The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta holds the title of world's largest
The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest aquarium in the world by water volume. It opened to the public in 2005 and holds 10 million gallons of water across its exhibits. The building itself spans 550,000 square feet and sits in downtown Atlanta near the World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
The aquarium's size comes from its massive tank systems rather than from a single enormous tank. The largest individual tank, called the Ocean Voyager, contains 6.3 million gallons and is home to whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of fish species. This single tank is larger than most other aquariums in the world.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, is the world's largest by total water volume at 10 million gallons.
- The Ocean Voyager tank alone holds 6.3 million gallons and contains whale sharks and manta rays.
- The facility opened in 2005 and covers 550,000 square feet in downtown Atlanta.
- Visiting requires purchasing a ticket, with prices varying by age and whether you book online or at the gate.
- The aquarium houses over 100,000 animals representing more than 500 species.
What animals you will see at the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is known for its whale sharks, which are the largest fish species in the world. The facility houses multiple whale sharks in the Ocean Voyager tank, along with manta rays that can have wingspans up to 23 feet. These large animals draw visitors from around the world.
Beyond the whale sharks, the aquarium displays beluga whales, sea lions, sea otters, and thousands of smaller fish species. The facility also maintains exhibits for jellyfish, seahorses, and various species of sharks and rays. Each exhibit is designed to mimic the animal's natural habitat as closely as possible.
The aquarium rotates some animals and occasionally brings in new species, so the exhibits change over time. The facility works with conservation organizations and participates in breeding programs for endangered species.
How to visit and what to expect
The Georgia Aquarium is open most days of the year, though hours vary by season. General admission tickets are sold at the gate and online, with online purchases often offering discounts. Children, adults, and seniors have different ticket prices, and some visitors purchase combination tickets that include other Atlanta attractions.
The aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street in downtown Atlanta and is accessible by car, public transit, and ride-share services. Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, though prices vary. The facility is fully indoors and air-conditioned, making it comfortable to visit year-round.
A typical visit lasts between three and five hours, depending on how much time you spend at each exhibit. The facility provides maps at the entrance and has staff members stationed throughout to answer questions. Food and beverages are available for purchase inside the building.
Other large aquariums around the world
While the Georgia Aquarium is the largest by water volume, other major aquariums exist in different parts of the world. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan is the second-largest and is known for its massive acrylic panel tank and diverse coral reef displays. The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium in China and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California are also among the world's largest and most visited facilities.
Each of these aquariums has different specialties. The Monterey Bay Aquarium focuses on Pacific Ocean species and kelp forest ecosystems. The Okinawa Churaumi emphasizes tropical and subtropical marine life. The Georgia Aquarium's focus on whale sharks and large pelagic species sets it apart from competitors.
Conservation and research at the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium operates as a nonprofit organization and funds research and conservation efforts through ticket sales and donations. The facility participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which sets standards for animal care and welfare. Staff members conduct research on animal behavior, health, and breeding in partnership with universities and other institutions.
The aquarium's whale shark program is particularly significant because whale sharks are difficult to study in the wild. The facility has contributed to scientific understanding of these animals' growth rates, feeding behavior, and health needs. This research helps inform conservation efforts for wild populations.
Planning your trip to Atlanta's aquarium
If you are traveling to Atlanta specifically to visit the aquarium, plan to spend at least half a day there. The downtown location means you can combine your visit with other attractions within walking distance or a short drive. Many visitors stay in hotels near the Georgia Aquarium or in other downtown neighborhoods.
The best times to visit are typically weekday mornings or late afternoons, when crowds are smaller. Weekends and school holidays draw larger crowds. If you are visiting with children, arriving early in the day allows them to see the animals when they are most active.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit the Georgia Aquarium?
Ticket prices vary by age and whether you purchase online or at the gate. Online tickets are generally cheaper than gate prices. The facility offers discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel. Combination tickets that include other Atlanta attractions are also available.
Can I take photographs inside the aquarium?
Yes, personal photography is allowed throughout most of the facility. Some exhibits may have restrictions on flash photography to avoid disturbing the animals. The aquarium sells professional photographs taken by staff photographers if you want high-quality images of your visit.
Is the Georgia Aquarium accessible for people with mobility issues?
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 if needed.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The aquarium is open year-round, but spring and fall typically have milder weather and smaller crowds than summer. Winter months are quieter but can be cold outside when traveling between parking and the entrance. School holidays and weekends are busier regardless of season.
How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors spend three to five hours at the aquarium. The time depends on how many exhibits you want to see and how long you spend at each one. You can move through quickly in two hours or spend a full day if you want to watch animal feeding demonstrations and read all the educational materials.