Let’s face it—staring at whale sharks, giggling at otters, and navigating through tunnels of jellyfish can leave you hungry. Whether you're herding kids, catching up with friends, or turning your visit into a date-day adventure, you'll want a solid food plan. Luckily, Georgia Aquarium delivers on convenience and location when it comes to dining options. From quick bites inside to local favorites right outside the doors, here’s your no-fuss, flavor-packed guide to eating well around Georgia Aquarium.
Inside Georgia Aquarium: Quick, Convenient, and Kid-Approved
Located just above the main entrance, Café Aquaria is the primary food court inside the aquarium. It’s your classic cafeteria setup with multiple stations, family-friendly food, and ample seating that includes a terrace with downtown views (yes, photo op). Here’s what’s cooking:
- Grill Station: Grab a burger, some chicken tenders, or fries. Basic? Yes. Satisfying? Also yes.
- Pizza & Pasta: Choose from cheese or pepperoni slices, and depending on the day, there might be pasta dishes or mac and cheese.
- Deli/Sandwiches: Lighter options like wraps, pre-packed sandwiches, or a decent salad if you're aiming for balance.
- Kids Meals: Hot dogs, PB&J, juice boxes—packaged neatly and kid-tested.
- Desserts & Snacks: Cookies, fruit cups, pretzels, chips, and the always-exciting Dippin’ Dots.
- Beverages: Sodas, bottled drinks, and there’s even a Starbucks counter if you’re on a mission to re-caffeinate.
Tucked near the Dolphin Coast theater, Coastline Café opens during high-traffic days, weekends, and special events. It’s smaller but clutch when you don’t want to walk back across the aquarium for food.
Expect grab-and-go bites:
- Popcorn, pretzels, and ice cream
- Sandwiches or light wraps
- Themed snacks (think: tropical drinks and margaritas during events)
You’ll spot mobile carts scattered around the aquarium on busy days, especially near big exhibits. Favorites include:
Expect grab-and-go bites:
- Fresh lemonade
- Churros and mini donuts
- Ice cream novelties
Can You Bring Your Own Food?
Not really. Georgia Aquarium has a no outside food or drinks policy (with exceptions for baby food or medical dietary needs). However, here’s a travel hack: they do allow same-day re-entry, so you can leave for a bite and come back with a full belly and a re-stamped hand.
Dining Near Georgia Aquarium: Where to Eat Within Walking Distance
You're smack in the middle of Atlanta’s downtown tourist district, so options are plentiful—and many are within a 5- to 10-minute stroll.
A retro 1950s-style diner with burgers, shakes, and classic American eats. It’s fun, familiar, and great for families or anyone craving a little nostalgia with their fries.
For those who want variety without commitment, this food court is packed with fast-casual favorites like:
- Chick-fil-A
- Moe’s Southwest Grill
- Starbucks (again!)
Great for groups who can’t agree on what to eat—or for travelers looking for fast and familiar.
A solid local bar and grill with craft burgers, a good beer list, and a relaxed, sports-friendly vibe. Perfect for a low-key lunch or early dinner. Great for couples or friend groups looking for something with local flavor.
Want to elevate your post-aquarium day? Literally? Head to SkyLounge for cocktails with panoramic city views. Best for date nights or when you're feeling fancy-casual.
Known for crisp New York-style pizza and addictive coal-fired wings. A great choice for a group lunch or casual family dinner.
Funky, artsy decor meets an anything-goes pizza menu. Their hoagies and salads round out the menu nicely. Super kid-friendly and always a fun vibe.
A Western-style restaurant known for hearty American dishes and bison burgers. It’s a bit more of a sit-down experience—great if you want something substantial after a full day of exploring.
Part museum, part restaurant—Hard Rock delivers on American classics with a side of rock ’n roll memorabilia. Good for big groups and families who want dinner with a vibe.
An Atlanta staple. Whether it’s 8 AM or 2 AM, Waffle House is always open. You can’t go wrong with a classic waffle, hash browns, and coffee for the road.
Quick Dining Tips for Aquarium Visitors
- Plan around the crowds: The main café fills up fast around noon, especially right after the dolphin show. Eat early (11–11:30 AM) or late (1:30 PM onwards) to dodge the rush.
- Bring a water bottle: Refillable fountains are inside—great way to save money and stay hydrated.
- Dietary needs? Vegetarian options are decent (wraps, salads, cheese pizza). Gluten-free and kosher options are more limited, but staff are usually accommodating.
- Don’t skip dessert: Dippin’ Dots, mini donuts, or a treat from a snack cart = the perfect ending.
