A Look into Georgia Aquarium’s Future, While Celebrating the Past 20 Years.

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River Scout Gallery Renovations

In 2023, Georgia Aquarium opened a new education classroom—marking the first milestone in a multi-phase enhancement of Peterson Preserve made possible through our partnership with Smurfit WestRock. Now, we’re moving into phase two of this transformative project, bringing significant upgrades to both guest experiences and animal habitats.

 

Phase Two enhancements will include:

• A brand-new Canopy Walk experience
• Touch-screen animal ID stations and interactive elements throughout Peterson Preserve
• A redesigned Asian Small-Clawed Otter habitat
• Revitalized theming and signage across the lower and upper River Scout galleries
• Updated lighting fixtures to support animal wellness and enhance guest safety

 
 

Why are we renovating?

These renovations are designed to elevate both animal care and guest engagement throughout our River Scout gallery. The expanded Asian Small-Clawed Otter habitat will offer increased space and greater environmental complexity, supporting the health and natural behaviors of our otters. Guests will also benefit from more interactive and memorable touchpoints, creating opportunities for deeper connections with the animals and ecosystems featured in the gallery.

Beyond guest enjoyment, these enhancements strengthen our educational impact—providing children, families, and school groups with richer learning experiences rooted in conservation and discovery. The improvements also highlight the meaningful support of partners like Smurfit WestRock and Southern Company, whose collaboration helps bring these upgrades to life. Together, these efforts will create a more immersive, engaging environment for visitors of all ages.

Construction is now underway, with completion anticipated in summer 2026. Portions of the River Scout gallery will undergo phased closures during this time to ensure the safety of both guests and animals.

 

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Renderings

 

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Georgia Aquarium and Foxhall Resort Make Plans for an Education and Conservation Facility in Douglas County

As Georgia Aquarium approaches its 20th anniversary, it’s making a bold commitment to the future of education, conservation research and animal care. The Aquarium is partnering with the Merrill Trust on the acquisition of approximately 50 acres at Foxhall Resort in Douglas County. It is the proposed site of a future education and conservation campus that would expand opportunities for students and communities outside of Atlanta.

The Aquarium is working on plans to develop a purpose-built campus that would host nature-based programming for schools and community groups, expand hands-on conservation science initiatives, such as work rescuing and protecting corals, manatees, sea turtles and other species, and leaning into opportunities to educate about and protect Georgia’s native wildlife and freshwater habitats.

“Our goal is to deepen opportunities for science learning and broaden the Aquarium’s positive impact across the state. We can think of no better place, or partner, than the Merrill family, whose more than 1,000 acres of land at Foxhall Resort includes forests and lakes, alongside the Chattahoochee River,” said Travis Burke, President and CEO of Georgia Aquarium.

“This partnership with Georgia Aquarium represents a shared vision to create a meaningful, lasting impact on education and conservation in Georgia,” said Harrison Merrill Jr., president of the Merrill Trust, “Foxhall Resort’s expansive grounds and natural resources provide the perfect backdrop for a campus that will inspire the next generation of environmental stewards while offering hands-on learning experiences in a breathtaking setting.”

Plans for the campus are currently in development. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

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Renderings

 

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Stories that recap Georgia Aquarium’s milestones over the last 20 years:

Georgia Aquarium opened in 2005 with a dream of bringing people closer to the magic of our ocean. What we didn’t expect was how deeply our guests would shape our story in return. As we celebrate 20 years, we’re reminded that our story is truly your story. 

For the past twenty years, Georgia Aquarium has been more than a place to see the wonders of the ocean—it’s been a place where memories are made, families come together, and inspiration comes to life. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re sharing some of the stories that have shaped us: every visit, every smile, every moment of awe has played a part in defining who we are today. This is a celebration of you and the memories you’ve shared with us.

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✈️ All the Way From Sydney, Australia! 

