you’re planning a late-night visit to the aquarium.

Another tip for a hassle-free ride is to plan your route ahead of time using MARTA’s trip planner. This way, you can determine the best line and train to take, as well as the estimated travel time. It’s worth noting that the MARTA trains can get pretty crowded, especially during peak hours, so be prepared to stand and hold on to a rail if necessary.

Finally, when you arrive at the Georgia Aquarium, be prepared for an unforgettable experience. The aquarium is home to over 100,000 animals and several exhibits, including the Ocean Voyager, which houses the world’s largest indoor aquatic habitat. Don’t forget to snap some photos and enjoy your visit to this amazing attraction.

Suggestions for a smooth and safe journey

If you’re planning a trip to the Georgia Aquarium, taking MARTA is a cost-effective and efficient way to get there. Here are some tips for a smooth and safe journey. First, make sure to plan your route ahead of time and check the train schedule to avoid any long waits at the station.

Secondly, be sure to purchase a Breeze Card in advance, which can be used to pay for your MARTA fare. It’s also a good idea to keep your valuables close to you and avoid openly displaying them to minimize the risk of theft. Lastly, follow all safety protocols on the train and at the station, including wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing.

Overall, by following these tips, you can enjoy a hassle-free trip to the aquarium via MARTA.

Conclusion and Additional Information

If you’re searching for a fin-tastic adventure in Atlanta, look no further than the Georgia Aquarium – the largest aquarium in the western hemisphere! And getting there couldn’t be easier, thanks to MARTA. Hop on one of their trains or buses and let the transportation experts whisk you away to your aquatic destination. So if you’re ready to dive into a world of wonder and awe, grab your fare card and let MARTA take the reins.

Trust us, the adventure that awaits is worth the trip!”

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What is Marta and how does it work in Georgia? Marta, or Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, is a public transportation system that operates in the Atlanta metropolitan area. It offers bus and rail services to commuters and visitors alike.

Is the Georgia Aquarium accessible by Marta? Yes, the Georgia Aquarium is easily accessible by Marta. The closest station is the Peachtree Center station, which is located just a few blocks away. From there, visitors can take a short walk or use a complimentary shuttle to reach the aquarium.

How long does it take to get to the Georgia Aquarium by Marta? The travel time to the Georgia Aquarium by Marta varies depending on the location of the starting station. However, the average travel time is around 20 to 25 minutes.

What is the cost of using Marta to get to the Georgia Aquarium? The cost of using Marta to get to the Georgia Aquarium is $2.50 one way for adults and $1.25 for children aged 6 to 12. Children under 6 years old ride for free. Visitors can purchase a Breeze Card to pay for their fare and reload it when needed.

Can visitors bring strollers on Marta when visiting the Georgia Aquarium? Yes, visitors can bring strollers on Marta when visiting the Georgia Aquarium. However, it is recommended to fold them when boarding the train or bus to allow more space for other passengers.

Are there any discounts available for Georgia Aquarium tickets when using Marta? Yes, visitors using Marta can receive $3 off their Georgia Aquarium general admission ticket by showing their Marta Breeze Card at the ticket window.

Does Marta offer any additional services for visitors to the Georgia Aquarium? Yes, Marta offers a complimentary shuttle service from the Peachtree Center station to the Georgia Aquarium for visitors with mobility issues or strollers. The shuttle runs every 15 minutes.

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Georgia Aquarium – tickets, prices, discounts, what to see

Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest aquarium in the world and is home to more than 100,000 sea creatures.

It has seven permanent galleries exhibiting amazing aquatic animals, such as Beluga Whales, Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Penguins, Sea Otters, Dolphins, Sea Lions, etc.

Georgia Aquarium is the only institution outside Asia to house Whale Sharks and gets more than 2.5 million visitors annually.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for Georgia Aquarium.

Top Georgia Aquarium Tickets

# Georgia Aquarium tickets # Georgia Aquarium entry with Atlanta CityPass

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The Georgia Aquarium is famous for its massive Ocean Voyager exhibit, which features a 6.3 million-gallon tank with a large acrylic viewing tunnel.

This exhibit is home to various marine life, including rays, sharks, and diverse fish. Walking through the tunnel gives you the feeling of being underwater, surrounded by marine animals.

The aquarium has a dolphin exhibit where you can watch entertaining and educational dolphin shows.

The Georgia Aquarium is also known for its penguin exhibit, which houses a large colony of adorable penguins.

Explore the unique ecosystems of rivers and freshwater habitats, featuring a variety of aquatic species found in these environments.

The aquarium has interactive exhibits and touch pools where visitors can get hands-on experiences with marine life, allowing for a more immersive learning experience.

Tickets for the Georgia Aquarium can be purchased online or in person at the attraction.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out.

Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Visit the Georgia Aquarium ticket booking page , select your preferred date, time slot, and number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

Once you purchase the Georgia Aquarium tickets, they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket.

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.

The Georgia Aquarium ticket is priced at US$44 for all visitors aged three years and above.

Infants aged below three years can enter for free.

Ticket discount

Unfortunately, Georgia Aquarium doesn’t give any discounts to kids, students, and elders.

Everyone above three years must purchase their tickets at full price.

Military Discount

Georgia Aquarium offers a good military discount. At the ticket counters, military personnel with valid IDs get a 10% discount on the full ticket price.

Free admission for those in active service is available through the aquarium’s Military Mondays program in November and December.

Purchasing your tickets for Georgia Aquarium online is a better experience for three reasons:

Online tickets are $4 cheaper because there is no ‘ticketing window surcharge.’
You don’t wait in the ticket counter queue and waste your time and energy.
Tickets on-site are sold on a ‘first-come, first-served basis. Booking your tickets online (and in advance) ensures a guaranteed entry.

