The Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is an animal paradise! With over 100,000 animals representing 500 species, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for interactive animal encounters or just exploring the many permanent galleries, the Georgia Aquarium is the perfect place to learn more about the amazing creatures that inhabit our planet. And, don’t forget about the incredible animal shows! From dolphins to sea lions, there’s always something new and exciting happening.
Aquarium Galleries
The Georgia Aquarium features six galleries: Ocean Voyager, Cold Water Quest, River Scout, Dolphin Coast, Tropical Diver, and Pier 225.
Ocean Voyager
Ocean Voyager is the world’s largest indoor aquatic exhibit with its 6.3 million gallons of water. It contains four whale sharks – the largest fish in the world, and four manta rays – the only manta rays in a U.S. aquarium, in addition to hundreds of other animals.
Tropical Diver
In Tropical Diver presented by Southwest Airlines, visitors can explore a 164,000-gallon reef habitat, the second largest in the United States. Approximately 25 percent of the reef wall is live coral and there are more than 90 species of fish.
River Scout
In River Scout, guests will discover a wide diversity of animals found in the lakes and rivers of Africa, South America, Asia, and let’s not forget those found in the home state of Georgia.
This Red Piranha, native to the Amazon River, is also at home in River Scout. The adults of this species can grow to as large as 20 inches and 8.5 pounds. His (or her) teeth are razor-sharp – thank goodness for the thick glass between us.
Cold Water Quest
Cold Water Quest features animals from the icy waters of the polar regions to the temperate seas of California, South Africa, and Southern Australia, including beluga whales, southern sea otters, African penguins, and harbor seals. The gallery is also home to Georgia Aquarium’s mascot, Deepo the Garibaldi damselfish.
With up to a million hairs per square inch, southern sea otters have the densest hair in the animal kingdom.
Truist Pier 225
The Georgia Aquarium isn’t just a place to marvel at the animal world. It’s also an educational experience! With with Pier 255 right onsite, you will learn about the aquarium’s charismatic sea lions, Jupiter and Neptune. You’ll meet the animal trainers and learn how they care for their animals.
Dolphin Presentation
Included with your admission is a live dolphin show incorporating the beauty and agility of dolphins, live human actors, dramatic costuming, and amazing effects. If you don’t want to get wet, you better watch where you sit! The views are great higher up in the middle section. After the show, be sure to have your camera ready to get a snapshot of some of the performers.
While the performance is included with the price of admission, be sure to make a reservation on the day of your visit. Be there 15 minutes before the performance because the doors will close and there is no seating afterward.
Animal Encounters
Looking for a hands-on animal experience? Georgia Aquarium offers animal encounters with many of its featured animals. If you love dolphins, penguins, sea lions, sharks, and manta rays, you’ve come to the right place. With animal encounters, you’ll get up close and personal with some of the most incredible creatures on our planet.
Dining at the Aquarium
Hungry after all of your exploring? Cafe Aquaria is on-site and you can grab a quick bite to eat. For $15, you can get select your combo: Chicken Tenders, Pizza, or Cheeseburger. Combos come with Zapp’s chips, a Grandma’s Cookie, and a fountain drink.
Grab-n-go selections such as wraps, sandwiches, salads, and hot dogs are also available.
Admission
You can purchase general admission tickets at the aquarium for $47.99. General admission tickets start at $42.99 and include admission to the shows and presentations. Children 2 and under are free and don’t require a ticket.
Why not skip the line and purchase them online for $42.99?
Are you a Georgia resident? Visit the aquarium on your birthday and your admission is free.
Location
The aquarium is located in the heart of Atlanta, just across from the World of Coca-Cola at 225 Baker St NW. Parking is available for $20 for aquarium guests. You can make things easier and pre-pay online – just don’t forget to bring your ticket with you!
What is your favorite aquatic animal?
