photo of akins ford arena

Akins Ford Arena in Athens, Georgia. Photo by The Classic Center.

New Attractions in Georgia

From theme parks and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and entertainment venues, here’s the latest attractions news in Georgia.

Metro Atlanta

Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta – 20th Anniversary Year, New Exhibit Opens May 2025

Georgia Aquarium – the largest aquarium in the U.S. – celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025 with an exciting lineup of experiences, including an all-new bioluminescence exhibit that showcases the mesmerizing glow of marine life like corals and jellies, tying into a summer event that will transform the aquarium into an immersive glowing wonderland for all ages.

Six Flags Over Georgia, Austell – Georgia Gold Rusher Debuts Spring 2025

The Georgia Gold Rusher is the first-of-its-kind, free-spinning gondola ride that offers high-speed, high-elevation thrills with twists, turns, and exciting water features. Inspired by Georgia’s 1885 gold rush, the coaster will introduce thrill seekers to William “Willy” Gibson and his hydraulic mining machine through immersive storytelling.

National Center for Civil & Human Rights, Atlanta – Expansion, Reopens Fall 2025

A 28,000-square-foot expansion is underway at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, which will add three new galleries to the world-class museum and cultural institution: an immersive family gallery for children 12 and younger; a gallery showcasing the history and legacy of the Reconstruction Era; and a traveling exhibitions gallery. Enhancements will also be made to the Center’s permanent civil and human rights exhibits, plus a reimagined gallery to display papers and artifacts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 
 

North Georgia

Tellus Science Museum, Cartersville – Expansion, New Exhibits Open Late 2025

The Smithsonian-affiliated Tellus Science Museum is building a 20,000-square-foot addition that will feature two new exhibit spaces. One will house a new permanent exhibit featuring the evolution of technology and smartphones. The second gallery space will host larger, more dynamic traveling exhibitions that will rotate two to three times a year.

Central Georgia

Akins Ford Arena, Athens – Opened December 2024

Athens’ thriving music and entertainment scene just amped up a notch with the brand-new Akins Ford Arena, bringing even more concerts, sports tournaments, and events to the city. Just steps from downtown’s lively center, the state-of-the-art venue features interactive displays of the Georgia Music Collections from the University of Georgia Libraries with memorabilia representing more than 200 legendary artists.

Georgia Safari Conservation Park, Madison – Opened June 2024

Georgia Safari Conservation Park is an interactive and conservation-minded wildlife experience, offering guided safari drives, up-close animal encounters, and luxury overnight stays. For the ultimate overnight adventure, guests can stay in unique accommodations ranging from luxury safari tents nestled within a forest canopy overlooking a private savanna to an exclusive suite with panoramic views of the 10,000-square-foot giraffe and rhino barn.

South Georgia

Wild Adventures Theme Park, Valdosta – Expansion Opens Spring 2025

The Water’s Edge expansion at Wild Adventures will feature three new family-friendly rides, new animal habitats, new dining options, and live entertainment. New rides will include the Horizon Wheel, a reimagined, illuminated Ferris wheel providing panoramic views; the Wing Swinger, a soaring swing ride; and The Boat Parade, a gliding and bouncing speedboat-themed ride. Guests can also enjoy new animal encounters and exhibits, including brilliantly colored macaws and a new reptile house.

Scroll To Top