Taking a trip to Atlanta with kids? We have you covered with tons of kid-friendly activities that will please the whole family whether you’re traveling with toddlers up to teens.
From learning about African American history to visiting the Georgia Aquarium, there is so much family fun to be had when visiting Atlanta with younger kids.
With engaging and educational cultural attractions, exciting nature exploration opportunities, and beautiful hiking trails, there are so many fun things to do with kids in Atlanta that suit various interests and seasons.
will guarantee a busy and happy vacation for your entire family.
Whether you are traveling for a couple of days or a whole week, here’s an epic roundup of top spots in the Georgia capital to add to your travel itinerary.
You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.
1. Georgia Aquarium
Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
The famous Georgia Aquarium is the country’s largest aquarium and is suitable for kids of all ages. Home to thousands of marine creatures, including magnificent beluga whales, manta rays, sea otters, and brightly colored fish, your family can spend hours wandering through the Georgia Aquarium’s 70 incredible exhibits.
Some of the must-sees include the Ocean Voyager exhibit, the sea lion show, and one of the more recent attractions, the sweeping shark gallery.
If you are an Atlanta native or are staying in the Southern city long-term, the Georgia Aquarium also hosts birthday parties, camp programs, and volunteer opportunities perfect for kids. Make sure to stop by Cafe Aquaria for delicious lunchtime cuisine, and at least one of the two gift shops on your way out.
2. Six Flags Over Georgia
Address: 275 Riverside Pkwy, Austell, GA 30168
Bursting with shows, rides, and family-friendly fun, a day trip to Six Flags Over Georgia is the perfect summer activity. Only a 15-minute drive from the heart of Atlanta, this extraordinary amusement park has numerous options for teenagers and youngsters alike. Commonly referred to as the “thrill capital of the South,” Six Flags Over Georgia offers numerous options available for dare-devil teenagers, including classic wooden roller coasters, high-tech 4D interactive rides, and the epic Goliath roller coaster.
There are also two delightful sections of the park catered entirely towards the youngest members of the family. Head over to Bugs Bunny Boomtown for some wholesome toddler fun. Expect frequent visits from the Loony Tunes character in this area, and enjoy the playground, junior Ferris Wheel, and water attraction to help beat the heat. Right next door is D.C Super Friends, for the slightly more daring tots. If your child is 36 inches or taller, they can experience the drop tower, flying jets, and helicopter.
This park has programs in place that cater to families. One is the Baby/Child Swap program which is handy when a child isn’t tall enough to ride. The whole family queues together and the child waits at the exit with an adult while the rest of the family rides. Then the adult who waited can board with another family member for a chance to ride.
And don’t forget that you can buy Six Flags Over Georgia tickets at a reduced price below.
3. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
I firmly believe that one of the most important things to do in Atlanta with kids is a visit to Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. The 35-acre national treasure provides an incredible opportunity to educate your children about the Civil Rights leader and appreciate his contribution to society.
Take a free 30-minute tour, led by one of the park’s rangers, to better understand Dr. King’s life and legacy. Protected by the National Park Service, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park includes the home where Dr. King was born, an informative and interactive visitor center with hands-on exhibits, and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he was a pastor.
This educational park also offers some wonderfully scenic spots, including the BEHOLD monument and a seasonal rose garden.
TIP
It’s very easy to reach the park from downtown Atlanta hotels and, if pressed for time, you can walk through the important parts in about an hour.
4. Zoo Atlanta
Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
The perfect spot for animal lovers, Zoo Atlanta takes your typical zoo experience to a whole new level. Only minutes away from downtown and open all year round, Zoo Atlanta is an easy and convenient day trip that is sure to satisfy every family member.
This one-of-a-kind zoo is one of the oldest in the country and home to an astonishing 1,300 animals. Not only will you get an up-close look at them, but there are a few chances to interact with them, too. At Zoo Atlanta, families can feed giraffes and goats (the latter are in the petting zoo), meet the famous twin giant pandas, and hang out with toucans. Feedings only happen several times a day, so make sure to check the schedule online the day before your outing.
As if that wasn’t enough, children can also enjoy a range of fun activities including mystery hunts, entertaining stage presentations, and interactive learning activities at the Conservation Carts.
