Visit The Georgia Aquarium
Are you ready to embark on an underwater adventure like no other? Brace yourself for a deep dive into the mesmerizing world of marine marvels at the Georgia Aquarium. From majestic whale sharks gliding through turquoise waters to playful dolphins leaping with joy, this aquatic wonderland will leave you in awe at every turn. Join us as we explore the enchanting beauty and incredible diversity that lie beneath the surface of this extraordinary oceanic oasis. So grab your snorkel mask and get ready to be immersed in a truly unforgettable experience at the Georgia Aquarium!
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Georgia Aquarium is a world-renowned marine attraction that offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. It is home to thousands of animals from over 700 species, making it one of the largest aquariums in the world.
The idea for the Georgia Aquarium was first conceived by two prominent businessmen, Bernard Marcus and Arthur Blank, who wanted to build an educational facility to showcase aquatic life and promote conservation efforts. After years of planning and construction, the aquarium opened its doors to the public on November 23rd, 2005.
The Georgia Aquarium is not just another tourist attraction – it’s an experience unlike any other. With over 100,000 animals and 500 different species, it’s no wonder that the aquarium is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Atlanta. But what makes this marine marvel so special? Let’s dive into the reasons why the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit attraction.
First and foremost, the sheer size of the aquarium is enough to leave visitors in awe. With a total volume of 10 million gallons of water spread across seven different galleries, the Georgia Aquarium holds the title as one of the largest aquariums in the world. This means that there are endless opportunities to explore and discover something new at every turn.
One of its most popular exhibits is Ocean Voyager, which houses two massive whale sharks –the largest fish species on earth – along with thousands of other fascinating creatures such as manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and giant groupers. Visitors can also take part in an immersive experience by walking through a 100-foot long underwater tunnel surrounded by a variety of marine life.
One of the coolest things to do at the Georgia Aquarium is the animal encounters. Choose from a variety of encounters such as the penguin encounter, sea otter, sea lion, seals, and more.
Things To See At The Georgia Aquarium
I chose to do two animal encounters along with the backstage tour.
Penguin Encounter; For an exclusive and unforgettable experience, don't miss the Penguin Encounter, where you'll have the chance to interact with these incredible creatures up close and personal. We paid $75.99,for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that offers a 30-minute encounter that promises to create lasting memories. Learn fascinating facts about their behavior and biology and even get to interact with one. This experience is perfect for animal lovers, families, and anyone seeking a unique and educational adventure with penguins. You also get a free pic per person, so because me and my hubby did it together we got two pics. He loves when I drag him to meet penguins. Can't you tell by the big smile on his face 🤣🤣.
Harbor Seal Experience; This exclusive program offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Georgia Aquarium's seal facility, where you'll gain insights into the care and training of these remarkable animals. Enjoy an educational presentation by our knowledgeable animal trainers, and participate in an interactive training session alongside them. This 30-minute experience, priced at $75.99, promises a memorable and enriching encounter with our harbor seals. In this encounter we were able to get up close and personal with the seals, all three of them. I even got a big kiss from Floyd the seal. This encounter also gives you free pics, 1 per person.
Behind the Seas Tour; NOW, this truly was one of my favorite experiences we did. Priced at $16.99 we got an up-close and personal look at the whale sharks. We did the 10:30 tour and this was the perfect time to see them feeding the whale sharks. WHAT AN EXPERIENCE. We also went into the area where they propagate their own coral. I truly have a new respect for this process as I had no idea it took coral that long to grow.
By going beyond just observing marine life from afar, these specialized tours at Georgia Aquarium offer a more comprehensive understanding of ocean creatures and their habitats. They provide a unique and educational experience that can inspire visitors to become advocates for marine conservation. So, whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned aquarium-goer, be sure to add one of these tours to your itinerary for a truly enriching and unforgettable experience at the Georgia Aquarium.
Exploring the Wonders of the Georgia Aquarium: A Marine Adventure Awaits
Ocean Voyager gallery; One of the World's Largest Single Aquatic Exhibits
Visit Ocean Voyager to see whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fascinating fish in a mesmerizing realm. One of the world's largest single aquatic exhibits in the world, Ocean Voyager features an acrylic tunnel where guests can view thousands of marine creatures from all sides and a giant acrylic viewing window so they can explore our oceans to the fullest. With 4,574 square feet of viewing windows, one of the largest at 23 feet tall by 61 feet wide and 2 feet thick, you will have multiple opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures. As you embark on this captivating journey, be prepared to witness the majestic giants of the sea and the star of the show Tank the turtle presenting a truly breathtaking scene where you can witness the grace of this famous sea turtle gliding alongside awe-inspiring whale sharks. Delight in the intricate choreography of marine life, from sting rays to vibrant tropical fish, all coming together in perfect harmony. Ocean Voyager is a testament to nature's wonders in the underwater world.
Cold Water Quest;
The chilly waters of Cold Water Quest are teeming with a diverse array of aquatic life, much like the abundance found in the cold ocean. Among the rocky ledges and kelp forests, you will find fascinating creatures such as Australian weedy sea dragons, garibaldi damselfish, and Japanese spider crabs. This gallery is also home to some of the coldest ocean animals on Earth, including sea otters and puffins.
Explore the African penguin habitat, where over 25 nesting spots are cleverly incorporated into the realistic rock formations. Experience the effects of a full day's light in our exhibit, thanks to our advanced lighting setup that simulates natural cycles from sunrise to moonlight. Get up close and personal with your beloved feathered companions through acrylic tunnels and pop-up windows. And be sure not to overlook our beluga whale display, boasting icy waters, playful harbor seals, and a remarkable pod of belugas renowned for their role in marine conservation initiatives. Yes, I crawled through the tube just to see my little penguin friends.
Dolphin Coast; Visit Dolphin Coast, the captivating coast of Georgia Aquarium! This popular gallery highlights our own pod of common bottlenose dolphins. Guests can observe these incredible creatures in both the Dolphin Coast lobby and dolphin theater. The featured dolphin presentation is packed with fun marine facts, a live training demonstration and teaches guests about the Aquarium’s efforts to preserve this extraordinary species. A general admission ticket includes admission to the presentation, which is fun for everyone. You are advised to arrive 30 minutes before the presentation. Seating is on a first come, first served basis, with the option of purchasing reserved seating. Please note that presentation times vary daily.
The Georgia Aquarium is a truly unforgettable experience that offers something for everyone. From stunning marine life exhibits to interactive activities and educational programs, there are endless opportunities to learn and be amazed. So don't hesitate any longer, make sure you plan a visit to the Georgia Aquarium and dive right in for an unforgettable adventure! You won't regret it.