“My favourite memory was coming all the way from Sydney, Australia, to go swimming with the whale sharks. I really enjoyed swimming with them and all of the other amazing creatures. When I first saw the whale sharks, I was in awe, I loved every moment, and I would come back in a heartbeat to do it again.” – Isabella

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💍 A Love as Deep as the Ocean  

“I proposed to my wife in front of Ocean Voyager in 2019! We then went back in 2023 to celebrate our third wedding anniversary.” – Jace 

 

 

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📸 #1 On The Bucket List  

“Whale sharks are my favorite, and visiting the aquarium has been number 1 on my bucket list since before I can remember! I spent my 31st birthday here with my family, and it was the most incredible experience of my life. Before I walked into Ocean Voyager, I was flooded with so many emotions and couldn’t believe I was about to see an actual whale shark. We spent the entire day there from open to close. My mom also surprised me with the Beyond the Seas tour, where we were able to catch the whale sharks feeding. I was in tears the entire time and most of the day! I live in Florida and have been planning my trip back and watching the live feed almost every day as well! I know it’s not that great of a story, but it just was such a meaningful adventure that I will always cherish and never forget!” – Morgan

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🐠 Fish And Forever Friends  

“I met my online best friend (now irl bff of 6 years) back in 2019 at the aquarium. It was our first time ever meeting, and it’s a memory I’ll never forget.” – Maddie 

 

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🤿 Memories That Inspire  

“We visited from Illinois this summer, and my boys were in awe! All the staff were so kind and knowledgeable – they stopped and talked to my kids about the tanks, fish, and divers! It was amazing. Our visit sparked a love of marine life and oceans. We frequently check out books at the library about sea animals and ocean life.” – Taylor

 

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🥇 From First Trip to First Place  

“My visit to the Georgia Aquarium was one of the best memories I could ever ask for. I am a zoo and conservation science major in Ohio, specializing in marine conservation. I had been asking for a long time to go to Georgia and experience the whale sharks when my dad surprised me with a father-daughter trip. Getting to experience not only all the incredible wonders of the ocean, but also being up close to a whale shark, was unforgettable. Watching the target training with the sharks reminded me of my education and research. To top it off, I got to run the annual 5k and won first female!” – Sarah

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🌎 Favorite Place on Earth  

“Meeting the sea lions was honestly one of the best days of my life! Best birthday gift ever! Georgia Aquarium is hands down my favorite place on planet Earth!” – Briana

 

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🐋 An Adventure as Big as a Whale Shark

“I have felt a connection to whale sharks ever since I was little. Being from Indiana, I have never had the opportunity to see a whale shark, and I had to experience their beauty through pictures and videos on social media. In March, I visited the Georgia Aquarium with my mom, and we had the most amazing, eye-opening experience. We even went two days in a row; we knew one day would not have been enough! The Georgia Aquarium is so much more than just whale sharks and manta rays. All of the other unique animals and fish that call the Georgia Aquarium home were amazing to spectate. I considered myself to be a whale shark know-it-all and still learned so much from the amazing staff and postage around the enclosures. Thank you, Georgia Aquarium, for all you do for the beautiful creatures here on Earth!” – Lila

 

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🪸 Where Coral Sparked a Calling 

“During my visit to the Georgia Aquarium last summer, I had a transformative experience. At that time, I was still undecided about my college major, but my passion for ocean-related topics was clear. As I captured photos of the breathtaking corals and fish, I found myself truly inspired. This visit has sparked my interest in studying coral reefs and exploring ways to improve their environment.” – Laila 

 

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🫶 A Splash of ‘I Do’ 

“My favourite memory at Georgia Aquarium is my wedding day! The Aquarium was closed due to a water main bursting (1 June 2024), and we thought our elopement would be cancelled. The Aquarium let us in despite it being closed. The staff made it the most amazing day.” – Jordan 

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🐾 A Paw-sitive Experience

“I am a student at the University of Georgia and a volunteer with the Guide Dog Foundation, an organization that trains and places guide dogs around the country through the help of volunteers. Through Dawgs raising Dogs, I have had the opportunity to work with so many pups in training, including Bonnie. It’s a bit of a tradition to take the dogs to the Georgia Aquarium before they head up to New York for their formal training, and this summer I accompanied Bonnie, along with her raiser Eva Grace, on her trip to see the fishes! During our visit, Bonnie had the most incredible encounter with a sea lion, and they became fast friends. It was so incredible to get to see her interact with the pinniped, and to show her all the amazing things the Aquarium has to offer.” – Lily 

 

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💙 A Family Tradition 

“Our story with Georgia Aquarium began back in early 2022. My fiancé (now husband) and I were visiting Georgia to decide if we wanted to make this beautiful state our new home. The very first place we visited was Georgia Aquarium, and what an unforgettable experience it was! We were instantly in awe of the exhibits, the incredible animals, and the joy that filled the space. That visit sealed the deal for us. Georgia was where we wanted to be.

