Georgia Aquarium Visitor Tips
Do you enjoy underwater adventures? If you’re a fan of exploring the depths of the ocean.
Look no further than the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, GA! Home to over 100,000 aquatic animals and recognized as one of the largest aquariums in the world, there’s something for everyone at this must-see attraction. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our top visitor tips for exploring the Georgia Aquarium.
But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.
As someone who recently visited the Georgia Aquarium for the first time, I can confidently say that it is truly a magical experience. From the stunning displays of marine life to the interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone at this world-renowned attraction.
That’s why I want to share my top tips for making the most out of your trip to the Georgia Aquarium. As a friendly and knowledgeable guide, I can tell you, that knowing these tips will make all the difference in creating an unforgettable experience at the Georgia Aquarium.
So, before you dive into this aquatic wonderland, take a moment to read through these essential visitor tips.
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Is the Georgia Aquarium Worth it?
One of the top questions people ask when considering a visit to the Georgia Aquarium is whether it’s worth the price. And let me tell you, it absolutely is! The entrance fee might seem steep at first, but once you step inside and see all the amazing exhibits and interactive experiences, you’ll quickly see that it’s worth every penny.
Plus, with our Georgia Aquarium Visitor tips, you’ll be able to maximize your time and get the most out of your visit. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Plan Your Visit Ahead
Planning ahead is always a good idea when visiting the Georgia Aquarium. The crowds can get pretty intense, especially during peak hours and seasons, which can make navigating through the exhibits challenging. So, get your tickets online beforehand, and plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid the rush. You can also get an annual membership to visit the aquarium anytime you want.
What Can You See at Georgia Aquarium?
Georgia Aquarium boasts eight major galleries – Ocean Voyager, Cold Water Quest, River Scout, Tropical Diver, Aquanaut Adventure, Sharks Predators of the Deep, Pier 225, and Dolphin Coast. Each gallery has a unique theme and features different species of marine animals.
You can also experience the famous sea lion and dolphin shows at the Dolphin Celebration and Under The Boardwalk galleries.
Georgia Aquarium Location and Directions
Located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the MARTA train to the Peachtree Center Station or a bus to Centennial Olympic Park Drive. You can also park your car at the parking deck located directly below the aquarium.
Georgia Aquarium, 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 581-4000
Parking Tips
If you’re planning to drive to the Georgia Aquarium, purchase your parking ticket online beforehand. It’s cheaper than buying it at the aquarium and will save you some time waiting in line.
If you plan to park onsite, use this address for direct access to Georgia Aquarium parking: 357 Luckie Street, NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
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Georgia Aquarium Tickets and Hours of Operation
The Georgia Aquarium is open 365 days a year, with hours of operation varying by day. It’s recommended to check their calendar beforehand for specific times.
You can purchase your tickets online or at the ticketing counter upon arrival. However, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and potentially sold-out shows.
Georgia Aquarium offers several ticket options, including general admission, behind-the-scenes tours, and animal encounters. Make sure to check their website for the prices and availability of each option.
Georgia Aquarium Things to Do
One of the highlights of Georgia Aquarium is its sea lion and dolphin shows. Be sure to sign up for these shows upon arrival, as they tend to fill up quickly. You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour, which gives you an exclusive look at how the aquarium operates and takes care of its animals.
- Watch the sea lion and dolphin shows.
- Take a behind-the-scenes tour.
- See the largest fish in the world, the whale shark.
- Marvel at the colorful tropical fish in the Tropical Diver gallery.
- Get up close with beluga whales in the Cold Water Quest gallery.
- Visit the penguins in Georgia-Pacific Penguin Point.
- Explore the ocean’s depths in the Ocean Voyager gallery.
- Touch stingrays and sharks at the touch tank.
- Learn about sea turtles at Sea Turtle Conservancy.
- Watch a 4D movie experience (when available).
- Feed and interact with sea lions during a special encounter.
- Take a yoga class surrounded by aquatic life.
