Current ticket prices at the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta charges $44.95 for an adult general admission ticket as of the most recent pricing. Children ages 3 to 12 cost $34.95, and children under 3 enter free. Senior tickets (ages 65+) are $39.95. These prices cover access to all the main galleries and exhibits, including the whale shark tank, beluga whales, and sea lion shows.

Prices can shift seasonally and occasionally without notice, so calling ahead at (404) 581-4000 or checking the aquarium's website before your visit is worth the five minutes. Online tickets sometimes cost slightly less than tickets bought at the gate, though the difference is usually just a dollar or two.

The aquarium also offers membership passes that pay for themselves after two or three visits if you plan to return. A single adult membership runs around $120 per year and includes unlimited visits, guest passes, and discounts at the gift shop and café.

Key Takeaways

  • Adult general admission is $44.95; children ages 3 to 12 are $34.95; children under 3 are free.
  • Buying tickets online before you arrive usually saves a few dollars compared to the gate price.
  • Annual memberships cost around $120 for a single adult and include unlimited visits plus guest passes.
  • Prices vary by season and can change, so confirm the current cost on the aquarium's website or by phone before you go.
  • The ticket price includes access to all main galleries, live shows, and special exhibits on the day of your visit.

What's included in your ticket

A general admission ticket gets you into every permanent gallery in the building. That means the Ocean Voyager exhibit with the whale shark, the Tropical Diver section, the Beluga whale habitat, and the sea lion shows that run throughout the day. You can stay as long as you want once you're inside—there's no time limit.

Some special exhibits rotate in and out and may cost extra. The aquarium occasionally adds temporary displays on topics like jellyfish or deep-sea creatures, and these sometimes require an additional fee beyond general admission. Check the website to see what's on during your planned visit.

Discounts and ways to save

Georgia residents sometimes get a discount on admission—the aquarium occasionally runs state resident days where tickets drop by $5 to $10. Military members and their families usually receive a discount as well, typically around 10 percent off. You'll need to show a valid ID at the ticket window.

If you're visiting with a school or large group, the aquarium offers group rates that can lower the per-person cost. Groups of 15 or more should contact the group sales team directly to get a quote. Birthday parties and private events also have their own pricing structure.

The CityPASS, which bundles admission to several Atlanta attractions, includes Georgia Aquarium tickets and can save money if you plan to visit multiple sites in one trip. A CityPASS typically costs around $100 and covers the aquarium plus four other major attractions.

Parking and additional costs

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium itself is limited and costs $15 for a standard car. Street parking is sometimes available nearby in the downtown area, though it fills up quickly on weekends and during school holidays. Some visitors use paid lots a few blocks away, which may be cheaper depending on the day.

Food and drinks inside the aquarium are priced like most museum cafés—higher than outside restaurants. A sandwich or entrée typically runs $12 to $18, and bottled water costs $4 to $5. You're allowed to bring your own snacks and water bottles, which many families do to keep costs down.

Planning your visit by season

Summer (June through August) and spring break weeks are the busiest times at the Georgia Aquarium. Crowds are heaviest on weekends and during school holidays. If you can visit on a weekday in the fall or winter, you'll encounter shorter lines and a more relaxed experience, though ticket prices don't change based on crowd level.

The aquarium is open year-round, including holidays, though hours may be shortened on certain days. Winter hours are typically 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., while summer hours extend to 6 or 7 p.m. Check the website for the specific hours on your planned date.

Online booking and what to bring

Buying tickets online through the Georgia Aquarium website usually takes about five minutes and saves you time at the gate. You'll receive a confirmation email with a barcode that you scan at entry—no need to print anything. Mobile tickets work just as well as printed ones.

Bring a valid photo ID if you're claiming a senior or military discount. Comfortable walking shoes are essential because the aquarium spans multiple levels and you'll cover a lot of ground. The building is air-conditioned and climate-controlled, so dress for indoor comfort rather than the weather outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Georgia Aquarium?

Yes, you can bring snacks and water bottles. Outside food and drinks are permitted, which helps families manage costs. The aquarium has some seating areas where you can eat your own food, though they're not extensive.

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 is faster and sometimes slightly cheaper. On busy days, the ticket line can take 15 to 30 minutes, so buying ahead saves time if you know when you're going.

Are there any days when admission is cheaper?

Georgia residents sometimes get discounts on designated state resident days, and military members receive a discount year-round with valid ID. CityPASS holders also pay less per attraction. Check the aquarium's website for current promotions.

What if I want to visit multiple times—is a membership worth it?

If you visit three or more times in a year, a membership usually pays for itself. A single adult membership is around $120 annually and includes unlimited visits, guest passes, and gift shop discounts. Families with children may find the value even stronger.

Is there a difference between buying tickets online versus at the gate?

Online tickets are usually $1 to $3 cheaper per person and let you skip the ticket line. Both are valid for entry on the date you purchase. If you're visiting during peak season, buying online saves significant time.