Are you planning a trip to the Atlanta Aquarium and wondering how much it’ll cost? You’re not alone! Many families and visitors are curious about ticket prices and what to expect when they arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Ticket Prices & Discounts: General admission is $44.95 for adults and $34.95 for children. Purchase tickets online to save about $5 and inquire about military and group discounts.
- Additional Costs: Budget for parking (between $10-$20), food expenses (around $10-$15 per person), and souvenirs (approximately $20-$50).
- Special Experiences: Enhance your visit with behind-the-scenes tours or animal encounters, which typically require advance booking and range from $65 to $299, including admission.
- Planning Your Visit: Arrive early to avoid crowds, check the schedule for shows, and allocate at least four hours to fully explore the exhibits.
- Accessibility & Transportation: The aquarium is wheelchair-friendly and offers public transportation options to ease parking challenges.
- Membership Benefits: Consider an annual membership for frequent visits, which provides unlimited access and additional perks like discounts at the gift shop.
Overview of the Atlanta Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium, located in downtown Atlanta, features a diverse range of marine life and interactive exhibits. It houses over 100,000 animals across 10 million gallons of water, providing a unique experience for visitors.
Highlights of the Atlanta Aquarium
- Exhibits: Explore various habitats, including the Ocean Voyager and the Tropical Diver. Each exhibit showcases different ecosystems and marine species.
- Animals: Discover species such as whale sharks, manta rays, and sea otters, making it one of the largest aquariums in the world.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in hands-on activities like the touch tank, which lets you get close to rays and other sea creatures.
Visitor Information
- Location: The aquarium sits near major attractions, allowing easy access for tourists.
- Accessibility: The venue accommodates visitors with disabilities for a comfortable experience.
- Parking: On-site parking is available, along with alternative transportation options like public transit.
- Purchase Tickets Online: Buying tickets ahead saves time and often provides discounts.
- Timing Your Visit: Arriving early or later in the day may help avoid large crowds.
- Plan for the Day: The aquarium offers a full day’s worth of activities, including shows and feedings.
This overview offers essential insights into what to expect when visiting the Atlanta Aquarium, setting you up for an enjoyable experience filled with discovery and fun.
Ticket Prices
Understanding ticket prices for the Georgia Aquarium helps you plan your visit. Below are the details for general admission and available discounts.
General Admission
General admission tickets cost $44.95 for adults, $34.95 for children ages 3-12, and $39.95 for seniors aged 65 and older. Kids under 3 enter for free. Tickets grant access to all exhibits, including Ocean Voyager and Tropical Diver. Plan ahead if you want to attend special events or experiences, as those may require separate tickets.
Discounts and Promotions
You can find several discounts and promotions to save on ticket purchases.
- Online Purchases: Buying tickets online can save you about $5 per ticket compared to purchasing at the door.
- Military Discounts: Active military personnel receive a discount of 15% on admission.
- Group Rates: Groups of 15 or more qualify for reduced rates. Contact the aquarium for specific pricing.
- Membership Options: Consider annual memberships for frequent visitors. Memberships offer unlimited visits and additional perks such as discounts at the gift shop.
Stay updated on seasonal promotions by checking the aquarium’s official website.
Additional Costs
Visiting the Atlanta Aquarium may incur some additional expenses beyond ticket prices. Here are the key areas to budget for during your trip.
Parking Fees
Parking around the Georgia Aquarium can cost between $10 and $20 for a full day, depending on the lot you choose. The aquarium offers its own parking deck, which can fill up quickly on weekends. Arriving early helps secure a spot, especially during peak times. Consider using public transportation or rideshare services to save on parking fees.
Food and Souvenir Expenses
Dining options inside the aquarium range from casual quick-service restaurants to sit-down eateries. Expect to spend around $10 to $15 per person for lunch. If you plan to indulge in snacks or drinks, budget an additional $5 to $10.
For souvenirs, items like plush toys and T-shirts typically range from $10 to $30. Allocate around $20 to $50 for mementos to remember your visit. The aquarium offers a unique gift shop, so keep an eye out for special items.