The tickets get emailed to you. On the day of the visit, you can Skip the line at admissions and proceed directly to the check-in booth to scan your smartphone ticket.

These tickets get you access to all the exhibits in Georgia Aquarium.

This ticket gives you skip-the-line access to the Georgia Aquarium.

With this ticket, you can get admission to all galleries and exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium.

This ticket lets you visit the Sharks, Daily Dolphin, and Sea Lion Presentations.

Ticket Prices General Admission Ticket (3+ years): US$44 Child Ticket (below 3 years): Free Entry

Atlanta CityPass is an excellent way to see more for less.

With CityPASS, you will save up to 40% on Atlanta’s top five attractions, making entry to Georgia Aquarium almost free.

Admission to the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola is guaranteed with this discount card.

And you can choose any three attractions from:

Atlanta Zoo
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
College Football Hall of Fame

Once you visit the first attraction, you get nine days to see the other four.

Ticket Cost: US$97

Georgia Aquarium is at 225 Baker Street, across the street from the north end of Centennial Olympic Park.

Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States. Get Directions

It is in Downtown Atlanta, about 18 km (11 miles) from the Atlanta Airport (ATL).

These walking directions can be handy if you plan on walking from your hotel nearby or Downtown Atlanta.

You can reach the aquarium via bus, subway, or car.

The Georgia Aquarium is 1 km (.7 miles) from GWCC/CNN Center Station , which services the Blue and Green line trains.

You can walk the distance in around 15 minutes.

If you are closer to the Red or Gold line trains, get down at Civic Center station or Peachtree Center station .

From both stations, in 15 minutes, you can walk to Georgia Aquarium.

If you prefer a bus to get to Georgia Aquarium, board bus number 32 from Civic Center MARTA bus station or Five Points MARTA station.

If you’re traveling by car, turn on Google Maps and get started.

Georgia Aquarium’s parking has 1,600 parking slots, and they charge $17 per car.

There are several parking lots near the aquarium.

Visitors can directly use the following street address to Georgia Aquarium parking: 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313 .

The Georgia Aquarium operates with varying opening hours throughout the week.

It is open from 9 am to 6 pm from Monday to Wednesday, extends its hours until 9 pm on Thursdays, and closes at 5 pm on Fridays.

On Saturdays and Sundays, the aquarium opens at 9 am and remains open until 9 am, providing visitors with extended opportunities to explore its diverse marine exhibits on weekends.

Georgia Aquarium is open all through the year.

If you visit with kids who spend more time with the exhibits, attend all feeding sessions, see all shows, etc., you will need four hours to explore Georgia Aquarium.

If you want, you can also turn it into a full-day outing because Georgia Aquarium entry tickets don’t have a time limit.

Visitors in a hurry can quickly browse through the aquarium’s exhibits and attend the must-sees in approximately two hours.

Tip: Check with the Information Desk when you arrive for an updated daily events schedule.

The best time to visit the Georgia Aquarium is when it opens in the morning at 9 am.

An early visit helps you avoid the long lines, which start around 11 am, especially in summer, during school holidays, and on the weekends.

With fewer people, you get enough time to explore the exhibits independently and take photographs without others in the frame.

Animals in the touch pools are also most active early in the day. As more and more people dip their hands, the sea creatures get tired.

Tip: Buy your tickets online to avoid wasting time in long queues.

If you love wildlife, check out Zoo Atlanta & Aquarium Pass , which gives you access to kid-friendly attractions. You also get a 10% discount code, which you can use (five times!) to get discounts on future purchases.

Georgia Aquarium’s animals and experiences are distributed in various galleries, which we explain below.

SHARKS! Predators of the Deep

Predators of the Deep is Georgia Aquarium’s newest gallery.

With its state-of-the-art, floor-to-ceiling acrylic viewing windows, this gallery offers excellent visual access to the mysterious underwater world of sharks.

It is one of North America’s largest shark exhibits, and visitors can see the Great Hammerhead Shark, Sand Tiger Shark, Silvertip Shark, and Tiger Shark.

Shark Cage Dive

Shark cage diving is the most fearsome yet fascinating experience at Georgia Aquarium Atlanta.

Visitors wear a wetsuit during the Shark Cage Dive and get into the deep with some of the most fearsome sharks.

The program is two and a half hours long, out of which the dive lasts 30 minutes.

Each dive is limited to eight guests, and at the end of the session, everyone gets a commemorative photo.

Restrictions: Only visitors aged 12+ can participate, and a participating adult must accompany guests under 18.

Cost: $234 per person

Since this is an in-demand activity, it is better to book in advance.

Shark and Ray’s interaction

This activity is milder than the Shark Cage dive because you don’t go down the water in a cage.

In the Shark and Ray interaction at Georgia Aquarium, participants do not swim freely with the sharks but enter the water with the animals.

The program lasts for approximately two hours and includes the following:

An orientation about different shark and ray species.
A behind-the-scenes look at the shark habitat.
An immersive encounter with the animals.

At the end of the session, everybody gets a souvenir photograph.

Restrictions: Participants must be at least 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall and weigh less than 136 kg (300 pounds). A participating adult must accompany guests under the age of 15.

Cost: $100 per person

Visitors can purchase walk-up tickets from the Animal Interactions kiosk at The Georgia Aquarium.

Aquanaut Adventure

Aquanaut Adventure helps kids (and parents!) learn about aquatic life by converting the learning into an exciting adventure.