Fast forward a few years, and here we are: married, settled in Georgia, and parents to a wonderful one-year-old who already shares our love for the Aquarium. We became members, and visiting has become one of our favorite family traditions. Our son’s face lights up every time he sees the amazing exhibits, especially the sharks! It’s such a magical experience watching him discover the underwater world for the first time. Every visit brings something new, whether it’s sharing laughs, pointing out our favorite creatures, or watching family and friends experience the wonder for themselves when they come to visit. Georgia Aquarium has become more than just a destination for us; it’s been part of our journey, our memories, and our family’s story. Thank you, Georgia Aquarium, for the countless smiles, conversations, and unforgettable moments you’ve given us. Here’s to 20 incredible years of inspiring wonder, and to many more ahead! Happy 20th Anniversary!”  – The Johnson Family 

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The stories shared here are just a glimpse into the magic that has unfolded inside our walls over the past twenty years. Each one is a gift that inspires us to dream even bigger for the future. Thank you for sharing your moments, your milestones, and your memories with us. Georgia Aquarium wouldn’t be what it is without you.

As we look ahead to the next chapter, we carry each of these stories with us. They remind us why we do what we do, and who we do it for. Thank you for twenty years of wonder, connection, and shared moments beneath the waves. Here’s to celebrating twenty years—and to all the stories still to come.

Each December, Atlanta comes alive with seasonal experiences that make the city feel magical. From immersive light displays to family outings and festive celebrations, there are countless ways to enjoy the holidays. Discover this year’s standout attractions in and around Atlanta, including Holidays at Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola’s Holiday Express Train, live performances, and so much more.

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Preview of Activities

Attractions

• Holidays at Georgia Aquarium
• Pemberton Place Park & World of Coca-Cola’s Holiday Express Train
• IllumiNights at the Zoo

 

Performances

• A Christmas Carol at Alliance Theater
• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ at the Center for Puppetry Arts
• Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker

 

Sports

• 2025 SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• 2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl HBCU National Championship

 

More

• Miracle on Peachtree
• Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Winter House 2025

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Spend the Holidays at Georgia Aquarium

Dates: Now – January 2, 2026
Tickets: Plan Your Visit
Promotions:  Ways to Save This Season

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Pemberton Place Park & World of Coca-Cola’s Holiday Express Train

Dates: Now – December 30, 2025
Tickets: See the full list of upcoming events

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A Christmas Carol at Alliance Theater

Dates: Now – December 24, 2025
Tickets: Get Your Seats for the Show
Special Offers: Discounted tickets for select groups and performances.

A Christmas Carol returns to the Alliance Theatre’s Coca-Cola Stage with its stunning adaptation, featuring a magical set design and striking costumes. Don’t miss this timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge, told with beautiful live music and an all-star cast. It’s an Atlanta holiday tradition the whole family will love. 

And don’t forget to take a picture with Santa after the performance! Santa Charles will be spreading holiday cheer at select showings of A Christmas Carol, November 15 through December 21.

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Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ at the Center for Puppetry Arts

Dates: Now – December 28, 2025
Tickets: Buy Your Tickets Here

Based on the classic television special and adapted by Jon Ludwig.

Do you recall the most famous reindeer of all? Rudolph soars back into town with this faithful adaptation of the 1964 stop-motion animated special. This celebrated holiday classic follows Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ and Hermey the Elf™, two misfits on the run. The unlikely friends set off on a merry and heartwarming adventure of acceptance and self-discovery, even with Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster™ on their trail. Don’t miss this wonderful holiday adventure that will become an annual tradition for the whole family.

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Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker

Dates: December 6 – December 27, 2025
Tickets: Buy Your Tickets Here

Let Atlanta Ballet transport you and your family into the magical world of The Nutcracker this holiday season. A winter wonderland awaits you, where falling snowflakes, twirling flowers, and spinning stars come to life in this reimagined, larger-than-life production, set to the iconic Tchaikovsky score played live by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. Make Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker part of your holiday celebration this year.

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2025 SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Dates: December 6, 2025
Tickets: Learn More About the Game

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2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl HBCU National Championship

Dates: December 13, 2025
Tickets: See A New Champion Rise

Celebrating 10 years, the Cricket Celebration Bowl is a postseason HBCU Football National Championship featuring the conference champions from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). This year, a new champion will rise on December 13, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Don’t miss history in the making this holiday! Grab your family or friends and catch the match of the year.

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Miracle on Peachtree

More Information: Don’t Miss Any of the Events

The holiday festivities are taking over Buckhead for Miracle on Peachtree. This family-friendly tradition is bringing back all the classics, with even more holiday cheer to be enjoyed, thanks to Liveable Buckhead. Officially kick off the holiday season with the lighting of their 24-foot holiday tree at Charlie Loudermilk Park. This family-friendly event invites everyone to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, listen to live holiday music, and even take festive photo ops with llamas.

