Atlanta Boat Show: Your Complete Guide to Atlanta’s Biggest Boating Event

The Atlanta Boat Show is one of the city’s major winter events and the largest annual boating showcase in the region. If you live in Atlanta, are planning a visit, or are just curious how the boat show works here, this guide walks you through what to expect, how to get there, what you can do on-site, and how to make the most of your day.

What Is the Atlanta Boat Show?

The Atlanta Boat Show is a large indoor marine and boating expo typically held once a year in downtown Atlanta.

You can expect:

  • Dozens to hundreds of boats on display – from small fishing boats to pontoons, wake boats, and luxury cruisers
  • Marine gear and accessories – electronics, trailers, safety gear, and more
  • Educational seminars and demos – boating basics, fishing tips, safety sessions
  • Family-friendly attractions – kids’ activities, interactive demos, and often hands-on experiences

For Atlanta residents, it’s a convenient way to see many types of boats without driving to the coast or the lake marinas. Many visitors use the show to compare options in one place, talk to dealers, or simply get ideas for future purchases or rentals on Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona, and other Georgia lakes.

Where the Atlanta Boat Show Takes Place

Most recent Atlanta Boat Shows have been held at:

Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC)
285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30313

The GWCC is in the downtown entertainment district, near:

  • Mercedes-Benz Stadium
  • State Farm Arena
  • Centennial Olympic Park

Because the event is indoors at the convention center, the show is held rain or shine, which is especially useful during Atlanta’s unpredictable winter weather.

When Is the Atlanta Boat Show Held?

The Atlanta Boat Show is traditionally scheduled once a year, often in the winter months (frequently January). This timing lets local boaters:

  • Research new boats before spring boating season on Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona, West Point Lake, and other regional waters
  • Take advantage of off-season deals or boat-show-only offers from many dealers
  • Learn about new regulations, safety practices, and technology before they launch for the year

Because specific dates vary, it’s best to:

  • Check the current year’s schedule close to your planned visit
  • Confirm daily opening and closing times (weekdays often have shorter hours than weekends)

Getting to the Atlanta Boat Show: Parking & Transit

Driving and Parking

If you’re driving from within metro Atlanta or from nearby suburbs like Marietta, Decatur, or Alpharetta, you can access the GWCC via major highways such as I‑75/85 and I‑20.

Common parking options include:

  • GWCC official parking decks
  • Nearby public and private lots around State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Parking rates vary depending on the day and whether there are other events downtown.

Using MARTA

For many Atlanta-area visitors, MARTA is an easy way to get to the Atlanta Boat Show without dealing with downtown parking.

  • Take a MARTA rail line to Dome/GWCC/State Farm Arena/CNN Center Station.
  • From the station, it’s a short walk to the Georgia World Congress Center.

This option is especially convenient if you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, all of which have MARTA access.

What You’ll See at the Atlanta Boat Show

The show is designed to bring nearly every aspect of boating into one space. While the exact exhibits change from year to year, you can usually expect:

Types of Boats on Display

You’ll often see:

  • Fishing boats – bass boats, center consoles, and other angler-friendly models
  • Pontoon and tritoon boats – very popular for Lake Lanier and family cruising
  • Wakeboard and surf boats – for wake sports on regional lakes
  • Deck boats and bowriders – versatile options for family fun
  • Personal watercraft (PWCs) – such as jet-powered craft used on many Georgia lakes
  • Cabin cruisers and larger vessels – for those interested in overnight trips

Even if you’re not planning to buy, walking through the show can help you understand what different boat types are best suited for Atlanta-area waters.

Gear, Accessories, and Services

Beyond boats, you’ll typically find:

  • Marine electronics – GPS units, fish finders, radar, and audio systems
  • Safety gear – life jackets, flares, first aid kits, and emergency equipment
  • Boat trailers and lifts – helpful for those storing boats at home or at marinas
  • Docking and storage solutions – useful if you boat on Lake Lanier, Allatoona, or smaller reservoirs
  • Cleaning products and maintenance supplies – to keep your boat in good condition in Georgia’s warm, humid climate

Many Atlanta boat owners use the show as a one-stop shop to update their equipment before the season.

Educational Sessions & Activities

A major benefit of the Atlanta Boat Show is the educational side, which can be useful whether you’re completely new to boating or already experienced.

Common Types of Seminars

You may find:

  • Boating basics – introductions to boat handling, docking, and navigation
  • Fishing techniques – tips tailored to Georgia lakes and rivers
  • Safety and regulations – overviews of state boating laws, life jacket rules, and safe operating habits
  • Trailering and launching – guidance that helps new boaters feel more confident at launch ramps around metro Atlanta

These sessions are usually included with your show admission, making them an efficient way to learn a lot in one day.

