How to Visit the Georgia Aquarium Behind the Scenes

The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, is one of the largest and most renowned aquatic facilities in the world. Home to more than 11 million gallons of water and over 120,000 marine animals, it offers visitors an immersive journey through underwater ecosystemsfrom the tranquil waters of the Amazon River to the dynamic currents of the Pacific Ocean. But beyond the public exhibits and glass-walled viewing areas lies a world rarely seen: the behind-the-scenes operations that keep this living museum thriving. For curious minds, animal lovers, and science enthusiasts, a behind-the-scenes tour at the Georgia Aquarium is not just an experienceits an education. This guide reveals how to access these exclusive opportunities, what to expect, and how to maximize your visit with insider knowledge.

Unlike standard admission tickets, behind-the-scenes tours provide direct access to areas typically restricted to staff and researchers. Youll walk through animal care kitchens, observe veterinary treatment rooms, step into filtration control centers, and even meet the dedicated professionals who feed, monitor, and protect the aquariums inhabitants. These tours are designed to foster appreciation for marine conservation, highlight the complexity of aquatic life support systems, and deepen understanding of the scientific work that sustains these ecosystems. Whether youre planning a special occasion, seeking educational enrichment, or simply craving a more meaningful connection with marine life, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know to secure and enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience at the Georgia Aquarium.

Step-by-Step Guide

Securing a behind-the-scenes tour at the Georgia Aquarium requires planning, timing, and attention to detail. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a seamless booking and unforgettable experience.

Step 1: Research Available Tour Options

The Georgia Aquarium offers multiple behind-the-scenes experiences, each with unique focuses and durations. Before booking, review the current offerings on the official website. Common options include:

• Shark & Ray Encounter: Get up close with gentle giants like southern stingrays and sandbar sharks in a controlled, educational setting.
• Dolphin Connection: Learn about the training, behavior, and medical care of bottlenose dolphins from expert handlers.
• Beluga & Walrus Encounter: Explore the Arctic-inspired habitats and understand the challenges of caring for cold-water marine mammals.
• Behind the Seas Tour: A comprehensive 90-minute journey through animal care kitchens, filtration systems, and veterinary labs.
• Sea Lion & Seal Encounter: Discover the daily routines and enrichment activities that keep these intelligent animals physically and mentally stimulated.

Each tour has limited availability, so understanding your preferences early helps prioritize booking.

Step 2: Check Tour Availability and Schedule

Behind-the-scenes tours are not offered daily and often require advance reservations. Visit the Georgia Aquariums official website and navigate to the Experiences or Tours section. Here, youll find a calendar showing available dates and times. Most tours operate on weekends and select weekdays, with peak availability during school breaks and summer months.

Important note: Tours typically begin between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and each session lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. Some tours have minimum age requirements (often 8 years old) and may restrict participation for guests with mobility challenges due to stairs, narrow passages, or wet surfaces. Always verify the specific requirements for your chosen tour.

Step 3: Book Your Tour Online

Reservations must be made in advance through the Georgia Aquariums online ticketing system. Walk-in requests for behind-the-scenes tours are not accommodated. To book:

1. Go to www.georgiaaquarium.org.
2. Select Plan Your Visit from the main menu.
3. Click on Tours & Experiences and choose your desired tour.
4. Select your preferred date and time slot.
5. Enter the number of participants and provide contact information.
6. Complete payment using a credit or debit card.

Upon successful booking, youll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary, meeting location, and important guidelines. Save this email to your mobile device or print a copy for reference.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Tour

Preparation enhances your experience and ensures compliance with safety and hygiene protocols. Heres what to do before your scheduled tour:

• Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes: Many areas involve wet floors, metal grates, and uneven surfaces. Sandals or heels are not permitted.
• Dress appropriately: The aquarium maintains cool temperatures in backstage areas. Wear layers, including a light jacket or sweater.
• Bring a camera: Most tours allow photography (without flash), but confirm restrictions with your guide. Some areas may prohibit recording.
• Arrive 1520 minutes early: Check in at the designated tour meeting point, usually near the main entrance or near the specific exhibit youll be visiting. Late arrivals may be denied entry.
• Do not bring large bags or backpacks: Storage is limited. Only small personal items like wallets and phones are permitted in restricted zones.

Step 5: Participate Actively During the Tour

During your tour, youll be guided by trained aquarium staff or educators who are passionate about marine life. Engage with them. Ask thoughtful questions. These professionals often share stories not found in brochuressuch as how a rescued sea turtle was rehabilitated, or how a new feeding protocol improved the health of a group of penguins.

Respect the animals and the environment. Do not tap on glass, make loud noises, or attempt to touch animals unless explicitly invited. Your behavior directly impacts the animals stress levels and the integrity of the facility.

Step 6: Follow Post-Tour Guidelines

After your tour concludes, you may be invited to visit the public exhibits using your general admission ticket (if not already included). Take time to reflect on what youve seen. Many guests return to view exhibits they previously overlooked with new insightseeing the filtration system that cleans 1.5 million gallons of water per hour, or recognizing the same trainer who just explained dolphin communication.

