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Georgia Aquarium: Home of Gentle Giants and Ocean Wonders

Experience one of the world’s most spectacular aquatic adventures at the Georgia Aquarium, proudly holding the title of largest aquarium in the United States. Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this marine wonderland houses over 10 million gallons of water and thousands of species from across the globe’s oceans.

Why Visit the Georgia Aquarium

Step into a world where whale sharks glide gracefully overhead and manta rays soar through crystal-clear waters. As one of only a handful of facilities worldwide housing whale sharks, the Georgia Aquarium offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close. The facility’s massive Ocean Voyager exhibit, built by The Home Depot, showcases these magnificent creatures in an environment that truly captures the majesty of ocean life.

Beyond the whale sharks, the aquarium’s groundbreaking research programs, interactive experiences, and commitment to marine conservation make it a must-visit destination for both families and marine enthusiasts. Here, visitors can engage with marine life through immersive galleries, dynamic shows, and hands-on encounters that create lasting memories.

Must-See Georgia Aquarium Exhibits

Attractions & Activities

• Ocean Voyager Start your journey here to witness the whale sharks during their most active morning hours
• Tropical DiverTruist Pier 225 Best viewed in the afternoon when the light creates stunning effects in the living reef
• Cold Water Quest A refreshing escape showcasing cold-water species
• Dolphin Coast Time your visit with one of the daily dolphin presentations
• Southern Company River Scout Discover freshwater species from around the world
• Truist Pier 225 Experience the California sea lion gallery
• Aquanaut Adventure
• Explorers Cove
• SHARKS! Predators of the Deep®Southern Company River Scout

Georgia Aquarium Special Tours & Programs

• Behind The Seas Tours: Exclusive looks at animal care and facility operations
• Seasonal Events: Festival of the SEAson during winter holidays
• Virtual Experiences: Live webcams featuring popular exhibits
• Dolphin Show
• California sea lion Show

Animal Encounters

• Beluga Encounter
• Dolphin Encounter
• Harbor Seal Encounter
• Penguin Encounter
• Sea Lion Encounter
• Sea Otter Encounter
• Shark & Ray Interaction

Planning Your Visit

When to Visit Georgia Aquarium & How Long to Stay

A complete tour of the Georgia Aquarium typically takes 3-4 hours, though many visitors spend longer exploring their favorite exhibits. For the best experience:

• Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds
• Arrive at opening for optimal whale shark viewing
• Plan around dolphin presentations and keeper talks
• Consider off-peak seasons (September-November) for a more relaxed experience

Weather Considerations

As an indoor facility, the Georgia Aquarium offers a perfect year-round attraction regardless of Atlanta’s weather. The climate-controlled environment maintains comfortable temperatures throughout the seasons, making it an ideal escape from summer heat or winter chill.

What to Bring to Georgia Aquarium

• Comfortable walking shoes for concrete floors
• Camera (photography without flash is permitted)
• Stroller for small children (rentals available)

Georgia Aquarium: What You Need to Know

On-Site Amenities

• Coastline Café
• Gifts of the Deep: Main gift shop featuring unique marine-themed merchandise
• Multiple restroom locations and family-changing facilities
• Free Wheelchair rentals with exchange of a picture ID. First come first serve.
• First aid station and nursing room

Parking apps

• SpotHero
• The Parking Spot Airport Parking
• Way
• ParkMobile: Park. Pay. Go.

Transportation and Access

• Paid On-site parking garage with direct access- 357 Luckie Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313.
• MARTA access via CNN/World Congress Center Station
• Drop-off area for rideshare services
• Electric vehicle charging stations available 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Let’s Ride Atlanta LLC
• Atlanta Streetcar

Distance & Travel Times

How Far is Georgia Aquarium from Other Cities?

• Nashville, TN: 4 hours (243 miles)
• Charlotte, NC: 4 hours (245 miles)
• Orlando, FL: 6.5 hours (438 miles)
• New Orleans, LA: 7 hours (469 miles)
• Miami, FL: 9.5 hours (662 miles)
• Washington DC: 10 hours (639 miles)
• Charleston, SC: 4.5 hours (305 miles)
• Birmingham, AL: 2.5 hours (147 miles)
• Jacksonville, FL: 5 hours (346 miles)

Distance From Airports:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): 20 minutes (11 miles)
• MARTA from Airport to Georgia Aquarium: 25 minutes via Gold or Red Line to Five Points Station, then transfer to Westbound train to CNN/World Congress Center Station

In The Area

Downtown Atlanta Experience

Steps from the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park serves as the heart of Atlanta’s tourist district. This 21-acre park offers a perfect spot to relax before or after your aquarium visit, featuring iconic fountains and seasonal events. During baseball season, combine your aquarium visit with an Atlanta Braves game at nearby Truist Park.

