Georgia Aquarium Atlanta: Tickets, Parking & Exhibits Guide 2026

Standing before a viewing window the size of a movie theater screen, watching a school of whale sharks glide effortlessly through 6.3 million gallons of water, changes your perspective on marine life entirely. The Georgia Aquarium isn't just one of the largest aquariums in the Western Hemisphere; it is a massive, immersive facility that houses over 100,000 animals. Whether you are planning a family trip or a solo adventure, navigating this 10-million-gallon wonder requires a solid game plan to avoid crowds and high costs.

This guide provides everything you need to know about tickets, parking secrets, the best times to visit, and how to maximize your experience without getting overwhelmed.

• Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Time Needed: 3 to 4 hours minimum
• Ticket Price: Dynamic pricing (starts around $39.99 - $64.99)
• Best Feature: Ocean Voyager (Whale Sharks)

Things to Know Before You Visit

Visiting this aquarium requires a bit of strategy. The venue operates on a specific flow, and knowing the logistics beforehand will save you time and money.

Dynamic Pricing and Buying Online

You should purchase your tickets online in advance. The aquarium uses a dynamic pricing model, meaning ticket prices fluctuate based on demand, day of the week, and season. Buying a ticket at the door on a Saturday will cost significantly more than booking a Tuesday morning slot online weeks prior. There is no standard flat rate; prices generally range from $39.99 - $64.99 depending on when you go.

Is the Atlanta CityPASS Worth It?

If you plan to visit the World of Coca-Cola (located right next door) and Zoo Atlanta during your trip, the Atlanta CityPASS is mathematically worth the investment. It bundles these attractions at a discount of nearly 40%. However, if you are only visiting the aquarium, stick to the single admission ticket purchased in advance.

The Critical Rule: Show Reservations

This is the most common mistake first-time visitors make. The General Admission ticket includes access to the Dolphin Celebration and the Sea Lion Presentation, but it does not guarantee a seat. You must make a reservation for these shows.

Once you arrive and scan your ticket, use the aquarium's mobile app or the kiosks inside to reserve your time slot immediately. On busy days, these seats fill up within the first hour of opening. If you sit in the first 10 rows (the Splash Zone), you will get soaked—this is not an exaggeration, so protect your electronics.

Getting There & Parking Details

Downtown Atlanta traffic can be intense, and parking costs add up quickly. You have a few options depending on your budget and patience.

Official Parking Deck vs. Alternatives

The official Georgia Aquarium parking deck is convenient and attached to the building, but it costs approximately $20–$25. You can pay this in advance online to speed up your entry.

If the official deck is full, which happens often on weekends, the World of Coca-Cola parking deck is immediately adjacent and offers a viable alternative. There are also private lots scattered around Baker Street and Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd, but be cautious of security and varying rates in those unattended lots.

Public Transport (MARTA)

For a stress-free arrival, take the MARTA train to the Peachtree Center station or the CNN Center station. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk through Centennial Olympic Park. This is often faster than navigating downtown traffic during rush hour.

Exploring the Exhibits: What to See?

The aquarium is designed with a hub-and-spoke layout. You return to the central atrium after visiting each gallery, which makes navigation easy.

Ocean Voyager: The Crown Jewel

This is the exhibit that puts Georgia Aquarium on the map. It houses whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fish in a 6.3 million-gallon tank.

• The Tunnel: You start by walking through a 100-foot underwater tunnel. Look up to see sawfish and sharks swimming directly over you.
• The Viewing Window: The exhibit ends at a massive acrylic window. This is the best spot to sit and decompress while watching the gentle giants of the ocean.

Cold Water Quest

Here you will find the beluga whales, which are incredibly charismatic and often interact with visitors through the glass. This section also houses the African penguins and the Southern sea otters. The layout here can get tight, so try to visit this section early in the morning.

Sharks! Predators of the Deep

One of the newer and more thrilling additions, this gallery features floor-to-ceiling windows filled with hammerheads, tiger sharks, and silvertips. The lighting is darker and more atmospheric here, emphasizing the stealth nature of these predators.

Tropical Diver & River Scout

Tropical Diver features one of the largest living reef exhibits in the world, complete with a crashing wave overhead. It is a colorful, relaxing contrast to the shark exhibits. River Scout focuses on freshwater environments, showcasing piranhas and albino alligators.

Practical Visitor Tips

To transition from a standard tourist to a savvy traveler, keep these experience-based tips in mind:

• Avoid the Crowds: The best time to visit is on weekdays (Tuesday or Wednesday) right at opening time. Weekends and holidays are incredibly crowded, making it difficult to get close to the glass in popular galleries like Cold Water Quest.
• Food & Drink: The on-site cafeteria, Cafe Aquaria, offers standard fare like burgers and pizza, but it is pricey and lines can be long. You are permitted to bring a refillable water bottle, and filling stations are available throughout the facility. Eating a hearty meal before you arrive is a smarter financial move.
• Accessibility: The entire facility is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with elevators available for the second level. However, very large strollers can be cumbersome in the tunnel areas during peak times.
• Sensory Needs: The aquarium can be loud and visually stimulating. If you or a family member has sensory sensitivities, check the schedule for Low Sensory Hours, usually offered early in the morning.

Nearby Attractions and Itinerary

Since you are already in the heart of downtown, you can easily combine your visit with other major Atlanta attractions.

• World of Coca-Cola: Located just across the green space (Pemberton Place). You can easily do both in one day if you start early.
• Centennial Olympic Park: A perfect spot to let kids run around or to have a picnic lunch after exiting the aquarium.
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights: A deeply moving museum located within a 5-minute walk.

If you need a place to stay, hotels like the Embassy Suites or Hyatt Place are within walking distance, allowing you to save on daily parking fees by leaving your car at the hotel.

The Georgia Aquarium offers a rare opportunity to see marine life on a massive scale. By booking your tickets online to lock in the best $39.99 - $64.99 rate, reserving your show seats immediately upon arrival, and arriving early to beat the school groups, you ensure a smooth and memorable deep-dive into the ocean's wonders.