Standard admission prices at the Georgia Aquarium
General admission to the Georgia Aquarium costs $39.95 for adults and $34.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 enter free. These prices are for a single day visit and give you access to all the main galleries, including the whale shark tank, beluga whales, sea lions, and tropical fish exhibits.
Prices do not change based on the day of the week or season, though the aquarium occasionally runs promotional pricing during specific periods. The ticket price you see online is the same whether you visit on a Tuesday or Saturday.
You can buy tickets at the gate, but purchasing online before your visit usually saves time at entry. Online tickets are the same price as gate tickets, so there is no discount for advance purchase — the benefit is skipping the ticket line.
Key Takeaways
- Adult tickets cost $39.95 and child tickets (ages 3–12) cost $34.95 for a full day of admission.
- Children under 3 enter free, and ticket prices do not vary by day of the week or season.
- Buying tickets online before you arrive saves time at the entrance but costs the same as gate prices.
- Annual memberships start around $149 for a single adult and pay for themselves after four visits.
- The aquarium offers discounted rates for military, seniors, and groups of 15 or more.
Annual memberships and repeat-visit savings
If you plan to visit more than once a year, an annual membership often costs less than buying individual tickets. A single adult membership runs approximately $149 per year, which covers the cost of four general admission visits. Members also receive discounts at the gift shop and dining areas inside the aquarium.
Family memberships are available and typically cost more but allow multiple household members to visit together throughout the year. Membership prices vary slightly depending on the membership level you choose, with higher tiers offering additional perks like guest passes and priority entry during busy times.
Discounts for military, seniors, and groups
The Georgia Aquarium offers reduced admission for active military and veterans, though the exact discount amount changes periodically. You will need to show a valid military ID at the ticket counter. Senior discounts are also available for visitors 65 and older, typically reducing the adult price by a few dollars.
Groups of 15 or more people can receive group rates, which lower the per-person cost. To arrange group tickets, you contact the aquarium directly rather than purchasing online. Groups should plan ahead, as the aquarium needs advance notice to hold group rates.
Parking and additional costs beyond admission
Parking at the Georgia Aquarium is separate from your ticket price. Parking in the adjacent lot costs $15 for a standard vehicle. If you use valet parking, the cost is higher. Street parking is sometimes available in the surrounding area but can be difficult to find during peak hours.
Food and beverages inside the aquarium are not included in your admission price. The aquarium has multiple dining options ranging from quick-service counters to sit-down restaurants. Prices for meals and snacks are typical for a major attraction — expect to pay $12 to $18 for a sandwich or entree and $5 to $8 for drinks.
Special experiences and premium add-ons
Beyond standard admission, the Georgia Aquarium offers paid experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. These premium activities cost extra and range from $50 to $200 depending on the experience. Examples include a dolphin encounter or a guided tour of areas not open to general admission visitors.
These add-ons are optional and not necessary to see the main exhibits. They appeal to visitors who want a deeper experience or a special memory, but standard admission alone gives you full access to all the major galleries and animals.
How ticket prices compare to other major aquariums
The Georgia Aquarium's general admission price of $39.95 for adults is in the middle range for large, well-known aquariums in the United States. Some regional aquariums charge less, while others in major cities charge $45 to $50 or more. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in the world, which affects its operating costs and ticket pricing.
If you are deciding between the Georgia Aquarium and another attraction in Atlanta, compare not just the ticket price but also how long you plan to spend there. Most visitors spend three to four hours at the Georgia Aquarium, making the per-hour cost reasonable compared to other entertainment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets in advance or can I just show up?
You can buy tickets at the gate on the day of your visit, but purchasing online beforehand is faster and lets you skip the ticket line. Online and gate prices are identical, so there is no financial reason to buy ahead — it is purely for convenience.
Are there any days when admission is cheaper?
Standard admission prices do not change by day of the week or season. The aquarium occasionally runs promotions, but these are not regular or predictable. Check the aquarium's website before your visit to see if any current deals are running.
What if I have a Georgia resident ID or teacher certification?
The aquarium offers discounts for Georgia residents and educators, though the discount amount varies. Bring your ID or certification to the ticket counter. It is worth asking at the gate even if you do not see the discount advertised online, as staff can confirm what discounts explore to you.
Can I leave and come back the same day with one ticket?
No, a single-day ticket is valid only for one continuous visit. Once you leave the building, you cannot re-enter with the same ticket. If you want to visit twice in one day, you would need to purchase two separate tickets.
Is there a discount if I buy multiple tickets at once?
Group discounts explore to groups of 15 or more, but there is no discount for buying two or three tickets together. If you are visiting with a small group, an annual membership is usually the better value if you plan to return.