The world biggest fish aquarium is the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Hengqin, China.
It holds a mind‑boggling 48.75 million liters overall and its main tank holds 22.7 million liters.
This massive scale earned it multiple Guinness World Records in 2014.
The estimated cost is in the hundreds of millions of dollars, though exact pricing isn’t publicly listed.
It’s a park built for families.
It features indoor rides, dolphin shows and a massive underwater tunnel.
Whale sharks, manta rays and thousands of fish swim there.
It offers a breathtaking view of marine life.
Visitors often compare it with mega aquariums in Asia.
Largest Aquarium in the US
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest in the US.
It opened in November 2005 with over 11 million gallons of total water.
Its flagship tank, Ocean Voyager, holds 6.3 million gallons.
That’s enough water to fill nine Olympic swimming pools wired.com.
It hosts whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins and beluga whales.
The entrance is funded by a $250 million donation.
Visitors walk through a 100‑foot underwater tunnel.
They see massive animals up close.
The experience blends awe and education.
2nd Largest Aquarium in the World
As of now, the 2nd largest aquarium is the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa, Singapore.
It holds 45.2 million liters overall.
Its Open Ocean tank holds 18.17 million liters.
It was the world record holder from 2012 to 2014 .
Visitors explore multiple zones.
They learn about marine ecosystems globally.
The main highlight is a massive viewing panel.
It shows sharks, rays and deep‑sea fish.
The complex also includes resorts, rides and water parks.
3rd Largest Aquarium in the World
Ranking third is L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain.
It holds 41.6 million liters of water.
Its largest tank is 7 million liters.
This is the largest aquarium in Europe.
Located in the City of Arts and Sciences.
It opened in 2003.
It simulates Arctic, temperate and tropical zones.
Dolphins, belugas, sharks, rays and sea lions swim there.
The architecture mimics seashells and water lilies.
This design attracts architects and visitors alike.
Largest Indoor Aquarium in the World
The Georgia Aquarium also ranks as the largest indoor aquarium.
Its main building encloses all exhibits under one roof.
It blends artistry with marine science.
Indoor settings offer climate control.
People can visit year‑round in comfort.
This sets it apart from outdoor theme‑park aquariums.
Top 10 Largest Aquariums in the World
Here is a roundup of the top 10 by volume:
Rank | Aquarium | Location | Total Water Volume |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Chimelong Ocean Kingdom | Hengqin, China | 48.75 M L |
2 | S.E.A. Aquarium | Sentosa, Singapore | 45.2 M L |
3 | L’Oceanogràfic | Valencia, Spain | 41.6 M L |
4 | SeaWorld Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi | 58 M L total; 25 M L main tank |
5 | Chimelong Spaceship | Hengqin, China | 75.35 M L |
6 | Georgia Aquarium | Atlanta, USA | 11 M gal (~41.6 M L) |
7 | Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium | Nagoya, Japan | 27 M L |
8 | Moscow Oceanarium | Moscow, Russia | 25 M L |
9 | National Aquarium at Epcot (“The Seas”) | Florida, USA | 5.7 M gal (~21.6 M L) |
10 | The Seas with Nemo & Friends | Florida, USA | ~5.7 M gal |
These venues offer immersive tunnels, large species and top‑tier architecture.
They are rich on both size and storytelling.
Largest Aquarium in Europe
The largest aquarium in Europe is L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia.
It resides within the City of Arts and Sciences.
Its 41.6 million liters across multiple buildings.
It simulates ecosystems from across the world.
Notable exhibits include Arctic, Mediterranean and Red Sea.
The dolphin show is a key highlight.
Its architecture is modern and stunning.
This makes it a top European marine destination.
Biggest Aquarium in the UK
The biggest public aquarium in the UK is National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth.
It holds over 4 million liters of water.
It has Europe’s second-longest underwater tunnel (70 m).
Fish include sharks, rays, groupers and coral life.
It focuses on local species from the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
It offers conservation talks and marine education.
It is smaller than European giants, but still impressive.
Largest Aquarium Price Estimates
Mega aquariums are expensive.
Georgia Aquarium cost around $250 million to build.
Monterey Bay Aquarium cost $55 million in 1984 .
National Aquarium in Baltimore cost $53 million to build .
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom likely cost several hundred million.
Exact figures aren’t public.
Costs cover land, tanks, filtration, architecture, staff and marine life.
Visitor Insights & Unique Features
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom
• Underwater dome and 360° viewing areas.
• Whale sharks, polar bears, dolphins, and penguins.
• Rides, shows and themed hotels.
• Ideal for families and thrill‑seekers.
Georgia Aquarium
• Ocean Voyager tank with shark‑feeding dives.
• Live webcam of whale sharks and manta rays.
• Interactive exhibits.
• Educational programs.
• Perfect for marine life lovers and families.
S.E.A. Aquarium
• 10 zones covering world oceans.
• Massive acrylic panel.
• Rare species like manta rays.
• Includes Adventure Cove Waterpark and dolphin shows.
L’Oceanogràfic
• Nine underwater towers.
• Dolphinarium and Arctic exhibits.
• Interactive displays on ecosystems.
• Striking architecture.
National Marine Aquarium (UK)
• Long underwater tunnel.
• Conservation programs.
• Local Atlantic marine life.
• Educational for children and adults.
Conclusion
While Chimelong Ocean Kingdom holds the title for sheer volume, the Georgia Aquarium stands as America’s marine giant.
Each aquarium offers something unique—whether it’s whale sharks, glass tunnels, conservation work or immersive architecture.
These top venues blend size, science and visitor thrill.
They are must-visits for marine lovers and travelers.
Which one tops your bucket list?
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FAQ:
What is the price of the world’s biggest aquarium?
Exact figures aren’t public, but mega aquariums cost hundreds of millions to build.
Which is the second‑largest aquarium in the world?
The S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore, with 45.2 million liters.
What is the third‑largest aquarium globally?
Spain’s L’Oceanogràfic, with 41.6 million liters.
Which is the largest indoor aquarium?
The Georgia Aquarium qualifies as the largest fully indoor facility.
What is the largest aquarium in Europe?
L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain.
Where is the UK’s biggest aquarium?
The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, UK, holds around 4 million liters.
What makes these aquariums unique?
They offer immersive tunnels, rare species, architecture and education.
They combine research, conservation and entertainment.