At Georgia Aquarium, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the ocean’s wonder. As one of the largest aquariums in the world, we embrace our responsibility to cater to the diverse needs of our visitors. Below, we have listed our offerings to ensure everyone can have an enjoyable visit.
Sensory Friendly Offerings
Georgia Aquarium recognizes the importance of providing a sensory-friendly environment for individuals on the autism spectrum. We offer low-sensory hours, designated quiet areas, and a dedicated Sensory Room. Allowing our guests the ability to enjoy the wonders of the Aquarium at their own pace.
The Aquarium has an ongoing partnership with KultureCity, the nation’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities. As a KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue, we cater to the needs of all guests with sensory needs, including individuals on the autism spectrum, military vets with PTSD, adults with dementia, and others. You can find more information to help plan your visit on our social story.
Understanding the importance of sensory experiences, the Aquarium has tailored its offerings to accommodate guests with visual and hearing impairments. Audio tours, tactile elements and detailed descriptions from staff ensure that visually impaired visitors can fully appreciate the beauty of the marine world. Similarly, closed captioning devices during animal presentations cater to to guests with hearing needs, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the action. Our building maps are available in multiple languages for those with language needs to facilitate understanding and navigation.
Mobility Offerings
Last year, Georgia Aquarium became the first facility to be awarded Gold Certification by WheelChariot. WheelChairot is a platform that promotes accessibility for people with disabilities.
We offer a range of services for guests with mobility needs to ensure smooth navigation throughout our facility. We strive to make every aspect of the Aquarium accessible to all.
From wheelchair accessibility and golf cart availability to designated accessible parking spaces, we aim to eliminate any barriers to enjoyment. It’s about more than just physical access—it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and accommodated.
Additional Offerings
We understand that animal encounters can present unique challenges. Our Dive Immersion Team is certified by the Handicapped Scuba Association to accommodate divers and snorkelers of all abilities. Ensuring all our guests have the opportunity to explore the underwater realm safely and comfortably,
We encourage all guests with specific needs to plan their visit in advance and take advantage of our resources. We are here to support every individual in having a memorable and enjoyable experience at Georgia Aquarium.
By prioritizing the needs of all visitors, regardless of their abilities, we aim to create a genuinely inclusive environment. As we observe Autism Awareness Month, we are proud to highlight our ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusivity for guests of all abilities. As we continue to evolve and improve our accessibility offerings, we invite feedback from our guests to ensure that everyone feels welcome and included. Together, we can create a space where the ocean’s wonders are accessible to all.
Georgia Aquarium is a leading 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Atlanta, Ga. that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Georgia Aquarium is committed to working on behalf of all marine life through education, preservation, exceptional animal care, and research across the globe. Georgia Aquarium continues its mission each day to inspire, educate, and entertain its millions of guests about the aquatic biodiversity throughout the world through its engaging exhibits and tens of thousands of animals across its eight major galleries.
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