35 Fun Family-Friendly Things to Do with Kids in Atlanta
Are you thinking of traveling to the Cosmopolitan capital of Georgia? Do you need help planning your holiday trip to Georgia with the kids?
With its love of parks and abundance of cultural activities, Atlanta has no shortage of fun things to do with kids.
From family-friendly parks to captivating exhibits, here’s a list of the best places to visit on your next trip!
- Georgia Aquarium
Do you want to kick-start a trip to Atlanta? Then there’s no better way to do it than visiting the renowned Georgia Aquarium—the trip would be simply incomplete.
Georgia Aquarium is an immense aquatic exhibition—it’s the country’s largest Aquarium and houses many captivating creatures.
You and your children will definitely enjoy watching the thousands of sea creatures that call this gigantic aquarium home.
When visiting the aquarium, some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss, include the beluga whales, manta rays, big-bellied seahorses, and sea otters.
This aquarium is suitable or appropriate for children of all ages.
- Fernbank Museum of Natural History
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is the city’s answer to New York’s world-famous museum.
However, unlike the Museum of Natural History in New York City, this facility allows your children to learn outside.
This attraction provides your children with a variety of enjoyable experiences, such as a loop around the Dinosaur Plaza.
Fernbank is a great place for kids aged 6 and up to explore nature and see unique exhibits.
- Centennial Olympic Park
The Centennial Olympic Park, which served as the official site of the 1996 Olympic Games, is the city’s heartbeat, surrounded by a plethora of exciting activities.
View stunning fountain shows where the water reaches 25 feet often.
The shows are available every day at 12:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 9:00 p.m.
Visit the park on the 4th of July at 7:30 or 09:45 PM to watch how the fireworks light up the sky.
Also, if you enjoy music, you can go to the park’s summer concerts.
One of the coolest things to do in Atlanta, especially if you have children aged 12 and above, is visiting the park.
- Zoo Atlanta
Allow your children to meet the lions, bears, giant pandas, tigers, and other residents of Zoo Atlanta.
This family-friendly attraction, home to a diverse range of species, is ideal for children who enjoy animals.
Don’t forget to try their one-of-a-kind yoga sessions for moms and dads.
The zoo is appropriate or suitable for kids of all ages.
- The Wren’s Nest
The Wren’s Nest is not only the city’s oldest house museum, but it was also the former home of Joel Chandler Harris.
Tour this beautifully preserved home with your energetic children.
Saturdays at 1 PM, you can enjoy their enthralling storytelling.
If you can’t make it on the weekend, you can book any of their storytellers by appointment throughout the week.
The Wren’s Nest is an ideal destination for kids ages 3 and up.
- World of Coca-Cola
With its 4D multi-sensory movie and cutting-edge interactive exhibits, the World of Coca-Cola provides a one-of-a-kind experience.
Take an in-depth tour of the history of this iconic soft drink brand and see if you can figure out what their coveted secret formula is.
A tour here also allows you to sample delicious Coke flavors from all over the world.
Since everyone loves Coca-Cola, this stop is appropriate for children of all ages.
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta
LEGOLAND provides an interactive and fun experience that allows your children to discover their inner architect.
This LEGO paradise not only allows your children to play, but it also has a plethora of incredible exhibits.
The Duplo village, 4D cinema, and rides are among the most popular attractions.
It’s a great place for kids aged 3 and up.
- Atlanta Botanical Garden
Although it is not specifically designed for children, the Atlanta Botanical Garden has themed exhibits that are ideal or perfect for them.
At Soggy Bog, the kids can learn about carnivorous plants and play in a three-story treehouse.
Plant collections and displays, such as the Japanese Garden, may appeal to teenagers and parents.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a must-see for children aged 6 and up.
- Chill-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
At this amazing football-shaped structure, you can feel the energy, spirit, and fun of college sports fanfare!
You’ll see photos and statistics of your favorite football college team as you walk around the building.