The gallery offers seven different routes, each an adventure of its own.

Visitors who complete at least five of the seven routes receive the Georgia Aquarium Aquanaut certification.

As Aquanauts-in-training, visitors explore fresh water and marine habitats, learn about related scientific research, marvel at animal survival in extreme environments, and even discover careers in aquatic and marine sciences.

Behind the Seas highlight tour

The Behind the Seas Highlight Tour offers a backstage look at Georgia Aquarium’s most popular exhibits.

Visitors come closer to the animal inhabitants by visiting the areas only aquarium staff can access.

Behind the Seas, the highlight tour lasts 45 minutes and runs every half hour from 10.30 am to 4 pm and every hour from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Visitors can’t wear high heels or take along food, drinks, and strollers on this tour.

Restrictions: An adult must accompany all guests under 18 years.

Cost: $16 per person

You can reserve your spot for this tour at the Animal Interactions kiosk.

Cold Water Quest

As the name suggests, the Cold Water Quest has the iciest waters in the Georgia Aquarium.

This gallery is home to some of the world’s coldest ocean animals, including sea otters, penguins, and more.

A few of this gallery’s highlights are the Southern Sea Otter exhibit, the African Penguin exhibit, and the Beluga Whale exhibit.

Waddle Walk

Waddle Walk is the perfect opportunity to see Georgia Aquarium penguins on their best behavior.

During the Waddle Walk, penguin trainers lead three African penguins on a stroll across the aquarium’s central Atrium, and visitors stand on the side and watch the spectacle.

The 10-minute Waddle Walk happens approximately at 10:40 am, although it can occur any time between 10 am to 11 am.

The Waddle Walk experience is part of the regular Georgia Aquarium entry ticket .

Beluga Interaction

During the Beluga Interaction in Georgia Aquarium, you will get into a wet suit and stand waist-deep in the Beluga habitat alongside the whale trainers.

First, you get orientated on the biology, conservation, training, and care of the animals, and then you get to interact with Georgia Aquarium’s Beluga Whales.

At the end of the session, you get a souvenir towel and a photo.

Restrictions: Participants must be at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall and weigh less than 136 kg (300 pounds). Guests 15 years and under must come with a participating adult.

Cost: $155 plus tax per person

Visitors can purchase walk-up tickets at the Animal Interactions desk.

Seal Encounter

Visitors get behind-the-scenes access to the Cold Water Quest gallery as part of the Seal Encounter at Georgia Aquarium.

During the 30 minutes of learning and interacting with seals, you may even pet one of the seals.

You will get a souvenir photo at your interaction with Harbor Seals.

Restrictions: Only visitors aged 7+ can participate, and a participating adult must accompany guests under 15.

Cost: $70 plus tax per person

You can book this experience at the venue.

Dolphin Coast

Dolphin Coast features the aquarium’s pod of Common Bottlenose Dolphins.

Guests can admire Georgia Aquarium’s dolphins both in the Dolphin Coast lobby and in the dolphin theater.

The Dolphin show happens in the Dolphin Theatre, which can seat 1800 visitors.

Dolphin show

The 15-minute Georgia Aquarium dolphin show is called Dolphins in Depth.

During this show, visitors see dolphins’ natural behavior and witness their beauty, athleticism, and intelligence.

The show time varies daily, typically around 11.30 am, 3 pm, and 5 pm.

Once in a while, times can vary, which is why it is better to confirm once you reach the aquarium.

Since this is a sought-after show, reaching the Dolphin Theater 15 to 30 minutes in advance is better.

Restrictions: Everybody is welcome to attend

Cost: The show is included in the general Georgia Aquarium ticket

Once at the theatre, you can reserve special seats (closer to the front) for $5 per seat.

Dolphin Encounter

During the Dolphin Encounter, visitors go behind the scenes of the Dolphin Theater and meet the dolphins face to face.

You will touch and feed the friendly creatures while participating in a first-hand training session on handling dolphins.

All visitors spend eight minutes beside the water interacting with a dolphin in fun ways. At the end of the session, you get a souvenir photo.

Cost: $80 plus tax per person

When you arrive at the venue, visit the Animal Interactions desk to book Georgia Aquarium’s encounter with Dolphins.

Sea Otter Encounter

During the Sea Otter Encounter, guests enjoy an exclusive tour of the Sea Otter habitat, help prepare a sea otter meal, and participate in an exciting sea otter training session.

After the Sea Otter interaction, participants take home a souvenir photo.

Restrictions: Only visitors aged 7+ are allowed, and a participating adult must accompany guests under 15.

Cost: $65 plus tax per person

You can book this experience at the venue.

Penguin Encounter

During Georgia Aquarium’s up-close-and-personal Penguin encounter, visitors learn about the animals and then get to pet them as well.

After the 30-minute session, you’ll get a professional photo with a penguin.

Guests can reserve their slot at the Animal Interactions desk.

Ocean Voyager

Georgia Aquarium’s Ocean Voyager gallery is home to Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, and thousands of other fascinating fish.

Ocean Voyager is one of the most extensive single aquatic exhibits globally. It features an acrylic tunnel and a giant viewing window for visitors to explore marine life.

The underwater tunnel is 30.5 meters (100 feet) long, while the viewing window is 7 meters (23 feet) tall by 18.6 meters (61 feet) wide.

To ensure the safety of marine life and visitors, the walls of the window are .6 meters (2 feet) thick.

Journey with gentle giants – Swim

This Georgia Aquarium experience is the only opportunity in the world where you are guaranteed to swim with Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, etc.

It happens daily at 4.30 pm, and the aquarium provides all the equipment.

