EXPLORE SEA LIFE

Getting an up close and personal look at animals and habitats that are completely different from ours is intriguing for the whole family. Plus, it’s a great rain or shine activity for the weekend. With three amazing options nearby, it’s easy to spend the day at one of these venues learning more about aquatic animals and experiencing what life is like under the sea.

n SeaQuest

At SeaQuest in DeKalb County, you can see a real live axolotl. For the non-Minecrafters in your family, SeaQuest is still a worthwhile destination with more than 1,200 animals from five continents. While you can interact with land animals like Bengal cats, iguanas and wallabies, fish are the focus. Huge tanks are filled with sea rays, turtles and a wide variety of fish. If you want a kiss from a fish, opt for the snorkel experience which puts you in the water with coastal sharks, rays and hundreds of fish! Purchase the Ultimate Adventure Bundle for animal interactions, hands-on feeding experiences and an up close and personal look at a variety of ecosystems. 8020 Mall Pkwy., Stonecrest. 404-793-2930. $16.99; ages 2-11, $10.99; ages 1 and younger, free. visitseaquest.com/stonecrest

n Georgia Aquarium

We are lucky to have one of the world’s largest aquariums, which houses more than 100,000 sea creatures in 10 million gallons of water, in our city! At the Georgia Aquarium, you can view fish, tortoises, penguins, otters, manta rays, whales and sharks. Thanks to its size, the Georgia Aquarium offers several unique experiences, including the Dolphin Presentation, Sea Lion Show and the new Aquanat Adventure: A Discovery Zone. This kid-centric area features fresh water and marine habitats, scientific research, aquatic and marine sciences careers and more. Plus, with a special ticket, you can immerse yourself in the Ocean Voyager exhibit for a chance to swim with whale sharks. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. $42.99$47.99; ages 2 and younger, free. georgiaaquarium.org

Beyond Atlanta

n Tennessee Aquarium

Travel to Chattanooga for a fascinating look at nature and more than 10,000 animals from the mountains to the sea as you trace the path of water. View amphibians, birds, butterflies, fish and invertebrates, including lemurs, jellyfish, snakes, octopi, sharks and more. At the IMAX Theater, dive into new worlds with special 45-minute films. The new Deeper Dives: A Guided Tour walks you through the behind-the-scenes of animal care with a morning tour taking place before the aquarium opens to the public. Plus, the aquarium is right on the river, so you can take in some great views of nature before or after your visit. Reservation required. 1 Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-262-0695. $34.95; ages 3-12, $21.95; ages 2 and younger, free. tnaqua.org