Last Updated: August 2026

When planning an aquatic journey around the globe, the ocean’s depths offer incredible options to explore. From the scale of Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Hengqin, China, to the popular Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, USA, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in Dubai, UAE, these destinations offer memorable encounters with marine life.

What Are the 3 Biggest Aquariums in the World?

The three biggest aquariums in the world include:

  • Chimelong Ocean Kingdom (Hengqin, China): Featuring a total tank volume of over 22.7 million liters (6 million gallons), Chimelong Ocean Kingdom holds the title of the largest aquarium in the world. It features a diverse range of marine life, including whale sharks, beluga whales, and polar bears, spread across various themed zones.
  • Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta, USA): While not the largest in total tank volume, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in overall floor space and houses over 38,000 animals representing more than 700 species. Notable exhibits include Ocean Voyager, home to whale sharks, and the AT&T Dolphin Celebration.
  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo (Dubai, UAE): Located within the Dubai Mall, it boasts one of the largest acrylic viewing panels in the world and holds approximately 10 million liters (2.6 million gallons) of water. Visitors can observe a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and diverse fish species.
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, China

What Are the Most Famous Aquariums in the World?

Several world-class facilities stand out for their conservation efforts, architecture, and species diversity:

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium (Monterey, USA): Renowned for its focus on marine conservation, showcasing the unique ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Aquarium of the Pacific (Long Beach, USA): Features exhibits representing the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean while emphasizing education and conservation.
  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (Dubai, UAE): Located inside the Dubai Mall, it houses thousands of aquatic animals and offers interactive experiences like cage snorkeling.
  • Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (Osaka, Japan): One of Japan’s largest aquariums, known for its innovative multi-floor design depicting Pacific Rim habitats.
  • Shedd Aquarium (Chicago, USA): Features an extensive collection of marine species, educational programs, and iconic architecture along Lake Michigan.
  • Sea Life Sydney Aquarium (Sydney, Australia): Guides visitors through Australia’s diverse aquatic environments, including the Great Barrier Reef.
  • Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon, Portugal): One of Europe’s largest indoor aquariums, showcasing habitats from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
  • Vancouver Aquarium (Vancouver, Canada): Focuses on marine research and conservation, highlighting local species from the Pacific Northwest.
  • National Aquarium (Baltimore, USA): Located in the Inner Harbor, featuring global aquatic habitats and popular experiences like Dolphin Discovery.
  • SEA LIFE Centre London Aquarium (London, UK): Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering immersive journeys through habitats ranging from the Amazon Rainforest to the Arctic.
Biggest Aquariums in the world

What Is the #1 Aquarium in America?

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is frequently recognized as the top aquarium in the United States. It earns high marks for its overall size, diverse exhibits, and dedicated educational programs.

As the largest aquarium in America, it offers expansive display tanks and interactive exhibits. Visitors can observe whale sharks in the main ocean exhibit or watch dolphins in dedicated habitats. Through its commitment to research and marine conservation, the facility provides an engaging educational experience for all ages.

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, USA

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