Ultimate List of Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids - Discover Atlanta

2022-09-10 03:38:57 By : Ms. Penny Xiong

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By Joleen Pete Posted March 28, 2022

Atlanta is a great destination for families, and if you’re reading this it’s likely you’ve got kids to entertain. Consider this your ultimate guide to fun. We’ve got something for everyone and every budget on this ultimate list of things to do with kids in Atlanta – from top attractions to the best playgrounds, unique experiences, must-see landmarks and cultural destinations. This list is for everyone from toddlers to teenagers and their caregivers. Get active, be entertained and, most of all, have fun. 

If you’re looking to experience something new to do outside of your run-of-the-mill outing, there are many options – everything from immersive or cultural experiences to unique play spaces and story times. 

Advancements in technology have brought forth a variety of unique and engaging immersive experiences that are perfect for the whole family and wildly popular. Find yourself exploring the plains of Africa in the WILD Immersive Safari Exhibit at Illuminarium. In addition, they are planning upcoming exhibitions on Georgia O’Keefe’s flowers and Outer Space. Claude Monet’s artwork comes to life in an immersive exhibit by Exhibit Hub and Van Gogh’s wildly popular experience will be finding a new home in June 2022.  Candytopia, an “outrageously interactive Candy Wonderland” is available in the Buckhead area that kids of all ages will love. Check out these and other family-friendly events throughout the year.

If you’re in the mood to explore with your kids, we suggest a ride along Buford Highway, a cultural melting pot that has attracted a high population of international communities. During your visit you can stop at the Buford Highway Farmers Market for tasting snacks and candy from all over the world. A trip down Buford Highway will give you culinary options ranging from rolled ice cream to a wide variety of international cuisines, Boba tea and more. Don’t miss a stop at Plaza Fiesta for a unique and colorful shopping experience. Kids will love the arcade.

The historic Wren’s Nest in Atlanta’s West End is an Atlanta institution which celebrates the heritage of African and Indigenous folklore through the art of storytelling in the home Joel Chandler Harris, creator of Br’er Rabbit. Take a tour, visit the gift shop and check the calendar of special events, which includes magical storytelling hours. 

Outrageous, colorful and mouth watering milkshakes are what you’ll find at The Yard. Fun and picture-perfect for the entire family. Try concoctions like “Who’s your Patty?” and “The Mermaid”. The Yard Milkshake Bar offers a huge variety of gourmet milkshakes along with sundaes, coffee drinks and edible cookie doughs.

A truly unique offering in Atlanta is Ponce City Market, a renovated, historic Sears building turned marketplace with a food hall, shops and living space. Up on the roof is The ROOF, a great place to dine, have cocktails and experience Boardwalk-style rides and games. Zoom down the three-story slide, play miniature golf or try your hand at games like skeeball, break-a-plate and horse derby while enjoying spectacular views. Check out the seasonal calendar for special events geared toward children and families.

This one’s for the big kids. Auto enthusiasts and Porsche lovers will enjoy a visit to Porsche Experience Center, which includes a heritage gallery, classic factory restoration workshop, drive simulator labs and actual driving experiences. A valid driver’s license is required. A professional driving coach will accompany young drivers, ages 16 through 21. 

Fans of the popular colorful building brick won’t want to miss a visit to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta. This ultimate indoor play space features all things LEGO including an Atlanta LEGO replica made of more than one million LEGO bricks, a 4D movie, building sessions, rides and, of course, a LEGO store for plenty of shopping. 

Jump back in time with a family movie night… in your car. Grab some pillows and blankets, pack up the kids and head to the Starlight Drive-In Theatre for 7-night a week movies at the classic drive-in movie theatre in Atlanta. Kids ages 5 to 9 are only $1.

Atlanta is a city that loves its green space and time spent in nature. The city has worked to preserve land within the city for parks, hiking trails and recreational areas. Families can easily get outside without having to make a long drive. Whether it’s taking in a sports game, playing a sport, hiking or learning more about nature, the Atlanta area has plenty of opportunities for outdoor time that the entire family will enjoy.