Special Experiences
The Georgia Aquarium offers unique experiences that enhance your visit beyond standard admission. These special experiences allow for deeper connections with marine life.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Behind-the-scenes tours provide exclusive insights into aquarium operations and animal care. These guided tours last about an hour and showcase areas usually off-limits to the public. You’ll learn how the team cares for over 100,000 animals while enjoying fascinating stories from staff members. The cost for these tours is around $65 per person, which includes your general admission ticket. Be sure to book in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
Animal Encounters
Animal encounters create unforgettable moments with select species. You can interact with animals like sea otters, stingrays, or penguins, depending on the experience. Each encounter lasts 30 minutes, offering a unique opportunity to learn more about the animals from trained educators. Prices vary by encounter, typically ranging from $199 to $299 per person. This price often includes admission tickets. Spots are limited, so reserving ahead of time ensures your chance to participate.
Tips for Visiting
- Purchase Tickets Online: Buy tickets through the official website to save time and money. Online purchases often come with discounts.
- Plan Your Visit: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. The aquarium opens at 9 AM, allowing you to explore before peak hours.
- Check Showtimes: Review the schedule for animal feedings and presentations. These experiences enrich your visit and provide unique insights into marine life.
- Allocate Time for Exploration: Spend at least four hours enjoying the various exhibits. You’ll want enough time to explore Ocean Voyager and Tropical Diver fully.
- Utilize Public Transportation: If possible, opt for public transport. It reduces parking stress and can save you extra fees, making your visit more enjoyable.
- Pack Snacks and Water: Bring light snacks and refillable water bottles. While the aquarium has dining options, you might prefer having your own refreshments on hand.
- Review Accessibility Options: Familiarize yourself with accessibility features if needed. The aquarium is wheelchair friendly and provides services to assist visitors.
- Consider Membership: Frequent visitors can benefit from a membership. Memberships provide unlimited visits and exclusive discounts for events and the gift shop.
- Budget for Souvenirs: Set aside $20 to $50 for souvenirs. The gift shop has various options, so plan ahead to avoid overspending.
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Make the most of your day by checking out nearby sites such as the World of Coca-Cola or Centennial Olympic Park after your aquarium visit.
Following these tips will enhance your experience at the Atlanta Aquarium, ensuring you see all the incredible marine life while managing your time and budget effectively.
Conclusion
Visiting the Atlanta Aquarium can be a fantastic experience for you and your family. With a bit of planning you can enjoy everything from stunning marine life to interactive exhibits without breaking the bank.
Remember to check for discounts and consider purchasing your tickets online to save time and money. Whether you’re exploring the diverse habitats or enjoying a special encounter there’s something for everyone.
So gear up for a day of fun and discovery at one of the largest aquariums in the world. You won’t just be seeing fish; you’ll be creating memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy your visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices for Atlanta Aquarium?
General admission for the Atlanta Aquarium costs $44.95 for adults, $34.95 for children aged 3-12, and $39.95 for seniors aged 65 and older. Kids under 3 enter for free. It’s best to check for any potential discounts when purchasing tickets online.
Where is the Georgia Aquarium located?
The Georgia Aquarium is situated in downtown Atlanta, near key attractions like the World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park. Its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring the area.
How can I save on tickets?
To save on tickets for the Georgia Aquarium, consider purchasing them online. This often provides discounts and helps you avoid long lines on the day of your visit. Look for military discounts and group rates as well.
What additional costs should I consider?
In addition to ticket prices, visitors should budget for parking fees ranging from $10 to $20, dining costs averaging $10 to $15 per person, and souvenirs costing between $20 to $50.
Are there interactive experiences available?
Yes! The Georgia Aquarium offers interactive experiences like behind-the-scenes tours, which cost about $65 per person, and animal encounters ranging from $199 to $299. These experiences must be booked in advance due to limited availability.
What are the best tips for visiting the aquarium?
To enhance your visit, arrive early to avoid crowds, purchase tickets online, and check showtimes for animal feedings. Plan for at least four hours of exploration and consider taking public transportation to reduce parking stress.
Is the aquarium accessible for everyone?
Yes, the Georgia Aquarium provides various accessibility options for visitors with disabilities. It’s recommended to review these options on their website before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
What dining options are available at the aquarium?
The aquarium features several dining options, with meal costs averaging $10 to $15 per person. Visitors are also encouraged to budget extra for snacks and drinks while enjoying the exhibits.
