The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world.
It’s home to thousands of marine animals, including whale sharks, dolphins, and sea otters.
With so much to see, planning ahead is key.
A well-timed visit can help you avoid crowds, secure the best show seats, and get the most out of your day.
Simple choices—like buying tickets in advance or arriving early—can make a big difference.
This guide covers 21 essential tips to help you navigate the aquarium like a pro!
Planning Ahead: Tickets & Passes
1. Buy Your Tickets Online and in Advance
Purchasing tickets online before your visit can save both time and money.
Buying tickets even just one day in advance may come with a discount.
More importantly, securing your ticket ahead of time ensures you get your preferred date and timeslot.
This is especially useful on weekends and holidays when the aquarium is at its busiest.
Buying online also lets you skip the general admission ticket line, helping you start your visit without unnecessary delays.
2. Consider Purchasing Skip-the-Line Tickets
For a slightly higher price, you may have the option to purchase tickets that let you bypass the regular entry lines.
This can be a major advantage during peak times when long lines form at the entrance.
Instead of waiting, you’ll walk straight in and get a head start on the exhibits.
If you’re visiting with young children or have a packed schedule, this small upgrade can make a big difference.
3. Determine if the Atlanta CityPASS is a Worthwhile Investment
If you’re planning to visit other major attractions in Atlanta, the Atlanta CityPASS could be a great deal.
It bundles admission to several attractions, including Zoo Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola, and the College Football Hall of Fame.
By using the CityPASS, you could save up to 44% compared to buying individual tickets.
It also keeps everything in one place, eliminating the hassle of purchasing separate tickets for each attraction.
If you want to see more of Atlanta while keeping costs down, this pass is worth considering.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit
4. Visit the Georgia Aquarium on a Weekday if Possible
Weekends bring large crowds, making it harder to move through exhibits and enjoy the shows.
If your schedule allows, plan your visit between Monday and Thursday.
These days tend to be much less congested, providing a more relaxed experience.
You’ll have better views of the animals and shorter wait times for any interactive exhibits or shows.
5. Arrive Early in the Morning or Visit in the Late Evening
The best time to visit is right when the aquarium opens.
Between opening and 11 AM, the crowds are minimal, and you can explore at a comfortable pace.
If mornings don’t work for you, consider coming in the evening.
After 5 PM, the daytime rush dies down, creating another window of time to enjoy the exhibits with fewer people around.
6. Allocate at Least 3-4 Hours to Explore
The Georgia Aquarium is massive.
Even if you move quickly, it will take about four hours to see all the exhibits.
If you plan to watch the dolphin show, sea lion show, or 4D Theater, expect to stay at least five hours.
Some visitors even spend the entire day here.
To make the most of your visit, give yourself plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.
Making the Most of Shows & Exhibits
7. Register for Show Times Immediately Upon Arrival
The Dolphins in Depth show, Under the Boardwalk sea lion presentation, and the 4D Theater experience are all included with your general admission ticket.
However, you must reserve a timeslot to attend, and spots fill up quickly.
As soon as you enter the aquarium, head to the kiosks or use the Georgia Aquarium mobile app to secure your show reservations.
If you wait too long, you may miss out on these popular attractions.
8. Consider Paying Extra for Preferred Seating at the Dolphin Show
The Dolphins in Depth show is free, but for a small additional fee (usually around $5), you can upgrade to preferred seating.
This puts you in the first few rows, giving you the best views of the dolphins’ jumps and tricks.
Keep in mind that these front rows are part of the splash zone, so expect to get wet if you sit there.
If you want great seats but prefer to stay dry, consider arriving early to get a good spot in the general seating area.
9. Visit the Ocean Voyager Exhibit First
The Ocean Voyager exhibit is one of the most famous attractions at the Georgia Aquarium.
It houses the aquarium’s whale sharks and features a massive viewing window and a walk-through acrylic tunnel.
Later in the day, this area can become crowded, making it harder to get clear views or take photos.
By visiting it early, you’ll have a more relaxed experience and a better chance to see the animals up close without large groups blocking your view.
Comfort & Essentials for a Smooth Visit
10. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed in the Georgia Aquarium, but you can bring a refillable water bottle.
Water stations inside the aquarium make it easy to stay hydrated without needing to buy expensive bottled water.
Walking through the exhibits for several hours can be tiring, so having water on hand is a simple way to keep your energy up.
11. Eat a Substantial Meal Before Arriving
Food options inside the aquarium are limited and can be pricey.
