My Day at the Georgia Aquarium

Before I arrived in Atlanta, just like any other traveler/tourist would do ofcourse is to look up places of interest and things to do in that place. One of the places that were very popular was the Georgia Aquarium. 

I invited my colleagues from work if they wanted to join however, Louise wasn't a fan of aquariums while Lui has gone before (she has already been in Atlanta). 

So, it was up to me, myself and I to explore. I could see the aquarium building from my hotel room at the Residence Inn so I figured its near and walkable. Well, it was walkable, not a very short one though. 

I came in around almost noon already and was greeted by a long line. Things I failed to consider was that it was a Saturday and it was almost noon so there will be a lot of people already. I also wasn't able to book my ticket in advance, but atleast I was paying in cash so there was a much shorter line. 

Tip: You can buy tickets online, not only will you get a discount, you'll be able to avoid the ticket lines as well. You can also check out the Atlanta City Pass which is a bundled ticket that includes all of Atlanta's attractions at discounted prices.

After 30 minutes or so, I was able to get in, which was such a relief because it was a hot day and the air conditioning felt good.

 

It was really a family day as the aquarium is packed with families. I was just in time for a parade.

First thing I did was check-out the 4D Theater. The short movie is a fun and educational movie that will talk about how we can take care of the ocean especially the animals that live in it (I am particular with this cause because I am a beach person and I want to enjoy nice clean beaches for years to come!)

I was supposed to get lunch after but when I saw how many people were at the cafe (which was only one), I decided to just continue and check out the different exhibits.

The one I enjoyed the most and probably was the best was the AT&T Dolphin Tales show. There was quite a line and once you got in the theater, it was around a 30 minute wait since they wanted to maximize the capacity and wait for everyone to get seated (It was a big theater). Taking pictures and video recording was not allowed during the show so I don't have any pictures but all I can say was that it was an awesome show and the dolphins were really the stars of the production.

After the show, I took pictures with the stars, the dolphins.

   

  

    

I was OK to go home already because for me, the Dolphin Tales show paid for the ticket already. However I decided to go and check out the other exhibits. 

I wanted to the see the whale sharks so I went in the Ocean Voyager.

 

The exhibit had a walkalator that passed through a tunnel where you can see fish swim above you.

     

I was excited to see a whale shark and manta ray swim above me.

    

   

After the tunnel, you'll be brought to a big viewing window where you can see a big whale shark swim by.

Next I went to see some tropical fishes.There was also a large viewing window so you can appreciate all those pretty and colorful fish.

I enjoyed the Ocean Voyager that I had to go back and check out the manta rays and whale sharks.

I also checked out some happy beluga whales.

And my aquarium wouldn't be complete without trying the petting area. Just reminder, 2 finger touch only. It was funny because there were staff constantly reminding people about it but you can see some sticking their entire hand in the water and seemed like grabbing the sting rays. Being a good follower that I am, I just used 2 fingers. It felt like I was touching some hard jello.

A visit to any place wouldn't be complete without getting some souvenirs for you to remember your trip. After getting my ref magnet and a cute plush toy I was ready to go home.

It was a Saturday well spent. Not only was I able to watch an incredible show and see whale sharks, I was able to help in the research and conservation of marine life. So which Atlanta attraction next?