The whole session lasts 2.5 hours, during which visitors swim with a snorkel in the Ocean Voyager exhibit for half an hour.

After the session, every participant gets a souvenir photo and an exclusive t-shirt.

Restrictions: Only visitors aged 12+ years are allowed, and a participating adult must accompany guests under 18.

Cost: $260 plus taxes per person

Since this is a unique experience, it is better to book in advance.

Journey with Gentle Giants – Dive

Georgia Aquarium diving is the only opportunity in the world where you’re guaranteed to dive with Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, and thousands of other sea creatures.

The journey with Gentle Giants (Dive) lasts 2.5 hours, during which you spend 30 minutes SCUBA diving in the lively waters of the Ocean Voyager exhibit.

On weekdays, the diving session happens at 3 pm, and on weekends, you can choose from two slots – 11 am and 3 pm.

After the encounter, you get a certificate of participation, a shirt, and a photo.

Restrictions

– Visitors must be 12+ years old to attend

– They must have nationally recognized proof of Open Water SCUBA certification and photo ID

– A participating adult must accompany participants under the age of 18

Cost: $360 plus taxes per person

Since only a limited attendance is allowed for this diving session, we recommend booking in advance.

Rebreather Dive Program

Rebreather diving is underwater diving using “closed-circuit” rebreathers.

Rebreathers recycle and recirculate air rather than expelling it into the environment. The main advantages are extended gas endurance and lack of bubbles.

You can opt for Georgia Aquarium’s Rebreather Dive Program if you are a good diver.

The program lasts approximately 4 hours and includes a 60-minute dive in the Ocean Voyager exhibit.

The experience runs for three and a half hours from 10:15 am on Saturday or Sunday.

Restrictions: All Rebreather dive participants must be 18 and older and provide proof of independent Open Water SCUBA certification from a nationally or internationally recognized organization.

Cost: $469.95 plus taxes

Since the Rebreather Dive Program requires you to take some precautions, it is better to book in advance.

River Scout

River Scout gallery visitors explore the diversity of animals found in Africa, South America, Asia, and Georgia rivers.

River Scout at Georgia Aquarium is a themed environment full of waterfalls, logjams, and a simulated meandering North American river that flows over your head.

The gallery features river creatures such as alligator snapping turtles, archerfish, and small Asian-clawed otters.

Here, kids love to watch piranha from up close and see their razor-sharp teeth.

Using the highest quality 3D high-definition projection with special effects, Georgia Aquarium’s 4D Theater helps guests experience the underwater world from an animal’s perspective.

It is one of the most advanced theaters globally, with interactive seats and unique special effects built into the Theater itself.

Showtimes vary and are subject to change, so check the day’s timings when you reach the aquarium and reserve your seat.

Entrance is first come, first served.

Restrictions: None.

Cost: It is included with the regular Georgia Aquarium ticket

Virtual Reality Simulator

Virtual Reality Simulator is in the Atrium next to the Southern Company River Scout Gallery.

During the state-of-the-art motion-based virtual reality ride, visitors get “transported” back in time to see wonderful, prehistoric marine life.

With the simulator’s electronic VR goggles and a motion-rocking VR Transporter, guests swim with a massive Archelon Sea Turtle, marveling at a graceful long-necked Styxosaurus, and come face-to-face with a mighty Ginsu Shark.

*During the simulator ride, guests can’t wear eyeglasses.

Restrictions: Some height restrictions apply

Cost: $11 per person per ride

You can reach the Atrium and purchase a ticket for a simulator ride.

Pier 225 is all about the charismatic California sea lion.

This part of the aquarium transports you to the coast of California for an up-close look at this incredible species.

Under The Boardwalk

‘Under the Boardwalk’ show features Georgia Aquarium’s incredible California Sea Lions.

During the 25-minute show, the sea lions and the trainers display their teamwork in a live training session.

Seating is first-come, first-served. It is better to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure your seat.

Once at the aquarium, you can reserve seats for the Sea Lion presentation.

Restrictions: None

Cost: The Sea Lions show is included with the Georgia Aquarium Admission ticket

Tropical Diver

At Tropical Diver, visitors see living corals and thousands of colorful reef fish presented in an exact recreation of a tropical Pacific coral reef.

Don’t miss the overhead crashing wave.

Kids get excited about ‘finding Nemo,’ Seahorses, Fairy Basslets, Yellow-Head Jawfish, and other sea jewels.

Don’t miss out on the three impressive jelly exhibits, which will mesmerize you.

Georgia Aquarium is enormous, and it makes sense to be aware of all the exhibits’ locations.

Knowing the aquarium’s layout is essential to planning and allocating time to the most preferred exhibits if you visit with kids.

A Georgia Aquarium map can also help you find visitor services like restrooms, restaurants, gift shops, etc.

The aquarium no longer prints maps to conserve paper, so you can’t pick them up at the entrance.

It makes sense to download the map or bookmark this page.

The map is also available on the aquarium’s Android phones and iPhones .

Georgia Aquarium’s restaurant, Cafe Aquaria, is open daily.

It starts serving 30 minutes after the aquarium welcomes its first visitor and closes one hour before it closes.

The Rotunda Bar opens daily at noon and closes 30 minutes before the aquarium closes.

