The 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 the United States by total water volume. It opened to the public in 2005 and holds 10 million gallons of water across its exhibits. The facility spans 550,000 square feet and is home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species, from whale sharks to beluga whales.

The aquarium sits in downtown Atlanta near the World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. It is accessible by car, public transit, and is within walking distance of several hotels and restaurants. The building itself is designed to resemble a cargo ship, a nod to Atlanta's maritime history.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest by water volume at 10 million gallons, opened in 2005.
  • The facility houses whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, and thousands of other animals across multiple themed galleries.
  • General admission tickets range in price depending on the season, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups.
  • The aquarium operates year-round and is located in downtown Atlanta near other major attractions.

What animals live at the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is known for its whale sharks, the largest fish species in the world. The facility houses four whale sharks in the Ocean Voyager exhibit, the largest tank in the building. This tank alone holds 6.3 million gallons of water and also contains manta rays, sea turtles, and thousands of smaller fish species.

Beyond the whale shark exhibit, the aquarium maintains galleries focused on different ocean regions and habitats. The Beluga whale habitat is one of the most visited areas, where visitors can watch these white whales interact and play. Other major exhibits feature sea lions, penguins, jellyfish, and river dolphins. The aquarium also runs a tropical diver exhibit where visitors can watch divers feed fish in a 164,000-gallon tank.

Admission prices and hours of operation

General admission to the Georgia Aquarium varies by season. Peak season (spring and summer) tickets cost more than off-season tickets (fall and winter). Children under 3 are typically free, while children ages 3 to 12 receive a discounted rate. Senior tickets and military discounts are also available. Group rates explore for parties of 15 or more.

The aquarium is open year-round, though hours change seasonally. During peak months, it typically opens at 9 or 10 a.m. and closes between 6 and 8 p.m. During slower months, closing time may be earlier. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. You can find current hours and ticket prices on the Georgia Aquarium's official website.

How to get there and where to park

The Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street in downtown Atlanta. If you are driving, paid parking is available in nearby lots and garages. Street parking is limited and often has time restrictions. The facility itself does not operate its own parking garage, so plan for parking fees of $10 to $20 depending on the lot.

Public transit is another option. The MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) red and gold lines both serve the Peachtree Center station, which is a short walk from the aquarium. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also serve the downtown location. If you are visiting from out of state, Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is about 20 miles south and accessible by MARTA, rental car, or ride-share.

Other large aquariums in the United States

While the Georgia Aquarium is the largest by water volume, other major aquariums across the country are worth knowing about. The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California is the second largest and is known for its sea otters, kelp forests, and jellyfish exhibits. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is the third largest and features beluga whales, dolphins, and sea lions alongside thousands of fish and invertebrates.

The National Aquarium in Baltimore and the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, are also major facilities that draw large numbers of visitors. Each has its own focus — Baltimore emphasizes local Chesapeake Bay species, while Long Beach showcases Pacific Ocean life. If you cannot travel to Atlanta, these alternatives offer comparable experiences with different regional focuses.

What to expect during your visit

A full visit to the Georgia Aquarium typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each exhibit. The facility can be crowded during peak season and weekends, so arriving early in the day or visiting on a weekday may give you a more relaxed experience. The aquarium provides benches and seating areas throughout, though the building involves a fair amount of walking.

The facility has a food court with several dining options, though prices are higher than outside restaurants. You are allowed to bring your own food and eat in designated areas. The gift shop sells typical aquarium merchandise, educational books, and souvenirs. If you plan to visit multiple times in a year, a membership may save money compared to paying per-visit admission.

Special programs and behind-the-scenes experiences

The Georgia Aquarium offers programs beyond general admission viewing. Beluga encounter experiences allow visitors to interact with beluga whales in a shallow pool under staff supervision. Dive with whale sharks is available for certified scuba divers who want to swim in the Ocean Voyager tank. These programs cost significantly more than general admission and require advance booking.

The aquarium also runs educational camps for children during school breaks and summer, as well as sleepovers where groups can spend the night in the facility. School groups can book guided tours with educators who provide information about marine biology and conservation. These programs vary in price and availability, so check the aquarium's website for current offerings and scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food to the Georgia Aquarium?

Yes, you can bring your own food and eat in designated picnic areas throughout the facility. The aquarium also has a food court with restaurants and snack stands, though outside food is permitted if you prefer to bring your own.

Is the Georgia Aquarium accessible for people with mobility issues?

The facility is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout the building. Accessible parking is available in nearby lots. If you have specific accessibility needs, contact the aquarium in advance to discuss accommodations.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Fall and winter months tend to be less crowded than spring and summer. If you prefer smaller crowds, visit on a weekday in September, October, November, January, or February. Ticket prices are also lower during these off-peak months.

How long does it take to see everything at the Georgia Aquarium?

Most visitors spend 4 to 6 hours at the aquarium. If you move quickly and skip some exhibits, you can see the main attractions in 3 hours. If you want to spend time at each tank and watch animal feedings, plan for a full day.

Are there discounts for military or senior visitors?

Yes, the Georgia Aquarium offers discounted admission for military personnel with valid ID and for seniors age 65 and older. Group rates are also available for parties of 15 or more. Check the official website for current discount amounts and any restrictions.