General Admission Prices at the Georgia Aquarium

General admission to the Georgia Aquarium costs $44.95 for adults and $34.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 enter free. These prices are current as of 2024, though the aquarium adjusts them seasonally and occasionally raises them, so confirm the current rate on their website before you visit.

The price you pay depends partly on when you go. Tickets purchased online in advance are typically cheaper than tickets bought at the gate on the day of your visit. Weekend and holiday visits often cost more than weekday visits during off-peak seasons. The aquarium also runs periodic promotions—discounts for Georgia residents, military discounts, and package deals with other Atlanta attractions—so it is worth checking their site or calling ahead if you may have access to for any of these.

Key Takeaways

  • General admission is $44.95 for adults and $34.95 for children ages 3 to 12, with children under 3 entering free.
  • Buying tickets online before your visit usually costs less than paying at the gate on the day you arrive.
  • Weekend, holiday, and summer visits typically charge higher prices than weekday visits during slower seasons.
  • The aquarium offers military discounts, Georgia resident discounts, and occasional promotional pricing that can lower your cost.
  • Special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters cost extra on top of general admission.

Advance Purchase and Online Discounts

Buying your ticket online through the Georgia Aquarium's official website usually saves you money compared to purchasing at the ticket window. Online tickets are typically $2 to $5 cheaper per person, and you avoid the line at the gate. You can purchase tickets days or weeks ahead and print them at home or show them on your phone when you arrive.

The aquarium also offers discounts for purchasing multi-day passes if you plan to visit more than once in a year. An annual membership is another option if you visit frequently—the cost breaks even after about three visits and includes perks like free parking and discounts at the gift shop. Check their website for current membership pricing and what each tier includes.

Seasonal and Peak-Time Price Variations

The Georgia Aquarium charges different prices depending on the time of year and day of the week. Summer vacation weeks (typically June through August), spring break, winter holidays, and weekends command higher prices than quiet weekday visits in fall or winter. A weekday visit in January or February will cost less than the same ticket on a Saturday in July.

The aquarium publishes a calendar on their website showing which dates are considered peak, regular, or off-peak pricing. Planning your visit around slower periods can save your family $5 to $10 per ticket. If your schedule is flexible, a Tuesday or Wednesday in the fall or early spring offers the lowest prices.

Special Experiences and Add-On Costs

General admission covers access to all the main exhibits and viewing areas. However, the aquarium offers optional paid experiences beyond the basic ticket. Behind-the-scenes tours cost around $30 to $50 per person and let you see areas not open to the general public. Animal encounters—where you touch or feed certain species—range from $20 to $100 depending on the animal and experience length.

Photo packages, interactive feeding experiences, and private group tours all carry separate fees. These are not required to enjoy the aquarium, but they are available if you want a more in-depth experience. Ask at the information desk when you arrive, or check the website in advance to see which add-ons interest you and budget accordingly.

Military, Resident, and Group Discounts

Active military members and veterans receive a discount on general admission—typically $5 to $10 off per ticket depending on the current promotion. Georgia residents also receive periodic discounts, especially during designated Georgia resident days. You will need to show a valid military ID or Georgia driver's license at the gate to receive these discounts.

Groups of 15 or more people may have access to for group rates, which are usually 10 to 15 percent cheaper than individual tickets. Schools, scout troops, and family reunions often book group visits. Contact the aquarium's group sales department directly to arrange group pricing and reserve your visit time.

Parking and Additional Costs

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium is not free. Standard parking costs around $15 per vehicle, though prices vary depending on the lot and time of year. If you have an annual membership, parking is usually included. Valet parking is available for an additional fee if you prefer not to park yourself.

Once inside, food and beverages are available at multiple cafés and restaurants throughout the facility. Meals and snacks cost what you would expect at a major attraction—$12 to $20 for a sandwich or entree, $5 to $8 for a drink. The aquarium allows you to bring your own food and water bottles, which can save money if you pack a lunch. The gift shop sells souvenirs ranging from small items under $10 to larger plush toys and collectibles over $50.

Planning Your Budget

A typical visit for a family of four—two adults and two children—costs roughly $160 to $180 for general admission alone if you buy tickets online in advance during an off-peak time. Add parking ($15), lunch for four ($50 to $80), and perhaps one small souvenir per person ($30 to $50), and your total is closer to $260 to $330 for the day.

If you visit during peak season, buy tickets at the gate, or add special experiences like animal encounters, costs rise significantly. Conversely, visiting on a weekday in winter, bringing your own food, and skipping add-ons keeps expenses lower. Check the aquarium's website for current pricing and any active promotions before you plan your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children under 3 really get in free?

Yes, children under 3 enter the Georgia Aquarium at no charge. You do not need a ticket for them, though you will still need to pay for parking and any food or add-on experiences they participate in.

Can I get a refund if I buy a ticket and cannot go?

Refund policies vary depending on when and how you purchased your ticket. Tickets bought online typically allow cancellation or rescheduling up to a certain number of days before your visit. Check the terms when you purchase, or contact the aquarium directly to ask about their current refund policy.

Is there a cheaper way to visit if I live in Georgia?

Yes. Georgia residents receive discounts on certain days throughout the year, and some local employers or credit unions offer discounted ticket packages. An annual membership also pays for itself quickly if you plan multiple visits. Check the aquarium's website or call to ask about current resident promotions.

What is included in the general admission price?

General admission covers access to all permanent exhibits, including the whale shark tank, beluga whales, sea otters, and other marine life displays. It does not include special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, or photo packages, which cost extra.

Can I bring my own food into the aquarium?

Yes, you can bring your own food and water bottles into the Georgia Aquarium. This is a good way to save money on meals during your visit. The aquarium also has multiple cafés if you prefer to purchase food there.