5. The World of Coca-Cola
Address: 121 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313 (next door to Georgia Aquarium)
Who doesn’t love Coca-Cola? Even for the few that are averse to this sugary drink, the World of Coca-Cola is still worth visiting. This state-of-the-art museum is the only place you can discover the story behind the world’s most popular beverage.
One of Atlanta’s top tourist attractions, the World of Coca-Cola offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how this popular soda is made. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to the tasting room to sip 100 cola’s from across the globe, and explore the rich culture behind Coca-Cola milestones, including the cans created for the 1996 Summer Olympics.
You will even get a peek of the vault storing the secret recipe behind this delicious soft drink. Finish off your day by taking a photo with the familiar Coca-Cola Polar Bear mascot to capture the experience.
6. Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Address: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
Take a trip back in time with a visit to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. This non-profit takes the museum experience up a notch, by hosting both indoor play places and outdoor learning experiences for little ones.
Dinosaur-loving kids can wander through Dinosaur Plaza, with a chance to view one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered. Other intriguing indoor exhibits include a 900-gallon saltwater aquarium, a cultural walk through Georgia’s history, and an IMAX theater.
Once you make your way through the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, spend an afternoon in WildWoods and Fernbank Forest which are part of the museum complex. There are 75 acres of paths, treehouse platforms, and trail-side experiences to enjoy.
7. Stone Mountain Park
Address: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Situated in the heart of Stone Mountain sits Stone Mountain Park, approximately 30 minutes away from the center of Atlanta. This spectacular spot is the most visited tourist attraction in all of Georgia, receiving nearly 4 million guests every year.
Make the most of your visit at Stone Mountain Park by exploring the Scenic railroad, the world’s largest laser show, and the Dinotorium. To get to the top of the mountain, you have the option to hike the mile-long trail or take the high-speed Summit Skyride Cable Car.
This 3,200-acre natural wonder is the perfect family-friendly destination and also includes two Marriott hotels, if you want to extend your stay. For parents who have a second to slip away, this Georgian oasis also has two championship golf courses. In addition to the outdoor adventures, be sure to check out the slew of seasonal events available during your stay.
8. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Address: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers hours of hands-on fun and an unparalleled educational experience for kids. This kid-friendly paradise has exhibits exploring informative topics ranging from science and nutrition to creativity and engineering.
Does your little tyke want to try being a Waffle House Cook? What about the opportunity to sculpt some moon sand? All of these dreams can be achieved at The Children’s Museum.
Geared towards children up to 8 years old, curious younger kids will be delighted by the venue’s interactive displays and hands-on exhibits including enchanting castles, explosive rockets, and lively 20-minute musicals. This special museum even hosts a special kid-friendly art studio to spark children’s imaginations. Keep in mind, you must purchase a ticket online for entry at the museum.
9. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta
Address: 3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
Bring your budding architects and little builders to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta. Based on the extremely popular LEGO® brick, this spectacular lego-verse offers a range of experiences including a captivating 4D cinema, exciting lego themed rides, and special party rooms for birthdays and other celebrations.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the LEGO Master Builder Academy, where a group of lego experts will motivate kids to build anything their heart desires from the iconic colorful bricks.
This indoor play space is perfect for children 0-3, but even the older adults will appreciate the popular MINILAND exhibit designed to model the stunning Atlanta skyline.
10. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Address: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Looking for a breath of fresh air or an excuse to get outdoors? Surround yourself with shady woody areas and gorgeous floral displays at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Featuring plant collections of roses, herbs, carnivorous plants, and more, this 30-acre garden is the ideal place to get in touch with nature. Don’t miss the Canopy Walk and the astonishing Earth Goddess display during the visit, you won’t regret it!
If you’re worried about your little toddler getting bored, don’t panic. The Lou Glenn Children’s Garden is packed with kid-friendly nature fixes, including climbing nets, a water painting wall, and an awesome three-story treehouse. This two-acre children’s garden even provides a section for little paleontologists to dig up dinosaurs. How cool is that? The children’s garden is a must-see with kids in Atlanta.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is open all week, except on Mondays. Make sure to check the official website for any special events happening during your stay to plan your visit accordingly.
