Best of Atlanta: Best Tourist Trap
Georgia Aquarium Cityscape, Critics
After a charmed debut year when it welcomed (and collected admission charges from) more than 3 million visitors, the GEORGIA AQUARIUM has experienced a bit of a sophomore slump. This year, two of its largest animals, whale sharks Ralph and Norton, went belly-up. The deaths drew scrutiny to the aquarium’s animal-care practices, as well as prompted questions about the wisdom of bringing enormous ocean creatures to Atlanta just for our viewing pleasure. Despite those setbacks, the Home Depot Memorial Fish Tank is and will likely remain the city’s finest tourist attraction. Its size, breathtaking visual presentation and novelty make it a no-brainer for entertaining out-of-town guests. It’s our Disneyland.
225 Baker St. 404-581-4000. www.georgiaaquarium.org