Think aquariums are just about staring at fish through the glass? Think again.
The Georgia Aquarium isn’t just one of the largest aquariums in the world—it’s an underwater stage packed with energy, education, and entertainment. The shows here go beyond your usual sea-life encounters, bringing you face to face with dolphins that leap like athletes, sea lions with serious stage presence, and birds that could give some circus acts a run for their money.
Whether you're visiting with kids or just a curious adult who never really outgrew the “wow” factor, the shows at Georgia Aquarium are a must.
Recommended tickets to Georgia Aquarium
What Are the Shows at Georgia Aquarium?
1 Dolphin Presentation
High jumps. Fast flips. Splash zones. The dolphin presentation is one of the most popular shows at the aquarium, and for good reason. It's fast-paced, fun, and surprisingly emotional. You’ll get to watch the trainers interact with the dolphins through positive reinforcement while learning about their intelligence, personalities, and natural behaviors.
- Location: Dolphin Coast Theater
- Duration: ~20–25 minutes
- Tip: Sit up front if you want to get splashed (or back row if you’d rather stay dry).
2 Sea Lion Presentation
Yes, they bark. Yes, they’re hilarious. And yes, they’re trained performers. The sea lion show brings comedy, education, and a touch of Broadway charm. These California sea lions work with trainers to show off their agility, intelligence, and straight-up charisma—all while teaching you about ocean conservation and marine life protection.
- Location: Pacific Sea Lion Habitat
- Duration: ~15–20 minutes
3 Birds of the Tropics
It’s not just about marine animals here. This lesser-known show brings colorful birds soaring right over your head in a free-flight presentation that feels like a nature documentary come to life. Trainers guide toucans, parrots, and other tropical birds through playful routines while sharing fascinating facts about their habitats and behavior.
- Location: Tropical Diver area (or seasonal stage)
- Duration: Varies
- Tip: Keep your phone ready—this one’s a stunner for photos.
Why These Shows Are Worth Your Time
- They’re Educational Without Being Boring: You’ll learn about marine life, conservation, and how humans can protect the oceans—without it ever feeling like a lecture.
- All Ages Are Welcome: Whether you're traveling with toddlers, teens, or just your inner child, the shows are engaging and easy to follow.
- It’s a Nice Break from Walking: Let’s be honest—between exhibits, you'll appreciate a comfy seat and some A/C.
Frequently asked questions
Yes! All major shows—dolphins, sea lions, and birds—are included with your general admission ticket.
Absolutely. The shows are family-friendly and great for all age groups. Just keep in mind some younger kids might find the splash zones a bit much!
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early, especially for the dolphin and sea lion presentations. Seating is limited and fills up quickly on busy days.
