About
Optimum Aquarium in Kennesaw, Georgia has spent two decades building a reputation that keeps hobbyists driving 45 minutes or more just to walk through its doors. The store balances a strong reef and saltwater section — stocked with corals, live rock, copepods, and hybrid clownfish — alongside a freshwater inventory that reviewers say keeps improving. Cichlid enthusiasts rave about fish that grow into "show stoppers," while planted tank fans consistently praise the store for carrying some of the healthiest aquarium plants in the greater Atlanta area at fair prices.
The livestock variety runs deep. Neon danios, Corydoras, bettas, shrimp, and axolotls share floor space with a small but notable reptile and amphibian section featuring snakes, lizards, and spiders. Multiple reviewers highlight the store's driftwood and stone selection as a standout — the kind of natural hardscape inventory that's hard to find at competing shops.
On the dry goods side, Optimum stocks Seachem, Fritz, and Dr. Tim's products, along with a solid range of tanks, heaters, fish food, and general aquarium supplies. What draws people back is the staff.
Reviewers describe employees who take time to walk newcomers through the nitrogen cycle, help kids pick out their first betta, and test water samples on the spot when a fish doesn't make it. The store's owner, Greg, and his son get personal mentions, and the team clearly invests in fish health — display tanks consistently look bright and well-maintained, which tells you a lot about a shop's care standards. Pricing is generally considered reasonable for a local fish store, though a few reviewers note certain specialty items like copepods and phytoplankton run high.
The store also breeds axolotls and other animals on-site, adding another layer of interest for visitors. For aquarists in the Kennesaw and northwest Atlanta corridor, Optimum Aquarium has earned its place as a reliable, well-stocked home base for both freshwater and saltwater pursuits.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- CoralsCichlidsLive PlantsAxolotlsBettasShrimpLive RockAquarium EquipmentFish FoodRare SpeciesInvertebrates
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Extensive driftwood and natural stone selection praised as best in the area
- On-site axolotl breeding program visitors can see firsthand
- Healthy cichlids that reviewers describe as growing into show-quality fish
- Carries Seachem, Fritz, and Dr. Tim's product lines
- Free water testing service for customers with livestock issues
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Staff is super knowledgeable here and also very friendly. Great variety of products, fish, plants, coral or whatever your need for your tank or pond.”
— Joshua Burdge5.02 days ago“Service is awesome. Freshwater selection has gotten better. They're my local go to for hard to find freshwater fish. Saltwater side is fantastic also. Just got back into reef hobby. They have everything you need”
— Pastor David Mackey5.0Edited 2 weeks ago“Great selection of aquariums, fish, and plants are in good condition”
— Richard Simpson5.02 weeks ago“Best and healthiest aquarium plants in the area at a fair price and very friendly and knowledgeable staff.”
— Rob Michels5.0a month ago“Fast forward 4 years after my below review and I’m back with my daughter. She’s leveled up to a 50 gallon fresh water tank. She started off wanting a Betta, but started researching the nitrogen cycle and how fish school and interact. The betta was quickly dismissed when she saw the Neon Danios and 4 neon pink Cory. We grabbed 4 total Cory and 5 of each Danio. Unfortunately within 12 hours the smallest Cory perished. Optimum as always did awesome and tested my water just to make sure, but processed the refund. All in, this 50g tank had killed me in extra costs for the plants and everything else- but Optimum had everything I needed. Previous Review:Came in today with my son looking for a Heater and Betta fish. Gentlemen that helped us was very knowledgeable and helped my son with every question he had. Great store. Great service.”
— Jarrod Bryson5.0Edited a month ago“Decent local fish store. Saltwater, fresh and reptile/amphibian stock and supplies. Good selection of food. Prices really high for copepods and phytoplankton.”
— Meg Stocks4.0a month ago“I love the Axolotls. They are unique, easygoing pets known for their regenerative abilities. They can regrow limbs, spinal cords, and organs, and can live up to 15 years with proper care. So cute”
— Ashley Salyer5.0a month ago“I drive 45 minutes to this store several times a year because of the great customer service and large selection available.”
— Chris Crites5.0a month ago“Everyone is so nice and genuinely the best aquatic store in the middle of Georgia! Has everything you need for salt and freshwater!”
— K Mc5.0a month ago“Best place to get fish. The staff is highly educated, able to offer all kinds of recommendations and advice, and super kind. I come here all the time for my aquarium needs. I definitely recommend them for all fish needs.”
— Jessica Alexander5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (678) 594-2272 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Optimum Aquarium.