Even better, the attraction includes a variety of enjoyable activities and experiences, such as the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone.
Although it is not suitable or appropriate for toddlers, it is ideal for teenagers and anyone interested in sports aged 18 and up.
- Piedmont Park
One of the coolest things to do with your kids in Atlanta is to visit Piedmont Park.
The park a lot of fun activities for your entire family, from the playgrounds to the pool.
In the summer months, you can cool off by swimming in its family-friendly pool.
You can go for a walk or picnic in this park, which has plenty of green space.
The park is a fantastic attraction for children of all ages.
- Children’s Museum of Atlanta
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers a diverse range of exhibitions for curious children, ranging from nutrition to engineering.
Allow your children to display their creativity and paintings in the charming art studio for a memorable visit.
Also, don’t pass up the chance to let them play inside rockets and a castle.
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is appropriate for children aged three and up.
- Center for Civil and Human Rights
This treasury’s inspiring multimedia displays will provide children and adults with a thoughtful and new perspective on the human rights movement.
Inside, visitors will learn more about racism, civil rights, and legendary leaders such as Nelson Mandela.
Since the center was designed for educating people about civil and human rights, it makes it a great stop for kids 6 and up.
- Center for Puppetry Arts
It’s the world’s largest puppet gallery, with over 190 puppets and memorabilia from all over the globe, including the famous Muppets.
Make your visit unforgettable by attending one of its outstanding performances.
Also, visit the “Global Collection” to learn more about the history of puppetry.
This center is appropriate for children of all ages due to its colorful shows and collection.
- Chattahoochee Nature Center
This sprawling 127-acre nature center welcomes your family with themed gardens, wildlife, and trails.
Hiking trails, canoe tours, and bird walks are just a few of the activities available at the park for the whole family.
It also has an Interpretive Center with some amazing interactive displays.
It’s ideal for people of all ages, especially older children who enjoy hiking.
- CNN Studio Tours
A CNN studio tour allows you to go behind the scenes at one of the world’s largest and most popular news TV channels.
This 50-minute walking studio tour will show you how this prestigious news organization operates.
Make sure to pick up some souvenirs from their shop and take a family photo at the CNN desk.
This tour is suitable for children aged 15 and up.
- Atlanta History Center
With its charming Southern folk art and Civil War exhibitions, the Atlanta History Center brings history to life.
Spend time exploring the center and taking advantage of their guided tours and special monthly programming.
Visit its highlights, such as the Centennial Olympic Games Museum.
The center is ideal for children aged 3 and up, as it provides a variety of activities.
- Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)
At MODA, you’ll be enthralled by the dazzling, ever-changing artsy display that will delight children and adults.
Though not all of the gallery’s exhibits are suitable for children, MODA does provide camps, activities, and classes for them.
Allow your children to design or print 3D roller coasters to make your stop more enjoyable.
MODA is appropriate for children aged 6 and up.
- Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is a popular family destination that offers a variety of exciting activities for all ages.
Explore the Scenic Railroad, Spectacular Mountainside Laser Show, and Summit SkyRide to make your visit enjoyable.
You can also attend any of its seasonal events, such as the Yellow Daisy Festival.
The park has a plethora of thrills and activities for visitors of all ages.
- Martin Luther King Jr. National History Park
Are you looking for a way to teach your children about civil rights and history?
Then, proceed to this historical park and take a comprehensive tour of the complex.
Allow your children to enjoy the informative exhibitions of the Kings and Mahatma Gandhi.
After that, take in the park’s picturesque sights, such as the BEHOLD monument, fountain, and rose garden.
The lessons and displays at this attraction will undoubtedly appeal to children aged 6 and up.
- High Museum of Art
This gallery is undoubtedly Georgia’s premier art gallery, with fantastic traveling exhibits and a massive permanent collection.
Unlike other art museums, this one offers a variety of creative programs for the entire family.
Not to mention the eye-catching exhibitions, particularly the Howard Finster and African Art.
Children aged 12 and up will have a great time inside this structure.
