Biggest Aquarium In The United States
Introduction
The United States is home to some of the most impressive and largest aquariums in the world. These aquariums not only provide a home for marine life but also offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the underwater world. In this article, we will be discussing the biggest aquarium in the United States.
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest aquarium in the United States. It covers an area of 10 million gallons of water and is home to over 120,000 animals of more than 500 different species.
The Georgia Aquarium is a popular attraction among tourists and locals alike. The aquarium offers a variety of exhibits, including Ocean Voyager, which features a 100-foot-long underwater tunnel where visitors can see whale sharks, manta rays, and other marine animals up close. The aquarium also has exhibits like Tropical Diver, Cold Water Quest, and River Scout.
History of Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium was opened in 2005 and was founded by Home Depot co-founder, Bernie Marcus. The aquarium was built at a cost of $290 million and was designed by Peter Chermayeff of Peter Chermayeff LLC. The aquarium was opened to the public on November 23, 2005, and has since become one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States.
Exhibits at Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium has a variety of exhibits, each designed to showcase different marine life. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- Ocean Voyager: This exhibit is home to four whale sharks, the largest fish species in the world. Visitors can see them swim overhead from the 100-foot-long underwater tunnel.
- Tropical Diver: This exhibit features colorful coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish species.
- Cold Water Quest: This exhibit showcases animals that are native to colder waters, including beluga whales and sea otters.
- River Scout: This exhibit features animals that can be found in freshwater rivers, including American alligators and piranhas.
Conservation Efforts at Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is not only a place for visitors to learn about marine life but also a facility that is dedicated to conservation efforts. The aquarium has established the Sea Turtle Conservation Program, which is aimed at rehabilitating and releasing sea turtles back into the wild. The aquarium also works with other organizations to preserve marine habitats and species.
Conclusion
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest and most visited aquarium in the United States. It offers visitors the opportunity to learn about marine life and conservation efforts. With its impressive exhibits and dedication to conservation, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves marine life.
