Georgia Aquarium

The Basics

General admission tickets include access to seven galleries, including a dolphin show, a sea otter habitat, and a tank with manta rays and whale sharks. One of the newest exhibits—SHARKS! Predators of the Deep—allows you to get close to a variety of different shark species. Specialty experiences such as a behind-the-scenes Georgia Aquarium tour and Sleepover Under the Sea are big hits with kids.

Because the Georgia Aquarium is one of the most popular activities in Atlanta, it’s best to arrive early and book your Georgia Aquarium tickets in advance. If you plan to visit multiple attractions, consider buying an Atlanta CityPASS. These passes include general admission to the aquarium and to other top area attractions such as the World of Coca-Cola and Zoo Atlanta.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There are restrooms and a restaurant onsite.

• Plan to spend roughly three to four hours visiting the aquarium.

• Active military personnel receive a discount with ID, plus free admission days.

• The aquarium is wheelchair accessible and provides experiences for guests with visual and hearing impairments.

How to Get There

The Georgia Aquarium is located by Centennial Olympic Park. You can get there by taking a MARTA bus, or by walking 10 to 15 minutes from any MARTA train line. If you’re driving, there are parking decks available for a fee.

When to Get There

The Georgia Aquarium is open 365 days a year. Hours change regularly with seasons and special events, so check the website for the most up-to-date information. No matter when you go, be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds.

Fauna to Fawn Over

Key animals to look out for at the aquarium include beluga whales, sea lions, African penguins, and a coral reef with tropical fish. Animal lovers should sign up for a guided Behind the Seas tour, which provides more insight into marine life than you might get on your own.

How much does it cost to get into the Georgia Aquarium?

Single-day tickets to the Georgia Aquarium cost US$47.99 per person, while children two and under can visit for free. If you purchase your ticket online before your visit, you can pay a discounted rate of US$42.99 per person. Members enjoy 12 months of unlimited admission.

Do you have to make reservations for the Georgia Aquarium?

No, you do not have to make reservations to visit the Georgia Aquarium. However, you should book tickets in advance to avoid lines. Visitors can purchase advance tickets online—with discounted rates—or by phone. You can also buy tickets on-site at the aquarium.

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

The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States and likely requires an entire morning or afternoon to visit. The aquarium estimates that the average visit lasts 3-4 hours. Arrive early to maximize your trip—and stay as long as you would like until closing time.

What is the best day to visit the Georgia Aquarium?

To beat the crowds, visit the Georgia Aquarium on weekdays. Visitors arriving after lunch can bypass the morning school field trips. The atmosphere is more relaxed during winter, while summer and school holidays are usually crowded.

Is the dolphin show free at the Georgia Aquarium?

Yes, Georgia Aquarium tickets include the dolphin show. However, you do need to reserve your seats from an on-site kiosk or on the phone. Ticket prices also include admission to other shows and exhibits, though some experiences cost extra.

What does general admission to the Georgia Aquarium include?

General admission to the Georgia Aquarium provides an all-access pass to the aquarium’s exhibitions and activities. With your ticket, you can explore all the aquarium’s galleries and exhibitions and see the dolphin and sea lion shows provided you reserve your seats upon arrival.

Ways to explore

Because the Georgia Aquarium is one of Atlanta's most popular attractions, lines can be long to enter. Book your Georgia Aquarium tickets in advance to spend less time at the ticket window and more time inside marveling at the wonders of the seas. You must book sea lion and dolphin presentations, animal encounters, tank dives, behind-the-scenes tours, and aquarium overnights in advance. If you plan to visit multiple Atlanta attractions, consider buying an Atlanta CityPASS that includes general admission to the aquarium and to other top area attractions such as the World of Coca-Cola and Zoo Atlanta.

Accessibility

The aquarium exhibits are wheelchair-accessible, though some tours and animal encounters are not.

Age limits

Select tours, animal encounters, and other activities have a minimum age limit; confirm in advance.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, light jacket or sweater

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Outside food and beverages, smoking, pets

Amenities

Café, restrooms, water fountains, gift shop

Address 

The Georgia Aquarium is located near Centennial Olympic Park. You can get there by public transportation or drive to the on-site parking deck.

Driving

The entrance to the aquarium’s parking deck is on Luckie Street, which runs north to south just north of downtown Atlanta. Take Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard to Luckie Street and turn south if arriving from the east or west.

Public transportation

Take the MARTA train to the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station on the Blue/Green line or to the Civic Center or Peachtree Center Stations on the Red/Gold line.

Best times to visit

Opening hours vary by day and month, but mornings are generally busy with school groups. Visit during the extended evening hours to avoid the crowds.

Best days to visit

The aquarium is open 365 days a year, and weekends and holidays see the highest visitor numbers. Weekdays are the quietest days to explore.

Best months to visit

This climate-controlled attraction offers a respite from summer's heat in June to September. The summer months also see fewer school groups.

Special events

Year-round programs and events include holiday parties and educational presentations. Check the aquarium website for an updated schedule.