- Lake Lanier Islands
With such a diverse collection of rides and experiences, it’s no surprise that millions of visitors visit Lake Lanier Islands each year.
From swimming pools and playgrounds to winter activities such as ice skating, these islands provide a diverse range of recreational opportunities.
Best of all, the scenery is breathtaking, thanks to the aqua-blue waters.
The islands can provide kids aged 9 and up with an adventure of a lifetime.
- Ponce Market Rooftop Arcade
Ponce Market is a must-see family Atlanta attraction for both children and the young at heart.
This attraction is a haven for arcade fans, with a plethora of entertaining games.
You’ll enjoy the nostalgic feel of its carnival offerings as you try to win a round of skee ball or ring toss.
Your children will laugh while playing kid-friendly games like mini golf or the Heege Tower.
The rooftop will keep children aged 6 and up entertained for hours.
- The Atlanta Beltline
With miles of public art, urban greenways, and parks, the Atlanta Beltline is the city’s newest and hottest outdoor space.
While it is still a few touches away from completion, this Atlanta attraction has plenty to offer.
For starters, your children can ride their bikes along the trail’s sections.
They could also visit the Eastside trail skatepark and the Historic Fourth Ward Park Playground.
This attraction is best suited for children aged 15 and up.
- Southeastern Railway Museum
This complex is a treat for vintage photography enthusiasts, with over 90 pieces of railway equipment.
The attraction, of course, teaches children about the history of automobiles and locomotives in Georgia.
You can also ride a caboose, tour trail cars, and see a massive collection of buses and taxi cabs.
Train-obsessed children ages 3 and up will be in heaven at this Atlanta attraction.
- Historic Fourth Ward Park
Do you need a break from the nonstop sightseeing in Atlanta?
The Historic Fourth Ward Park is a revitalizing urban oasis with a plethora of family-friendly attractions and activities.
It has a beautiful 2-acre lake, an outdoor theater, a skatepark, and a playground.
You can also have a picnic and relax with the rest of your family at the park.
This park has something for visitors of all ages, with a variety of attractions and over 15 acres of green space.
- Apex Museum
This facility, located in the heart of the city, provides a beautiful insight into world history from the perspective of an African-American.
You and your children will enjoy the exhibits on the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, Africa, and the history of the city’s neighborhoods.
Teenagers aged 15 and up are more likely to enjoy this experience than younger children.
- Delta Flight Museum
This treasury, housed in a 68,000-square-foot facility, allows you and your children to learn about the fascinating history of aviation.
View rare planes from bygone eras, cutting-edge simulator technology, and immersive exhibits.
Take a guided tour with your choice of co-pilot or glide through the massive grounds.
Children aged 6 and up will experience pure bliss at the facility.
- Illuminarium
The Illuminarium is a cutting-edge, immersive modern art exhibit in the Common Ground shopping center.
It features changing virtual backdrops, 4K interactive projection, laser-projected images, a 360-degree studio, scent systems, and in-floor vibrations for a fully immersive experience.
It also has a modern cafe serving delectable food and a gift shop selling authentic African goods, backpacks, apparel, posters, books, cups, puzzles, and much more.
This museum will provide you with a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget.
You can go on an African safari and see exotic wildlife, explore the depths of deep space beyond our galaxy, enter the magical world of Alice in Wonderland, and discover fantastic sights in Tokyo’s streets.
This attraction is appropriate for people of all ages and includes family-friendly amenities such as restrooms with diaper changing stations.
- Buford Highway
Going on an memorable road trip along Buford Highway and traveling its many attractions is one of the best family-friendly things to do with your loved ones.
It is a diverse cultural melting pot and a diverse neighborhood with a wide range of attractions, restaurants, and shops to explore.
Enjoy a fun road trip with your family while sampling tasty snacks and singing along to catchy music.
Explore the area’s tourist hotspots, such as the Buford Highway Farmers Market, which offers delectable treats and goods from around the globe.
