The Georgia Aquarium, located at 225
Baker Street in downtown Atlanta, is one of the leading attractions
there as well as being the largest aquarium in the world. Thanks
to the generosity of Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot,
the Georgia Aquarium opened its doors on November 23, 2005 for the
very first time. It has continued to grow since that time.
The aquarium sits across from the
Georgia World Congress Center and the Centennial Olympic Park. Containing
more than eight million gallons of both fresh and salt water, this
aquarium showcases its animals and the world's aquatic biodiversity
in more than 60 exhibits that feature more than 500 species from
around the world. More than 120,000 marine animals call the aquarium
home.
Some of the species that are housed
in the Georgia Aquarium include hammerhead sharks, penguins,
beluga whales, and whale sharks. A 4-D Theater offers exciting experiences
with interactive seating and 3-D films.
The aquarium is divided into several
viewing areas or galleries including Georgia Explorer, River Scout,
Cold Water Quest, Ocean Voyager, and Tropical Diver.
The Georgia Explorer, an interactive
gallery, includes a hands-on experience, a child's area, and the
official marine mammal of Georgia, the Northern right whale.
River Scout features an overhead
river with lots of freshwater fish and other species of animals.
Cold Water Quest is one of
the most popular exhibits with its display of beluga whales.
Ocean Voyager houses the whale
sharks, majestic in size, along with a variety of other species.
Tropical Diver is replete
with tropical coral reefs and colorful reef fishes.
The Learning Loop features
the educational experiences that are provided for schools.
In addition to being an educational
institution, a research facility, and an animal conservation campus,
the aquarium has been an entertaining and educational experience
for more than four million visitors to date. In addition to a one-day
admission fee, annual passes are available. A charge is assessed
for the onsite parking garage as well.
This nonprofit organization promotes
the conservation of aquatic life. It includes a world-class animal
health facility/teaching hospital for veterinarians. Educational
programs for school age children are held on a regular basis.
An annual pass that offers special
perks such as discounts on admission for guests, discounts on tours,
and discounts on the shops and café. The aquarium is open
daily from 10 to 5 with extended hours on the weekends and holidays
as well as during the summer. Food concessions are also available
up until one hour prior to closing.
Several times throughout the year,
the aquarium hosts various events including golf tournaments,
holiday buffets, lecture series, and balls.- Susan M. Keenan