- Experience a sleepover at the aquarium.
- Dive or swim with whale sharks and other marine animals.
- Attend one of the many educational programs and talks.
- Visit the new “SHARKS! Predators of the Deep” exhibit.
- Take a photo with a sea lion or dolphin during a meet-and-greet session.
- Have a meal at the on-site restaurant, Cafe Aquaria.
- Shop for souvenirs at the Georgia Aquarium gift shop.
- Relax and take in the views at one of the many seating areas throughout the aquarium.
- Take a photo at the photo booths outside the sea lion show.
Georgia Aquarium Visitor Tips
- Arrive early – The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have of avoiding long lines and crowds.
- Purchase your tickets online to avoid long lines.
- Use the coat check – The aquarium can get pretty warm, so consider using the coat check to avoid carrying around heavy jackets.
- Bring a reusable water bottle – There are water fountains located throughout the aquarium where you can refill your bottle for free.
- Download the Georgia Aquarium app – This will give you access to an interactive map, show schedules, and information about the animals.
- Check out the live webcams – If you can’t make it to the aquarium, you can still enjoy watching some of the animals through their live webcams on the website.
- Take advantage of discounts – The aquarium offers various discounts for military personnel, students, seniors, and more. Make sure to check their website before purchasing tickets.
- Plan your visit around feeding times – The aquarium has specific feeding times for their animals, so try to plan your visit accordingly to see these unique experiences.
- Consider a membership – If you live nearby or plan on visiting multiple times, it may be worth investing in a membership for discounted admission and other perks.
- Don’t forget the gift shop – The gift shop has a wide variety of souvenirs and gifts, including plush toys, books, and jewelry.
- Sign up for shows upon arrival – The sea lion and dolphin shows are popular attractions and may fill up quickly. Secure your spot by scanning the QR code inside to sign up for shows. Arrive at the shows 15-30 minutes before to get a good seat.
- Don’t miss the Beluga Whales exhibit, as it is a unique experience not found in many other aquariums.
- Take a group photo at the booths in the lobby outside of the sea lion show. The photo will be emailed or texted to you.
- Engage with the staff and volunteers – they are friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer any questions you may have.
- If you are going to additional attractions in Atlanta the Atlanta CityPASS may save you some money.
Visitor Tips for an Enhanced Experience at the Georgia Aquarium
Don’t miss out on these must-do activities during your visit by booking ahead of time:
Penguin Encounter & Animal Interactions
Georgia Aquarium offers a one-of-a-kind experience with the penguins, where you can get up close and personal with these adorable creatures. You can also book an animal interaction session to meet dolphins, sea lions, and even Beluga whales.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the aquarium’s conservation efforts and get exclusive access to areas not open to the public.
Dive Immersion Program
For certified divers, the Dive Immersion Program is a unique opportunity to dive in the aquarium’s massive Ocean Voyager tank and come face-to-face with whale sharks, manta rays, and other fascinating marine life.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the aquarium is quite extensive.
- A camera to capture all the amazing experiences and creatures you’ll encounter.
- Waterproof phone case if you want to take photos or videos in the splash zone of the shows.
What Not to Bring
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the aquarium premises.
- Anything that you don’t want to carry. There are no lockers or coat check available, so you will need to carry anything you bring.
- Wagons, wagon strollers, push cars, jogging strollers, and ride-ons are not permitted
Georgia Aquarium Review
Overall, my recent visit to the Georgia Aquarium was a fantastic experience. The highlight for me was the sea lion and dolphin shows, which were entertaining and educational.
The aquarium is well-maintained, and the staff goes above and beyond to ensure the animals are well taken care of. I also appreciated the various educational exhibits that shed light on important ocean conservation issues.
My only critique would be that some areas can get quite crowded, but with proper planning and timing, this can easily be avoided. I highly recommend the Georgia Aquarium to anyone looking for a fun and informative day out. So next time you’re in Atlanta, make sure to add it to your itinerary!
