Current ticket prices at the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta charges $39.95 for adults, $34.95 for children ages 3 to 12, and $34.95 for seniors 65 and older. Children under 3 enter free. These are the standard walk-up prices at the ticket window or online. Prices do not include tax, which adds roughly 8.9 percent to your total depending on the county.

The aquarium sits in downtown Atlanta at 225 Baker Street NW. It is open daily, though hours shift seasonally — typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends, but you should check their website before you go because holiday hours and special events can change the schedule.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard admission is $39.95 for adults and $34.95 for children and seniors, plus tax.
  • Buying tickets online before you arrive usually costs the same as the gate price but saves you time in line.
  • Annual memberships start at around $99 and pay for themselves in three visits if you go regularly.
  • Discounted rates are sometimes offered through schools, military ID, and local employer programs — ask when you buy.
  • Special exhibits or experiences like behind-the-scenes tours cost extra on top of general admission.

Online versus gate ticket prices

Buying your ticket on the Georgia Aquarium website before you arrive does not lower the price — you pay the same $39.95 or $34.95. The real advantage is speed: you skip the ticket line and walk straight to the entrance. On busy days, especially weekends and school holidays, the line at the window can take 20 to 30 minutes.

You can also buy tickets through third-party sites like Ticketmaster, but those sites add a processing fee of $3 to $5 per ticket. Unless a discount code is running on one of those platforms, buying directly from the aquarium's own website costs less.

Annual memberships and repeat visit savings

If you plan to visit more than twice a year, an annual membership usually saves money. A single adult membership costs around $99 to $119 per year, depending on the membership tier. That breaks even after three visits at the standard adult price of $39.95 each. Family memberships run higher but cover two adults and up to four children.

Members also get perks beyond free admission: discounts at the gift shop and café, priority parking, and invitations to members-only events. The aquarium sometimes runs promotions where you can add a membership for a reduced price if you buy a day ticket, so ask at the counter.

Discounts through schools, military, and employers

The Georgia Aquarium offers reduced rates for school groups, active military, veterans, and people with valid military ID. The discount is usually $5 to $10 off the standard price per person, but you typically need to show your ID at the ticket window. Some employers in the Atlanta area also negotiate group rates for their staff — check with your HR department or employee benefits office to see if your company has a partnership.

Local nonprofits and community centers sometimes receive discounted bulk tickets that they distribute to members or clients. If you are part of a community program, ask the staff whether they have aquarium tickets available.

Special experiences and add-on costs

General admission covers access to all the main exhibits: the whale shark tank, the beluga whales, the tropical diver section, and the cold water exhibits. But the aquarium offers paid add-ons that cost extra. A behind-the-scenes tour runs $30 to $50 per person on top of your admission ticket. A trainer encounter or feeding experience can cost $40 to $75 depending on which animal you interact with.

These experiences are not included in your admission price and must be booked separately, usually through the aquarium's website or by phone. Availability is limited and fills up quickly during peak season, so book ahead if you want to do one.

What to expect on different days and seasons

Ticket prices stay the same year-round, but the aquarium is more crowded — and lines are longer — during school holidays, summer vacation, and weekends. If you can visit on a weekday during the school year, you will spend less time waiting. The aquarium is also less crowded on rainy days, which can be a good time to visit if you are flexible.

The aquarium does not raise prices for special events or seasonal exhibits, though some temporary exhibits may require a separate small fee. Check the website before your visit to see what is on display and whether anything costs extra.

Parking and total cost to visit

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium costs $15 for a standard lot or $20 for preferred parking closer to the entrance. If you are a member, parking is free. Street parking is available nearby but can be hard to find on busy days. Public transportation — the MARTA rail system — stops near the aquarium and costs $2.50 per ride, which is cheaper than parking if you are coming from elsewhere in Atlanta.

Budget for food and drinks separately: the café inside charges $12 to $18 for a meal, and the gift shop has items ranging from $5 to $50. You can bring your own snacks and water bottle to save money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children under 3 really enter free?

Yes. Children under 3 do not need a ticket. You will need to show proof of age at the entrance if the child looks older, so bring a birth certificate or ID if you think there will be a question.

Can I buy a ticket for just part of the day?

No. All tickets are for full-day admission. Once you enter, you can leave and re-enter the same day, but you cannot buy a ticket for a specific number of hours.

What if I have a disability or need accommodations?

The Georgia Aquarium offers discounted admission for people with disabilities and one free companion ticket. You will need to show a disability ID or documentation at the ticket window. Call ahead at the main number to ask about specific accommodations like wheelchair access or quiet spaces.

Are there group discounts if I bring 10 or more people?

Yes. Groups of 10 or more usually receive a discount of $3 to $5 per ticket. You need to book in advance through the aquarium's group sales line so they can arrange entry and potentially a guided tour.

Can I get a refund if I don't use my ticket?

Refund policies vary depending on when and how you bought the ticket. Tickets bought online usually cannot be refunded but can be transferred to another person. Call the aquarium directly to ask about your specific ticket.