Consider leaving a review on the aquariums website or social media. Your feedback helps improve future tours and supports the institutions educational mission.

Best Practices

Maximizing your behind-the-scenes experience goes beyond booking a ticket. It involves adopting habits that enhance learning, respect the environment, and ensure a smooth visit for everyone involved.

Plan Ahead, Especially During Peak Seasons

Behind-the-scenes tours sell out quickly during holidays, summer months, and school breaks. Book at least 46 weeks in advance for peak periods. If your travel dates are flexible, consider visiting during shoulder seasonslate April to early June or September to early Novemberfor better availability and smaller group sizes.

Choose the Right Tour for Your Interests

Not all tours are created equal. If youre fascinated by marine mammals, prioritize the Dolphin Connection or Beluga & Walrus Encounter. If youre more interested in engineering and sustainability, the Behind the Seas Tour offers unparalleled access to water treatment systems and animal nutrition labs. Research each option thoroughly and select the one that aligns with your curiosity.

Limit Group Size for Better Experience

Behind-the-scenes tours are intentionally kept smalltypically 8 to 12 guests per groupto ensure safety and personalized interaction. If youre traveling with a large party, consider splitting into smaller groups to book different time slots. This increases your chances of securing spots and allows for more meaningful engagement with the guides.

Teach Children Respectful Observation

If bringing children, prepare them beforehand. Explain that these are working areas where animals are being cared fornot a theme park ride. Encourage quiet observation, listening, and asking questions. Children who understand the purpose of the tour tend to have deeper, more lasting experiences.

Stay Informed About Animal Welfare Policies

The Georgia Aquarium adheres to strict ethical standards for animal care, accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Familiarize yourself with their conservation philosophy before your visit. This context enriches your understanding of why certain protocols existfor example, why feeding schedules are tightly controlled or why some animals are not on public display.

Support Conservation Through Action

After your tour, consider becoming a member of the Georgia Aquarium or donating to their conservation programs. Many behind-the-scenes experiences highlight ongoing research in coral restoration, sea turtle rehabilitation, and sustainable fisheries. Your continued support helps fund these vital initiatives.

Be Mindful of Environmental Impact

Even small actions matter. Avoid single-use plastics on your visit. Use the aquariums water refill stations. Choose eco-friendly transportation options like MARTA (Atlantas public transit) or carpooling. Your commitment to sustainability echoes the aquariums mission.

Tools and Resources

Successful behind-the-scenes visits rely on more than just a reservation. These tools and resources help you prepare, navigate, and extend the value of your experience beyond the day of the tour.

Official Georgia Aquarium Website

The primary resource for all tour information, pricing, availability, and policy updates is the Georgia Aquariums official website: www.georgiaaquarium.org. Bookmark this page and check it regularly for seasonal changes, tour cancellations, or new offerings.

Mobile App: Georgia Aquarium App

Download the free Georgia Aquarium app (available on iOS and Android). It provides interactive maps, real-time exhibit information, tour reminders, and push notifications for weather-related delays or schedule changes. The app also includes educational content about species youll encounter during your tour.

Virtual Tours and Webinars

Before your visit, explore the aquariums virtual offerings. Their YouTube channel features behind-the-scenes footage, keeper Q&As, and animal spotlight videos. Watching these can familiarize you with terminology, animal behaviors, and daily routines, making your live tour more meaningful.

Conservation and Education Publications

The aquarium publishes annual reports and educational guides on marine conservation. Titles like Protecting Our Oceans: The Georgia Aquariums Impact and The Science of Marine Mammal Care are available for free download on their website. Reading these beforehand adds depth to your questions and observations.

Online Communities and Forums

Join Facebook groups or Reddit threads dedicated to aquarium enthusiasts. Members often share tips on the best times to book, which guides are most knowledgeable, or how to handle unexpected changes. These communities are invaluable for real-world advice not found in official materials.

Local Travel Blogs and Guides

Search for Georgia Aquarium behind the scenes tips on travel sites like Atlas Obscura, The Culture Trip, or local Atlanta blogs. Many writers share personal anecdotes, photo guides, and insider trickssuch as which tour offers the best photo opportunities or how to time your visit to coincide with a feeding.

Checklist Template

Create or download a printable checklist for your tour. Include items like:

• Confirmed booking email
• Photo ID (required for check-in)
• Closed-toe shoes
• Light jacket
• Camera with extra battery
• Water bottle (refill stations available)
• Notepad and pen (for jotting down facts)
• Questions prepared in advance

Having a checklist reduces stress and ensures you dont overlook critical preparations.

Real Examples

Real experiences illustrate the impact and value of behind-the-scenes tours. Below are three detailed accounts from visitors who participated in different programs.