Wear Comfortable Attire
While the Georgia Aquarium is indoors, the exhibits can still be quite chilly. Therefore, it’s best to dress appropriately and ensure that you’re comfortable with the temperature inside. You’ll do a lot of walking, and comfortable shoes will make your visit more enjoyable.
Plus, some experiences may involve getting wet, such as the dolphin and sea lion encounters splash zone. Hence, dress accordingly and bring extra clothes.
Be Mindful of the Animals
While the Georgia Aquarium is a place for enjoyment and entertainment, we should always remember that the animals inside their exhibits are living creatures and deserve respect. So, be cautious not to tap on the glass or disturb the animals. Avoid using selfie sticks as well as flash photography, as they can cause unnecessary stress to the animals.
Take Advantage of the Guided Tours
If you’re unsure where to start or which exhibits to see first, take advantage of the guided tours. The tours are led by experts who can provide you with interesting facts and stories about the animals inside the aquarium. Plus, you’ll also get to skip the long lines for some of the experiences, such as the Tunnel of Fear and the dolphin show.
Explore The Other Attractions Around the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is situated in downtown Atlanta, which means there are tons of other nearby attractions that you can explore. From Centennial Olympic Park to World of Coca-Cola, there’s something for everyone.
You can even take a stroll along the Atlanta Beltline and enjoy the scenic views. The best part about these other attractions is that you get to avoid the crowds and relax after a busy day at the aquarium.
Georgia Aquarium Live Cams
If you’re unable to visit the aquarium in person, don’t fret. The Georgia Aquarium offers live cams on their website where you can watch the animals from the comfort of your own home.
You can even catch scheduled feeding sessions with different animals, such as sea otters and penguins. It’s a great way to experience the aquarium virtually and learn more about the animals.
Visitor Tips for Places to Stay Near the Georgia Aquarium
If you’re planning to make a trip out of your visit to the Georgia Aquarium, there are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs in the vicinity. Some even offer discounts or packages for those visiting the aquarium. Staying nearby can also give you the chance to explore more of downtown Atlanta and its attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Georgia Aquarium Visitor Tips
Have some questions about visiting the Georgia Aquarium? Check out our frequently asked questions below for some helpful tips and advice!
On average, visitors spend about 3-4 hours inside the aquarium. However, if you plan on watching a show or participating in one of the animal encounters, it may take longer.
A camera and be sure to have comfortable walking shoes as the aquarium is quite large and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
No outside food or drinks are allowed in the Georgia Aquarium. However, there are various dining options inside the aquarium for visitors to enjoy.
Yes, you are allowed to bring a backpack to the Georgia Aquarium. However, it will be subject to security inspection upon entry.
No, parking at the Georgia Aquarium is not free.
The best time to visit
The Georgia Aquarium is open year-round, so any time is a good time to visit. However, if you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit during weekdays or non-holiday periods.
Based on visitor reviews, Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the least busiest days at the aquarium.
If you want to catch shows or feedings, it’s best to arrive early in the day as these activities have scheduled times. Otherwise, it’s recommended to visit during weekdays between 10 am-2 pm or evening hours when it’s less crowded.
The best time of year to visit Atlanta, Georgia, is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may have occasional snowfall.
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The Wrap-Up: Georgia Aquarium Visitor Tips
A visit to the Georgia Aquarium can be an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and amazement. By utilizing these tips, you’ll be able to make the most out of your trip and create lasting memories. Remember to plan ahead, arrive early for shows, and be respectful of the marine life within the aquarium.
Planning Your Trip? Use Our Favorite Resources
We recommend:
👉 Tour Company – Viator and GetYourGuide
🛳️ Cruise Company – Expedia
👉 Book Accommodations – booking.com or Vrbo
🚗 Rental Car – DiscoverCars.com
👉 Travel Insurance – Insubuy
🛬 Flights – Kayak.com and WayAway
📱 eSIM – GigSky (great for cruises and on land)
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