One of the most iconic features of Atlanta is a 33-mile multiuse trail that follows a historic railroad corridor, Atlanta BeltLine. The trails have been designed for varied uses such as walking, running, skating, bicycling and more. Stop off at favorite restaurants, shopping spots, cafes and other attractions or just take a leisurely stroll admiring the view. 

In recent years, Tiny Doors ATL have been popping up all over the city. An Atlanta-based art initiative that brings “big wonder to tiny spaces,” Tiny Doors are there for you and your family to find using this map. Tiny Doors make for great Instagram photo ops and can be found at many favorite Atlanta attractions such as Georgia Aquarium, Center for Puppetry Arts, Fox Theatre, State Farm Arena, Woodruff Arts Center, Atlantic Station and Centennial Olympic Park. Visit the giant door that will make you feel tiny on the Eastside BeltLine Trail. 

Atlanta is home to several professional sports teams including Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Dream, Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta United FC. Baseball fans will love cheering for the Atlanta Braves, and those with younger kids will want to check out  the KidsZone at Truist Park and the Beat the Freeze race. Soccer has been steadily gaining popularity in the United States, and Atlanta United games are super fun for all ages. 

This iconic 21-acre park was created in 1996 to welcome visitors to the Atlanta Olympic Games. You can play in the Fountain of Rings, take a selfie at The Spectacular or enjoy the playgrounds, gardens and expansive lawns. In addition, Centennial Olympic Park hosts many festivals and special events throughout the year.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a 127-acre educational facility that lies adjacent to the Chattahoochee River in Roswell. The nature center focuses on engaging families in educational outreach through the use of flora and fauna and a variety of programs and experiences. 

Dunwoody Nature Center provides opportunities for families to explore and play in the great outdoors through nature programs and outdoor areas where kids can jump, swing, teetertotter, splash, hike and play. Families may enjoy a night hike or camp out.

Families who enjoy the outdoors may wish to visit Sweetwater Creek State Park for a variety of outdoor activities including geocaching, hiking, boating, camping and fishing. Located just 15 miles from Atlanta, this is a great spot to teach the kids to bait that hook on one of two dedicated fishing docks. Fun tip: many films and shows have used the park and the mill ruins as a filming location.

Golf has become more popular with multiple generations playing the game. Atlanta has its share of golf courses that welcome golfers of all ages. Check out Cross Creek Golf Club and John A. White Golf Course in the metro area. If your golfers are a bit smaller or less serious about the game, try a game of putt-putt at The Fringe, Skyline Park, Great Locomotive Chase at Stone Mountain Park or Mountasia. Great options is the weather is not the greatest are indoor locations including Topgolf, Puttshack and Lunar Golf.

Atlanta is known for its green space and one doesn’t have to venture far from the city center to take a hike with some pretty impressive views. Here are the 10 best easy hikes in Atlanta.

Nestled near Downtown, Piedmont Park is an urban green space, which hosts several miles of paved paths suitable for walking, running, biking and inline skating. In addition, the acres of lawn are perfect for soccer, Frisbees and play. Pack a lunch and spread a blanket under the trees. Piedmont also offers lighted hard courts for a variety of sports in addition to softball and soccer fields and a swim center.  

Most kids love any opportunity to ride their bikes or jump on a skateboard, and Atlanta is full of great places to roll along. Explore Atlanta BeltLine on wheels, visit Old Fourth Ward Skatepark, which has features for every level. Many of Atlanta’s parks have extensive trails that are suitable for bicycling, skating and more.

This botanical oasis features beautiful gardens, intriguing outdoor sculptures and the historic Hiram Butler House. You will enjoy a variety of plantings and exhibits including the Bonsai Exhibit and Butterfly House. In addition, Smith Gilbert Gardens, which is in Kennesaw just north of Atlanta, offers a variety of special events and educational experiences. 