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Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Winter House 2025

Dates: Now – December 14, 2025
More Information: Winter House 2025

Create your best season yet! Join the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center for 10 days of Winter House 2025! From November 29 to December 14, Callanwolde will be open to the public to celebrate a new winter tradition, one filled with art and holiday cheer. Take part in daily workshops, mug & ornament clay glazing, fire pits, board games, live music, Santa visits, history tours, and MORE!

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Practical Tips for Your Atlanta Holiday Adventure

• Purchase tickets online in advance.
• Arrive early to secure parking and avoid traffic.
• Check individual attraction websites to confirm policies and additional information.

 

The city comes alive in December with these and so many other seasonal events. Plan your itinerary, grab your tickets, and make it a holiday to remember!

Our 2025 Gift Guide Is Here!

The holidays are here—and this year, we’re making gift-giving easier than ever with our 2025 gift guide! No matter who you’re shopping for, our list is full of meaningful gift ideas that go beyond the ordinary. Every purchase supports our research and conservation efforts around the world. 

Gifts That Make a Big Impression

🎟️ Tickets

Give the gift of wonder! General admission tickets to Georgia Aquarium are perfect for anyone on your list. Treat them to a full day exploring nine breathtaking galleries and hundreds of marine species—the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

→ Give the gift of admission

🌊 Aqua Pass

Upgrade their gift with an Aqua Pass, offering a full year of unforgettable visits. It’s the gift that keeps giving all year long. The Aqua Pass makes holiday gifting easy and full of memories. 

→ Gift a year of memories

 

💙 Memberships

Make every visit magical with a Georgia Aquarium Annual Membership. Enjoy unlimited visits, exclusive discounts, and members-only events. New Premium Memberships include flexible guest passes so family and friends can join anytime!
Choose the perfect option:

• Individual Standard or Individual Premium
• Family Standard or Family Premium
• Family Plus Standard or Family Plus Premium
• Land & Sea Membership: One year of admission to both Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta

→Choose from our flexible membership options

 

🛍️ Gift Shop Favorites

Shop our online gift store for one-of-a-kind Georgia Aquarium souvenirs. From plush toys and apparel to ornaments and eco-friendly gifts—perfect for stocking stuffers or Secret Santa surprises. And be sure to stop by our gift shop to check out our current featured small business!

→Send them a unique souvenir. 

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One-of-a-Kind Experiences for the “Impossible to Shop For”

🐧 Animal Encounters

When they say they “don’t need anything,” surprise them with an experience they’ll never forget. From dancing with sea lions to meeting penguins and dolphins, our encounters bring guests face-to-face with some of the Aquarium’s most beloved residents.

→ Explore all of our Animal Encounter options

 

🤿 Aquarium Immersions

Give the gift of adventure with our ever-popular Immersion Programs—the only experiences in the world that let you get in the water with a whale shark, manta rays, and sharks:

• • Journey with Gentle Giants – Swim
  • Journey with Gentle Giants – Dive
  • Shark & Ray Immersion

 

→ The perfect gift for the adventure seeker

 

🎨 Animal Paintings

Looking for a gift as unique as they are? Our dolphins, belugas, penguins, and sea lions create one-of-a-kind paintings. Each masterpiece is an original work of art—made with flippers, fins, and heart.

→ Gift a piece of art that is both original and unique

 

🎉 Special Events

Give the gift of an unforgettable experience! With so many events to choose from – like our adults-only Sips Under the Sea or New Year’s Celebration – these tickets make for a unique holiday gift. Check the Events Calendar for all of our upcoming celebrations.

→  An event ticket is a gift of fun and adventure

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Last-Minute Gifts That Still Wow

🎫 Gift Certificates

Last-minute gift? No problem! Give a Georgia Aquarium gift certificate and let them choose their own adventure—from tickets to encounters and so much more. This gift is meaningful, flexible, and delivered fast.

→Avoid shipping delays, give a gift certificate

 

🐬 Name a Dolphin Seat

Honor someone special with their name on a seat in our Dolphin Presentation Theater. It’s a thoughtful way to celebrate loved ones while supporting ocean education programs.

→ Make a lasting impact and give a gift that stands out

 

🪼 Name a Jelly

How many people do you know have a jellyfish named after them? Name a moon jelly after someone on your nice list and receive a personalized certificate and photo to gift them. This fun, meaningful keepsake helps support Georgia Aquarium’s animals and care programs.

