Current admission prices at Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta charges $44.99 for adults and $39.99 for children ages 3 to 12 as of the most recent pricing. Children under 3 enter free. These are the standard walk-up prices at the ticket counter or online. Prices can shift seasonally, so checking the official Georgia Aquarium website before your visit confirms what you will actually pay on the day you go.

The aquarium also offers discounts for military members, seniors over 65, and Georgia residents. Military discounts typically run $5 to $10 off the standard price with valid ID. Senior pricing is usually $39.99. Georgia resident discounts vary by season but often reduce the adult price by $5 to $10. These discounts explore to in-person and online purchases.

Buying tickets online in advance usually costs the same as the gate price but saves time — you skip the ticket line and go straight to entry. Some third-party ticket resellers offer discounts, though the savings are often small and the tickets are the same ones the aquarium sells directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard adult admission is $44.99 and child admission (ages 3–12) is $39.99, with children under 3 entering free.
  • Military members, seniors, and Georgia residents receive discounts ranging from $5 to $10 off standard prices with valid ID.
  • Buying tickets online ahead of time costs the same but eliminates the ticket line on arrival.
  • Prices change seasonally, so confirm the current rate on the Georgia Aquarium website before you visit.

What's included in general admission

Your ticket covers access to all the main galleries and exhibits in the aquarium. You see the whale shark tank, the beluga whales, the sea lions, tropical fish galleries, and the cold-water exhibits. The aquarium is large — most visitors spend three to four hours walking through — so the single admission price covers a full day's worth of viewing.

General admission does not include special experiences like the dolphin encounter, the sea lion interaction, or the behind-the-scenes tours. Those cost extra and are sold separately. The aquarium also offers a "VIP Experience" package that includes early entry, a guided tour, and reserved seating for the sea lion show, which runs higher than standard admission.

Membership and annual pass options

If you plan to visit more than twice a year, a membership often costs less than paying per visit. An individual membership typically runs around $99 to $129 per year and includes unlimited visits, discounts on special experiences, and parking. A family membership (usually two adults and up to four children) costs roughly $199 to $249 annually.

Members also get discounts at the aquarium gift shop and the on-site restaurant. Some memberships include reciprocal benefits at other zoos and aquariums across the country, though you need to check the membership tier. The aquarium website lists current membership prices and what each level includes.

Parking and transportation costs

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium costs $15 for standard parking in the on-site lot. Valet parking is available for $25. If you have a membership, parking is usually included. The aquarium sits in downtown Atlanta near the World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, so street parking may be available nearby, though it fills quickly on weekends.

Public transportation is an option — the aquarium is accessible by MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) bus and train. A single MARTA fare is $2.50, which is cheaper than parking if you are coming from elsewhere in the city. The nearest MARTA station is Peachtree Center, about a 10-minute walk away.

Combo tickets and package deals

The aquarium sometimes bundles admission with other Atlanta attractions. A common package pairs Georgia Aquarium with the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Dome or another nearby venue. These combo deals typically save $5 to $15 compared to buying each ticket separately, depending on which attractions you choose.

Combo pricing changes throughout the year and is usually promoted on the aquarium's website or through partner sites. If you are planning to visit multiple attractions during your trip, checking for package deals before buying individual tickets can reduce your total cost. Some hotels in downtown Atlanta also offer package rates that include aquarium admission.

Special events and seasonal pricing

The Georgia Aquarium runs special events throughout the year — holiday celebrations, extended evening hours, and themed nights — that may have different pricing than standard admission. During peak tourist seasons (summer and major holidays), prices sometimes increase slightly. Off-season visits in fall and early spring often have lower rates.

The aquarium also closes certain days for maintenance or private events, so checking the calendar before you plan your visit prevents a wasted trip. Some special experiences like the "Dive with Whale Sharks" program cost significantly more than general admission and require advance booking.

How to find current prices and discounts

The official Georgia Aquarium website (georgiaaquarium.org) is the most reliable source for current admission prices, hours, and any active discounts. Prices listed there reflect what you will pay on the day of your visit. The website also shows which discounts are currently available and what ID or proof you need to claim them.

Calling the aquarium directly at their main number also works if you have questions about pricing or need to confirm a discount applies to your situation. Third-party ticket sites sometimes advertise lower prices, but verify those prices match the official website — some sites add fees that eliminate the savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children under 3 really enter free?

Yes. Children under 3 do not need a ticket and enter free with a paying adult. You do not need to show proof of age — the aquarium trusts the parent or guardian. If you have multiple children under 3, all of them enter free.

Can I get a refund if I buy tickets online and can't go?

Refund policies vary depending on when you bought the ticket and which type you purchased. Tickets bought directly from the Georgia Aquarium website typically allow refunds or exchanges if you cancel at least 48 hours before your visit. Tickets from third-party resellers often have stricter policies, so check the terms before you buy.

Is parking included if I buy a membership?

Parking is included with most membership levels, but confirm this on the membership details page before you join. Some lower-tier memberships may not include parking, so read what each level covers. Members also typically get discounted valet if they choose that option.

What's the cheapest way to visit if I'm a Georgia resident?

Buy your ticket online with the Georgia resident discount applied. This gives you the lowest per-visit price and saves you time at the gate. If you plan to return, a membership pays for itself after two or three visits and includes parking.

Do group discounts exist for large parties?

Yes. Groups of 15 or more people typically receive discounted rates. Contact the aquarium directly or check their website for group pricing and how to book. School groups and organized tours often have their own pricing tiers.