The Dig

The Dig at Atlantis Paradise Island is one of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, designed as a walk-through archaeological excavation of the mythical lost city of Atlantis. The exhibit features glass tunnels and viewing windows that put you face-to-face with over 50,000 marine animals including sharks, rays, jellyfish, piranha, and hundreds of tropical fish species.

The theming is what sets The Dig apart from a typical aquarium. You're walking through what appears to be ancient stone corridors and chambers with marine life swimming through the ruins around you. The design creates dramatic viewing angles -- sharks pass overhead in glass tunnels, rays glide alongside you through floor-to-ceiling windows, and jellyfish drift in illuminated cylindrical tanks.

The Dig is open 24 hours and is completely indoors, making it available during any weather and at any time of day. The pathways are wide and stroller-friendly. Early morning and late evening visits are the least crowded -- the midday window is when day-pass visitors and cruise ship tours peak. For hotel guests, a nighttime visit with the underwater lighting is particularly memorable.

Access to The Dig requires either being an Atlantis hotel guest (included with your stay) or purchasing an Atlantis day pass, which also covers Aquaventure water park and beach access. The day pass price varies by season. Atlantis has extensive dining options on property -- Marina Village alone has several family-friendly restaurants within a short walk of The Dig entrance.