Georgia Aquarium - Silhouette audience admiring the whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium
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Georgia Aquarium

4.6
·85k reviews·Atlanta, United States

Home to more aquatic life than anywhere else, this massive aquarium features whale sharks, manta rays, and immersive exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
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Georgia Aquarium - Silhouette audience admiring the whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to more aquatic life than anywhere else, this massive aquarium features whale sharks, manta rays, and immersive exhibits.

4.6
(85k reviews)

"An absolutely incredible experience, from the sense of wonder to the commitment to preservation."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Georgia Aquarium tickets online in advance.

⏰ Arrive Early or Late

Beat the peak crowds by visiting right at opening or a few hours before closing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ocean Voyager

Ocean Voyager

Ocean Voyager exhibit

Marvel at whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles in this massive exhibit with a walk-through tunnel.

Cold Water Quest

Cold Water Quest

Cold Water Quest exhibit

Encounter playful penguins, graceful beluga whales, and other fascinating cold-water marine life.

Tropical Diver

Tropical Diver

Tropical Diver exhibit

Immerse yourself in vibrant coral reefs and witness the beauty of colorful tropical fish and sharks.

Dolphin Presentation

Dolphin Presentation

Dolphin Theater

Enjoy an entertaining and educational show featuring the intelligence and agility of bottlenose dolphins.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

To avoid long queues and secure your spot, especially for popular shows or experiences, booking Georgia Aquarium tickets online is highly recommended. This also helps manage crowd flow within the aquarium. InstagramReddit

Allocate Sufficient Time

With over 10 million gallons of water and numerous exhibits, a visit to the Georgia Aquarium can easily take 2-4 hours, or even longer if you plan to see shows or participate in special experiences. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (after 5 PM)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
September (special offers)
Why
Free kid admission
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

this place is home to more aquatic life than anywhere else in the world and a WHALE SHARK??? 🤯 ⁣ ⁣ 📍georgia aquarium, atlanta⁣ ⁣ #aquariumfish #atlantageorgia #atlantathingstodo #marineanimals #bucketlisttravel #travelcreator #oceanlife
@divyadiscovers
1.1M likes • 7.6M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Georgia Aquarium tickets online in advance. InstagramReddit

⏰ Arrive Early or Late

Beat the peak crowds by visiting right at opening or a few hours before closing. Reddit

#stitch with @jed1313 I LOVE the #GeorgiaAquarium #atlanta #aquarium #shark #fyp #education#greenscreen
@jc.dombrowski
931.2K likes • 5M views
IS THIS ON YOUR USA TRAVEL BUCKET LIST? ↓ step into the largest aquarium in the US, home to more aquatic life than anywhere else in the world! 🐋 📍georgia aquarium, atlanta with 10+ million gallons of water and over 100 habitats, the georgia aquarium takes underwater adventures to a whole new level. you can get up close with whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and sharks, and it’s truly an exper...
divyadiscovers
108.9K likes • 1.1M views

🎬 Reserve Show Seats

You MUST book seats for shows like the Dolphin Presentation upon arrival. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for your visit. :athletic_shoe:

🎉For a limited time!🎉 Get a free kid visit for every general admission ticket purchased in September. Check out the link in bio for details! 🎟️
georgiaaquarium
10.9K likes • 182K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Georgia Aquarium tickets online in advance. InstagramReddit

⏰ Arrive Early or Late

Beat the peak crowds by visiting right at opening or a few hours before closing. Reddit

🎬 Reserve Show Seats

You MUST book seats for shows like the Dolphin Presentation upon arrival. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for your visit. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Merchandise Prices

Be aware that merchandise, like magnets, can be quite expensive. Reddit

📱 Use the Aquarium App

Check for show schedules and exhibit information on the official Georgia Aquarium app. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(85k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Georgia Aquarium for its breathtaking exhibits, particularly the Ocean Voyager with its whale sharks and manta rays. The aquarium's commitment to conservation and its spacious, well-designed layout are also frequently highlighted. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention the high cost of merchandise and food as a drawback.

"A visit to the Georgia Aquarium is an absolutely incredible experience. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a sense of wonder that lasts throughout your entire visit. The sheer variety of sea creatures is breathtaking—I could have spent hours just watching the whale sharks and manta rays glide through the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit. It's truly a spectacle to see so many different species thriving in one place.

Beyond the incredible animal exhibits, what really stood out to me was the aquarium's commitment to preservation and conservation. It's clear they're doing important work to protect marine life, and it feels good to support an organization that's making such a positive impact.

Despite the high number of guests, the aquarium is designed with plenty of space for everyone. You never feel crowded or rushed, and it's easy to move from one exhibit to another at your own pace. The open walkways and spacious viewing areas ensure that everyone gets a great view, no matter how busy it is.

Overall, the Georgia Aquarium is a fantastic destination for all ages. It's a place where you can be entertained, educated, and inspired all at once. I highly recommend it!"

Zack Eckley

"Beautiful Aquarium. The first aquarium I've visited that didn't smell like pure fish all over the place. Me and my 11 year old went for a visit here recently. It took us about 2 hours to do / see everything we wanted to experience // see. There is A LOT to do but we didn't do + see everything they offered. I will say the merchandise is priced very very high. A magnet for a fridge is $15+. Keep that in mind if you plan on buying anything on your visit.

TIP: Make sure when you arrive to go and book your seat for any of the shows you want to see. You MUST book a spot... I thought this was interesting. (We didn't want to book anything but I'm glad someone told me before visiting or I wouldn't have known).

Tickets can be purchased online or at a kiosk right before entering the line to go in."