At Cafe Aquaria, visitors can choose combinations –

Chicken tenders with fries
Philly cheesesteak with fries
Pizza with fries

Or they can opt for –

Freshly prepared and packaged wraps, sandwiches, and salads
All-beef hot dogs and cheese pizza
Snacks, beverages, and desserts

Sources # Georgiaaquarium.org # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com # Discoveratlanta.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Popular attractions in Atlanta

# Atlanta Zoo # World of Coca Cola # Medieval Times Georgia # Illuminarium Atlanta # College Football Hall of Fame # Legoland Discovery Center # Fun Spot America # SeaQuest Stonecrest # iFly Atlanta # Margaret Mitchell House

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This article was researched & written by

Era Kaundal

Era Kaundal is a writing enthusiast and a Korean language lover. In love with the beauty around her, she dreams of exploring the beautiful sights all around the world. While planning her holidays, she prefers destinations where one can relax and rejuvenate. Favorite Cities: Seoul, Tokyo, Florence, Vienna

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

A deep dive into Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

Things to do in Atlanta Atlanta Tickets Atlanta Zoos & Aquariums Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

The United States is home to several aquariums that are home to a variety of beautiful sea animals. The best part is that most of these establishments are non-profit, and their primary focus is on the conservation of the ocean and not the captivity of these animals. The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is one such aquarium that houses a wide collection of rare sea life. Discover exotic sea creatures from sharks and whales to penguins and seals through several interactive demonstrations at Georgia Aquarium Atlanta.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

Essential information.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta - Things to know

Best time to visit - Early morning on weekdays Georgia Aquarium Tickets price - $39.15 Suggested duration: approximately 5-6 hours Volume of the largest tank: 6.3 million US gallons Nearest metro station: Civic Center Station

Georgia Aquarium - Opening Hours

Monday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Thursday to Sunday: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Georgia Aquarium - Highlights

Sharks! Predators of the Deep Aquanaut Adventure Cold Water Quest Dolphin Coast

Georgia Aquarium Address

225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States Get There

Why Visit Georgia Aquarium Atlanta?

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta is the largest aquarium in the Western hemisphere. It is the third largest aquarium in the world with over 10 million gallons of water and 100 habitats.
The aquarium consists of eight galleries and exhibits: Sharks! Predators of the Deep, Cold Water Quest, Tropical Diver, Southern Company River Scout, Dolphin Coast, Trust Pier 225, Ocean Voyager Built by The Home Depot, and Aquanaut Adventure.
They host a variety of marine animals such as African Penguins, American Alligators, Beluga Whales, Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Common Bottlenose Dolphins, and more.
The Georgia Aquarium also offers Behind-the-Scene Tours of the galleries where the guests can play and interact with the sea animals. There are other experiences such as Sleepovers, Dive/Swim with Gentle Giants, etc.
It is the only aquarium in North America that is home to whale sharks, the largest fish in the world.

Animals at Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

Georgia Aquarium is massive and the collection of the aquative animals here is paralleled only by some aquariums in the world. Here are some of the most unique and rare aquatic animals at Georgia Aquarium that you cannot miss.

1 Georgia Aquarium Whale Shark

A whale shark is the largest fish in the world that lives in Tropical Atlantic, Pacific, and the Indian Ocean. It is generally 8-32.8 feet in size, eats zooplankton and smaller fishes.

2 Manta Ray

Also known as the devil ray, a manta ray is a filter feeder that only consumes planktons and small fishes. Found in the Western Atlantic, Western Caribbean, and some parts of the Gulf of Mexico, this animal lives in reefs, atolls, and island groups.

3 Beluga Whale

These small, white whales live in cold waters of Arctic and subarctic regions. Beluga whales live in shallow and deep offshores and are in rivers too. They consume marine and freshwater fishes and zooplankton as well.

4 California Sea Lion

This species of sea lions live on the coast of the Eastern Pacific Ocean. It is another great sea animal that you can encounter at Georgia Aquarium. They consume squids, anchovy, rockfish, mackerel, and whiting and use honks, growls, backs, etc. to communicate.

5 African Penguin

Found on the coasts of Southwestern Africa, African Penguins feed on fishes and squids. They usually hunt from the shore and can swallow the food whole. You can watch these African Penguins strutting around in the Georgia Aquarium’s main Atrium.

6 Common Bottlenose Dolphin

A resident of the Atlantic Ocean, this dolphin species is famous for its social behavior and acrobatic stunts. They use whistles, squeaks, grunts, moans, etc. to communicate and hunt.

7 American Alligator

American Alligators have a broad snout and a top jaw overlapping the lower jaw and teeth. They are found in Southwestern U.S. and live in swamps, marshes, or water bodies. They consume both marine and terrestrial prey.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Tickets

Best recommended.

If you are planning a visit to Georgia or live here, then you cannot miss out on visiting the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere – Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta. You can check out these Georgia Aquarium Tickets that come with all the essential information and some amazing discounts as well.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Live Cam

Watch thousands of fascinating sea creatures such as California Sea Lion, Beluga Whale, Piranha, and ecosystems such as Indo-Pacific Barrier Reef from the comfort of your home. Georgia Aquarium Live Cam enables you to watch the Ocean live and in HD. The live streaming gives a sneak peak into to your visit to the aquarium.

Best Aquariums in the World

Encounters and experiences at georgia aquarium atlanta.

Here are the fun ways to explore unique sea life with Georgia Aquarium tickets . These encounters and experiences are put together for a fun and educational visit. Make a checklist of the what fascinates you the most to plan your visit.

1 Animal Encounters

There are several personal interaction programs with sea animals available for the guests. You can indulge in the Shark & Ray Interaction, Dolphin Encounter, Penguin Encounter, Sea Otter Encounter, Sea Lion Encounter, Seal Encounter, Beluga Interaction, and Sea Lions Up Close Program. You can touch, play, and feed these animals in these programs.