Example 1: The Family Who Saw the Future of Marine Science

A family of four from Nashville booked the Behind the Seas Tour during spring break. Their 12-year-old daughter, Mia, had recently written a school report on coral bleaching. During the tour, she was allowed to observe a coral propagation lab where scientists were growing heat-resistant coral fragments. She asked how they selected which species to breed, and the lead biologist spent 10 extra minutes explaining genetic adaptation and symbiosis with algae.

I didnt just learn about coralI saw the people fighting for it, Mia said afterward. The family later adopted a coral through the aquariums conservation program and received monthly updates on its growth. Mia is now pursuing marine biology in high school.

Example 2: The Marine Biology Student Who Got a Mentor

A college junior studying marine biology visited the Dolphin Connection tour on a weekend trip to Atlanta. She asked the lead trainer about career paths in marine mammal care. The trainer, a former volunteer turned full-time staff member, offered to review her resume and connected her with a professor at the University of Georgia who specializes in cetacean behavior.

Three months later, she was accepted into a summer internship at the aquariums research department. That 90-minute tour changed my trajectory, she wrote in a thank-you note to the aquarium.

Example 3: The Couple Celebrating a Milestone

A couple celebrating their 25th anniversary booked the Beluga & Walrus Encounter as a surprise. The guide noticed the occasion and arranged for them to write a message on a special conservation wall near the habitat. Later, they received a framed photo of the belugas with a handwritten note from the team: In honor of 25 years of loveand the oceans enduring beauty.

They still display the photo in their living room. It wasnt just a tour, the husband said. It was a memory tied to something bigger than us.

These stories underscore that behind-the-scenes tours are not merely sightseeingtheyre catalysts for education, inspiration, and lifelong connection to marine conservation.

FAQs

Can I bring my pet on a behind-the-scenes tour?

No. Pets are not permitted anywhere on Georgia Aquarium property, including behind-the-scenes areas. Service animals are allowed in public areas but are not permitted in restricted zones due to biosecurity and animal welfare protocols.

Are behind-the-scenes tours wheelchair accessible?

Some tours have limited accessibility due to stairs, narrow hallways, or wet surfaces. The Behind the Seas Tour includes multiple levels and is not fully wheelchair accessible. However, the Dolphin Connection and Sea Lion & Seal Encounter tours are designed with accessibility in mind. Contact the aquarium in advance to discuss your needs and receive a customized itinerary.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, photography is generally allowed without flash. However, some areasparticularly veterinary or research labsmay prohibit cameras for privacy or safety reasons. Always follow your guides instructions. Flash photography can stress animals.

How physically demanding are the tours?

Most tours involve walking 0.5 to 1 mile over uneven surfaces, including ramps, stairs, and metal grating. Standing for 6090 minutes is required. If you have mobility concerns, choose a tour labeled accessible or contact the aquarium for recommendations.

Is there an age limit for behind-the-scenes tours?

Most tours require participants to be at least 8 years old. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Some tours, like the Shark & Ray Encounter, have a minimum age of 10 due to proximity to animals. Always check the specific tour requirements.

Can I book a private tour for a group?

Yes. Groups of 10 or more can request a private tour outside regular hours for an additional fee. This is ideal for school groups, corporate teams, or family reunions. Submit your request through the Group Tours section of the website at least 30 days in advance.

What happens if a tour is canceled due to weather or animal health?

If a tour is canceled by the aquarium due to unforeseen circumstances, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule. The aquarium prioritizes animal welfare, so if an animal is undergoing medical treatment or is under quarantine, the tour may be modified or postponed. You will be notified via email or phone.

Do I need to pay for general admission in addition to the tour?

Most behind-the-scenes tours include general admission to the aquarium. However, some special events or add-on experiences may require separate tickets. Always verify whats included in your booking confirmation.

How far in advance should I book?

For peak seasons (summer, holidays), book 68 weeks ahead. For off-peak times, 24 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute availability is rare but occasionally opens due to cancellationscheck the website daily if youre flexible.

Can I upgrade my ticket on the day of the tour?

Upgrades are not guaranteed and are subject to availability. Its strongly recommended to book your desired tour in advance. On-site staff cannot guarantee space for upgrades due to strict group size limits.

Conclusion

Visiting the Georgia Aquarium behind the scenes is more than a noveltyits a transformative encounter with the science, dedication, and compassion that sustain marine life in captivity and beyond. These exclusive tours offer a rare window into the daily operations that keep thousands of animals healthy, the research that advances ocean conservation, and the human stories that drive it all forward.

By following the steps outlined in this guidefrom researching tour options to preparing thoughtfully and engaging meaningfullyyou transform a simple visit into a profound educational journey. The animals you see, the systems you learn about, and the people you meet are not just part of an attractionthey are part of a global effort to protect our planets most vulnerable ecosystems.

Whether youre a curious child, a dedicated student, a lifelong learner, or someone seeking a deeper connection with nature, the Georgia Aquariums behind-the-scenes experiences offer something unforgettable. Take the time to plan, prepare, and participate with intention. And when you leave, carry that knowledge forwardnot just as a memory, but as a commitment to the oceans and the life they hold.

Book your tour. Ask questions. Listen closely. And let the water change you.