→A gift everyone will be jelly over

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Gifts That Give Back

 👏Support 20 More Years Of Georgia Aquarium

This year marks 20 years of Georgia Aquarium inspiring millions of guests, advancing ocean research, and serving the Atlanta community. As we celebrate this milestone, your support helps ensure we can continue our mission for decades to come.

Give to make it possible for us to rescue and rehabilitate threatened species, inspire the next generation of ocean stewards through our education programs, and conduct critical conservation research. When you donate to Georgia Aquarium, you’re helping fund daily animal care, education programs, conservation initiatives, and groundbreaking research. Every dollar makes a difference in protecting the ocean and the incredible species that call it home.

Georgia Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, meaning we rely on ticket purchases and generous donations to stay afloat. And did you know? Your donation is tax-deductible. Celebrate 20 years of impact and help us continue making a splash in the years ahead.

To make a gift in honor of someone special, please email development@georgiaaquarium.org with your honoree’s information, and we’ll send them a special acknowledgment letter.

→ Celebrate 20 Years of Wonder — and help us keep the magic going

🦦 Adopt an Animal

Make a difference with an Adopt an Animal Kit. Choose from an alligator, dolphin, green sea turtle, southern sea otter, or whale shark. Each kit includes a plush, certificate, fact card, and backpack—perfect for kids or animal lovers.

→ Choose your animal gift

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Give with Purpose This Holiday Season

Every purchase supports our mission to advance aquatic research, conserve species, provide exceptional animal care, and deliver educational programming. Your gifts help us protect ocean life and inspire millions of guests every year.

Need help picking the perfect gift? Visit our website or call us between 9:00 AM–8:00 PM for assistance.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for behind-the-scenes holiday fun.

 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Georgia Aquarium!

 

Friday, November 14 – Thursday, January 4th

Come celebrate the sea-son at  Holidays at Georgia Aquarium, happening November 14 – January 4 in the heart of downtown Atlanta. 

Georgia Aquarium becomes a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, festive music, and seasonal displays. See our 40-foot holiday tree, take photos with Santa, and enjoy daily themed animal presentations throughout the season. Keep reading to find out more about all of our winter offerings, all included in your General Admission ticket or Aqua Pass:

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A Winter Wonderland Under the Sea

During Holidays at Georgia Aquarium, step into our atrium and be transported to a breathtaking holiday scene filled with twinkling lights, garland, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees—including a spectacular 40-foot live tree that anchors the celebration.

Start your day with our daily Tree Lighting Ceremony at 10 a.m., featuring festive characters and holiday cheer. With seasonal music, themed lighting, and stunning aquatic views, it’s a holiday experience you won’t want to miss.

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Festive Shows and Seasonal Sounds

The holiday spirit extends beneath the waves!

🎁 Don’t forget to reserve your seat for our daily Holiday Sea Lion and Dolphin Presentations, where guests can enjoy themed performances that blend education, entertainment, and festive fun. Watch these incredible animals showcase their natural abilities alongside trainers in a holiday-inspired setting.

🎶 On weekends, the Aquarium fills with the sounds of the season as Georgia State University’s School of Music performs live holiday music. From 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, talented student musicians play classic and contemporary holiday favorites, creating the perfect soundtrack for your visit.

🎅 No holiday season is complete without a photo with Santa! Visit our seaside St. Nick on select dates and times to capture the perfect holiday card photo and share your wishes for the season. Plus, don’t miss a special appearance from Santa D. on December 7 and 14 from 3-7 p.m.

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Special Events to Mark Your Calendar

Holiday SIPS Under the Sea – Friday, December 5

Sip, stroll, and celebrate! This adults-only after-hours event features festive cocktails, music, and cheery décor in our galleries, all decked out for the season.
Learn more →

Merry Member Morning – Sunday, December 14 | 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

Members get early access to all the holiday magic on Sunday, December 14! Enjoy a light breakfast, festive arts & crafts, exclusive animal keeper talks, and selfies with Santa.

New Year’s Eve Celebration – Wednesday, December 31

Ring in 2026 in style at Georgia Aquarium’s New Year’s Eve Celebration—Las Vegas themed! Enjoy a night of glitz, glamour, and ocean views with exclusive after-hours access, a premium open bar, and gourmet bites. Feel like a high-roller with Vegas-style casino games, then dance into the new year with live DJs and, of course, a midnight countdown.