11. Centennial Olympic Park
Address: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
There are tons of free things to do in Atlanta with kids, including visiting the city’s impressive number of public parks. One picturesque park that is not to be missed is Centennial Olympic Park.
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this impressive park is teeming with fun-filled activities, which can be appreciated by the youngest tots to the oldest teens. Centennial Olympic Park offers weekly free concerts during the summer months and has a water fountain for kids that reaches heights up to 25 feet tall.
Visitors can enjoy a spin around the Ferris Wheel, an afternoon picnic, or a leisurely stroll through the park.
One of the best things about this park is its convenient location. Located in the hub of Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park is within walking distance of many other must-see attractions.
12. Center For Puppetry Arts
Address: 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Immerse yourself in the world of puppetry with a visit to the Center For Puppetry Arts. Founded in 1978, this magical center is the largest organization in the U.S devoted to the art of puppetry.
From Sesame Street to The Muppets, this cultural treasure possesses an astonishing collection of 200 puppets from around the world.
Discover the interactive Jim Henson exhibition, which features iconic scenes from Jim Henson’s active years, as well as his famous puppets like Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Word-class live shows from Beauty and the Beast to Old MacDonald’s Farm will bring out the inner child in the oldest adults.
Check out the Center For Puppetry Arts official site to see what performances are playing during your stay, and reserve a ticket, just in case.
13. Margaritaville at Lake Lanier Islands
Address: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
Looking for a day trip to soak up the sun? Margaritaville at Lake Lanier Islands is the place for you. Don’t be fooled by its name, Margaritaville is much more family-friendly than it sounds.
About an hour away from Atlanta’s center, this is about as close to heaven as it gets for water enthusiasts and beach bums.
This 1500-acre resort hosts an impressive water park, including Wild Waves, the largest wave family-friendly pool in the South, a Raging River, and even opportunities to zipline across the lake.
If you are looking for some R&R, head over to LandShark Landing beach to get your feet sandy and bask in the sun.
Although this park is known for its lakefront beach and water park, it also offers outdoor activities all year round. In the winter months, families can revel in fun-filled activities such as snow tubing and ice skating.
14. CNN Studio Tours
Address: 190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Temporarily closed. If you’re looking for an outing to entertain your slightly older kiddos, you’re in luck! Located in the hub of Atlanta is the CNN world headquarters where you can take a CNN Studio Tour.
Inside CNN is a 55-minute walking studio tour, giving you a sneak peek behind the scenes at one of the best news channels in the world. Get a glimpse inside how an esteemed TV organization runs its business, and get exclusive access to Atlanta’s CNN studios to see live broadcasting in the making.
If you are willing to splash some cash, you can opt for the Inside CNN VIP Tour for extended access to CNN newsrooms. Make sure to stop by the souvenir store on the way out, and take a family flick at the CNN desk.
15. The Roof at Ponce City Market
Address: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Take a trip to The Roof at Ponce City Market for a night of old-school carnival fun! Perfect for youngsters, visitors of this roof-top attraction can indulge in carnival rides like the Hegee Tower, ride the three-story slide at Skyline Park, and engage in a lively game of mini golf.
Let’s not forget the beloved carnival food including pretzels, hotdogs, and funnel cakes that young ones can snack on while they entertain themselves with old-fashioned games galore.
16. Southeastern Railway Museum
Address: 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth, GA 30096
Find automotive bliss at Southeastern Railway Museum. Perfect for train-loving tots, this 35-acre museum boasts more than 90 pieces of railway equipment from old-fashioned Pullman cars to classic steam locomotives.
In operation since 1970, the museum educates children about the history of locomotives and automobiles in Georgia. Journey through the museum on a restored caboose, explore trail cars, and discover a wide-reaching collection of taxi cabs and buses.
Located in northeast suburban Atlanta, this museum is only a short ride away from the city.
17. The Atlanta Beltline
Address: Varies by trail and park so check the interactive map
If you are looking for a new hotspot in Atlanta, check out the Atlanta Beltline. The Beltline is composed of 22 miles of unused railroad tracks circling through the heart of Atlanta. It has been a long-term project in the making to convert these tracks into a loop of public parks, art displays, and long stretches of green space.
