Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta holds the record for largest in the United States
The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest aquarium in America by total water volume and floor space. It opened to the public in 2005 and holds more than 11 million gallons of water across its exhibits. The building itself spans 550,000 square feet, making it roughly the size of six football fields.
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 on foot from nearby hotels and attractions. The facility operates year-round and draws more than 3 million visitors annually.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta holds 11 million gallons of water and spans 550,000 square feet, making it the largest in the United States.
- The aquarium houses whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, and thousands of other species across multiple themed galleries.
- Admission prices vary by age and whether you purchase tickets in advance or at the gate, with discounts often available for Georgia residents.
- The facility includes interactive touch pools, a 4D theater, and behind-the-scenes tours that cost extra beyond general admission.
- Parking is available on-site and through nearby lots, though public transit and rideshare are common alternatives for downtown visitors.
What animals and exhibits you will see
Georgia Aquarium is known for its whale sharks, which are the largest fish species in the world. The aquarium houses multiple whale sharks in its Ocean Voyager exhibit, the largest tank in the facility. The tank also contains manta rays, sea turtles, and thousands of smaller fish species.
Other major exhibits include the Beluga whale habitat, the tropical diver section with coral reef displays, and the cold-water penguin and sea lion galleries. The aquarium also maintains a river scout section featuring freshwater species native to Georgia and the southeastern United States. Each exhibit is designed to mimic the animal's natural environment as closely as possible.
The facility rotates some smaller exhibits and occasionally brings in temporary displays, so the full lineup can change seasonally. The aquarium's website lists current exhibits and any temporary closures before you visit.
Admission prices and ticket options
General admission prices range based on age and when you purchase. Adult tickets typically cost more than tickets for children ages 3 to 12, and children under 3 usually enter at no charge. Seniors and military members often receive discounts.
Buying tickets online in advance is usually cheaper than purchasing at the gate on the day of your visit. The aquarium also offers annual membership passes, which pay for themselves after two or three visits if you plan to return. Georgia residents may find resident discount days throughout the year, which the aquarium announces on its website.
Special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours, interactive encounters with specific animals, and the 4D theater cost extra beyond general admission. These add-ons range from $15 to $50 depending on the experience.
How to get there and where to park
Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street in downtown Atlanta. If you drive, the facility has an on-site parking garage with multiple levels. Parking fees explore and vary by length of stay, though some packages bundle parking with admission.
Public transit is a practical option if you are staying downtown or in nearby neighborhoods. The MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) red and gold lines both serve the area, with the Peachtree Center station closest to the aquarium. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout Atlanta and can drop you at the main entrance.
The aquarium is within walking distance of several hotels, restaurants, and other attractions in the downtown area. Street parking is limited and metered, so the parking garage or public transit are more reliable options.
Hours of operation and how long to spend there
Georgia Aquarium is open daily, though hours vary by season. During peak summer months, it typically opens at 9 or 10 a.m. and closes at 6 or 7 p.m. Winter hours are usually shorter, with closing times around 5 or 6 p.m. Hours also change around holidays and special events.
Plan to spend at least three to four hours exploring the main galleries at a comfortable pace. If you include interactive experiences, the 4D theater, or a behind-the-scenes tour, add another one to two hours. Families with young children often take longer because of the touch pools and slower movement through crowded areas.
Arriving early in the day, especially on weekends and during school holidays, helps you avoid the heaviest crowds. Weekday visits during the school year are typically less crowded than weekend visits.
How Georgia Aquarium compares to other large aquariums
Georgia Aquarium is the largest by total water volume and floor space in the United States. However, other major aquariums in the country offer different experiences and specialties. The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California is smaller but known for its kelp forest and sea otter exhibits. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is also smaller but sits on Lake Michigan and draws large crowds.
Internationally, some aquariums in Asia and the Middle East are larger by volume, but Georgia Aquarium remains the largest in North America. The distinction matters mainly if you are comparing what you will see — size alone does not determine the quality or variety of exhibits.
If you are planning a trip specifically to see whale sharks or beluga whales, Georgia Aquarium is one of the few places in the United States where you can see both. That combination is a major draw for visitors who travel specifically for those species.
Planning your visit and what to bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes because you will cover several miles moving through the galleries and exhibits. The facility is climate-controlled, so dress for indoor air conditioning even if it is hot outside. Bring a water bottle or plan to purchase drinks inside, as the aquarium allows refillable bottles.
Photography is permitted in most areas, though some exhibits restrict flash photography to protect the animals. Check the aquarium's rules before you visit if you plan to record video or take professional photos.
The facility has multiple dining options, from quick-service counters to sit-down restaurants. Prices are higher than outside restaurants, so eating before or after your visit can save money. The aquarium does allow outside food in some designated areas, so bringing snacks is an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food into Georgia Aquarium?
Outside food is not permitted in most areas of the aquarium, though some outdoor spaces may allow picnicking. The facility has multiple restaurants and snack stands inside, with prices ranging from $8 to $20 per item. Bringing a refillable water bottle is allowed and recommended.
Is Georgia Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the facility is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout. Wheelchairs and mobility devices are available to rent on-site for an additional fee. Service animals are permitted in all areas of the aquarium.
How crowded does Georgia Aquarium get?
Peak times are weekends, school holidays, and summer months. Weekday visits during the school year are significantly less crowded. Arriving at opening time or visiting on a rainy weekday typically means shorter wait times for exhibits and dining.
Can I take photos and videos inside the aquarium?
Photography is permitted in most exhibits, though flash photography is restricted in some areas to avoid stressing the animals. Video recording is allowed for personal use. Commercial photography and filming require advance permission from the aquarium's management.
What is the best time of year to visit Georgia Aquarium?
Fall and spring offer mild weather and smaller crowds than summer. Winter is less crowded but has shorter operating hours. Summer is the busiest season but offers the longest hours. Your choice depends on whether you prefer fewer crowds or more time to explore.