Best Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids

Atlanta, Georgia, is a vibrant Southern metropolis brimming with diverse attractions perfect for families. From world-class museums and sprawling parks to historical sites and thrilling entertainment, the city offers an unforgettable blend of culture, education, and pure fun for all ages. Planning a trip to this bustling city with your little ones means considering the many exciting things to do in Atlanta with kids.

This master guide will help you navigate Atlanta’s best, covering both iconic must-sees and delightful local secrets that will enchant visitors of all ages. We will delve into practical tips, highlight family-friendly amenities, and offer insider advice to ensure your family vacation is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Get ready to explore all the amazing things to do in Atlanta with kids.

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Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

Georgia Aquarium

Dive into an underwater world at the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums globally and a true highlight when considering things to do in Atlanta with kids. Your children will be mesmerized by the majestic whale sharks, graceful beluga whales, soaring manta rays, and playful sea lions. The interactive exhibits and touch pools provide incredible hands-on learning experiences, making it a truly immersive adventure for the whole family.

• Prices: Varies by age, discounts often available online.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, with wide pathways and convenient elevators throughout.
• Typical Duration: Plan for a good 3-4 hours to explore everything.
• Pro-Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to save both time and money. Consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest crowds, especially during weekends.

World of Coca-Cola

Discover the fascinating history and iconic legacy of the world’s most famous beverage at the World of Coca-Cola, another one of the unique things to do in Atlanta with kids. This engaging museum offers interactive exhibits that tell the story of Coke, a thrilling 4D theater experience that will surprise everyone, and the exciting chance to sample over 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the globe. It’s a sweet and engaging experience that captivates curious kids and adults alike.

• Prices: Varies by age, with admission including access to all exhibits.
• Stroller Access: Good, with elevators readily available to navigate between floors.
• Typical Duration: Allocate 2-3 hours for a thorough visit.
• Pro-Tip: Make sure to visit the tasting room at the end, but be prepared for some truly unique and sometimes surprising flavors! For a less crowded experience, consider visiting on a weekday.

Zoo Atlanta

Embark on a wild adventure at Zoo Atlanta, a fantastic outdoor experience for animal lovers of all ages and a prime example of the engaging things to do in Atlanta with kids. The zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals, including the beloved giant pandas, majestic gorillas, and towering African elephants. Beyond the animal exhibits, kids can enjoy a wild animal carousel, a hands-on petting zoo, and the popular ‘Scaly Slimy Spectacular’ reptile and amphibian house.

• Prices: Varies by age, with annual memberships offering excellent value for frequent visitors.
• Stroller Access: Good, as most paths are paved and easy to navigate.
• Typical Duration: Expect to spend 3-5 hours exploring the entire zoo.
• Pro-Tip: Check the daily schedule for feeding times and keeper talks to get the most out of your visit. Remember to pack snacks and plenty of water in your best kids water bottles to stay hydrated during your extensive walk.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Spark imagination and encourage hands-on learning at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, an ideal spot when searching for things to do in Atlanta with kids, especially younger ones. Designed specifically for kids aged eight and under, this museum features a variety of interactive exhibits focused on science, art, and culture. Children can build towering structures, climb safely, create artistic masterpieces, and explore different concepts in a stimulating environment, making it perfect for your younger travelers.

• Prices: A flat rate per person applies, with children under one admitted for free.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, as the museum is designed for easy navigation with strollers.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2-3 hours of engaging play and discovery.
• Pro-Tip: Weekday mornings are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience. Be sure to check their calendar before your visit, as they frequently host special events and workshops that can enhance your trip.

Stone Mountain Park

Just outside the city, Stone Mountain Park offers a massive outdoor playground for families, providing a wide array of active things to do in Atlanta with kids. You can ride the Scenic Railroad for a charming journey, ascend the mountain on the Summit Skyride for incredible panoramic views, explore the historic Antebellum Plantation, or challenge yourselves on the thrilling SkyHike ropes course. The evening laser show projected onto the mountain, a seasonal highlight, is truly a spectacle not to be missed.

• Prices: Various ticket options are available, including daily adventure passes and annual passes.
• Stroller Access: Generally good in main areas, though access may vary depending on the specific activity.
• Typical Duration: This is a full-day adventure, so plan accordingly.
• Pro-Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes for all the exploring and prepare for a full day of activity. In the summer, the park can get quite hot, so plan any strenuous outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Uncover prehistoric wonders and explore the natural world at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, offering educational and exciting things to do in Atlanta with kids. Your children will be captivated by the towering dinosaur skeletons in the Great Hall, roam through the immersive ‘Fernbank Forest’ outdoor exhibit, and engage with numerous interactive science displays. The museum also features an IMAX theatre, adding another dimension to your visit with fascinating films.

• Prices: Varies by age, with discounts available for combo tickets that include an IMAX show.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, as all areas within the museum are fully accessible.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2-3 hours to explore the exhibits.
• Pro-Tip: If the weather is pleasant, take advantage of their outdoor exhibits and trails to extend your visit. The ‘NatureQuest’ area is a fantastic interactive space specifically designed for younger children, encouraging hands-on exploration.