Walking Distance Attractions

• World of Coca-Cola: Explore the history of the world’s most famous beverage
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights: Immerse yourself in important historical exhibitions
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium: Home to Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United
• Children’s Museum of Atlanta: Perfect for families with young children
• SkyView Atlanta: Take in the view of Atlanta on the Skyview

Other Things to do in Atlanta

• Doll’s Head Trail
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Wild Animal Safari Inc (more than 1 hour away but worth it)
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta

Money-Saving Tips

Deals at the Atlanta Aquarium

• Free Admission on your birthday
• Military appreciation program offers special rates for veterans and their families
• AAA member discounts available
• Group rates for parties of 10 or more
• Annual memberships for frequent visitors
• AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program

Deals Outside the Aquarium

• ATL Airport District
• Groupon
• Skip The Line Ticket

Multi Attraction Passes

Atlanta CityPASS®

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Zoo Atlanta
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History
• College Football Hall of Fame
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Where to Stay Near the Aquarium

Luxury With a View

• The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta: World-class luxury with skyline views and renowned Southern hospitality
• Omni Hotel at CNN Center: Direct aquarium views from upper floors
• Embassy Suites by Hilton at Centennial Olympic Park: Premium suites overlooking the park and aquarium
• Glenn Hotel, Autograph Collection: Boutique luxury with SkyLounge rooftop views
• Hyatt Regency Atlanta: Iconic hotel with panoramic city views

Family-Friendly Options

• Atlanta Marriott Marquis: Spacious rooms and indoor pool
• Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta-Downtown: Comfortable suites with kitchenettes
• Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown: Kids stay free with family packages
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta Downtown: Complimentary breakfast and family rooms

Unique Stays

• The Ellis Hotel: Historic boutique property
• Twelve Downtown, Autograph Collection: Apartment-style rooms with kitchens
• Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown: Artsy themed rooms
• The American Hotel Atlanta Downtown: Retro-modern design hotel

Budget-Friendly Choices

• Budgetel Inn & Suites: Affordable rates close to attractions
• Motel 6 Atlanta Downtown: Basic rooms at reasonable prices
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Downtown: Mid-range pricing with good amenities
• Quality Inn Downtown: Value option with free breakfast

All these hotels are within walking distance or a short ride to the Georgia Aquarium.

Atlanta Shopping Malls Near Georgia Aquarium

• Cumberland Mall 10 miles (20-25 minutes)
• Perimeter Mall 15 miles (25-30 minutes)
• Ponce City Market 2.5 miles (10-15 minutes)
• Mall of Georgia 32 miles (45-50 minutes)
• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta 25 miles (35-40 minutes)
• Lenox Square 8 miles (20-25 minutes)
• The Battery Atlanta 11 miles (20-25 minutes)
• Sugarloaf Mills 25 miles (35-40 minutes)
• Tanger Outlets Locust Grove 35 miles (45-50 minutes)
• The Mall at Stonecrest 22 miles (30-35 minutes)

Note: Drive times may vary significantly based on Atlanta traffic, especially during rush hours.

Where to Eat Near Georgia Aquarium

Upscale Dining

• Ray’s in the City: Fresh seafood and steaks just blocks away
• Der Biergarten: Authentic German cuisine with outdoor seating
• White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails: Modern Southern fare
• AG: Sophisticated steakhouse in the Ritz-Carlton

Casual Dining

• Stats Brewpub: Sports bar atmosphere with American classics
• Twin Smokers BBQ: Atlanta-style barbecue
• Hudson Grille: Family-friendly sports bar
• The Yard Milkshake Bar: Elaborate desserts and shakes

Quick Bites

• The Metro Cafe Diner: 24-hour diner favorites
• Rosa’s Pizza: New York-style pizza by the slice
• Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint: Quick Southern classics

Local Food Halls

• Politan Row at Colony Square: Curated food hall experience
• Municipal Market: Historic market with local vendors

Atlanta Festival Guide: Events Near Georgia Aquarium

• Taste of Atlanta
• Atlanta Food & Wine Festival
• Georgia Aquarium’s Festival of the SEAson
• Atlanta Ice Cream Festival
• SweetWater 420 Fest
• Shaky Knees Music Festival

Helpful Information & Links

FAQs

• Q: Is Georgia Aquarium the largest in the United States? A: Yes, Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the United States, containing over 10 million gallons of water and thousands of species.
• Q: Can I take photos inside Georgia Aquarium? A: Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged throughout the aquarium. However, flash photography is prohibited as it can disturb the animals.
• Q: What are the best photo spots in Georgia Aquarium? A: The Ocean Voyager tunnel, offering views of whale sharks, and the floor-to-ceiling viewing windows throughout the galleries provide excellent photo opportunities. The Cold Water Quest exhibit with beluga whales is also a popular spot.
• Q: Is Georgia Aquarium suitable for small children? A: Yes, the aquarium is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits, touch pools, and regular educational programs. Stroller rentals are available, and there are family restrooms throughout the facility.
• Q: What makes Georgia Aquarium special? A: It’s one of only a few facilities worldwide housing whale sharks, has one of the largest collections of aquatic animals, and features unique experiences like the Ocean Voyager tunnel and interactive dolphin presentations.

Road Trip Owl’s Recommendations

Things to do in Georgia

Epic Road Trip

Free Zoos and Aquariums in the USA

Check the Georgia Aquarium’s official website for updated exhibits, special events, and seasonal programs. Remember that while the aquarium is incredible year-round, each season offers unique experiences and photo opportunities.