This historic park promises a full day (or longer) of fun. Stone Mountain Park features hiking, camping and exploring, as well as theme rides, zip lines and other attractions. You can make a weekend trip by booking a Stay and Play package at on-site accommodations or just spend a full day riding the tram, immersing yourself in history, shopping and visiting any one of the numerous special events the park hosts each year.

Those who love to volley that little green ball will be grateful to know that in addition to private tennis clubs, Atlanta offers up a variety of parks with tennis courts. Get out and hit the ball at Candler Park or Grant Park, or sign up the entire family for lessons at  Chastain Park Tennis Center.

Not far from the Atlanta perimeter is Treetop Quest, nestled into the Buford woods. This action packed adventure course will encourage kids of all ages to climb, swing and explore amongst the trees. There are rope courses, bridges, nets and more to challenge the most timid to the bravest of kids as well as adults. 

Kids of all ages will enjoy a visit to Center for Puppetry Arts. Puppet shows feature a variety of puppets including hand puppets, rod style, shadow puppets and more. Performances are largely geared toward children, many of which are for age 4 and younger. Shows frequently include accompanying workshops in which kids can create their own puppets to take home.

Part of Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Music for the Very Young is a wonderful way to expose young children to chamber music in a fun environment created just for them.

Much like its sister program Music for the Very Young, Theatre for the Very Young is designed for children ages 0-5 to engage and nurture their creative thinking through an inventive experience. It’s an inspiring and unique activity for kids and caregivers. 

Whether you’re visiting Atlanta, have visitors from out of town or are just looking for something to do, these top Atlanta attractions are crowd pleasers for all ages. Many are completely indoors making them a perfect option for super hot or rainy days. Looking for more rainy day activities? Don’t miss our ultimate list of rainy day things to do in Atlanta.

Atlanta Botanical Garden is a magical 30-acre oasis tucked next to Piedmont Park in Midtown. The beautiful space offers numerous exhibits, greenhouses and plantings that can be enjoyed by all ages and has special areas especially for the younger visitors. Kids will enjoy the Children’s Garden, water play at Sunflower Fountain and learning about various plants and animals in Soggy Bottom. The garden also offers kid-friendly programming listed on the online events calendar. Beginning May 2022, ABG will present “Origami in the Garden”, a series of giant metal sculptures inspired by the Japanese art of paperfolding.

While the museum at Atlanta History Center may not appeal to the youngest of visitors, there are several outdoor spaces that will engage children of all ages. Explore the gardens, stumble upon the Lee Playhouse and find the Victorian Playhouse near the historic Swan House. Venture further to discover the rustic wood cabin and stop by Smith Family Farm to view the gardens of flowers, vegetables and interact with farm animals. 

Sports fans won’t want to miss a visit to Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame with its interactive and personalized exhibits. From the moment you enter, you’ll experience a personalized tour with a variety of highlights, interactive experiences and more. Museum exhibits, attractions and play make this a fun stop for the entire family.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a must-do for families with younger kids. This largest children’s museum in the state encourages the power of learning through play. Children will explore using all their senses in six permanent learning zones and special exhibits. In addition, kids can experience live programming and performances by trained Imaginators.

Explore indoors and out at Fernbank Museum of Natural History to learn about dinosaurs, nature and science in an interactive environment offering exhibits, attractions and learning opportunities.  Wildwoods offers 75-acres of outdoor exhibits, walking trails, a canopy walk, native wildlife and nature playgrounds. Watch a movie in the giant screen theater, take your little ones to NatureQuest and delve into the natural history of Georgia and our world.

Georgia Aquarium appeals to visitors of all ages and is one of the most popular attractions in Atlanta. Georgia Aquarium is the country’s largest aquarium boasting 10 million gallons of fresh and salt water, multiple galleries and exhibits plus more than 500 species from around the globe.

Visiting the High is a great way to expose children and teens to the arts. The High Museum of Art offers permanent and special events and  a wide variety of art programming for all ages including art classes for a variety of ages and Toddler Thursdays with special activities just for preschoolers. Teens can get together with like-minded peers for Teen Night and Teen Art Afternoon programming.

