Yes, you can sleep at the Georgia Aquarium through organized overnight programs

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta offers sleepovers for specific groups — primarily school field trips, summer camps, and scout organizations. You cannot straightforward book a hotel room inside the building or show up after hours to sleep on the floor. Instead, the aquarium runs structured overnight experiences where your group sleeps in designated areas, participates in educational activities, and gets exclusive access to exhibits after the building closes to the public.

These programs are called Sleepovers at the Georgia Aquarium, and they're designed for groups rather than individual visitors. The aquarium provides sleeping space, typically in a gymnasium or multipurpose room, along with activities led by aquarium staff. Your group brings sleeping bags and pillows, eats meals together (some provided, some you bring), and participates in behind-the-scenes tours and interactive learning sessions throughout the night.

Key Takeaways

  • Sleepovers at the Georgia Aquarium are only available to organized groups like schools, camps, and scout troops — not to individual families or walk-in visitors.
  • Your group sleeps in a designated indoor space provided by the aquarium, not in hotel rooms or near the exhibits.
  • The program includes educational activities, staff-led tours, and access to the aquarium after regular closing hours.
  • You must contact the aquarium's group programs department directly to book; these experiences are not sold through standard ticket websites.
  • Pricing and availability vary by season, with summer and school-year periods typically offering more frequent dates.

Who can book a sleepover at the Georgia Aquarium

The aquarium's overnight programs are designed for organized groups with a minimum number of participants. may be able to access groups include school classes (K–12), homeschool co-ops, summer day camps, scout troops (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts), youth sports teams, and similar youth organizations. Most programs require a minimum group size — typically 15 to 20 people — though this can vary depending on the specific program offered that season.

Individual families cannot book a private sleepover. If you're a family of four wanting to sleep at the aquarium, you would need to join an existing group program or organize your own group that meets the minimum size requirement. Some families have formed groups with friends or extended family to reach the minimum, though you'll need to coordinate this yourself before contacting the aquarium.

What happens during an overnight stay

A typical sleepover runs from late afternoon or early evening through the following morning, lasting roughly 12 to 14 hours. Your group arrives in the late afternoon, receives an orientation, and participates in an opening activity. You then have dinner (sometimes provided by the aquarium, sometimes you bring your own), explore the main exhibits while the aquarium is still open to the public, and then stay for exclusive after-hours activities once regular visitors leave.

After the aquarium closes, staff lead educational programs specific to your group's age and interests. These might include a behind-the-scenes tour of areas the public doesn't see, interactive presentations about specific animals, a scavenger hunt through the exhibits, or hands-on learning stations. Your group sleeps in a designated multipurpose room or gymnasium — not scattered throughout the building — and wakes up the next morning for breakfast and a final activity before checkout, usually by mid-morning.

What to bring and what's provided

You are responsible for bringing sleeping bags, pillows, and personal toiletries. The aquarium provides the sleeping space itself (usually a climate-controlled indoor room), access to restrooms, and some meals or snacks depending on the program package you choose. Some programs include dinner and breakfast; others ask you to bring packed meals or snacks. Check your specific program details when you book, as this varies.

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking and standing for several hours. Bring a change of clothes for the next day, any medications your group members need, and entertainment for downtime (books, cards, quiet activities). Leave valuables at home or keep them find. The aquarium is not responsible for lost or stolen items, and sleeping areas are shared with your entire group.

How to book a sleepover

Contact the Georgia Aquarium's group programs department directly by phone or through their website. You cannot book a sleepover through the standard ticket purchase page or third-party vendors. The aquarium's group sales team will ask you for your group size, the ages of participants, your preferred dates, and any special needs or interests your group has.

Availability changes seasonally. Summer months and school-year weekends typically have more program dates available. Winter and spring may have fewer options. Once you contact the aquarium, they'll provide you with available dates, pricing (which varies by group size and program type), what's included in your package, and instructions for booking. You'll likely need to provide a deposit to hold your date, with the balance due before your visit.

Cost and what affects the price

Pricing for sleepovers is not fixed and depends on several factors: your group size, the specific program you choose, the season, and what meals and activities are included. Larger groups typically pay less per person. A group of 20 people will have a lower per-person cost than a group of 15. Programs that include more meals or extended behind-the-scenes access cost more than basic overnight experiences.

The aquarium does not publish exact prices on their website because each program is customized. When you contact the group programs department, they'll provide a detailed quote based on your group's specific needs. Ask whether the price includes admission to the regular exhibits, meals, activities, and any special experiences like animal encounters or staff presentations.

Rules and restrictions for overnight guests

Sleepovers are supervised experiences, and the aquarium enforces rules to keep the space safe and clean. Your group must follow staff instructions, stay in designated areas, and respect the facility. Alcohol, drugs, and weapons are strictly prohibited. Pets are not allowed (except certified service animals). You cannot leave the aquarium during the overnight period without permission from staff.

Participants must be in reasonable health — the program involves walking and standing for extended periods. If someone in your group has mobility issues or medical conditions, inform the aquarium when you book so they can accommodate you. The aquarium reserves the right to refuse entry or ask someone to leave if they violate rules or pose a safety risk to others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do a sleepover if I'm not part of an organized group?

No. The Georgia Aquarium only offers sleepovers to established groups like schools, camps, and scout troops. You cannot book a private overnight experience for your family alone. However, if you can assemble a group of friends or family members that meets the minimum size requirement (usually 15–20 people), you can contact the aquarium about booking together.

What if my group is smaller than the minimum?

Most programs require 15 to 20 participants. If your group is smaller, contact the aquarium directly — they may be able to combine your group with another, offer a different program, or discuss options. Some special programs or off-season dates may have lower minimums, so it's worth asking.

Are sleepovers available year-round?

No. The aquarium offers sleepovers seasonally, with more dates available during summer and the school year. Winter and spring typically have fewer options. Contact the group programs department to learn which dates are currently available and to book as far in advance as possible, especially for popular times.

What if someone in my group has a food allergy or dietary restriction?

Inform the aquarium when you book. They can usually accommodate common allergies and dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.), but you must tell them in advance. If your group has multiple or complex dietary needs, ask whether you're allowed to bring your own meals or snacks to supplement what the aquarium provides.

Can we take photos or videos during the sleepover?

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed during sleepovers. However, the aquarium may have restrictions on flash photography near certain exhibits or during specific activities to avoid stressing the animals. Ask staff about their photography policy when you arrive, and be respectful of other participants who may not want to be filmed.