You can also go shopping at Plaza Fiesta, try foreign delicacies at Atlanta Chinatown, play fun arcade games, and much more.
At Buford Highway, you will surely find fun activities for people of all ages.
- The Yard
The Yard is a well-known milkshake bar in Centennial Park in Atlanta (downtown).
It’s the ideal spot to refuel your energy with a delicious drink or snack.
It is conveniently close to several tourist attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, Pemberton Place, and the Children’s Museum of Atlanta.
Try delicious treats like RainDough to satisfy your taste buds.
It’s a cookie dough ice cream with a marshmallow drizzle, colorful chocolate chips, and rainbow whipped cream, among other things.
Ice cream, floats, sundaes, shakes, and other frozen treats are also available.
This restaurant has something delicious for everyone.
- Porsche Experience Center
The Porsche Experience Center is a cutting-edge driving school with several exhibits featuring cutting-edge sports cars.
It features cutting-edge simulator labs, spectacular dining options, and fascinating galleries.
At this tourist hotspot, you can practice your driving skills in a high-tech simulator and test-drive Porsche vehicles by booking an off-road course.
Visit the Heritage Gallery to learn about historical Porsche vehicles, see rotating exhibits, and have a more delightful educational experience.
You can also dine at Restaurant 356, a fine dining establishment, or Carrera Café, a more casual dining establishment.
This attraction is open to all ages, but it is best suited for children aged 9 and up.
- Starlight Drive-In Theatre
The Starlight Drive-In Theatre is a long-running drive-in movie theater that opened in 1949.
It has lush greenery backdrops, a flea market on weekends, concessions selling tasty dishes, and a classic art-deco style.
Finish the day with a memorable movie night with your loved ones at this magnificent theater.
Watch a movie while snacking on tasty foods such as candies, Mexican-inspired favorites, hot dogs, popcorn, and more.
If you visit on the weekend, you will have the opportunity to peruse various goods at a flea market.
- Tiny Doors ATL
Tiny Doors ATL is a one-of-a-kind art attraction that can be found throughout the city, usually near well-known tourist attractions.
It is an art initiative that provides an exciting adventure for your family as you search for differently-themed and colored miniature doors.
Grab a map and prepare to embark on a memorable adventure with your loved ones to explore the city’s many artful miniature doors.
These tiny doors can be found at places like the Georgia Aquarium, Woodruff Arts Center, Centennial Olympic Park, Atlantic Station, State Farm Arena, and countless other must-see attractions.
Tiny Doors ATL is a whimsical and fun attraction for people of all ages.
- Woodruff Arts Center
The Woodruff Arts Center, is a well-known performing arts facility. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High Museum of Art, and the Alliance Theatre are all located here.
It has at least 12 acres of beautifully landscaped land, live performance spaces, educational exhibits, and other amenities.
Explore the Woodruff Arts Center with your loved ones to see breathtaking art pieces and performances.
View ever-changing art exhibits or attend a captivating live performance, such as orchestras or concerts.
It also provides educational and engaging programs for PreK-12 students annually.
Enroll your children in fantastic workshops, classes, or camps, where they can hone their skills and learn new things.
The Woodruff Arts Center is an excellent choice for children aged 3 and up.
- Braves Truist Park
This is a baseball stadium in the downtown district that opened in 2017 and has a capacity of at least 41,000 people.
It is a fantastic destination for sports fans, with an impressive array of entertaining games available all year.
Prepare to have an exciting time with your loved ones while enjoying fun things to do with kids in Atlanta, such as watching a live game at this amazing stadium.
Get the chance to watch live sports like baseball and football.
Depending on their schedule, you may also be able to attend a brilliant concert.
It has hosted Billy Joel, Metallica, Lady Gaga, and Green Day.
Before you leave, browse the shop for jerseys, T-shirts, baseball caps, accessories, hoodies, memorabilia, and more.
When visiting this stadium, there are no age restrictions.
It is, however, best suited for children aged 3 and up.