Atlanta, December 24, 2025
News Summary
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is celebrating its 20th anniversary, highlighting its significant contributions to marine research and education. Since its opening, the aquarium has attracted over 45 million visitors and hosted over 12,000 events. It provides a unique opportunity for scientists to study whale sharks up close and engage over two million students in educational programs. As a key resource for conservation, the aquarium also features various marine habitats and initiatives aimed at inspiring future biologists.
Atlanta
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is commemorating its 20th anniversary in 2023, marking two decades of research and education in marine life. This milestone comes as the aquarium continues to be a unique resource in North America, providing scientists with the rare opportunity to study whale sharks up close. Since its launch, the aquarium has drawn over 45 million visitors, while serving as a hub for education and conservation.
Opened with a significant $250 million donation from Bernie Marcus, co-founder of Home Depot, and his wife, Billie, the Georgia Aquarium has hosted an impressive 12,000 events and contributed to hundreds of scientific research publications. Over the years, more than two million students have engaged in various educational programs tailored to foster interest in marine biology.
Highlighting the aquarium’s scientific contribution, President and CEO Travis Burke noted the extensive research on whale sharks, which remain largely enigmatic creatures. The facility not only focuses on whale sharks but also plays a crucial role in studying other marine species, such as belugas and dolphins, thereby enhancing our understanding of marine biology and conservation efforts.
The aquarium features a conservation bank for corals, as well as habitats for various species, including dolphins and sharks. Ticket sales from the aquarium help fund the work of PhDs and conservationists, with aspirations to inspire the next generation of biologists by engaging them in ocean exploration. Burke expressed that seeing children captivated by exhibits like those featuring belugas and whale sharks sparks a lasting interest in conservation.
The Georgia Aquarium’s significance also extends to its role in enhancing downtown Atlanta as a tourism destination. Visitors often leave with a renewed sense of wonder about marine life, a feeling that can positively influence their daily lives. The first exhibition of juvenile whale sharks outside of Asia occurred in June 2005, with the arrival of Ralph and Norton, marking a historic moment in the aquarium’s journey.
As it stands, the Georgia Aquarium continues to make its mark on both education and research, providing invaluable resources for scholars and a thrilling experience for visitors young and old.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Georgia Aquarium’s 20th anniversary?
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta turned 20 years old this year.
What rare species can be studied at the Georgia Aquarium?
It is the only location in North America where scientists can study whale sharks up close.
Who funded the Georgia Aquarium’s establishment?
The aquarium opened its doors 20 years ago thanks to a $250 million donation from Bernie Marcus, co-founder of Home Depot, and his wife, Billie.
How many visitors has the aquarium attracted since its opening?
The aquarium has attracted over 45 million visitors since its opening.
How many events have been hosted at the aquarium?
There have been 12,000 events hosted at the aquarium over the past two decades.
What educational impact has the aquarium had?
More than two million students have participated in educational programs at the aquarium.
What research has the aquarium been involved in?
The facility has contributed to hundreds of scientific research publications.
Key Features of the Georgia Aquarium
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Opening Year | 2003 |
| Donor | Bernie Marcus and Billie Marcus |
| Investment | $250 million |
| Visitors | Over 45 million |
| Events Hosted | 12,000 |
| Educational Participants | Over 2 million students |
| Species Studied | Whale sharks, belugas, dolphins, and more |
| Conservation Initiatives | Coral conservation bank |
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Additional Resources
- WSB TV: Georgia Aquarium Looks Back 20 Years
- Wikipedia: Georgia Aquarium
- WALB: Whale Shark Dies at Georgia Aquarium
- Google Search: Georgia Aquarium
- AJC: 20 Years of Wonder at Georgia Aquarium
- Google Scholar: Georgia Aquarium
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Georgia Aquarium Mourns Loss of Whale Shark
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia Aquarium
- AL.com: Mourns Passing of Beloved Whale Shark
- Google News: Georgia Aquarium Whale Shark
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
