Welcome to the Georgia Aquarium, where millions of people have fallen in love with the wonders of the ocean. Since opening its doors in 2005, this aquarium has become a favorite family destination, attracting over 2-3 million visitors each year. With its vast exhibits and interactive displays, the aquarium is a treasure trove of discovery. But with so many visitors, it can be overwhelming. That's why we're here to help you plan your visit and make the most of your time at the aquarium. Here’s your handy guide to avoiding the crowds and having a stress-free experience.
Recommended tickets
Georgia Aquarium opening hours
The aquarium is open from Monday to Thursday from 9am to 6pm. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the hours are extended to 9am to 8pm, with a special late-night opening on Saturdays until 9pm.
Access to the Dolphin Show and Sea Lion Encounter is included with your ticket but requires an on-site reservation. The shows happen at regular intervals throughout the day. The seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s recommended that you arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the show.
Please note that these are general hours, and show schedules may vary. For the most up-to-date information, we recommend checking the aquarium's website for the full schedule in 2025.
How long should I spend at Georgia Aquarium?
Georgia Aquarium is massive, and it might take more time than you intend to spend here, depending on the crowd. You’ll save a lot of time if you pre-plan what you want to see. Let's break it down into manageable chunks.
The Ocean Voyager section is a must-see, with stunning tunnel views that'll keep you engaged for at least an hour. Coldwater Quest is another highlight, featuring adorable otters and other crowd-pleasers. The dolphin show is a great way to spend quality time with your little ones, but be sure to check the schedule and plan for extra time.
For families, River Scout and Tropical Diver are great options, with interactive exhibits that'll keep your tiny explorers entertained for at least an hour. So, on an average, you’ll spend 3 hours if it’s just adults visiting and half a day if you are coming along with kids.
Best time of the day to visit
If you want to avoid the crowds and make the most of your experience, weekday morning hours are your best bet. Specifically, Mondays and Tuesdays are the best days to visit, as they tend to be the quietest. By arriving early, you'll be able to stroll through the galleries without the chaos of school groups and field trips. Consider visiting the galleries during show times, as the theatres will be occupied, creating a more relaxed atmosphere for gallery viewing.
However, if you can't make it in the morning, weekday afternoons and evenings are also great options. The crowds tend to reduce around 5pm, and the late-night hours (7-9 pm) are generally much more relaxed. Just be aware that weekends can get crazy, especially on Saturdays. If you only have weekends available, consider visiting on Sunday morning between 9-10am to avoid crowds.
Best time of the year to visit
Timing is everything. If you're looking for pleasant weather, aim for spring and fall. Summers are bustling with festivals and events, while winters offer a chill atmosphere with indoor activities. Early in the school year (August to October) is a great time to avoid crowds, as field trips tend to dwindle later. If you can, plan your visit during weekday afternoons or evenings, when the school crowds have thinned out. And if you're a Georgia resident, don't forget to take advantage of free admission on your birthday! For a more relaxed experience, visit during the moderate season (September to November) on a weekday afternoon after 1pm.
Tips for avoiding crowds
1. Go for skip-the-line ticket: Save time and effort with skip-the-line tickets at Georgia Aquarium. Get instant entry and explore the vast exhibits without waiting in line. Plus, enjoy dolphin show and sea lion presentation access, as well as admission to special temporary exhibitions.
2. Opt for Aqua Pass: Pay for a day and enjoy unlimited visits until Dec 31, 2025. Discover new animals, shows, exhibits, and special events like Haunted Seas and Holidays. Get yours before Jan 31 and avoid price hikes.
