Welcome to the Georgia Aquarium: one of the largest and most majestic, aquariums in the world, located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. Immersion in thousands of marine animals in immersive exhibits and awe inspiring shows makes this a must see for families, ocean lovers and curious travelers alike.
This ultimate guide to scuba diving takes you through the measures to take before, during and after your trip so that whether it’s your first time or you’re coming back for more scuba diving, you’ll know how to make the most of your visit and experience all the wonders under the sea.
Why Visit the Georgia Aquarium?
It’s not just any aquarium you go to — it’s an experience. It is the largest aquarium in the U.S. with over 11 million gallons of water holding the world’s largest whale sharks, along with beluga whales, sea lions, penguins and manta rays in this atmosphere, one of few in the world that lets you get that close to a whale shark.
Location & Hours
- Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
- Located in: Pemberton Place, right next to the World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park
- Hours: Typically open daily, 9 AM – 6 PM (check online for seasonal or extended hours)
Ticket Information
- General Admission: ~$39.99 (varies by date)
- Children under 3: Free
- Discounts available for seniors, military, and combo tickets with other Atlanta attractions
Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the line and get the best deal.
Must-See Exhibits
1. Ocean Voyager Built by The Home Depot
- Then there’s cruising through a 100 foot long tunnel full of sharks and rays going overhead.
- You will see the massive whale sharks, the largest fish in the world
- Also, don’t miss the giant manta rays doing acrobatics.
2. Cold Water Quest
- It invites you to visit beluga whales, sea otters and Japanese spider crabs.
- All about life in colder oceans
3. Tropical Diver
- A coral reef exhibit of clownfish, jellyfish and seahorses.
- A stunning live reef ecosystem lives here.
4. River Scout
- We explore freshwater habitats from around the world.
- Comprises piranhas, alligators and electric eels.
5. Sharks! Predators of the Deep
- One of the newest and most exciting of the exhibits
- Tiger sharks, hammerheads and more fill floor to ceiling tanks.
Live Shows & Experiences
Dolphin Presentation
- Dolphin show with educational high energy.
- General admission included, but you gotta get there first for good seats!
Sea Lion Show
- They’re funny, they’re smart and they have some pretty neat tricks up their marine mammal sleeves.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours & Animal Encounters
- Available add ons for encounters with penguins, sea otters and even in the whale shark tank (where certified scuba divers can swim with them!).
Dining & Amenities
- Burgers, sandwiches, salads and kid friendly meals, at Café Aquaria
- Packed with ocean themed toys, books and souvenirs, Gift Shop
Family Tip: The aquarium is totally stroller/stroller and toddler/adult friendly with nursing rooms and family restrooms.
Tips for Your Visit
- Come in early to beat the crowds
- Check out the Georgia Aquarium app for a map, show schedule and so much more!
- While you’re there, take along a camera, but no flash photography please.
- Plan to be there 2–3 hours minimum, 4 hours or longer to get to all shows
Nearby Attractions
These are some nearby favorites, make a day of it.
- Atlanta — World of Coca-Cola
- The park was Centennial Olympic.
- Farris wheel of SkyView Atlanta.
- Hall of Fame of College Football
Final Thoughts
Never mind the attraction, the Georgia Aquarium is an unforgettable journey beneath the waves instead. Giant whale sharks, playful sea lions or shimmering coral reefs make for a fun day for visitors of all ages.
If you’re in Atlanta for the weekend or making a quick stop through, then be sure to check out one of the most impressive aquariums in the world.