General Admission Cost

General admission to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta costs $39.99 for adults, $34.99 for children ages 3 to 12, and $34.99 for seniors 65 and older. Children under 3 enter free. These are the standard walk-up prices at the ticket window or online.

Prices can shift seasonally and during special events, so checking the aquarium's website directly before your visit gives you the most current rates. The aquarium occasionally runs promotions tied to school breaks or local holidays.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard admission is $39.99 for adults and $34.99 for children ages 3 to 12 and seniors 65 and older.
  • Buying tickets online in advance often costs less than paying at the gate on the day of your visit.
  • Annual memberships start around $99 and pay for themselves after three visits if you plan to return.
  • The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta and includes access to the main galleries, whale shark tank, and beluga whale exhibits.
  • Parking is separate from admission and costs $15 for standard parking in the aquarium lot.

Discounts for Buying Tickets Online

Purchasing tickets through the Georgia Aquarium website before you arrive typically saves $5 to $10 per ticket compared to buying at the gate. Online tickets are usually $29.99 to $34.99 depending on the day and season, while gate prices run higher.

The aquarium uses dynamic pricing, meaning weekend and holiday rates are higher than weekday rates. Visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning will cost less than a Saturday afternoon. Booking several days in advance locks in the lower rate.

Annual Membership and Frequent Visitor Options

An annual membership starts around $99 for a single adult and includes unlimited visits, free parking, and discounts at the gift shop and dining areas. If you plan to visit three or more times in a year, membership pays for itself compared to buying individual tickets.

Family memberships that cover two adults and up to four children cost roughly $249 to $299 annually. Members also receive invitations to special member-only events and early access to new exhibits.

What Is Included in Your Admission

Your ticket covers access to all main gallery areas, including the whale shark tank (the largest in the world by volume), the beluga whale habitat, the tropical diver section, and the cold water penguin and sea otter exhibits. You can spend anywhere from two to five hours depending on how long you linger at each tank.

Admission does not include special experiences like the dolphin encounter or the behind-the-scenes tour, which cost extra. Food, beverages, and merchandise are also sold separately. The aquarium has a cafeteria and several snack stands inside.

Parking and Transportation Costs

Parking in the Georgia Aquarium's dedicated lot costs $15 per vehicle. Street parking is available in downtown Atlanta but can be harder to find and may cost more depending on the area and time of day.

The aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street in downtown Atlanta, near the World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Public transit via MARTA (the Atlanta rapid transit system) is an option if you prefer not to drive or pay for parking.

Special Experiences and Add-Ons

Beyond general admission, the aquarium offers paid add-on experiences. A dolphin encounter where you interact with dolphins in a shallow pool costs around $99 to $149 per person. A guided behind-the-scenes tour runs approximately $49 to $79 and takes you to areas not open to the general public.

These experiences must usually be booked in advance and have limited time slots. They fill up quickly during peak seasons, so planning ahead is important if you want to participate.

Group Rates and School Visits

Groups of 15 or more people receive discounted admission rates. Group pricing typically reduces the per-person cost by $5 to $10. Schools and educational organizations can arrange field trip packages that sometimes include a guided tour or educational program led by aquarium staff.

Group bookings require advance notice and are coordinated through the aquarium's group sales department. Contact the aquarium directly for current group rates and to reserve your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I buy tickets online?

Refund policies vary depending on when you purchase and the type of ticket. Most online tickets are non-refundable but can be rescheduled to a different date. Check the terms at checkout before completing your purchase, as policies change seasonally.

Are there discounts for military or government employees?

The Georgia Aquarium does offer military discounts on certain days and through specific programs. Contact the aquarium or check their website for current military pricing and any required documentation like a military ID.

What time of year is cheapest to visit?

Weekday visits during the school year (September through May, excluding holidays) typically have the lowest ticket prices. Summer, spring break, and winter holidays are peak seasons with higher admission costs.

Is there a combo ticket with other Atlanta attractions?

The Georgia Aquarium sometimes offers bundled tickets with nearby attractions like the World of Coca-Cola or the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. These packages can save money if you plan to visit multiple sites. Check the aquarium website or call ahead to see what packages are currently available.

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 online purchase in advance usually costs less and guarantees entry. During very busy periods like summer weekends, tickets can sell out, so advance purchase is safer.