Family and Kids’ Activities

The Atlanta Boat Show is generally family-friendly. Depending on the year, kids might find:

  • Hands-on displays or interactive demos
  • Boating or water-safety themed activities
  • Opportunities to explore certain boats (with supervision and rules from exhibitors)

If you’re bringing children, check the current year’s event info for any age-related policies or special features.

Tickets, Admission, and What to Bring

Ticket Basics

While exact pricing and policies can change:

  • The show typically charges admission, with children’s pricing or certain age groups free.
  • There may be discounts for specific days or for purchasing tickets in advance.

Always verify:

  • Current ticket prices
  • Whether same-day on-site purchase is available
  • Accepted payment methods

What to Bring to the Show

To make your visit smoother:

  • Photo ID – sometimes needed for ticket pickup or certain transactions
  • Comfortable walking shoes – the exhibit floor can be large
  • Notebook or phone notes – to track boats, models, and dealers you like
  • Your budget and wish list – if you’re considering a purchase or upgrade

Atlanta-Focused Boating Considerations

The Atlanta Boat Show is shaped by how people in and around the city actually use boats. If you’re planning to boat in the region, keep these local factors in mind.

Popular Boating Destinations Near Atlanta

Most Atlanta boaters head to nearby lakes, including:

  • Lake Lanier – north of the city; known for large marinas, party coves, and a wide mix of boat types
  • Lake Allatoona – northwest of Atlanta; popular for fishing, wake sports, and family outings
  • West Point Lake – farther southwest, but another option for weekend trips

Many of the boats and accessories featured at the show are well-suited to these lakes’ water depths, typical wave conditions, dock setups, and seasonal patterns.

Local Regulations and Boating Safety

If you’re new to boating in Georgia, it’s important to understand state rules and safety expectations. Boaters often look for resources at the Atlanta Boat Show related to:

  • Boater education courses
  • Life jacket and age requirements
  • Operating rules for personal watercraft
  • Alcohol and boating laws

For official information, Atlanta-area boaters typically rely on:

Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – Law Enforcement Division
2067 U.S. Highway 278 SE
Social Circle, GA 30025
Main phone (general DNR): often available through Georgia state directories

The DNR oversees boating regulations across Georgia, including lakes near Atlanta. The show may feature representatives or materials that help you connect with approved courses and official guidance.

Using the Show to Shop for a Boat in Atlanta

Comparing Boats and Dealers

The Atlanta Boat Show brings many local and regional dealers under one roof, which can help you:

  • Compare prices and features without driving all over metro Atlanta
  • See how different brands and models feel in person
  • Talk directly with sales staff about service centers, warranties, and parts availability near where you live

If you live in or around Atlanta, it’s worth asking:

  • Where will the boat be serviced?
  • Is there a local dealership or authorized service center nearby?
  • How long do typical maintenance or repair jobs take during peak season?

Thinking Ahead About Storage and Transport

Because Atlanta is inland, you’ll likely keep your boat:

  • At a marina or dry storage facility on a nearby lake
  • On a trailer at home, if zoning and neighborhood rules allow
  • In a storage unit or covered facility somewhere in metro Atlanta

Use the boat show to:

  • Talk with exhibitors about trailers, covers, and lifts
  • Ask how different boats handle Georgia’s hot summers, sun exposure, and potential algae buildup in freshwater lakes
  • Consider the distance from your home to your preferred lake and how often you plan to tow your boat

Sample Day Plan for Visiting the Atlanta Boat Show

Here’s a simple overview to help you structure your visit:

Time of DayWhat to DoAtlanta-Specific Tips
MorningArrive at GWCC, park or exit MARTA, get ticketsAim for earlier arrival to avoid heavier downtown traffic and crowds.
Late MorningWalk the main boat exhibitsStart with boat types you’re most likely to use on Lake Lanier or Lake Allatoona.
MiddayAttend a seminar or demoLook for sessions on Georgia boating rules or local fishing.
AfternoonRevisit favorite exhibitors, compare pricing and featuresAsk dealers about Atlanta-area service locations and storage options.
Late AfternoonPick up brochures, take final notes, and plan follow-up visitsNote which dealerships are closest to your home or preferred lake.

Key Takeaways for Atlanta Visitors and Residents

  • The Atlanta Boat Show is a large, indoor annual boating event usually held at the Georgia World Congress Center in downtown Atlanta.
  • It’s especially useful for people who boat on nearby lakes like Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona or who are considering getting into boating in Georgia.
  • Expect boats, gear, seminars, and family-friendly activities, along with opportunities to talk directly to regional dealers and marine professionals.
  • Plan ahead for transportation, parking or MARTA, and confirm event dates, hours, and ticket details for the current year.
  • Use the show to learn about local boating conditions, Georgia regulations, storage and service options, and which boats make the most sense for life in and around Atlanta.

With a bit of planning, the Atlanta Boat Show can be a practical and enjoyable way to explore the boating lifestyle tailored to how people actually get on the water in the Atlanta area.