Danielle Lavender

"Absolutely amazing aquarium. Took my granddaughter and we spent more than 4 hours here. I loved the layout and all the unique displays. We enjoyed the touch ponds and being able to interact with the staff. They were so informative and friendly. We loved everything here except the food."

April Strobel

What People Like

Incredible marine life
Ocean Voyager exhibit
Conservation efforts

What People Dislike

Expensive merchandise
High food prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta, easily accessible by car, MARTA (public transit), or rideshare. Parking is available in nearby garages. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are several parking garages near the aquarium, including the Georgia Aquarium Parking Deck. Rates vary. Instagram

Yes, the closest MARTA station is the Peachtree Center station, which is a short walk from the aquarium. Instagram

Yes, the aquarium is generally stroller-friendly with ramps and elevators for easy navigation. Reddit

Many downtown Atlanta attractions, including the World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park, are within walking distance of the Georgia Aquarium. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Georgia Aquarium tickets online through their official website or at the ticket kiosks upon arrival. Booking online is recommended to save time. InstagramReddit

Georgia Aquarium hours vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule. TikTok

Look out for special promotions like free kid admission in September Instagram or consider purchasing tickets online in advance for potential savings. Reddit

Ticket prices for the Georgia Aquarium can vary. Check their website for current pricing and any available package deals. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking your tickets online often allows you to select a preferred entry time, which can help manage crowds. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Ocean Voyager exhibit with whale sharks and manta rays, the playful penguins in Cold Water Quest, and the vibrant Tropical Diver. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the Georgia Aquarium features popular shows like the Dolphin Presentation. Remember to book your seats upon arrival! Reddit

Yes, the aquarium has touch pools where you can interact with certain marine animals, like stingrays. Reddit

Most visitors spend 2-4 hours at the Georgia Aquarium, but you could easily spend longer if you see shows or explore every exhibit. Reddit

Yes, the Georgia Aquarium is great for kids, but very young children might find it overwhelming. Consider ages 5-6 and up for the best experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Georgia Aquarium has several cafes and snack bars offering a variety of food and drinks. Reddit

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the Georgia Aquarium. Reddit

Some visitors find the food options inside the aquarium to be on the pricier side. Reddit

While specific options can vary, most cafes offer a selection that may include vegetarian choices. It's best to check menus upon arrival. Reddit

Typically, re-entry is not permitted. Plan your visit to include all desired exhibits and shows in one go. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in most areas of the Georgia Aquarium, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the animals. TikTok

The Ocean Voyager tunnel, the beluga whale exhibit, and the penguin habitats offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

Avoid using flash photography, especially in darker exhibits, as it can disturb the animals. TikTok

Absolutely! Your smartphone is perfect for capturing the amazing marine life. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Georgia Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families, offering a world of wonder for children of all ages. Exhibits like the Ocean Voyager and the Cold Water Quest with its playful penguins are sure to captivate young minds. TikTokReddit

For families with very young children, consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekday mornings to avoid overwhelming crowds. The aquarium is stroller-friendly, and interactive touch pools provide hands-on fun. Special experiences like the Beluga and Penguin encounters can also be a memorable addition for an extra fee. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Georgia Aquarium can be an investment, savvy travelers can find ways to make it more budget-friendly. Booking tickets online in advance often offers better rates than purchasing on the day. InstagramReddit

Look for special promotions, such as the free kid admission offers that sometimes run. Consider visiting during the week rather than on weekends or holidays when prices might be higher. While merchandise and food can be pricey, packing your own snacks (if permitted) or planning meals outside the aquarium can help save money. Reddit

couples

The Georgia Aquarium offers a romantic and awe-inspiring experience for couples. Strolling hand-in-hand through the Ocean Voyager tunnel, surrounded by majestic marine life, creates a truly memorable atmosphere. Instagram

Consider booking a behind-the-scenes tour or a special encounter for a more intimate and unique experience. The aquarium's stunning visual displays and the shared sense of wonder make it a perfect outing for a date. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Ocean Voyager

The Ocean Voyager exhibit is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Georgia Aquarium, housing over 100 species and 6 million gallons of water. It's here you'll come face-to-face with gentle giants like whale sharks and manta rays, gliding gracefully through the massive acrylic tunnel. This immersive experience makes you feel like you're walking on the ocean floor, surrounded by a vibrant underwater world. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors often describe spending extended periods in this exhibit, captivated by the sheer scale and beauty of the marine life. The design ensures excellent viewing angles from multiple points, including the iconic walk-through tunnel. It's a truly awe-inspiring display of aquatic biodiversity and a highlight for many who visit the Georgia Aquarium. Instagram

Conservation and Education Efforts

Beyond its stunning exhibits, the Georgia Aquarium is deeply committed to marine conservation and research. They actively participate in breeding programs for endangered species and conduct vital research to understand and protect aquatic ecosystems. TikTok+1

Supporting the Georgia Aquarium means contributing to these crucial efforts. Educational programs and interactive displays throughout the aquarium aim to raise awareness about the importance of ocean health and inspire visitors to become stewards of the marine environment. This commitment to conservation adds a meaningful layer to the visitor experience. Reddit

Experiencing the Shows

The Dolphin Presentation is a crowd-pleaser at the Georgia Aquarium, showcasing the intelligence and athleticism of bottlenose dolphins through engaging performances. It's a fantastic way to learn about these incredible creatures and their behaviors. Reddit

It's crucial to remember that reservations are required for shows. Visitors are advised to book their seats upon arrival to avoid disappointment, as popular shows can fill up quickly. Arriving early for your chosen showtime is highly recommended to secure a good viewing spot. Reddit

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