Although The Beltline is still a work in progress, thousands of visitors still flock to this attraction every week for a host of outdoor activities. Visitors can skateboard off the East Side Trail, ride bikes along the Westside and Northside walking trails, and admire the colorful public art displays along the Beltline corridor.
Take your little tykes to play at the Historic Fourth Ward Park playground and splash pad for hours of entertaining fun. The Historic Fourth Ward Park contains a skate park, for older teens to enjoy.
18. Piedmont Park
Address: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Piedmont Park. This 185-acre park is one of Atlanta’s most popular, due to its numerous walking trails, dog parks, and long stretches of green space perfect for picnicking.
Piedmont Park also has not just one, but two playgrounds: Mayor’s Grove Playground and Noguchi Playscape. Located close to 12 Street Gate, the lively and colorful Noguchi Playscape is a one-of-a-kind playground designed by the famous artist and sculptor Isamu Noguchi.
In the summer months, grab a sweet Georgia treat at Piedmont Park’s Green Market, and then take a dunk in the public, family-friendly pool to cool off. One of the best parts about Piedmont Park is all of the free parking available.
19. Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)
Address: 1315 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Located in the heart of the Midtown Arts District is the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA). This state-of-the-art museum is the only one in the Southeast dedicated to all-things design and is entertaining to kids and adults alike.
This one-of-a-kind museum’s exhibits are constantly changing, giving children the unique opportunity to try new hands-on STEM and design activities. If you are a Georgia native or spending a few weeks in this Southern city, MODA also offers classes, camps, and creative activities for children ages 5 to 18.
20. Callaway Resort & Gardens
Address: 17617 U.S. Highway 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822
Situated in the southern foothills of the Appalachian mountains sits Callaway Resort & Gardens. This 2,500-acre destination is open year-round for visitors to enjoy.
Although it’s about an hour away from Atlanta, this stunning world-renowned spot is well worth the journey. Children will enjoy the remarkable Birds of Prey exhibit, and the enchanting Butterfly House, as well as a trip to Robin Lake Beach.
Gorgeous themed gardens filled with Azaleas, Dogwoods, and Spring Blooms can also be admired by all.
Atlanta with Kids Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Atlanta with Kids on weekends?
All of the Atlanta attractions above are fun things to do in Atlanta with kids on weekends, although some of the more popular spots may be more crowded. If you are looking for a weekend-specific event, head on over to The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta’s oldest house museum, and the former home of Joel Chandler Harris, the recorder of the Br’er Rabbit Stories. Every Saturday at 1 p.m., there’s a special storytime for kids — but you must make an appointment beforehand.
Additionally, if you happen to be in Atlanta on the second Sunday of the month, visit the High Museum of Art for free admission. This incredible museum showcases castles from the transatlantic slave trade. Kids ages 8 and under will love the interactive Greene Family Learning Gallery at the High Museum, where they can create their own artwork.
Some other great spots include the College Football Hall of Fame and the Chattahoochee Nature Center on the Chattahoochee River. Football fans will love the College Football Hall of Fame, and the Chattahoochee Nature Center hosts a total of seven ziplines.
For more educational activities, head over to The National Center for Civil and Human Rights or the Atlanta History Center.
What Atlanta activities should be avoided with kids or a family?
Atlanta is a very kid-friendly and safe city, although as always, you’ll want to keep your wits about you, especially in crowded spots where your child could wander off and get lost.
Focus on the Midtown, Downtown, and Buckhead areas where most of the tourist attractions and popular hotels are located.
However, you may want to avoid certain neighborhoods that you are unfamiliar with, especially those that are southwest of the I-20 and I-85 interchange and on the outskirts of town.
When driving around Atlanta, make sure that you are parking in a safe location, and removing all items of value from your car.
Where Should I Stay with Kids in Atlanta?
Atlanta is home to quite a few family-friendly hotels. Which you pick depends on budget and location. If you’d like more space and a kitchen, try Twelve Midtown (we’ve stayed here — great Atlantic Station location) or Twelve Downtown. These are both Marriott Autograph Collection properties.
For luxury hotels, I can also recommend Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta (ping me for rates and extra benefits), in addition to several Buckhead hotels that include St. Regis Atlanta, The Whitley, and Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead.
See also:
