Regardless of whether you live in Atlanta, are moving here, or are visiting, you will likely be looking for things to do. And, of course, you don’t want to be sitting around with kids complaining they are “bored.” Fortunately, Atlanta offers a plethora of things to do with kids. Read on to learn about the best things to do with kids in Atlanta.
Centennial Olympic Park
To start, check out Centennial Olympic Park, a 21-acre park that is in honor of the Olympic games hosted by the city in 1996. The park is located within easy access to other attractions and includes a playground, monuments representing Olympic ideals, and the Fountain of Rings, which sends out jets of water in sync with the music (and where kids can cool off in the warmer months).
The park offers festivals, films, and outdoor concerts and, in the winter, features an open-air ice skating rink. This park does not just appeal to kids; it offers plenty for adults, as well.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Kids and adults alike enjoy LEGOS and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers plenty to see and do. The discovery center features hands-on play areas where you and the kids can get lost in LEGOS, classes, rides, and a 4-D Cinema—meaning that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
There is even a MINILAND exhibit, which displays iconic buildings that have been constructed out of… you guessed it—LEGOS.
A Ride on the Chattahoochee River
Looking to get the kids outdoors? You can rent a raft, canoe, kayak, or tube and take a trip down the Chattahoochee River. There is shuttle service available through Labor Day and as the weather allows. With different places to enter and exit the river, your trip can take two to six hours. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day enjoying the beauty of the outdoors right near a major city. This is a great way to get some fresh air and cool off when it is hot and humid.
Stone Mountain Park
Considered Georgia’s top attraction, there is plenty to do at Stone Mountain Park. You can hike to the top, enjoy a laser show, take a scenic railroad ride, attempt a ropes course, or cool off at Geyser Towers. The park offers a sky ride and all sorts of other activities. During the winter time, you can enjoy Snow Mountain and its attractions. Lodging and camping opportunities are available at the park, as well, making it easy to spend a few days enjoying all that the park offers.
The Center for Puppetry Arts
The Center for Puppetry Arts is the largest private organization that is focused on the puppetry arts in the country. A big draw is that is it also where you can see the largest collection in the world of the original Muppets from the Henson Foundation. In addition to visiting with these old friends, you and the kids can learn about the art of puppetry at the museum, as well as attend one of many impressive puppet shows.
Check Out a Braves Game
Whether or not you and the kids are baseball fans, watching a baseball game is a good time. Enjoy tailgating in the parking lot before the game and make new friends, and then catch the action when it begins. You can check out the Braves’ new stadium in 2017 and, if you are hungry during the game, choose from a myriad of food options. You can even get autographs from former Brave players during Sunday games.
World of Coca-Cola
The World of Coca-Cola has a lot to see and do. Check out a working bottling line, learn about the history of this well-known brand, see a movie in 4-D, and have the opportunity to try over 100 different beverages from all over the world—some unique to particular regions. The kids (and adults) will get a kick out of seeing the name of the soda they drink written in other languages.
Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Designed for kids aged eight and under, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is hands-on and offers a variety of games and activities that let your kids be actively involved. There are exhibits focused on food, tools, painting, and fishing, to name a few. Kids can build and launch a rocket, spend time painting, build a house, learn about robotics, and work their way through the core of the earth. The museum allows them to play and learn; and the adults will have some fun, as well.
Zoo Atlanta
One of the best zoos in the United States, Zoo Atlanta has more than 1500 animals. The zoo hosts giant pandas, including two cubs born in September 2016. While visiting the animals, the kids can ride the train and carousel or play on the canopy climber. There is also a petting zoo, where the kids can interact with the animals, and wildlife shows to check out.
Center for Civil and Human Rights
Intended as a safe space for visitors to learn more about the fundamental rights of all humans, the Center for Civil and Human Rights is located in downtown Atlanta and seeks to connect the American Civil Rights Movement with the Global Human Rights Movement. The Center for Civil and Human Rights is a great place to introduce kids to the events of the past and encourage them to think more about the future.
The Georgia Aquarium
Exhibits with water totaling over 10 million gallons, the Georgia Aquarium offers a number of exhibits that you don’t want to miss and that will awe you and the kids. There are also interactive opportunities where you can get up close and personal with a penguin, sea otter, or beluga whale.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
A 2,965-acre National Battlefield, the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park ensures the preservation of a Civil War battleground. Fighting here took place from June 19, 1864, through July 2, 1864. You can hike around the mountain and learn more about its rich history (an orientation film is available) while visiting the park.
Final Thoughts
This is just the beginning; Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs have plenty of opportunities for things to do for all ages. When it comes to things to do with kids, you will have no trouble keeping busy in this city.
Author Bio
Olivia is an avid traveler and self-proclaimed food critic who enjoys sharing a nice triple scoop ice cream cone with her two boys, Abel and Alex. She currently writes for the Atlanta Peach Mover blog.