2 Swim and Dive

There are four experiences available where you can interact with whale sharks and manta rays in Georgia Aquarium. Shark Cage Dive, Journey with Gentle Giants – Swim, Journey with Gentle Giants – Dive, and Rebreather Dive Program are offered as experiences for anyone who wishes to swim with the sea animals.

3 Behind the seas Tour

With Behind the Seas Highlight Tour, you can go backstage for most exhibits and be a little closer to the sea animals. This is a great way to interact with these animals and learn how the aquarium operates.

4 Shows and presentations

At Georgia Aquarium, there are five shows and presentations you can enjoy. Dolphin Presentation, Virtual Reality Simulator, 4D Theatre, Waddle Walk (African Penguins), and Under the Boardwalk (Sea Lions) are a few shows that you can experience here.

5 Georgia Aquarium Sleep Under The Sea

A chance to spend the night at the aquarium! Sleep Under the Sea is an amazing experience where you can sleep in front of a gallery window in your sleeping bag and spend the night with the marine animals at the aquarium. You will get complimentary snacks and tours of the aquarium as well.

6 Georgia Aquarium Sips Under the Sea

A party under the ocean is a distant dream. Georgia Aquarium brings your dreams come true with Sips Under the Sea. Strictly for people 21 and over, Sips Under the Sea features voguish coctails, dining and a live DJ for your evening. Click here to book this one of a kind experience.

Image Courtesy: CNtraveler website

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Visitor Information

Georgia aquarium atlanta timings.

The Georgia Aquarium is open on all days of the week. From Monday to Wednesday, you can visit the aquarium from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and from Thursday to Sunday, you can visit the aquarium from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Getting to Georgia Aquarium

By Bus You get a MARTA bus from Five Points MARTA Station and Civic Center MARTA Station via Route 32 to Georgia Aquarium.

By Train Georgia Aquarium is just a 10-15 minute walking distance from Civic Center or Peachtree Center Stations on the Red/Gold line or GWCC/CNN Center/Philips Arena Station on the Blue/Green line.

By Car You can also take a car or cab to reach Georgia Aquarium Atlanta. You can use this address to get the direct route from your location - 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313.

Best time to visit Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

Generally, you should visit an animal exhibit when the animals are most active which is usually during feeding time. So, plan a visit then or during one of the dolphins shows that are conducted regularly here. To avoid the crowd, visit Georgia Aquarium from Monday to Thursday early morning or between lunch and dinner.

Suggested duration

There are a lot of exhibit galleries to visit, animals to view, and experiences to enjoy in Georgia Aquarium Atlanta. So, it is recommended that guests keep aside at least 5-6 hours for a visit here.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Visitor Tips

Handy tips for a smooth visit.

Reach Georgia Aquarium Atlanta early in the morning or between lunch and dinner time slots to avoid the crowds. Generally, the crowds start coming in from 12 PM. So, if you arrive early you can cover more of the aquarium in peace.
Plan a visit to the Georgia Aquarium on weekdays from Monday to Thursday to avoid the crowds.
Georgia Aquarium is quite large and you would need around 5-6 hours to explore all the exhibits and attractions here. So, stay hydrated and eat snacks to keep up the energy.
Don’t miss out on the Dolphin Show that shows the beautiful connection between humans and animals in a musical story form.
You can choose to swim with the whale sharks or manta rays at Georgia Aquarium in the Ocean Voyager Exhibit by choosing the Swim and Dive program here.
Catch the Deepo’s Undersea 3D Wondershow is a fun and entertaining story about the importance of conservation and protection of the animals in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss out on the animal encounter programs where you can go behind the scene to meet otters, dolphins, and penguins.
Book tickets for Imagination Nights at Georgia Aquarium Atlanta . Imagination Nights at Georgia Aquarium is the display of all six galleries of the Aquarium, the screening of animated film (Deepo's Undersea 3D Wondershow) and the special exhibition - Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Facts

Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere with over 10 million gallons of water in over 100 habitats.
At the opening, the aquarium was certified as having the most aquatic life in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records.
One million guests visited Georgia Aquarium in the initial 100 days of its opening in 2005 and 3.6 million guests visited in the first year. Currently, more than 18 million guests have visited this aquarium since 2005.
Ocean Voyager in Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquatic indoor habitat that holds 6.3 million gallons of water. It is home to thousands of species including manta rays and whale sharks.
Georgia Aquarium is the only aquarium in North America that houses whale sharks, the largest fish in the world.
Tropical Diver’s Pacific barrier reef habitat that consists of 164,000 gallons of water is one of the largest living reef exhibits in the United States.
AT&T Dolphin Tales at 84,000 square feet and 1.8 million gallons of water is the largest addition to Georgia Aquarium.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Reviews

Excellent experience. The shark exhibit is amazing. Very family oriented and enjoyable. We did the Behind the Seas Tour and it was excellent!

Our trip to the Aquarium was the most amazing time ever. The place was so huge but it was laid out in the best way so that the crowds were spread out. My sister did a dive with the Whale Sharks and that was the highlight of the day! It was amazing to see her in that huge tank with all the ocean creatures. The staff was so friendly and helpful during our stay!!

Restaurants Near Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

Where to eat.

Take a break and have a meal after your Aquarium visit. Here are some of the best restaurents near Georgia Aquarium.

A great place for breakfast, Atlanta Breakfast Club is a modern diner that serves breakfast, burgers, and other American dishes. Chicken waffles and Peach cobbler are a speciality here that you simply must try if you are visiting Georgia Aquarium.

