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POINT OF INTEREST

Georgia Aquarium

225 Baker St. NW, Downtown, Atlanta, Georgia

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the United States. It houses over 500 species of aquatic animals, that live in over 10 million gallons of water. Thankfully, bite-sized exhibits help organize your trip and make it possible to see the best of the aquarium in one day.

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.

  • 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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