The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta holds the title of largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere
The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest aquarium in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. It opened in 2005 and contains 10 million gallons of water across multiple galleries. The facility is home to whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, and thousands of other marine animals across more than 100,000 individual specimens.
The main draw for most visitors is the Beluga whale habitat and the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit, which features the aquarium's two whale sharks. The building itself spans 645,000 square feet, making it one of the largest buildings in Georgia by floor space. Admission is paid, and the aquarium operates year-round with extended hours during summer months.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest aquarium in North America, holding 10 million gallons of water and housing whale sharks and beluga whales.
- The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan is the second-largest aquarium globally and is known for its massive acrylic panel tank and manta ray population.
- The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium in China ranks among the world's largest by water volume and visitor capacity.
- Aquarium size is measured differently depending on the source—some rank by total water volume, others by floor space or number of animals, which can change the rankings.
How aquarium size is measured and ranked
There is no single official standard for ranking aquariums worldwide. Some organizations measure by total water volume in gallons or liters, others by physical floor space, and still others by the number of animals or species on display. This means the "largest" aquarium can shift depending on which measurement you use.
The Georgia Aquarium typically ranks first by water volume in the Western Hemisphere. However, when looking at global rankings, several Asian aquariums compete for the top spot depending on how size is calculated. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan, for example, is often cited as the second-largest by water volume and is famous for its 22.5-meter-long acrylic panel—one of the largest in the world.
Other major aquariums in North America
Beyond Georgia, several other large aquariums operate across the United States and Canada. The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California is smaller by water volume than Georgia but is widely regarded as one of the most scientifically advanced and well-designed aquariums in the world. It focuses heavily on Pacific Ocean ecosystems and kelp forest habitats.
The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is one of the oldest major aquariums in the country and holds around 5 million gallons of water. The National Aquarium in Baltimore and the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, are also major facilities that draw millions of visitors annually. Each specializes in different marine environments and animal collections.
The largest aquariums in Asia and Europe
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan is consistently ranked as one of the world's largest and most visited aquariums. It holds approximately 7.5 million gallons of water and is particularly famous for its massive main tank, which features manta rays, whale sharks, and other large pelagic fish. The facility opened in 2002 and draws over 3 million visitors per year.
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium in China is another contender for world's largest by some measurements, with a focus on freshwater and saltwater species from around the globe. In Europe, the L'Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain, is one of the largest, featuring multiple themed zones and a capacity of around 42 million liters of water across its various tanks and pools.
What makes a large aquarium different to visit
Larger aquariums typically offer more diverse exhibits, longer walking routes, and a wider variety of animal species than smaller facilities. They often have multiple restaurants, gift shops, and special viewing areas. The Georgia Aquarium, for instance, offers behind-the-scenes tours, interactive touch pools, and separate ticketed experiences like the 4D theater.
However, size does not always equal quality of experience. Smaller, specialized aquariums sometimes provide more intimate encounters with animals and more detailed educational information. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, though smaller than Georgia by water volume, is often praised for its conservation focus and the clarity of its exhibits. Visitor preference depends on whether you prioritize seeing the largest animals and most species, or prefer a more focused, educational experience.
Planning a visit to a major aquarium
Most large aquariums require advance planning. The Georgia Aquarium recommends purchasing tickets online before arrival to avoid long lines, especially during school holidays and summer weekends. Parking can be limited in downtown Atlanta, so arriving early or using public transportation is often easier than driving.
Visit times typically range from three to five hours for a thorough tour of a large facility. Many aquariums offer membership programs that provide unlimited visits and discounts on special events. Check the specific aquarium's website for current hours, ticket prices, and any temporary closures of exhibits before you go. Some facilities offer discounted admission during certain hours or on specific days of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Georgia Aquarium the largest aquarium in the entire world?
No. The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the Western Hemisphere by water volume, but several Asian aquariums are comparable or larger depending on how size is measured. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan and the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium in China are often ranked at or above Georgia's size globally.
How much does it cost to visit the Georgia Aquarium?
Admission prices vary by age and season. General admission for adults typically ranges from $30 to $40, with discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel. Prices are higher during peak summer months and lower during off-season weekdays. Check the aquarium's official website for current pricing and any package deals.
Can you see whale sharks at other aquariums besides Georgia?
Yes. Whale sharks are also on display at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium in China, and a few other facilities worldwide. However, the Georgia Aquarium's Ocean Voyager exhibit is one of the most well-known whale shark habitats outside of Asia.
What is the difference between the Georgia Aquarium and the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
The Georgia Aquarium is larger by water volume and features more species overall, including whale sharks and beluga whales. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is smaller but is known for its focus on Pacific Ocean conservation, advanced filtration systems, and highly detailed exhibits. Both are world-class facilities with different strengths.
How long does it take to see everything at a large aquarium?
A thorough visit to the Georgia Aquarium or similar large facility typically takes three to five hours. If you move quickly and skip some exhibits, you can see the main attractions in two to three hours. Many visitors return multiple times to explore different areas in depth.