A great place to learn about the U.S. government and presidency, Jimmy Carter Library & Museum offers tours and programming for kids in addition to beautiful grounds and a movie theater. 

Visiting the National Center for Civil and Human Rights can be a great way to talk to your kids about our nation’s history and the importance of equal rights for all. Through a variety of immersive and interactive exhibits, you can learn about the changemakers who helped shape our history and policies. Participate in a lunch counter sit-in, learn the stories of the Freedom Riders and be amazed about the power of people to create change.

Explore an important part of our nation’s history by visiting this park which includes the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Ebenezer Baptist Church and the World Peace Rose Garden. Kids between the ages of 9 and 12 can become a Junior Ranger by picking up a booklet or downloading it here.

Atlanta’s thrilling theme park offers a variety of amusements and exciting rides for families with children of all ages. Thrill seekers will love the variety of high energy rides that twist, drop and zoom, while smaller kids will find rides perfectly tailored to them. No matter your age, you will enjoy visiting Hurricane Harbor water park where you can float, slide and play in the cooling water. Six Flags Over Georgia also offers a variety of special and seasonal events.

Outdoorsy kids will love visiting Stone Mountain Park for activities such as the Summit Skyride tram and Dinosaur Explore, which includes interactive paleontology tents, fantastic photo ops and a dinosaur feeding wall. Geyser Towers is a network of net tunnels, rope bridges and more overlooking the geyser. Get low and wet or stay high and dry.  The seasonal Snow Mountain packs in snow play, sledding and more.

While exploring Downtown, grab some tickets for Skyview Atlanta, the 20-story ferris wheel that offers incredible birds-eye views of Atlanta. The ferris wheel offers enclosed, climate controlled cars that hold up to 6. The wheel rotates 4 times offering the opportunity for complete views of our beautiful city. 

Woodruff Arts Center is the third largest art center in the country, home to the High Museum of Art, Alliance Theatre and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. A variety of stunning statues in a park-like setting encourages you to explore and find inspiration even before stepping inside one of the buildings.

Located in the same courtyard as Georgia Aquarium is this amazing museum dedicated to all things Coca-Cola. Inside World of Coca-Cola you can taste, smell and experience the history and lore behind this iconic brand with interactive exhibits, tastings, movies and more. 

Enjoy a trip to Zoo Atlanta, located just minutes from Downtown and housing more than 1,000 animals crossing 200 species. Get up close and personal with a variety of critters through exhibits, animal encounters and more. Younger kids will love stopping at the Kid Zone, riding the train and splashing in the water park.

If you’re visiting Atlanta with family and plan to visit some of these more popular attractions within a small window of time, definitely check out Atlanta CityPASS as it offers savings of up to 45% on admission to Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Zoo Atlanta and more.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a space completely dedicated to teaching young children through the power of play. Kids will enjoy interactive exhibits, activities and live age-appropriate entertainment.

This kid-centric “museum” was designed to immerse children in a world of interactive play and imagination. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK) features interactive exhibits that will pique kids’ interest and encourage imagination. Kids ages 2 through 12 can visit GrandPappy Airlines, the Medical Clinic, Family Playhouse, Gainesville Radiology Clinic, Dentist office, bank and so much more.

The Southeastern Railway Museum is a toddler’s dream, featuring numerous train cars and other vehicles to explore or ride in. There are areas to eat (bring your own lunch), host parties and learn about the history of transportation.  

Most little kids are enthralled with trains and vehicles so the Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotion History is a great destination to take tots. Explore a variety of train cars and vehicles from throughout history and learn about their impact on the Civil War. The Jolley Education Center offers numerous hands-on and interactive exhibits that are fun for the entire family.

Designed for children ages 15 months through 3 years old and their caregivers, Toddler Thursdays at The High engage children’s creativity and explore monthly topics with related artwork and self-guided tours, as well as new art-making activities each week.