Best of all, this night supports a cause—proceeds benefit Georgia Aquarium’s ocean rescue, research, and conservation efforts. Tickets will go fast, so don’t miss your chance to celebrate under the sea!
Get event details →

*These events are not included in General Admission and require a separate ticket purchase.

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Plan Your Holiday Visit

• 🗓 Dates: November 14 – January 4
• 🎄 Tree Lighting: Daily at 10 a.m.
• 🎶 Live Music: Weekends, 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
• 🐬 Holiday Animal Presentations: Every day, included with general admission and Aqua Pass
• 📸Santa Photos: Plan in advance by checking out our Santa schedule 
• 🎟️ Event Tickets: Check out our event calendar for all our events and more information

Pro Tip:

Arrive early for the tree lighting and plan your route to catch holiday presentations and live performances.

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Come Experience the Holiday Magic

From glittering décor to lively performances and ocean adventures, Holidays at Georgia Aquarium is an Atlanta holiday tradition like no other. It’s the perfect destination for family holiday activities, date nights, and special celebrations all season long.

Plan your visit and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year—under the sea.
👉 Learn more and get tickets →

Making your list and checking it twice? Be sure to check out our 2025 holiday gift guide:

🎁 Learn more and get tickets →

Walk through our doors on any given morning and you’ll feel it—the hum of families starting their day together, field-trip chatter, out-of-towners awe-struck as they see our world-class galleries for the first time. Since opening in November 2005, Georgia Aquarium has been more than an underwater world; it’s been a reason to come downtown and stay awhile.

A Downtown Ripple Effect

When the Aquarium opened at Pemberton Place, it sparked a revitalization period in Atlanta creating a growing “tourism arc” around Centennial Olympic Park, which had unfortunately stagnated following the 1996 Summer Olympics. The opening of the World of Coca-Cola followed, along with multiple nearby restaurants and hotels.

Independent economic analyses show that momentum compounds. Since 2005, billions of dollars of new investment have been completed in the Centennial Olympic Park area, with more still to come. For years, city leaders have credited the Aquarium with helping knit together the Centennial Park district. “The aquarium was a catalyst for growth… an anchor for downtown Atlanta,” said William Pate, President & CEO of the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, in 2018. It’s a legacy we’re proud to build on. Georgia Aquarium’s impact will have far-reaching implications to not only the Centennial Olympic Park area, but the city of Atlanta and the entire state.

The Aquarium’s opening 20 years ago led to an economic boom year for Georgia, driving visitors to the state — which has continued for years — pouring money into our communities that helps it thrive. “Tourism is a powerful economic generator for Georgia,” said then Governor Sonny Perdue in 2006 following the opening of Georgia Aquarium.

Two decades—and more than 45 million guests later—people are attracted to Atlanta to enjoy a full weekend of activities.

Neighbors, Partners and Purpose

Economic impact is only one layer. Atlanta is our community. Over the last twenty years, we’ve teamed up with hometown sports teams—cheering alongside the Atlanta Braves during their 2021 title run, celebrating big moments with the Atlanta Hawks, and joining Atlanta United FC for #5StripeFriday—supported local nonprofits from Atlanta Humane Society to Shepherd Center and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and welcomed students through hands-on education programs that bring ocean science alive.

By our first decade, more than 1.3 million students and educators had visited. Today, access remains central to our mission: approximately 45,000 students each year participate in Georgia Aquarium’s Sponsored Education Admissions (SEA) grant program, which offers free or reduced admission to Title I schools and select nonprofits across Georgia. Annually, we welcome about 1,600 schools serving roughly 120,000 students for field trips and instructor-led programs—turning curiosity into confidence in STEM classrooms statewide.

From SEA to the Veterans Immersion Program and our Military Salute Programming, our mission is evident in real life.

The best part of being downtown is that your day doesn’t end when you exit our galleries. Grab a bite at a local spot, head to a game or stroll the park. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a neighbor who knows the best times to watch the sea lions, your ticket helps power education, conservation and a healthier downtown economy.

What’s Next

“We’re grateful for two decades of support from this city and its visitors. Thank you for making Georgia Aquarium part of your lives,” shared Travis Burke, President & CEO, Georgia Aquarium. “As we look ahead, we’re focused on the next twenty years: advancing conservation, education, and helping a vibrant, welcoming downtown thrive.”

In the years ahead, we’re doubling down on what works: an awe-inspiring experience, meaningful community partnerships, educational programs and conservation efforts that make a difference. Downtown is evolving again—new hotels, new restaurants, big events on the horizon—and we’re proud to be part of that energy.