How long should I plan to spend at the Georgia Aquarium?

The Georgia Aquarium recommends allocating 3 to 4 hours to experience all the exhibits. However, if you plan to attend the dolphin and sea lion presentations, explore thoroughly, or participate in any animal encounters, a visit of 4 to 6 hours or even a full day is recommended.

Are there food options available inside the Georgia Aquarium?

Yes, the Georgia Aquarium features the Coastline Café, a casual dining spot offering a variety of crowd-pleasing options like burgers, pizza, chicken tenders, and salads. The café is located on the upper level and opens 30 minutes after the aquarium. Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted, with exceptions for small snacks for children or visitors with food allergies.

Where is the Georgia Aquarium located, and is parking available?

The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta, directly across from Centennial Olympic Park. An official, cashless parking deck is attached to the aquarium, accessible via Luckie Street and Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Prepaid parking spots can be purchased online in advance, which is recommended, especially during busy periods. Alternative transportation like MARTA (with a stop near Centennial Olympic Park) or rideshares are also encouraged.

AquariumGeorgia, US

Georgia Aquarium

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About

The Georgia Aquarium, located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, offers an unparalleled journey into the world's aquatic ecosystems, standing as the largest aquarium in the United States and the sixth largest globally. This captivating destination invites visitors of all ages to explore over 11 million gallons of fresh and saltwater, home to thousands of animals across hundreds of species.

From the moment you step inside, you're immersed in diverse habitats, designed to educate and inspire awe for ocean life.A visit to the Georgia Aquarium is an engaging adventure, highlighted by stunning exhibits like the massive Ocean Voyager, where you can walk through a 100-foot-long acrylic tunnel surrounded by majestic whale sharks and graceful manta rays, an experience unique outside of Asia. The more recent SHARKS! Predators of the Deep gallery provides an exhilarating, up-close look at powerful species like great hammerhead sharks and tiger sharks.

Beyond these awe-inspiring displays, interactive elements, and educational presentations featuring bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions, ensure a dynamic and memorable experience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for marine conservation.The Georgia Aquarium is more than just an attraction; it's a vibrant center for marine research and conservation, contributing to the protection of aquatic animals worldwide. Its commitment to education, combined with breathtaking displays and unique animal encounters, makes it a must-visit destination in Atlanta, promising an unforgettable dive into the wonders beneath the waves. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

The Georgia Aquarium was born from the vision of Bernard Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot, who dreamt of creating a world-class aquarium in Atlanta. Marcus generously donated $250 million to fund its construction and initial animal stocking, with additional corporate contributions ensuring it opened debt-free. Opened to the public on November 23, 2005, the aquarium quickly became a landmark, featuring groundbreaking exhibits such as the first whale sharks ever displayed outside of Asia. It was initially the largest aquarium in the world and is situated on land donated by The Coca-Cola Company, adjacent to Centennial Olympic Park, playing a significant role in revitalizing downtown Atlanta.

What to do here

Explore the diverse galleries, attend the dolphin and sea lion presentations (reserve your seats via the Georgia Aquarium app upon arrival, as slots fill quickly). Consider enhancing your visit with a "Behind the Seas" tour for a unique look at the aquarium's operations or an animal encounter (e.g., with whale sharks, dolphins, penguins, or sea otters).

Seasonal info

Summer and holiday seasons are generally the most crowded. Special events like "Glow Nights" and "World Ocean Day" may be offered seasonally.

Accessibility

The aquarium is highly accessible, offering complimentary wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis with a photo ID deposit. Accessible parking is available on Level 3 of the parking deck, and golf carts can transport guests from the parking deck to the entrance. Wide pathways, clear signage, and wheelchair emblems on the floor indicate unblocked exhibit views. Closed captioning devices are available for presentations, and low-sensory hours (until 10 AM) are offered with reduced lighting and ambient sound. Service animals are permitted.

Don't miss

Ocean Voyager

SHARKS! Predators of the Deep

Dolphin Coast

Truist Pier 225

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Sea Otter

Mandarinfish

Whale Shark

Beluga Whale

Bottlenose Dolphin

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Buy Tickets Online in Advance

Download the Mobile App

Reserve Show Seats Early

Arrive Early

Consider a "Behind the Seas" Tour

Stay Hydrated

Frequently asked questions

: The Georgia Aquarium recommends allocating 3 to 4 hours to experience all the exhibits. However, if you plan to attend the dolphin and sea lion presentations, explore thoroughly, or participate in any animal encounters, a visit of 4 to 6 hours or even a full day is recommended.
: Yes, the Georgia Aquarium features the Coastline Café, a casual dining spot offering a variety of crowd-pleasing options like burgers, pizza, chicken tenders, and salads. The café is located on the upper level and opens 30 minutes after the aquarium. Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted, with exceptions for small snacks for children or visitors with food allergies.
: The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta, directly across from Centennial Olympic Park. An official, cashless parking deck is attached to the aquarium, accessible via Luckie Street and Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Prepaid parking spots can be purchased online in advance, which is recommended, especially during busy periods. Alternative transportation like MARTA (with a stop near Centennial Olympic Park) or rideshares are also encouraged.