Tot Spot at Atlantic Station is designed for visitors ages 5 and younger as a place where preschoolers can play in giant bubbles, participate in free crafts, singalongs and kid-friendly yoga, and enjoy pre-packaged snacks and more. Visit the website for availability and seasonal hours.

Let’s face it, being a parent to older kids can sometimes be tough. They seem to find any activity “BORING!” when suggested by a parent. We’ve come up with some pretty great ideas to get those tweens and teens out of the house to have fun in and around Atlanta.

If there is one thing that almost any teen loves, it’s social media. Atlanta is overflowing with amazing backdrops to make scroll-stopping Instagram posts or TikTok videos. Pose in front of one of the myriad murals that can be found around the city or try out that new TikTok dance at any number of stunning spots. Start with this guide to the best Atlanta street art to get inspired.

If you love seeing the history “behind the thing,” don’t miss this backstage tour. You can experience a storytelling journey covering the history of the No. 1 chicken restaurant in America through virtual tours hosted by live tour guides. Visit the website for details.

Escape rooms are hugely popular, and Atlanta has a great variety to choose from. Gather your kids and their friends for a perfect afternoon outing or birthday party location at The Escape Game Atlanta, Netherworld Escape Rooms or the new Trap Music Museum Escape Room .

Much like Ponce City Market, Krog Street District offers a trendy vibe in its historic, rehabbed building. You will find a plethora of unique dining and shopping experiences. 

This popular activity is making a comeback, and teens will love lacing up a pair of skates and gliding to some funky beats. Check out Cascade Family Skating, Golden Glide Skating Rink, Hot Wheels Skate Center, Metro Family Fun Center or Stone Mountain Skates. These rinks are fun places to have parties and gatherings as well. If you’d rather catch a few rays while skating, try renting skates at Skate Escape Bike Shop and hop on the  Atlanta BeltLine for some fun on wheels. 

Round 1 is a bowling and amusement center packed under one roof. Teens will love bowling, gaming in the arcade, playing pool and ping-pong or belting out a few karaoke tunes. It’s the perfect spot for rainy days and birthday parties or just an afternoon of fun.

Set up an afternoon of exploration on two wheels to tour the unique and diverse street art of Atlanta with Bicycle Tours of Atlanta, ATL-Cruzers or one of our local tours.

Teens who love art will love the opportunity to learn and create in a world class museum. The High Museum of Art offers just that with its Teen Art Afternoons where young adults will learn, take tours and create art for free.

Kids as young as 9 (4’8”) are welcome to join Bicycle Tours of Atlanta’s tours covering the art, history and culture of Atlanta. Take a leisurely ride around the city and learn about the history of the civil rights movement, Atlanta’s icons, sustainability, landmarks and more.

Teens and tweens will love shopping and exploring Ponce City Market. The variety of shops have a young vibe and the dining hall offers food selections for every type of palate. Up top, you can visit The ROOF for boardwalk-style games and rides. 

A traditional amusement park with thrilling rides for all ages. Six Flags Over Georgia also includes a water park (Hurricane Harbor) for those hot Southern days. Whether you go with them or drop them off, your teens will surely find tons of fun here. 

Kids who love being outdoors will enjoy exploring the Atlanta BeltLine and adjoining parks, properties and experiences. One particularly popular spot for teens is the Historic Fourth Ward Park with its acclaimed skateboard park. In addition the Atlanta BeltLine offers lots of opportunities for the perfect selfie. 

What better way to unwind a little than an invigorating yoga session outside? Check out Zoo Yoga at Zoo Atlanta, free Yoga at Woodruff Park, Wellness Wednesdays on The Green at Atlantic Station and Yoga on the BeltLine.

A good playground can make a kid’s entire day. Fortunately Atlanta is home to literally dozens upon dozens of parks and playgrounds. Here are our top choices: 

Perhaps one of the more iconic playgrounds in Atlanta, the ATL at Woodruff Park is cleverly disguised as art. This cool sculpture hides a climbing wall, slides and even monkey bars inside its cool facade.

