Atlanta Aquarium Ticket Prices: What You’ll Really Pay and How to Save

If you’re planning a trip to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta and wondering “How much are tickets for Atlanta aquarium?”, the short answer is: expect to pay more than a basic museum ticket, but there are solid ways to save if you plan ahead.

Below is a clear breakdown of typical ticket prices, options, and discounts so you can budget your visit like a local.

Where You’re Going: Georgia Aquarium Basics

The major “Atlanta aquarium” people ask about is the Georgia Aquarium, located in downtown Atlanta at:

Most of the pricing information below is focused on this location, since it’s the city’s primary large public aquarium.

Typical Ticket Price Range for Georgia Aquarium

Ticket prices can change based on date, time, and how early you book, but for most visitors landing on the Georgia Aquarium ticket page, prices commonly fall into this range:

• General admission (online, advance purchase): Often in the $40–$55 per person range
• Same-day or peak time tickets: Can be a bit higher than off-peak times
• Children’s tickets: Usually slightly lower than adult pricing
• Toddlers/infants: Very young children are often free, but age cutoffs can vary, so it’s worth checking before you go

Because pricing is dynamic, Atlanta locals and tourists usually check specific dates and times online before committing. Buying ahead almost always gives you better pricing and time choices than walking up.

Ticket Types You’ll See (and What They Really Mean)

When you search for “How much are tickets for Atlanta aquarium,” you’ll see more than one type of ticket. Here’s how they typically break down.

Standard General Admission

What it usually includes:

• Entry to the main aquarium exhibits
• Most galleries and habitats (like sharks, rays, tropical fish, and local species)
• Access for a specific date and time window you select during purchase

Price range:

• Roughly $40–$55 per person, depending on factors like:
  • Day of the week (weekends and holidays often cost more)
  • Time of day (some weekdays and later time slots can be cheaper)
  • How early you buy (earlier bookings often save money)

If you just want to see the aquarium without extra add-ons, this is the baseline ticket cost you should budget for.

Add-Ons and Premium Experiences

Beyond standard admission, Georgia Aquarium usually offers extra-cost experiences such as:

• Animal encounters (e.g., penguins, sea otters, or dolphins)
• Behind-the-scenes tours
• Special interactive programs or educational experiences

These are typically priced on top of your regular ticket, often ranging from around $20 to $100+ per person, depending on the activity’s length and exclusivity.

If you’re planning a special occasion in Atlanta, these can significantly increase your total cost, so it’s smart to:

• Decide whether you want just general admission or extras, and
• Check pricing for each experience when you pick your date.

Memberships and Annual Passes

If you live in or near Atlanta and expect to go more than once in a year, a membership can be more cost-effective.

Memberships usually:

• Cost more than a single-day ticket but
• Pay off after two or more visits in a year, depending on the membership level

They often include perks such as:

• Unlimited general admission for a year
• Discounts on:
  • Gift shop and food
  • Parking
  • Some special events or add-ons

For local families, this can be a way to turn the aquarium into a regular weekend activity instead of a once-a-year splurge.

Common Discount Options for Atlanta Aquarium Tickets

Even though base prices can feel high, people in Atlanta regularly use a few strategies to lower the cost. Availability can change, but here are common ways visitors save:

1. Buying Tickets Online in Advance

Most Atlanta visitors find that buying directly online ahead of time often:

• Saves a bit of money compared to same-day gate prices
• Lets you choose less expensive time slots
• Reduces the risk of popular entry times selling out

If your dates are flexible, try checking a few different days and times online—the difference can add up for families or groups.

2. Resident, Military, or Other Special Discounts

You may see special discount days or offers for:

• Georgia residents or Atlanta-area residents
• Military members and veterans
• College students, especially at nearby campuses in the city
• Certain teachers or educators

These offers change and usually require valid ID. It’s common for locals to check the official site or call the aquarium at (404) 581-4000 to confirm current discounts before buying.

3. Group Rates

If you’re visiting with:

• A school group
• A youth organization
• A large extended family or church group

You may qualify for group pricing, often at a lower per-person rate than buying individually. There is usually a minimum group size and advance reservation requirement.

This is a common option for Atlanta schools and camps, especially during field trip season.

4. Combo Tickets and City Passes

Many Atlanta visitors combine Georgia Aquarium with other major attractions. You might see:

• Multi-attraction passes that bundle the aquarium with places like
  • World of Coca-Cola
  • Zoo Atlanta
  • Other downtown or Midtown attractions

These passes often cost more upfront but less per attraction, which makes sense if you’re planning to hit several major Atlanta sites in a short trip.

Sample Cost Snapshot (For Budgeting)

Because prices change, think of the numbers below as a planning tool, not fixed quotes.

*Approximate planning ranges only. Check current pricing for your specific date and time.

Extra Costs to Keep in Mind

When figuring out how much Atlanta aquarium tickets really cost, include these common add-ons in your budget:

Parking

If you’re driving from within metro Atlanta or renting a car:

• Georgia Aquarium has paid parking in its main deck near the building
• Parking is usually a separate fee, not included in your ticket
• Buying parking in advance online can sometimes be slightly cheaper or more convenient

If you’re staying downtown or nearby, consider walking, rideshare, or MARTA (the Civic Center and Peachtree Center stations are often used by visitors heading to the area).

Food and Souvenirs

Inside the aquarium, you’ll find:

• Dining options (cafeteria-style or quick-service)
• Gift shops with toys, shirts, and souvenirs

Prices are typical of major attractions—higher than a neighborhood restaurant or everyday shopping. If you’re trying to keep costs down, many Atlanta families:

• Eat before or after the visit at nearby downtown spots
• Set a clear souvenir budget per child ahead of time

Tips for Atlanta Locals vs. Out-of-Town Visitors

If You Live in Atlanta

• Consider membership if you think you’ll go multiple times a year, especially with kids
• Look out for resident specials or seasonal promotions
• Try weekday afternoons or less popular time slots for potentially lower prices and smaller crowds

If You’re Visiting Atlanta

• Compare a single aquarium ticket vs. a multi-attraction pass if you’re also visiting other big-name sights
• Book online early, especially for weekends, holidays, and school breaks
• Factor in hotel location and transportation—staying downtown can save you on parking and transit time

How to Confirm Today’s Ticket Prices

Because Georgia Aquarium uses dynamic pricing, the most accurate way to know exactly how much tickets cost for your date is to:

1. Go to the Georgia Aquarium’s official booking page and
2. Enter your chosen date and preferred entry time

Or, if you prefer to speak to someone:

• Call the aquarium’s main line at (404) 581-4000 for current general admission, group, and membership information.

For anyone planning a visit in or to Atlanta, assuming around $40–$55 per person for a standard ticket (plus parking, food, and any extras) gives you a realistic starting point, and checking your exact date online will show whether you can shave that cost down with timing or discounts.