10 Experiences to Add to Your Georgia Aquarium Bucket List

Dive into extraordinary experiences at Georgia Aquarium with our curated list of must-do items. From swimming with majestic whale sharks to sleeping under the sea and special events the whole family can enjoy, the Aquarium offers experiences that are both unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or taking advantage of your 2024 Resident Pass, here are 10 must-do activities to add to your Georgia Aquarium bucket list:

1. Be One of the First to Explore Our New Exhibit – Explorers Cove!

Uncover a new experience, new species, and a new opportunity to learn about the wonders of our world’s aquatic wildlife. Opening this summer, our new Explorers Cove exhibit is sure to captivate guests of all ages and take you on an immersive journey with new animals and a whole new experience. Featuring two expansive, interactive touch pools, guests can engage with sharks, rays, guitarfish, and sturgeon up close and personal like never before. Guests will also explore an immersive marsh environment and experience the wetland ecosystem. We have also included interactive technology for guests to create their very own species! By drawing a digital animal, guests can watch as it swims and interacts on a giant video wall with other animal creations. Want to be the first to know all the updates on this new exhibit? Be sure to follow our social channels @GeorgiaAquarium! 

2. Encounter Penguins, Sea Lions, and Sharks…Oh My! 

Experience a moment of wonder as you come face to face with some of your favorite animals at Georgia Aquarium. From playful penguins to sliding sea lions, you’ll get to meet and learn about these magnificent creatures through engaging educational sessions. We even offer the opportunity to get in the water with sharks and rays! Our encounters offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

3. Prepare to Get Splashed!

Marvel at the intelligence of dolphins and agility of sea lions during one of the Aquarium’s captivating animal presentations. These special presentations offer insight into the capabilities of these highly intelligent marine mammals and their extraordinary behaviors. Be sure to check them out for the holiday season, as they will be specially themed during our Haunted Seas and Holidays at Georgia Aquarium experiences.

4. Get an Exclusive Look Behind the Scenes

Go beyond the public areas and embark on a Behind-The-Seas Tour to gain exclusive access to the Aquarium’s inner workings. From animal feeding and care to filtration systems, and so much more, dive into the fascinating world behind the waves. This experience is the perfect addition to any visit!

5. Chilling Currents and Haunted Seas

Prepare for a spooky transformation at Georgia Aquarium with Haunted Seas! Dive into themed sea lion and dolphin presentations, witness the atrium’s stunning makeover, and on weekends, join us on an epic treasure hunt through the mysterious depths of our Ocean Voyager exhibit. Haunted Seas is included with your General Admission ticket or Resident Pass, promising chills and thrills for all who dare to explore. 

6. Dive into Holiday Magic with Scuba Claus!

Experience winter’s enchantment with Holidays at Georgia Aquarium! Immerse yourself in the merry ambiance of our festively transformed atrium. Delight in the sounds of the season, marvel at winter-themed projections and behold our magnificent tree. Rekindle cherished holiday traditions with Santa photos, daily tree lightings, and captivating dolphin presentations. Join us for the festivities and create cherished memories with the whole family – we can’t wait to welcome you!

7. Get Your Zen On

Break a sweat, find your zen, or learn a new dance at the most unique and inspiring fitness studio Atlanta has to offer – Georgia Aquarium! Our Wellness by the Water classes offer a unique opportunity to learn from professional instructors. Choose from yoga, barre, sound baths, dance classes, and more. All Wellness by the Water events can be found and booked through our Event Calendar.

8. Jam Out with Jellies

Experience the heartbeat of Atlanta at Georgia Aquarium’s Sound Waves Music Series! Join us on Friday evenings, from April 26 to May 31, for live music, small bites, and a celebration of our vibrant local musicians. Live performances will echo through our atrium, complemented by a specially-themed atmosphere. Don’t miss this chance to ride the rhythm of Sound Waves at Georgia Aquarium – where each event is an opportunity to discover the wonders of the Aquarium’s galleries and presentations while enjoying local live music, all included with General Admission or Resident Pass reservations. 

9. Sip and Sea

Dive into an unforgettable evening at Georgia Aquarium’s Sips Under the Sea events – an exclusive cocktail party designed for adult guests 21+. Step into a transformed Aquarium atrium, where our galleries provide the perfect backdrop for mingling, sipping on handcrafted cocktails, and savoring delectable dining options. With a live DJ setting the mood, the night is yours to explore the Aquarium’s main attractions in a unique adult setting. Dance, sip, and revel in this one-of-a-kind experience!

10. Contribute to Conservation Efforts

Support the Aquarium’s conservation initiatives by learning about our projects and finding ways to contribute. Every visitor can play a part in protecting our oceans and the creatures that call it home. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Georgia Aquarium operates through the generous support of donors and patrons. Your ticket, membership, or Resident Pass purchase all help support the Aquarium’s staff, animals, daily operations, education outreach, and research initiatives. It is our mission to inspire awareness and preservation of our ocean and aquatic animals worldwide. Learn more about how you can get involved.

Visiting Georgia Aquarium is an adventure filled with awe-inspiring moments and opportunities to connect with the diversity of our world’s ocean. With these 10 bucket list experiences, you’re ready to plan your next visit. Book your next experience and save with a Resident Pass. With your Georgia Resident Pass, you can pay for a day and come back to visit any time throughout 2024* – and start checking off that bucket list. So, (water) you waiting for? Dive in and let Georgia Aquarium create magical memories for you and your family!

*Blackout dates apply