The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta Holds the Record
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, is the world's largest aquarium by water volume. It opened to the public in 2005 and holds 11.5 million gallons of water across its exhibits. The facility spans 10 acres and contains thousands of animals representing hundreds of species, from whale sharks to beluga whales.
The aquarium's main draw is its whale shark tank, which alone holds 6.3 million gallons of water. This tank is one of the largest in the world and was built specifically to house whale sharks, the largest fish species on Earth. The structure required engineering innovations to support the weight and volume of water needed for these massive animals.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, is the world's largest by water volume at 11.5 million gallons.
- The facility opened in 2005 and features a whale shark tank containing 6.3 million gallons of water.
- The aquarium spans 10 acres and houses thousands of animals from hundreds of different species.
- Visiting requires admission fees, and hours vary by season, so check the official website before planning your trip.
What Makes the Georgia Aquarium So Large
Size alone does not make an aquarium functional. The Georgia Aquarium required specialized systems to maintain water quality, temperature, and filtration across all exhibits. The facility uses a combination of mechanical and biological filtration to keep the water clean for the animals living in it.
The building itself was designed to handle the structural demands of holding millions of gallons of water. Walls are reinforced concrete, and the tanks are built with acrylic panels in some areas to allow visitors to view the animals while maintaining the integrity of the structure. The facility also includes backup systems for power and water circulation in case of equipment failure.
Animals You Can See at the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium houses whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, sea lions, sea otters, and thousands of fish species. The whale shark exhibit is the most famous, as these animals are rarely seen in captivity. The beluga whale habitat allows visitors to watch these intelligent marine mammals interact with trainers and each other.
Beyond the large animals, the aquarium features exhibits focused on specific ecosystems. The cold water section includes animals adapted to polar regions, while tropical exhibits showcase coral reef inhabitants. The aquarium also maintains a section dedicated to river systems and freshwater species found in different parts of the world.
How the Georgia Aquarium Compares to Other Large Aquariums
While the Georgia Aquarium holds the title for largest by water volume, other aquariums compete in different categories. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan is known for its massive acrylic panel and holds the second-largest water volume globally. The S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California are also among the world's largest and most visited facilities.
The ranking of aquariums depends on how you measure size. Some rank by total water volume, others by number of animals, and still others by the number of species on display. The Georgia Aquarium leads in water volume, but different facilities excel in different areas of marine science and animal care.
Visiting the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker Street in Atlanta, Georgia, in the downtown area near the World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. It is accessible by car, public transportation, and on foot from nearby hotels and attractions. Parking is available on-site and in nearby lots.
Admission prices vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. General admission allows access to all exhibits, while premium tickets may include special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours or interactive animal encounters. Hours of operation change seasonally, so visitors should check the official Georgia Aquarium website before planning their visit. The facility is open year-round, though hours are longer during peak tourist seasons.
The History Behind Building the World's Largest Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium was funded by Bernie Marcus, the co-founder of The Home Depot, who donated $250 million to the project. Construction began in 2001 and took four years to complete. The goal was to create a world-class facility that would advance marine science, education, and animal care while providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.
The design process involved marine biologists, architects, and engineers working together to create exhibits that met the needs of the animals while allowing public viewing. The facility was built with sustainability in mind, incorporating water recycling systems and energy-efficient technologies. Since opening, the Georgia Aquarium has become one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does the Georgia Aquarium hold?
The Georgia Aquarium holds 11.5 million gallons of water across all its exhibits. The whale shark tank alone contains 6.3 million gallons, making it one of the largest single tanks in the world.
Can you see whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium?
Yes. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the few places in the world where you can see whale sharks in captivity. The facility has housed multiple whale sharks since it opened, though the number and specific animals on display can change over time.
How long does it take to see everything at the Georgia Aquarium?
Most visitors spend between four and six hours at the aquarium, depending on how much time they spend at each exhibit and whether they participate in interactive experiences. The facility is large enough that you could spend a full day there if you wanted to see everything in detail.
Is the Georgia Aquarium the only large aquarium in the United States?
No. While the Georgia Aquarium is the largest by water volume, other major aquariums operate across the United States, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Each facility offers different exhibits and focuses on different aspects of marine science and education.