Georgia Aquarium: The Largest Aquarium in the Western Hemisphere

A Visitor’s Guide to the Georgia Aquarium: Marine Life, Exhibits, and Interactive Experiences

The Georgia Aquarium, located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, is one of the world’s most impressive marine attractions and the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. Home to over 100,000 animals from a wide range of species, the Georgia Aquarium offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the ocean through a series of incredible exhibits, live shows, and hands-on experiences. With its diverse marine life, including whale sharks, dolphins, penguins, and sea otters, the aquarium provides an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.

Opened in 2005, the Georgia Aquarium has earned a reputation as one of the top aquariums in the world, offering cutting-edge exhibits and supporting conservation efforts to protect endangered marine species. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, a marine life enthusiast, or someone interested in conservation, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit destination in Atlanta.

A Journey into the Underwater World

The Georgia Aquarium spans more than 600,000 square feet, featuring a wide variety of exhibits that replicate the natural habitats of different marine species, from the depths of the ocean to the tropical rainforest. It is known for its interactive experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine life, as well as its emphasis on education and conservation.

What to See and Do at the Georgia Aquarium

1. Ocean Voyager Exhibit (featuring Whale Sharks):
   • The Ocean Voyager exhibit is the crown jewel of the Georgia Aquarium and one of the largest aquarium habitats in the world. This massive tank holds 6.3 million gallons of water and is home to the aquarium’s most famous residents—whale sharks. Visitors can walk through a 100-foot-long tunnel that provides a breathtaking view of these gentle giants as they swim alongside manta rays, sharks, and thousands of other fish.
   • Whale Sharks and Manta Rays:
     • The Ocean Voyager exhibit is one of the only places outside of Asia where you can see whale sharksup close. These incredible creatures, the largest fish in the world, glide gracefully through the water alongside the stunning manta rays, which often perform acrobatic spins in the water.
   • Awe-Inspiring Views:
     • The exhibit features a 30-foot-tall viewing window, offering a panoramic view of the entire habitat. It’s an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty and scale of ocean life.
2. Cold Water Quest:
   • The Cold Water Quest exhibit transports visitors to some of the planet’s coldest waters, showcasing animals that thrive in icy environments. Here, you’ll find animals such as beluga whales, penguins, and sea otters.
   • Beluga Whales:
     • The beluga whales are a highlight of Cold Water Quest, with their distinctive white color and playful personalities. Visitors can watch them swim gracefully through their habitat, and the large viewing windows allow for an up-close look at these charismatic marine mammals.
   • African Penguins and Sea Otters:
     • The exhibit is also home to a colony of African penguins, whose playful antics delight visitors of all ages, and sea otters, who are known for their energetic swimming and adorable behavior.
3. Dolphin Coast and Dolphin Presentation:
   • The Dolphin Coast exhibit is home to the Georgia Aquarium’s bottlenose dolphins, and the daily Dolphin Presentation is one of the most popular shows at the aquarium. This high-energy performance showcases the agility and intelligence of dolphins, with trainers demonstrating their impressive leaps, spins, and tricks.
   • Interactive Shows:
     • The Dolphin Presentation combines education and entertainment, teaching visitors about the biology, behavior, and conservation of dolphins while providing a thrilling show. The theater has large windows into the dolphin habitat, allowing for excellent views during the performance.
4. Tropical Diver:
   • The Tropical Diver exhibit is a vibrant and colorful display of life found in warm ocean waters, from coral reefs to tropical fish. This exhibit features a living reef, teeming with species like clownfish, seahorses, and jellyfish.
   • Coral Reefs:
     • The centerpiece of the exhibit is a large coral reef habitat, which is home to dozens of species of reef fish and other marine creatures. Visitors can see the symbiotic relationships between the fish and the coral, providing a glimpse into one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
   • Jellyfish Displays:
     • The mesmerizing jellyfish tanks showcase several species of these beautiful, ethereal creatures, creating a tranquil and visually stunning experience.
5. River Scout:
   • The River Scout exhibit focuses on freshwater ecosystems, showcasing animals found in rivers and lakes from around the world. Visitors can see species like alligator gar, piranhas, electric eels, and even North American alligators.
   • Amazon River Species:
     • The exhibit includes a section dedicated to the Amazon River, where visitors can learn about the unique fish and amphibians that live in one of the most famous rivers in the world. The piranha tankand electric eel displays are especially popular.
6. Aquanaut Adventure:
   • The Aquanaut Adventure exhibit is designed to engage visitors in a hands-on, interactive experience that explores marine science and conservation. This educational exhibit is great for children and families, featuring activities and challenges that teach visitors about marine ecosystems, water conservation, and oceanography.
   • Interactive Exhibits:
     • Kids can participate in touch tanks, learn how to conduct water quality tests, and explore replicas of deep-sea submersibles. It’s a fun and educational space that fosters curiosity and understanding of the underwater world.
7. Sharks! Predators of the Deep:
   • One of the newest and most thrilling exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium is Sharks! Predators of the Deep, which showcases some of the ocean’s most feared and misunderstood predators. The exhibit features several species of sharks, including sand tiger sharks, great hammerhead sharks, and blacktip sharks.
   • Shark Cage Diving:
     • For the truly adventurous, the aquarium offers a shark cage diving experience, where visitors can enter the water with trained staff and come face to face with these incredible animals in a safe and controlled environment.
8. Behind-the-Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters:
   • The Georgia Aquarium offers a variety of behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the aquarium’s operations and get up close to their favorite marine animals.
   • Animal Encounters:
     • Visitors can book special animal encounters with beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, and even penguins. These experiences allow for hands-on interactions and photo opportunities while learning about the animals’ care and conservation.

Conservation and Education

The Georgia Aquarium is heavily involved in marine conservation efforts, focusing on protecting endangered species and promoting ocean sustainability. The aquarium participates in global initiatives to rescue and rehabilitate marine animals, particularly those affected by pollution, habitat loss, and climate change.

In addition, the aquarium provides educational programs for schools, families, and communities, offering resources to inspire a deeper understanding of marine life and the importance of protecting the world’s oceans.

How to Get There

The Georgia Aquarium is conveniently located in downtown Atlanta, within walking distance of other major attractions such as the World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park.

• Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Public Transport: The aquarium is easily accessible via MARTA, Atlanta’s public transportation system. The Civic Center and Peachtree Center MARTA stations are both within a short walk of the aquarium.
• Parking: On-site parking is available at the aquarium for a fee, with multiple lots surrounding the facility.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The Georgia Aquarium is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season or special events.

• Hours: Typically open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours on weekends and during the summer.
• Admission Fees: General admission fees apply, with discounted rates for children, seniors, and military members. The aquarium also offers annual membership packages for frequent visitors.
• Official Website: Georgia Aquarium

Best Time to Visit

The Georgia Aquarium is a popular attraction year-round, but the best time to visit is during weekdays or early morningsto avoid larger crowds.

• Weekdays: Ideal for a quieter experience, especially during non-holiday periods.
• Special Events: Keep an eye on the aquarium’s calendar for special events and animal encounter programs that provide unique experiences.

A Must-Visit for Marine Life Lovers and Families

With its breathtaking exhibits, diverse marine species, and commitment to conservation, the Georgia Aquarium offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re gazing in awe at the whale sharks in the Ocean Voyagerexhibit, marveling at the playfulness of the beluga whales, or participating in an interactive animal encounter, the Georgia Aquarium is a top destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and complexity of the world’s oceans.