The Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta is actually the largest aquarium in the entire world. Not only does it have over 100,000 fish and thousands of square feet of viewing windows, but it has one of a kind experiences that can take you under the water with some of the most dangerous species in the ocean. That's right...sharks.
Before you freak out, yes it's perfectly safe. One of the newest attractions as part of the aquarium's Sharks! Predators of the Deep gallery, is the Shark & Ray Interaction. So technically. these are zebra sharks which ( along with the manta ray) are perfectly harmless. You'll suit up in a wetsuit provided by the aquarium staff, and will be able to be in the water touching and feeding the creatures with guidance from the staff. Admission tickets will cost you $139.95 for aquarium members and $154.95. Mark your calendars because this experience is launching on November 2.
If that's not enough adventure for you, update your calendar to January 1, 2021, when the aquarium launches their Shark Cage Dive program. That's right, you'll be able to be in an underwater cage, like a tropical diver on Animal Planet, in the shark exhibit. Clad in scuba gear, you'll get to see the ocean's scariest predator up close and personal. Admission tickets will be $189.95 for members and $233.95 for non-members.
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There's also a beluga whale interaction, a dolphin show and encounter, a sea lion encounter, and the chance to touch and feed adorable little sea otters. Let's not forget the Cold Water Quest, which lets you interact with African penguins. There's an encounter for everyone wanting to engage with the fish and animals up close.
For those not wanting to dive into the water with the marine life, the Georgia Aquarium is also home to the Ocean Voyager Exhibit, an incredible exhibit built by The Home Depot. Over 6 million gallons of water make up this 100-foot tunnel, where you can view over 100 different types of aquatic animals including whale sharks, grouper, stingrays and more.
Hours of operation are 9 am - 6 pm Monday-Thursday and 8 am - 7 pm Friday-Sunday. If you're visiting for the first time, make sure to grab a souvenir at the gift shop!
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