With a retro setting, Johnny Rockets is a great restaurant near Georgia Aquarium that serves amazing food and ambience. This food outpost serves burgers, fries, and shakes – an American staple food. There are also tiny jukeboxes on the table to play with your favorite oldie.

Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria serves the most delicious pies and pizzas in a casual and chill setting. To make the experience more authentic for the customers, they use a coal-burning oven to prepare the pizzas and the crispy pies here.

This is a Rock’n’roll themed café in Atlanta that offers a killer ambience with even amazing food. You can find all the American classics here including burgers, ribs, and other mouth-watering dishes.

If you are craving some Korean food, then Kwan’s Deli and Korean Kitchen is a perfect place to check out in Atlanta. They have a casual ambience and serve American breakfast, salads, and deli sandwiches apart from Korean cuisine.

Hotels near Georgia Aquarium Atlanta

Here are some of the best rated Hotels near Georgia Aquarium Atlanta for your visit to explore the city.

This modern all-suite hotel is located next to Centennial Olympic Park. It is just a 9-minute walk from Peachtree metro station and offers classic suites and upgraded suites. There is also a fitness centre, breakfast buffet and an outdoor pool to use here.

This is a 4-star hotel that is just a 7-minute walk from Georgia Aquarium. The rooms here offer city views along with basic amenities and a few suites come with separate living/dining areas as well. Guests have access to an outdoor pool, a spa, a gym, and a business centre.

With an iconic blue dome, this 4-star hotel is a 10-minutes walk from Georgia Aquarium and a 5-minute walk from the metro station. Rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows while suites include living rooms and dining tables. You can use an outdoor pool with a sundeck, a 24*7 gym, and a conference center here.

The Ritz-Carlton is a 5-star hotel that is a 13-minutes walk from Georgia Aquarium. Guests have stately rooms with basic amenities and suites with added living rooms, kitchenettes, and tubs. There is a fitness center that can be accessed by the guests.

Just a 4-minute walk from Georgia Aquarium, Hilton Garden Inn has a variety of rooms to offer. From simple, city view rooms to suites with living rooms and pull-out sofas, you can find it all here. They also have an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and an exercise room for the guests to use.

Georgia Aquarium Atlanta FAQs

Is georgia aquarium worth it.

Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and the third largest in the world with over 10 million gallons of water and 100 habitats. They host a variety of marine animals such as African Penguins, American Alligators, Beluga Whales, Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Common Bottlenose Dolphins, and more. All these reasons make the Aquarium fascinating and definitely worth your visit.

What can you do at Georgia Aquarium?

There are plenty of sea creatures such as African Penguins, American Alligators, Beluga Whales, Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, and Common Bottlenose Dolphins to see at Georgia Aquarium. The Georgia Aquarium also offers Behind-the-Scene Tours of the galleries where the guests can play and interact with the sea animals. There are other experiences such as Sleepovers, Dive/Swim with Gentle Giants, etc.

Where is Georgia Aquarium located?

Located in Downtown Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium is across the Centennial Olympic Park.

Is Georgia Aquarium the largest in the world?

Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere.

How long does it take to walk through the Georgia Aquarium?

It can take approximately 5-6 hours to walk through the Georgia Aquarium and check out all the exhibits and attractions here.

What is Imagination Nights at Georgia Aquarium?

Imagination Nights at Georgia Aquarium is the display of all six galleries of the Aquarium, the screening of animated film (Deepo's Undersea 3D Wondershow) and the special exhibition - Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies.

What is the best time to go visit Georgia Aquarium?

Feeding time at Georgia Aquarium is highly recommended as the best time to vist since you would be able to catch the sights of the sea creatures and their lunch routine. To avoid the crowd, visit Georgia Aquarium from Monday to Thursday early morning or between lunch and dinner.

How much does it cost to go to Georgia Aquarium?

Georgia Aquarium Tickets cost $39.15 for everyone except for children aged 2 or below.

How can I buy Georgia Aquarium Tickets?

You can buy Georgia Aquarium Tickets at the physical counter or you can buy them online for amazing discounts.

Does the Georgia Aquarium have wheelchairs?

Wheelchairs are available free of charge with a picture ID at Georgia Aquarium.

Do you need a parking pass for Georgia Aquarium?

If you plan to use the Georgia Aquarium parking deck at 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, then you would need a parking pass for the aquarium.

How can I save money at Georgia Aquarium?

Booking your Georgia Aquarium Tickets online gives you a lot of opputunities to save money as they offer good discounts.

