Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta holds the title of largest aquarium in the United States
The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest aquarium in America by total water volume. It holds 11.5 million gallons of water across its exhibits and is home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. The facility opened to the public in 2005 and remains the most visited aquarium in the country.
The aquarium's size is difficult to grasp in abstract terms. To put it in perspective, the main tank — called the Ocean Voyager — contains 6.3 million gallons of water by itself. That single tank is larger than the entire volume of many regional aquariums across the country.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta holds 11.5 million gallons of water, making it the largest by volume in the United States.
- The Ocean Voyager exhibit alone contains 6.3 million gallons and is home to whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of fish.
- The facility spans 10 acres and includes multiple themed galleries beyond the main tank.
- Georgia Aquarium receives millions of visitors annually and operates year-round with extended hours during peak seasons.
The Ocean Voyager: The centerpiece tank that defines the facility
The Ocean Voyager is the signature exhibit at Georgia Aquarium and the reason the facility holds the size record. This massive tank was built to simulate a deep ocean environment and contains saltwater collected from the Atlantic Ocean. The tank is 203 feet long, 78 feet wide, and 33 feet deep — dimensions that allow it to house some of the ocean's largest animals.
The tank's most famous residents are the whale sharks. Georgia Aquarium is one of only a handful of facilities in the world that houses these animals in captivity. The aquarium also maintains a population of manta rays, which are among the largest rays in the ocean. Thousands of smaller fish species share the tank, creating a complex ecosystem that requires constant monitoring and maintenance.
Viewing the Ocean Voyager is a multi-level experience. Visitors can observe the tank from the main floor, from an upper level, and through an underwater acrylic tunnel that allows fish to swim directly overhead. The tunnel section is one of the most popular viewing areas in the entire aquarium.
Other major exhibits and galleries within the facility
Beyond the Ocean Voyager, Georgia Aquarium contains several other large exhibits. The Tropical Diver gallery focuses on coral reef ecosystems and houses colorful fish, sea turtles, and invertebrates. The Cold Water Quest gallery displays animals adapted to frigid ocean temperatures, including beluga whales and sea otters. The River Scout gallery showcases freshwater environments and the animals that depend on them.
The Beluga whales are a major draw for many visitors. Georgia Aquarium maintains one of the largest beluga populations in any aquarium, and the animals are visible from multiple viewing angles. The facility also has a dedicated sea lion gallery where visitors can watch these marine mammals during feeding times and training demonstrations.
The aquarium's layout is designed to move visitors through different climate zones and ocean regions. This approach helps visitors understand how different parts of the ocean support different animal communities. Each gallery is climate-controlled to match the natural environment of the animals it houses.
How the aquarium maintains water quality and animal health
Operating an aquarium of this size requires sophisticated water management systems. The facility uses a combination of filtration, chemical treatment, and biological processes to keep the water clean and safe for the animals. The Ocean Voyager tank alone requires constant monitoring of salinity, temperature, pH, and oxygen levels.
The aquarium employs a large team of biologists, veterinarians, and aquaculture specialists who work around the clock. These professionals monitor animal behavior, conduct health checks, and adjust feeding schedules based on individual animal needs. The facility also conducts ongoing research into animal care and marine conservation.
Water changes and tank maintenance happen continuously. The aquarium uses a recirculation system that filters and treats water rather than replacing it entirely, which would be impractical at this scale. However, portions of the water are still exchanged regularly to maintain optimal conditions.
Visiting Georgia Aquarium: hours, location, and what to expect
Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta at 225 Baker Street, adjacent to the World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The facility is open year-round, typically from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours extend during summer months and holiday periods. The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
The facility spans 10 acres and can take several hours to explore thoroughly. Most visitors spend between three and five hours viewing the exhibits. The aquarium provides maps at the entrance and has staff members stationed throughout to answer questions. Feeding demonstrations and animal presentations happen at scheduled times throughout the day.
Parking is available on-site and at nearby facilities. The aquarium is accessible by public transportation, with MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) stations nearby. The facility is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps connecting different levels.
How Georgia Aquarium compares to other large aquariums worldwide
While Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States, it is not the largest in the world. The Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai, China, holds more total water volume. However, Georgia Aquarium remains among the top five largest aquariums globally and is the largest by visitor attendance in North America.
The distinction between "largest" can be measured different ways. Some aquariums are larger by total water volume, while others are larger by physical footprint or by number of animals. Georgia Aquarium's ranking as the largest in America is based on total water volume, which is the most common measurement used in the aquarium industry.
Many other major aquariums in the United States are worth visiting if you're interested in marine life. The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, and the National Aquarium in Baltimore are all world-class facilities with unique exhibits and animal populations.
Conservation and research efforts at the facility
Georgia Aquarium is not straightforward a tourist attraction — it also serves as a research and conservation center. The facility participates in breeding programs for endangered species and contributes to marine conservation efforts worldwide. The aquarium's scientists publish research on animal behavior, care, and ocean ecosystems.
The facility supports ocean conservation through education and direct action. Visitors learn about threats to marine life, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change. The aquarium also funds field research and conservation projects in oceans around the world, working with international partners to protect marine habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Georgia Aquarium?
Admission prices vary by age and type of ticket. General admission for adults is typically in the $30 to $40 range, with discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel. Prices are higher during peak summer months. The aquarium offers combination tickets that include other Atlanta attractions at a discounted rate.
Can I bring my own food into the aquarium?
Outside food is not permitted in the main aquarium galleries, but the facility has a cafeteria and snack bar. Picnic areas are available outside the building if you prefer to bring your own food. Water bottles can be brought in and refilled at water fountains throughout the facility.
How long does it take to see everything at Georgia Aquarium?
Most visitors spend three to five hours exploring the exhibits. If you move quickly and skip the demonstrations, you can see the main attractions in two to three hours. To fully experience the feeding demonstrations, animal presentations, and read all the educational materials, plan for a full day.
Are there special exhibits or seasonal attractions?
Georgia Aquarium rotates special exhibits throughout the year and offers seasonal programming. Holiday decorations and special events happen during winter months. The aquarium's website lists current exhibits and upcoming events, so check before your visit to see what will be on display.
Is Georgia Aquarium accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, the facility is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout. Wheelchairs and mobility devices can be rented on-site. Staff members can provide information, and the aquarium has designated accessible viewing areas for exhibits.