The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta at 225 Baker Street

The Georgia Aquarium sits in the Pemberton Place district of downtown Atlanta, Georgia, just west of the World of Coca-Cola and near the convention center. The street address is 225 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. It occupies a full city block and is one of the largest aquariums in the world by water volume.

The building itself is hard to miss—it's a modern structure with a distinctive curved glass facade that faces the street. If you're driving through downtown Atlanta, the aquarium is visible from several major roads, and directional signs point toward it from the interstate exits.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia Aquarium's address is 225 Baker Street NW in downtown Atlanta, located in the Pemberton Place district near the World of Coca-Cola.
  • Parking is available in a dedicated garage on the aquarium grounds, though it fills quickly during peak hours and weekends.
  • Public transit options include MARTA (the Atlanta rapid transit system) with the Peachtree Center Station about a 10-minute walk away.
  • The aquarium is open year-round, though hours vary by season and special events, so checking the official website before your visit is important.

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium

The aquarium operates its own parking garage directly on the property, which is the most convenient option if you're driving. The garage has multiple levels and is clearly marked from Baker Street. During weekday mornings and early afternoons, parking is usually available, but on weekends and during school holidays, the lot can reach capacity by mid-morning.

Parking fees explore—the rate varies depending on how long you stay, with discounts sometimes available if you purchase aquarium tickets in advance. Street parking is also available in the surrounding downtown area, though it may require walking several blocks and paying meter fees or using a parking app.

Getting There by Public Transportation

If you're using MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), the closest station is Peachtree Center on the Red Line. From that station, it's roughly a 10-minute walk south and west to reach the aquarium entrance. The walk is straightforward—you'll head down Peachtree Street and then turn onto Baker Street.

MARTA buses also serve the downtown area, and several routes stop near the aquarium. Check the MARTA website or use their trip planner tool to find the best route from your starting point. Fares are the same whether you use the train or bus, and you can purchase a single-trip card or a day pass at the station.

Directions from Major Atlanta Landmarks

From Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the drive takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Head north on I-75, take the exit toward downtown, and follow signs for the convention center district. The aquarium is just off Baker Street in that area.

From the Georgia State Capitol (about 1 mile northeast), you can drive south on Capitol Avenue, which becomes Peachtree Street, then turn west onto Baker Street. From the World of Coca-Cola (when ready adjacent), it's a short walk—less than 5 minutes on foot. If you're staying in Midtown Atlanta, the drive is roughly 15 minutes heading south on Peachtree Street.

Hours and Seasonal Variations

The Georgia Aquarium is open year-round, but operating hours change with the season. During the school year (September through May), it typically opens at 10 a.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. on weekends, with closing times between 5 and 6 p.m. During summer months and holiday breaks, hours extend—often opening at 9 a.m. and staying open until 6 or 7 p.m.

Hours also shift for special events, holiday closures, and maintenance days. Before you make the trip, check the official Georgia Aquarium website or call ahead to confirm the hours for the specific day you plan to visit. This is especially important during major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, when hours may be reduced or the facility may be closed entirely.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

The aquarium is part of a cluster of downtown attractions within walking distance. The World of Coca-Cola is directly next door. The Georgia Dome (now Mercedes-Benz Stadium) is a short walk away, as is the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The downtown area also has restaurants, cafes, and shops scattered throughout Pemberton Place and the surrounding blocks.

Inside the aquarium building itself, there are food vendors and a gift shop. If you're planning a full day downtown, you can easily combine a visit to the aquarium with stops at other nearby museums or attractions without needing to move your car.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The Georgia Aquarium is wheelchair accessible throughout the main galleries. Accessible parking spaces are available in the parking garage near the main entrance. The facility has elevators, accessible restrooms, and level walkways through most exhibit areas, though some sections may have stairs as an alternative route.

Service animals are permitted inside the aquarium. If you have questions about accessibility or need specific accommodations, you can contact the aquarium directly before your visit. Stroller rentals are available if you're visiting with young children, and the facility has benches throughout where you can rest while viewing exhibits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Georgia Aquarium?

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the aquarium galleries. However, the facility has food vendors and a cafe on-site. Some aquariums allow water bottles, so it's worth calling ahead to confirm their current policy on beverages.

Is there a best time of day to visit to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday between 10 a.m. and noon, tend to be less crowded than weekends and school holidays. Summer vacation and spring break are the busiest periods. If you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit on a weekday during the school year.

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

Most visitors spend two to four hours exploring the exhibits, depending on how much time they spend at each tank and whether they watch any live shows or presentations. If you move quickly, you can see the main galleries in about two hours. Plan for longer if you want a more leisurely experience.

Is the parking garage safe, and can I leave my car there all day?

The parking garage is monitored and well-lit. You can leave your car there for the duration of your visit—parking fees are based on how long you stay, not on entry and exit times. Just keep your ticket with you so you can pay when you leave.

What's the closest hotel to the Georgia Aquarium?

Several hotels are within a few blocks of the aquarium in downtown Atlanta, including properties near the convention center and Peachtree Street. Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of the aquarium and other attractions, though downtown hotels tend to be pricier than those in other Atlanta neighborhoods.