The Georgia Aquarium is in downtown Atlanta on Pemberton Place

The Georgia Aquarium sits at 225 Baker Street Northwest in Atlanta, Georgia 30313. It occupies a full city block in the Pemberton Place area, which is part of downtown Atlanta's tourist district. The building itself is hard to miss — it is a massive modern structure with a white exterior, located just west of the World of Coca-Cola and south of the Georgia Dome.

The address is the official mailing address and the one you should use in GPS or mapping apps. When you arrive, there is a main entrance on Baker Street and additional entrances on Pemberton Place. Parking is available in nearby lots and garages; the aquarium's website lists current parking options and rates.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street Northwest in downtown Atlanta, in the Pemberton Place district.
  • It sits within walking distance of other downtown attractions like the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Dome, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
  • Public transit options include MARTA rail service to the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena station, which is a short walk away.
  • Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, though rates vary by location and time of day.
  • The aquarium is open year-round, though hours vary by season and special events.

Getting there by car and parking

If you are driving, enter 225 Baker Street Northwest into your GPS or mapping app — this will route you directly to the building. The aquarium is accessible from Interstate 75/85 (the Downtown Connector) and from local streets. Once you exit the highway, follow signs toward downtown and the tourist district.

Parking is available in several nearby garages and surface lots. The closest options are the Baker Street Parking Garage and the Pemberton Place Parking Garage, both within a block of the main entrance. Rates typically range from $10 to $20 for a full day, though prices may be higher during peak tourist seasons or special events. Some lots offer validation or discounts if you purchase aquarium tickets; check the aquarium's website or ask at the ticket counter.

Using public transportation

The MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) rail system serves the aquarium area. The closest station is the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena station on the red and gold lines. From this station, the aquarium is a five- to ten-minute walk south along Baker Street. Follow signs toward the World of Coca-Cola or ask staff at the station for directions.

If you are coming from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, take the red line toward North Springs and get off at the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena station. The trip takes about 30 minutes. MARTA fares are the same regardless of distance; you can purchase a single-trip card or a day pass at the station. Check the MARTA website for current schedules and fares.

Walking from nearby attractions

The Georgia Aquarium is part of a cluster of downtown attractions within walking distance of each other. The World of Coca-Cola is directly next door — you can see it from the aquarium entrance. The Georgia Dome is a short walk to the north, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is one block east. If you are staying downtown or visiting multiple attractions, you can walk between them in 10 to 15 minutes.

The streets in this area are well-lit and pedestrian-friendly during the day. If you are walking at night, stick to main streets and consider using a rideshare service instead. The neighborhood is busy during the day but quieter in the evening, especially on weekdays.

Hours and seasonal changes

The Georgia Aquarium is open year-round, but hours change by season. During peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays), it typically opens at 9 or 10 a.m. and closes at 6 or 7 p.m. During slower months, hours may be shorter — sometimes opening at 10 a.m. and closing at 5 p.m. The aquarium also closes or adjusts hours for special events and maintenance.

Before you visit, check the aquarium's official website or call ahead to confirm the hours for your specific date. This is especially important if you are planning a trip during a holiday or if you are traveling from out of town. The website also lists any temporary closures or special events that might affect your visit.

What to bring and what to expect

Wear comfortable walking shoes — the aquarium is large and you will spend several hours on your feet. Bring a water bottle or plan to purchase drinks inside; refillable water stations are available. The building is climate-controlled, so you will be comfortable indoors regardless of the weather outside.

The aquarium can be crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends and during school holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit on a weekday morning or during the off-season. Strollers are permitted, and the building is wheelchair accessible. The aquarium has a coat check if you need to store jackets or bags.

Nearby hotels and dining

Several hotels are within walking distance of the Georgia Aquarium, including the Omni Hotel at CNN Center, the Hilton Atlanta, and the Marriott Marquis. These range from budget to upscale options. If you are visiting from out of town and want to stay nearby, booking a hotel in downtown Atlanta puts you within straightforward reach of the aquarium and other attractions.

Dining options are plentiful in the area. The aquarium itself has a café and food vendors inside, though prices are higher than restaurants outside. Within a few blocks, you will find chain restaurants, local eateries, and food trucks. The Peach Drop area and the surrounding blocks have options for every budget and taste preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take MARTA directly from the airport to the aquarium?

Yes. Take the red line from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport toward North Springs and exit at the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena station. From there, walk south on Baker Street for about 10 minutes to reach the aquarium. The entire trip takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes depending on wait times.

Is there wheelchair accessible parking near the aquarium?

Yes. The Baker Street Parking Garage and nearby surface lots have accessible spaces close to the main entrance. The aquarium building itself is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible pathways throughout. Call ahead if you need specific accommodations.

What is the cheapest way to park?

Street parking is sometimes available on nearby blocks, though it is limited and may require walking several blocks. The most affordable paid option is usually a surface lot rather than a parking garage. Using MARTA is the cheapest transportation option overall if you are coming from outside downtown.

How long does it take to see everything at the aquarium?

Most visitors spend three to five hours at the aquarium, depending on how much time they spend at each exhibit and whether they watch any shows or presentations. Plan for at least three hours if you want to see the main attractions without rushing.

Is the aquarium open on holidays?

The Georgia Aquarium is open most holidays, though hours may be different from regular days. Christmas Day and Thanksgiving are exceptions — the aquarium is typically closed on these days. Check the website before planning a holiday visit to confirm hours and closures.