This tiny neighborhood park off the beaten path is good for little kids. Lots of green space makes it a great spot for eating your lunch in the shade.

Routinely touted as one of the best in Atlanta, the playground at Chastain Park features lots of colorful playground equipment, restrooms and open space. 

While some might argue that Dunwoody is a giant natural playground in and of itself, it also features a more traditional area for kids to climb, crawl and swing surrounded by majestic trees and lush foliage. Areas for toddlers and bigger kids allow play for everyone. Try the giant rope swing or new-school teetertotter.

The playground at Old Fourth Ward Park has been described by kids as “cool” and “super fun.” Bonus points for it being adjacent to a great splash pad for hot days. 

The Noguchi Playscape is located near the 12th Street gate. The geometrically shaped, modernist playground includes a soaring swing set, slide, sandpit, climbing dome and more – made of bright and exciting colors. 

Springvale Park has a great playground with shaded play structures, sand boxes and a cool tall slide. It is housed near a beautiful pond and features plenty of open space for play. This area doubles as the kids’ area during the Inman Park Festival. 

Zoo Atlanta is home to two fun playgrounds. The Naked Mole Rat playground encourages kids to tunnel around this interactive experience the mole rat way. KIDZone Playground is a great way to burn off excess wiggles by sliding, swinging and playing in the multicolor, interactive play structure. 

Atlanta serves up all four seasons, from humid but verdant summer days to cold winter days with a dusting of snow and plenty of rainy days sprinkled in. Fall is a riot of color while spring truly showcases new beginnings with blossoms and buds. Try these experiences to make the most of the seasons (and the holidays within them) and create unforgettable family memories.

A favorite way to usher in fall is a day trip for apple picking and pumpkin patching. Check out Hillcrest Orchards for the “Apple Pickin’ Jubilee” weekends that not only include apple picking but also pig races, cow milking, an apple tree maze, wagon rides and other adventures. Also worth checking out: B. J. Reece Orchards, Red Apple Barn (also has a pumpkin patch) and Mercier Orchards. Closer to Halloween, head out to pick the perfect pumpkin from any number of pumpkin patches around the city. Visit Stone Mountain’s Pumpkin Festival for lots of fall fun, drive a bit and visit Burt’s Pumpkin Patch, Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze (and Pumpkin Patch) or Jaemor Farms.

Located in Fayetteville (about 40 miles from Atlanta) is Fun Spot America. This family fun center features traditional carnival rides such as Ferris wheels, roller coasters and bumper boats in addition to unique attractions like a four-story go kart track, the “Sampson.” In addition, you can play miniature golf, hit the batting cages or head indoors for arcade games and bumper cars. It’s great fun for kids of all ages. 

Another cool winter experience is ice skating, yes, even in the South. Visit one of these seasonal outdoor ice skating rinks in Atlanta for festive fun.

Located about an hour from Atlanta, Margaritaville at Lake Lanier offers seasonal activities for the whole family. In winter Margaritaville offers “snow island” and an incredible holiday lights display, while summer brings excitement at the water park.

Outdoor movies seem to be a staple of summer around Atlanta. You can find showings at many locations including Atlantic Station, Candler Park, Town Brookhaven, Movies on the Town, Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum, and many local neighborhood parks.

Atlanta is home to some amazing festivals during nearly all seasons of the year. Some of special interest to families with children include the Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, Atlanta Dogwood Festival and the Decatur Book Festival. 

Shooting the ‘hooch (Chattahoochee River) is a perennial warm weather favorite for Atlantans. Water lovers can tube, canoe, kayak, paddle board and more off the banks of the Chattahoochee. Here’s where to cool off in Atlanta.  

Families with younger kids will love the abundance of splash pads around Atlanta. The epic Centennial Olympic Rings Fountain and the Legacy Splash pad in Piedmont park are more traditional fountain style pads, while the Historic Fourth Ward has a more colorful, splash pad with unique water features and a playground. D.H. Stanton Park has a beautiful and colorful splash pad, as does the Riverside Sprayground in Roswell, which also features a snack bar, shaded playground and pavilion.

