Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is home to over 100,000 aquatic animals. Visiting the six exhibits will provide hours of entertainment, with several interactive programs tailored to various age groups. The Aquarium is conveniently located in Downtown Atlanta amidst other attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, the World of Coca-Cola and CNN Center. The Georgia Dome and Philips Arena are also nearby along with many restaurants and hotels.

Best and worst time to go to the Georgia Aquarium
The ideal time to visit the Aquarium is during the week between January and May, with the exception of Spring Break, along with September and October. Weekend days, Summer and holiday season tend to draw the masses and the lines. Check downtown calendars for sporting events, concerts, parades and festivals taking place in the area and give yourself ample time for the commute and parking.

Must see/do at the Georgia Aquarium
Add a behind-the-scenes meet and greet component such as the Penguin Encounter, Dolphin Encounter or Sea Otter Encounter for a special up close and personal activity. For the really daring, try SCUBA Diving with the whale sharks. The live AT&T Dolphin Tales show is entertaining for all ages.

Admission to the Georgia Aquarium
There are multiple ticket options on the website along with bundle offers with other local attractions, hotel packages, early bird discounts for guests visiting the first hour of the day, military discounts and more. Purchase tickets online for a discount. Children under 3 are free. Basic tickets typically range from $26-$42 + tax and fees with children's tickets on the lower end of the spectrum.

Parking at the Georgia Aquarium
The Aquarium parking deck has 1,600 covered spaces with payment available on-site; be prepared for long lines to pay and take the elevator. Purchasing parking online in advance will result in savings of $1. There are multiple other public parking lots in the area should the main lot be full.

Public Transportation to the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is a 10-15 minute walk from the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center MARTA Station on the Blue/Green line or from the Civic Center or PeachtreeCenter Stations on the Red/Gold line. Bus service is available from the Civic Center MARTA bus station and Five Points MARTA station via Route 32.

Food at the Georgia Aquarium
The dining option inside the Aquarium is Café Aquaria, which features The Grill, Pizza and Pasta, Buckhead Bread and Desserts. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Insider tip for visitors to the Georgia Aquarium
Make friends with the volunteers especially during slower times. You never know when someone may offer to take you on a courtesy behind-the-scenes tour.

Author's bio: Hastings Malone is an Atlanta, Georgia, local who manages the Marketing, Events and Writing consulting business Southern Charm Communications. She is a freelance contributor to a variety of publications.