Current admission prices at the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium charges different prices depending on your age and when you visit. General admission for adults is $39.99, children ages 3 to 12 are $34.99, and children under 3 enter free. Senior tickets (ages 65 and up) cost $34.99. These are the standard walk-up prices at the ticket window or online.

Prices are higher during peak times. Summer months (June through August) and holiday weeks charge a premium rate — adults pay around $44.99 instead of $39.99. The aquarium also runs occasional promotions where tickets cost less on specific days or through certain retailers. Checking the Georgia Aquarium website directly before you visit will show you the exact price for your chosen date.

Online tickets are usually the same price as tickets bought at the door, but buying ahead guarantees entry during busy periods and sometimes saves you time at the gate. The aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street in downtown Atlanta.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard adult admission is $39.99, with children ages 3 to 12 paying $34.99 and seniors paying $34.99.
  • Peak season (summer and holidays) raises prices by roughly $5 per ticket across all age groups.
  • Children under 3 enter free, and the aquarium occasionally runs discounts on specific dates.
  • Buying tickets online before your visit is the fastest way to enter and sometimes reveals current promotions.

What's included in your admission

Your ticket covers access to all the main exhibits, including the Beluga whale habitat, the massive Ocean Voyager tank with whale sharks, the tropical diver tank, and the cold-water penguin and sea otter areas. You can spend as much time as you want in each section — there's no time limit on your visit.

Admission does not include special experiences like the dolphin encounter, the sea lion show, or behind-the-scenes tours. Those cost extra and must be booked separately. The aquarium also charges separately for parking (around $15 for standard parking) unless you arrive by public transit or have a parking pass.

Membership and season passes

If you plan to visit more than once a year, a membership might save you money. Annual memberships start around $99 for an individual and $179 for a family of four, though prices vary. Members get unlimited visits, discounts on special experiences, and sometimes discounts at the gift shop and café.

The aquarium occasionally offers discounted memberships during promotional periods, usually in the fall. You can purchase or renew a membership online or at the ticket desk. Membership details and current pricing are on the Georgia Aquarium website.

Discounts and ways to save

Several organizations offer discounted Georgia Aquarium tickets. Some employers provide discounted admission through their benefits programs — check with your HR department. Military members and veterans sometimes receive discounts with valid ID. Local libraries occasionally distribute free or discounted passes to residents.

The aquarium runs periodic promotions, such as discounted rates on certain weekdays or special pricing during slower seasons. Visiting on a weekday rather than a weekend or holiday typically means paying the lower standard rate instead of the peak price.

Planning your visit and timing

The aquarium is open year-round, usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours extend during summer months and holidays. Weekday visits are generally less crowded than weekends, and you'll move through exhibits more comfortably. Arriving early in the day, especially on weekends, means shorter lines at the entrance.

The aquarium is in downtown Atlanta near the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Dome. Public parking is available nearby, though the dedicated aquarium parking lot fills quickly during peak times. MARTA (the Atlanta transit system) has a station within walking distance if you prefer not to drive.

What to bring and what to expect

Wear comfortable shoes — the aquarium covers a large area and involves a lot of walking. Bring water and snacks, or plan to buy them at the café inside (prices are typical for a museum venue). The building is climate-controlled and can be cool, so a light jacket is useful.

The aquarium can be very crowded during summer vacation and holiday weeks. If you're sensitive to crowds, plan a weekday visit during the school year. Strollers are allowed, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. The aquarium has family restrooms and nursing areas if you need them.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. However, you can eat in the outdoor plaza area before or after your visit. The aquarium café sells sandwiches, snacks, and drinks at standard museum prices.

Is there a discount if I buy tickets for a large group?

Yes. Groups of 15 or more people usually receive discounted rates. Contact the Georgia Aquarium group sales department directly through their website or by phone to arrange group pricing and reserve your visit.

Do I have to pay for parking, or is it included with admission?

Parking is separate from admission and costs around $15 for standard parking in the aquarium lot. Street parking is available in downtown Atlanta but can be harder to find during busy times. MARTA transit is a free alternative if you have a pass.

What time of year is cheapest to visit?

Standard pricing applies during fall and spring, outside of holiday weeks. Winter months (January through early March) typically have the lowest prices and smallest crowds, making them the most budget-friendly time to visit.

Can I re-enter the aquarium on the same day if I leave?

Re-entry policies vary. Check with the ticket desk when you purchase your ticket to confirm whether you can leave and return the same day, or ask when you arrive.