General admission costs at the Georgia Aquarium

General admission to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta costs between $30 and $45 per person for adults, depending on when you visit. The price varies by season: peak times like summer vacation and holidays cost more than weekday visits in the off-season. Children ages 3 to 12 typically cost $20 to $30, and children under 3 enter free. Seniors 65 and older usually receive a discount of a few dollars off the adult price.

These prices cover access to all the main exhibits, including the Beluga whales, whale sharks, manta rays, and sea lions. You can spend as much time as you want in the building once you enter — there is no time limit on your visit. The aquarium is open year-round, though hours change seasonally, so check the official website before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Adult admission ranges from $30 to $45 depending on the season, with lower prices on weekdays and higher prices during summer and holidays.
  • Children ages 3 to 12 cost $20 to $30, and children under 3 enter free.
  • Buying tickets online in advance usually costs less than buying them at the gate on the day of your visit.
  • Annual memberships start around $100 per person and pay for themselves after three or four visits if you plan to return.
  • Special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters cost extra and must be booked separately.

Online tickets versus gate prices

Buying your ticket online before you arrive saves money. Advance online tickets are typically $5 to $10 cheaper per person than tickets purchased at the gate. The aquarium's official website and major ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster both sell advance tickets. You print them at home or show them on your phone when you enter.

If you buy at the gate, you pay the full walk-up price, which is always higher. During busy seasons, the gate can also have long lines, so advance purchase saves time as well as money. Some discount ticket resellers offer Georgia Aquarium tickets at a markup, so compare prices on the official site first.

Annual memberships and repeat visitor costs

If you plan to visit more than twice a year, an annual membership usually costs less overall. Individual memberships start around $100 to $130 per year, depending on the membership tier. A family membership that covers two adults and up to four children costs roughly $200 to $250 per year. Members get unlimited visits, skip-the-line entry, and discounts on special experiences and the gift shop.

A membership pays for itself after three or four visits at peak-season prices. If you live in the Atlanta area or plan a multi-day trip, membership often makes financial sense. The aquarium offers different membership levels with varying perks, so review what each tier includes before you buy.

Special experiences and add-on costs

The general admission price covers the main exhibits, but the aquarium offers paid add-ons. Behind-the-scenes tours typically cost $30 to $50 extra per person and last 45 minutes to an hour. Animal encounters — where you touch or feed certain animals under staff supervision — range from $20 to $100 depending on which animal and how close the interaction is. Whale shark diving, where certified divers swim with the whale sharks, costs several hundred dollars and requires advance booking.

These experiences are optional and not included in general admission. You book them separately when you purchase your ticket or sometimes on the day of your visit, depending on availability. Ask at the information desk when you arrive if you are interested in add-ons.

Parking and other costs to budget

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium costs $15 to $20 per vehicle. The lot is on-site and included with your visit — you do not pay separately to park. If you use valet parking, the cost is higher. Street parking is available nearby but can be hard to find during peak times.

Food and drinks inside the aquarium are priced like most tourist attractions — a meal typically costs $12 to $25 per person. You can bring your own snacks and drinks (except alcohol) into the building, which saves money if you plan a long visit. The gift shop sells souvenirs ranging from small items under $10 to larger toys and apparel costing $30 or more.

Discounts and ways to save

Several groups receive discounts on admission. Military members and veterans often get $5 to $10 off with valid ID. Georgia residents sometimes receive resident discounts, especially during certain months. Teachers and school groups can arrange group rates if you book in advance. Some employers and credit unions offer discounted ticket packages, so check with your benefits office or bank.

The aquarium occasionally runs promotions during slower seasons or on specific days. Following their social media accounts or signing up for their email list can alert you to flash sales or discounted days. Visiting on a weekday in the fall or winter typically costs less than a weekend visit in summer.

What the price includes and does not include

Your general admission ticket covers entry to all permanent exhibits and galleries. This includes the Ocean Voyager exhibit with whale sharks and manta rays, the Beluga whale habitat, the sea lion show, and dozens of smaller tanks and touch pools. You can watch the sea lion show as many times as you want during your visit — it runs multiple times daily.

Your ticket does not include special experiences, parking, food, or merchandise. Some temporary exhibits or traveling shows may have an extra charge beyond general admission, though this is rare. Ask at the ticket counter if you are unsure whether a specific exhibit requires an additional fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy tickets in advance or can I just show up?

You can show up and buy tickets at the gate, but advance online purchase is cheaper and faster. During peak season (summer, spring break, holidays), advance tickets are strongly recommended because the gate can have long waits and prices are higher. Off-season weekday visits are less crowded, but online purchase still saves money.

Are there any days when admission is free or discounted?

The aquarium does not have regular free admission days, but it occasionally runs promotions during slower seasons. Some local organizations and schools may receive group discounts. Check the official website or call ahead to ask about current promotions or resident discounts.

Can I bring my own food and drinks inside?

Yes, you can bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks into the aquarium. This is a good way to save money on a long visit. Alcohol, glass containers, and outside food from restaurants are not permitted.

What is the difference between the membership tiers?

Membership levels vary by benefits like number of guests included, guest passes, discounts on special experiences, and priority booking for add-ons. Review the membership page on the official website to see which tier fits your needs and how many visits you plan to make per year.

Is parking included in the admission price?

Parking is not included in your ticket price — you pay $15 to $20 separately at the on-site lot. Valet parking costs more. If you prefer not to pay for parking, street parking is available in the surrounding area, though it can be limited during busy times.