Summer wouldn’t be summer without at least a few fresh strawberries. They’re even better if they are freshly picked from one of the strawberry farms close by. Check out The Berry Patch at Freedom Farms, LCCL Strawberry Farm or Fitzgerald Fruit Farms.

Kids love getting behind the wheel of a go kart at Andretti Indoor Karting and Games. Drive a few laps and then hit the arcades, grab a bite to eat and check out the other fun activities like boutique bowling and laser tag. It’s a great options for birthday parties.

Bowling is making a resurgence as a fun family activity. Get the bumpers raised when you have little bowlers or take advantage of the thrill of black-light bowling with older kids. Check out Bowlero Bowl, Main Event, Round 1 and Midtown Bowl. See the full guide to Atlanta’s bowling alleys here.

Learn about the history of flight or test your skills in the flight simulator at the Delta Flight Museum. Kids will love the interactive activities and exploring retired aircraft, unique collections and exhibits. 

Plan a weekend getaway at this family-focused lodge in LaGrange, Ga., that is tailored to family activities. Experience camping while tucked warm and safe in a comfortable hotel. Story times, dance parties, a ropes course, and arts and crafts are just a few of the experiences your family can enjoy. Don’t forget the indoor water parks. 

Step back into the age of knights and fair maidens and experience live-action jousting, sword fighting and mounted games of skill while dining in a castle. Medieval Times Atlanta is where to go for an action-packed evening (or afternoon) of fantasy and adventure. 

You don’t have to wait for good weather to hit the rocks. Tie on your shoes and grab a finger hold at one of the rock climbing gyms in the Atlanta metro area. We like Wall Crawler Rock Club in Candler Park, Stone Summit Climbing Atlanta or Stone Summit Midtown. Got good weather? Head out to Boat Rock Bouldering Area and polish your skills outdoors.

The Starlight Drive-in is Atlanta’s only classic drive-in theater and is a super spot to bring the entire family or carloads of friends for movie night. Just $10 per adult and $1 for kids, it’s a bargain, especially since you can pack your own snacks and drinks. Bring lawn chairs to sit outside or hunker down in the car or truck bed old-school style.

Science-minded kiddos will love visiting the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Ga., checking out the planetarium and observatory and hands-on exhibits for visitors of all ages. Kids can pan for gems, explore dinosaur bones and learn about space.

Budding golfers and fans of fun will enjoy an outing to one of Atlanta’s Topgolf entertainment centers. Golf in private, all-weather bays, dine on world-class food, take lessons or host a party. There’s even a kid’s zone with lessons and activities. 

When the weather outside is less than ideal, head indoors to bounce, flip, jump and play at one of Atlanta’s jump zones. Check out Adventure Air Force, Sky Zone, Xdrenaline or Rockin’ Jump for a variety of bouncy, trampoline action for even the littlest jumpers. 

A great way for kids to fill some time while making new friends is by volunteering. Giving back to our communities is a great way to increase self-esteem and lend a sense of accomplishment. Check out these resources to find places that welcome youth volunteers:

Ready for a little (or big) boost of adrenaline? Visit Treetop Quest for a day of exploring the treetops of Atlanta. Zip lines, obstacles and rope courses will test your resolve and skill while letting you enjoy the beauty of Atlanta’s green space. Great for ages 4 and up. 

Looking for a budget-friendly family outing in Atlanta? We’ve compiled a list of our favorite free and cheap things to do with kids in Atlanta. From a walk on the Atlanta BeltLine to $1 movies (for kids) at the Skylight Drive-In, these activities are easy on the pocketbook. For a complete list of ideas, check out 50 fun free & cheap things to do.

For current and upcoming events, visit our Events Calendar. Also, be sure to check out our list of things to do this weekend in Atlanta.

Joleen Pete lives outside Atlanta with her husband and their son. On the weekends they enjoy going into the city for family fun and exploration. Joleen is the family travel and lifestyle blogger behind Love, Joleen.

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