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COMMENTS

Georgia Aquarium Visit Today
The Margaritaville Vacation Club Dolphin Coast gallery is now home to these colorful birds and this new habitat is the first of its kind at the Aquarium—featuring both aquatic and arboreal elements. Visit us to learn about the importance, diversity, and delicate balance of coastal ecosystems. Visit Georgia Aquarium. Animal Fact.
How to Visit Georgia Aquarium
Check the daily schedule prior to your visit to find the show times that work best with your arrival time. Make your reservation as early as possible on the day of your visit to secure a seat. Space is limited. Guarantee you get the best view when you reserve a preferred seat in advance for an additional $5.
Georgia Aquarium
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Write a review. About. Georgia Aquarium contains more than 70 amazing habitats, with thousands of marine animals such as whale sharks, manta rays, beluga whales, and more. Don't miss out on the animal encounter programs, where you can get up close and personal with dolphins, penguins, and sea lions.
Georgia Aquarium
Flexible in design, yet grand in nature, the 16,400-square-foot ballroom anchors the Aquarium's event space. It can comfortably seat 1,200 for reception and 1,000 for a banquet. Georgia Aquarium is open 365 days a year. Please note that hours of operation do vary. Please visit the website for hours of operation. Be fascinated by the most ...
Georgia Aquarium
Reasons to Visit Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Atlanta's aquarium is home to tens of thousands of animals including 500 species from around the world and more than 60 habitats. The aquarium features a number of exhibits that are sure to reel you in such as Aquanaut Adventure, Cold Water Quest, Dolphin Coast Presented by Margaritaville by ...
Pricing
Reserve-ahead Dolphin Presentation Seating. $5.00. Our dolphin presentation is FREE with general admission and first-come, first-served on the day of your visit but you can reserve seats ahead of time for $5. Seats are limited. Buy Now.
An Insider's Guide to Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by @krystalweirphotography. Purchase Tickets Online. Tickets are $47.99 if you purchase on the day of your visit. You can save $5 if you buy your tickets at least one day before you visit. Children 2 and under get in free. Save on animal encounters with exclusive, online-only Explore Georgia discounts.
All Programs & Experiences
Enhance your visit even more and see all the Georgia Aquarium has to offer with our animal encounters and interactive programs. Open Today 9:00 am - 9:00 pm Home
Georgia Aquarium
Book Online or Call (800) 901-7011 for Live Assistance! Book an exclusive Georgia Aquarium Package, which includes your choice of One Day or Two Day Anytime Admission Tickets. Anytime Admission Tickets are only available with our Preferred Hotel Packages. These exclusive hotel + ticket packages allow our guests the luxury of enjoying the Aquarium at a time that works for their schedule.
Georgia Aquarium FAQs
Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta across from Centennial Olympic Park. For directions from specific highways (I-85, I-75, I-20, etc.) and vehicle height/size restrictions, visit our Directions & Parking FAQ. Keep Atlanta traffic in mind when you visit the Aquarium.
About Us
The Georgia Aquarium is more than bricks and mortar; it's a vibrant community bound by a shared love for the ocean. Our team is a mosaic of passionate scientists, dedicated educators, and expert animal care specialists. We're united by a common thread: the desire to share the ocean's magic and inspire others to become its protectors.
Georgia Aquarium: Atlanta's Beloved Attraction Lives Up to the Hype
Here is our list of must see and do adventures for your visit to the aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia. Buy skip-the-line tickets here and spend MORE time inside with the whales and sharks! SHARKS! PREDATORS OF THE DEEP. Georgia Aquarium's newest gallery is Sharks! Predators of the Deep. This exciting shark exhibit houses 1.2 million gallons of ...
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium is a public aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.It exhibits hundreds of species and thousands of animals across its seven major galleries, all of which reside in more than 11 million US gallons (42,000 m 3) of water. It was the largest aquarium in the world from its opening in 2005 until 2012 when it was surpassed by the S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore and the Chimelong ...
GEORGIA AQUARIUM
3379 reviews and 10049 photos of GEORGIA AQUARIUM "so i was here on opening day and amazingly, braving the crowds was worth it! see it for yourself! it is a truly awesome aquarium! note: the high price tag is worth it though, if i lived there, i'd just get the annual pass (approximately $20/visit, $50ish for a year's worth.)"
10 Helpful Georgia Aquarium Tips
The Georgia Aquarium is located in Atlanta, Georgia, and it's one of the most popular things to do in Downtown Atlanta—making it a must-visit attraction during your vacation to Atlanta!. The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the western hemisphere, with over ten million gallons of water, and it's the only aquarium in North America with whale sharks, the world's largest fish.
Tips for making your visit to the Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium ticket information. Worth remembering - a. single-entry ticket costs. $47.99 if you buy it the day you're going to the aquarium, but if you purchase in advance it's discounted to ...
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium has officially reopened, guests can now visit the Aquarium to explore and enjoy its galleries and over 10 million gallons of water, but with some changes. Georgia Aquarium takes the safety of its guests and staff very seriously. The Aquarium established time blocks with limited capacity, new cleaning and sanitization protocols ...
How to Get to Georgia Aquarium by Marta: A Step-by-Step Guide for Visitors
The travel time to the Georgia Aquarium by Marta varies depending on the location of the starting station. However, the average travel time is around 20 to 25 minutes. What is the cost of using Marta to get to the Georgia Aquarium? The cost of using Marta to get to the Georgia Aquarium is $2.50 one way for adults and $1.25 for children aged 6 ...
The Ultimate Guide To The Georgia Aquarium In Atlanta
We travel to Atlanta Georgia & tour the LARGEST aquarium in the USA in this adventure! Brie has previously been here, but was a first time for the rest of t...
Georgia Aquarium
This ticket gives you skip-the-line access to the Georgia Aquarium. With this ticket, you can get admission to all galleries and exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium. This ticket lets you visit the Sharks, Daily Dolphin, and Sea Lion Presentations. Ticket Prices. General Admission Ticket (3+ years): US$44.
The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Georgia Aquarium Atlanta
Reach Georgia Aquarium Atlanta early in the morning or between lunch and dinner time slots to avoid the crowds. Generally, the crowds start coming in from 12 PM. So, if you arrive early you can cover more of the aquarium in peace. Plan a visit to the Georgia Aquarium on weekdays from Monday to Thursday to avoid the crowds.
15% Off @ Georgia Aquarium
15% Off @ Georgia Aquarium . Visit Website. Valid Dates Nov 7, 2023 to Nov 7, 2025 . Location Explore Gwinnett. 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Duluth, GA 30097. Tel: (404) 581-4000. Email: Description Enjoy saving 15% off of regular full-price admission with the Explore Gwinnett exclusive discount link below. You MUST purchase admission through this link ...