Since you can’t bring outside food, it’s best to eat a full meal before your visit.
Nearby restaurants, like Atlanta Breakfast Club, offer hearty meals that can keep you full for hours.
This way, you can focus on exploring instead of searching for food inside the aquarium.
12. Bring a Sweater or Light Jacket
The aquarium’s indoor environment can feel much cooler than the outside temperature, especially near the large tanks.
While this may not be an issue for some, having an extra layer can help keep you comfortable.
If you’re someone who gets cold easily, a light sweater or jacket is a smart item to bring along.
13. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect to do a lot of walking.
The Georgia Aquarium is large, and moving between exhibits, shows, and different areas of the facility takes time.
Comfortable footwear will help prevent fatigue and discomfort, allowing you to enjoy the experience without distraction.
Avoid wearing new or uncomfortable shoes, especially if you’re visiting with kids or planning a long stay.
Logistics & Navigation
14. Be Aware of the Georgia Aquarium’s Stroller Policy
Strollers are allowed inside the Georgia Aquarium, but there are restrictions.
Large strollers, wagons, push cars, ride-ons, and jogging strollers are typically not permitted.
If you’re visiting with a young child, consider bringing a compact stroller or a baby carrier for easier movement through the exhibits.
To avoid any surprises, check the aquarium’s website before your visit for the latest stroller policies.
15. Pay for Parking Online in Advance
Parking in Downtown Atlanta can be costly, but the Georgia Aquarium offers an on-site parking garage with direct access to the building.
Pre-purchasing your parking online often saves money compared to paying the standard rate on arrival.
It also guarantees a spot, reducing the stress of finding parking in a busy area.
16. Consider Staying at a Hotel That Partners with the Georgia Aquarium
Some hotels in Atlanta partner with the aquarium to offer special perks.
These may include discounted General Admission Anytime tickets or bundled packages.
Many of these hotels are within walking distance of the aquarium, eliminating the need to park altogether.
If you’re planning an overnight stay, checking for aquarium-friendly hotel deals can be a smart way to save money and simplify your visit.
Enhancing Your Experience
17. Download the Georgia Aquarium’s Mobile App
The Georgia Aquarium mobile app is a valuable tool for planning your visit.
It provides a digital map, making it easier to navigate the exhibits.
You can also check show schedules in real-time and manage your tickets through the app.
Instead of carrying a paper map or looking for signboards, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips.
18. Be Prepared for Crowds and Noise, Especially During Peak Times
As we mentioned earlier, the Georgia Aquarium attracts large crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays.
The bustling environment can be overwhelming, particularly in high-traffic areas like Ocean Voyager and the dolphin show.
If you or your children are sensitive to noise, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help create a more comfortable experience.
19. Take Advantage of the Aquarium’s Free WiFi
The Georgia Aquarium offers free WiFi throughout the building.
This can be useful for accessing the mobile app, checking show schedules, or even sharing your visit on social media.
If you’re traveling with a group, having WiFi access makes it easier to stay connected in case you get separated.
Exploring Beyond the Basics
20. Consider Adding the “Behind the Seas” Tour to Your Visit
For a deeper look into how the Georgia Aquarium operates, consider the “Behind the Seas” tour.
This optional add-on gives visitors access to restricted areas behind the exhibits.
You’ll learn about animal care, tank maintenance, and feeding routines.
One highlight of the tour is the chance to see the whale sharks being fed from above the massive Ocean Voyager tank.
If you’re interested in marine life beyond what’s visible to the public, this tour offers a unique perspective.
21. Don’t Overlook the Smaller Exhibits and Unique Creatures
The large tanks and big-name attractions—like the whale sharks and dolphins—get most of the attention.
But the aquarium also has smaller exhibits that are just as fascinating.
Displays featuring sea nettles, seahorses, and colorful tropical fish provide a closer look at marine biodiversity.
These areas tend to be less crowded, making them great spots to take your time and enjoy the details.
Conclusion
Planning ahead is the key to making the most of your visit to the Georgia Aquarium.
Buying tickets in advance, arriving early, and securing show reservations can save you time and stress.
Comfortable shoes, a refillable water bottle, and a little flexibility will help you enjoy the experience.
Don’t just stick to the main attractions—explore the smaller exhibits and consider the Behind the Seas tour for a unique look behind the scenes.
With the right approach, you can have an unforgettable visit.
Have you been to the Georgia Aquarium? Share your best tips or favorite experiences in the comments!
