Did you know that Atlanta plays host to the Western hemisphere’s largest aquarium?

At its opening in November 2005, The Guinness Book of World Records awarded The Georgia Aquarium as holding the most aquatic life out of any aquarium. With over 100,000 fish displayed in 60 distinct habitats, the enormous 500,000 square foot building is a true marvel of human ingenuity and ambition. The main attraction also holds a world record: a 6.2-million-gallon pool with 1.8 million pounds of salt and minerals is the largest aquarium pool of its kind and displays two whale sharks—the world’s largest fish.

The Oceans Ballroom is a 16,400 square foot event space and venue that hosts many wonderful Atlanta events.

The space has a glass viewing of beautiful white Beluga whales. Upcoming events include a 4^th of July Red, White and Brew BBQ with beer tasting and live music, Yoga by the Water on July 16th, and Sips Under the Sea Beach Bash on August 2^nd.

Animals/Exhibits – The Georgia Aquarium boasts the only aquarium with Whale Sharks as well as holding many mammals like Beluga Whales, California Sea Lions, Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, Southern Sea Otters, and aquatic birds like the beautiful African Penguins. Visitors can also be captivated by Manta Rays, Asian Small Clawed Otters, Bignose Unicorn fish and tons of other curious creatures. Exhibits include Cold Water Quest, Dolphin Coast, Ocean Voyager, Rover Scout and Tropical Diver.

Kids – The Georgia Aquarium is a great place to take the youngsters!

Summer camps include Investi-gators! for 5-7-year old’s, Expedition: Exploration for 8-10-year old’s, and Full STEAM Ahead for 11-13 year old’s. There is a child friendly tank where children can gently touch sea creatures like small sharks and rays safely. The 6,000-gallon pool “Touch Tank” was opened in 2016 and is hand-capped accessible.

Georgia Aquarium SCUBA – Scuba Dive in the Ocean Voyager Exhibit! “Journey with Gentle Giants is the only opportunity in the world where you are guaranteed to swim or SCUBA dive with the largest fish in the world, the whale shark.”

Volunteer with the Georgia Aquarium: There are also wonderful volunteer programs for Military and Veterans as well as Beginner Environmental Leadership Programs and Internships.