Centennial Olympic Park

Commemorating the 1996 Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park is a beautiful urban greenspace nestled in the heart of downtown Atlanta, offering a refreshing break and fun things to do in Atlanta with kids. Its most famous feature for families is the Fountain of Rings, which provides a delightful splash pad experience with synchronized water shows set to music. It’s a perfect spot for kids to cool off and play freely, especially on a warm day.

• Prices: Entry to the park is free, and enjoying the Fountain of Rings comes at no cost.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, with wide, paved paths making it easy to navigate throughout the park.
• Typical Duration: Spend 1-2 hours here, or longer if your kids are thoroughly enjoying the fountain.
• Pro-Tip: Remember to bring swimsuits and towels for the kids to fully enjoy the Fountain of Rings. You will often find street performers and food vendors around the park, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Introduce your children to an important piece of American history at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, a deeply significant site among the things to do in Atlanta with kids. This park includes Dr. King’s birth home, the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and his final resting place. While some aspects of the experience may be more suitable for older children who can grasp the historical context, the overall message of peace, equality, and civil rights is powerful and impactful for all ages. Guided tours are available to provide deeper insights.

• Prices: Entry to the park and its various sites is free.
• Stroller Access: Good in most areas, though some older historical buildings may have more limited access.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2-3 hours to respectfully explore the various sites.
• Pro-Tip: It’s recommended to start your visit at the visitor center to obtain a map and understand the layout of the park. Discussing Dr. King’s legacy with your children beforehand will help them appreciate the profound experience more fully.

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Hands-on Activities & Local Favorites

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s premier urban park, offering a vast green escape with stunning skyline views and plenty of free things to do in Atlanta with kids. Beyond the sprawling open fields perfect for running and playing, the park boasts multiple playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad during warmer months, and miles of well-maintained walking and biking trails. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic, a casual stroll, or simply letting the kids burn off some energy in a beautiful setting.

• Prices: Free entry for everyone.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, with paved paths throughout the park making navigation easy.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2+ hours, depending on how much exploring and playing you do.
• Pro-Tip: Make sure to visit the Noguchi Playscape, a unique, art-inspired playground that actively encourages creative play. The park also often hosts a lively farmer’s market on Saturdays, offering local treats and crafts.

Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail

The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail is a fantastic way to explore different neighborhoods on foot or by bike, making it one of the most dynamic things to do in Atlanta with kids. This revitalized rail corridor features vibrant public art installations, seamlessly connects various parks, and offers easy access to a diverse array of shops and restaurants. You can rent bikes for a family ride or simply enjoy a leisurely walk, stopping at playgrounds along the way to let the kids play.

• Prices: Free to walk or bike, with convenient bike rentals available at various points.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, as the trail is fully paved and largely flat.
• Typical Duration: Varies greatly, from a quick 1-hour stroll to a full day of exploration.
• Pro-Tip: For easy access to food and facilities, consider starting your journey near Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market. Keep an eye out for the colorful murals and sculptures that make the BeltLine such a unique and visually stimulating experience.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta

Unleash your inner builder at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta, an indoor LEGO playground designed specifically for kids aged 3-10, making it a dream come true for LEGO-loving families looking for things to do in Atlanta with kids. It features millions of LEGO bricks for creative play, an immersive 4D cinema experience, two exciting rides, and a Miniland showcasing Atlanta landmarks built entirely from LEGOs. It’s an interactive paradise for any LEGO enthusiast.

• Prices: Varies, and booking online often provides discounts compared to walk-up rates. Note that adults must be accompanied by a child to enter.
• Stroller Access: Good, with all areas within the center being accessible.
• Typical Duration: Expect to spend 2-3 hours enjoying all the attractions.
• Pro-Tip: Head straight to the rides first as lines can build up quickly, especially on busy days. Also, check for any special events or character meet-and-greets during your visit for an added layer of fun.

Center for Puppetry Arts

Delight in the magical world of puppets at the Center for Puppetry Arts, one of the few organizations in the U.S. dedicated solely to the art of puppetry. This truly unique cultural experience is among the most charming things to do in Atlanta with kids. Families can enjoy engaging puppet shows that bring stories to life, explore the global collection of puppets (including beloved creations by Jim Henson!), and even participate in hands-on puppet-making workshops, fostering creativity.

• Prices: Varies by specific show or exhibit, with combo tickets often available for a more comprehensive experience.
• Stroller Access: Good, with elevators providing easy access to different levels of the museum.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2-3 hours, especially if attending a show.
• Pro-Tip: For the full experience, plan your visit around a specific show, and be sure to book tickets in advance as popular shows can sell out quickly. The museum itself is fascinating for all ages, offering a journey through puppetry history.

SkyView Atlanta

Take your family on a soaring adventure aboard SkyView Atlanta, a towering Ferris wheel located right next to Centennial Olympic Park. Each climate-controlled gondola offers comfortable seating and breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, allowing you to spot many of the landmarks you might have already visited. It’s a memorable photo opportunity and a peaceful break from walking, making it a unique addition to your list of things to do in Atlanta with kids.

• Prices: Per ride, with discounts typically available for children.
• Stroller Access: Limited; strollers usually need to be folded before boarding the gondola.
• Typical Duration: The ride itself lasts approximately 15-20 minutes, offering several rotations.
• Pro-Tip: For truly spectacular views as the city lights up, consider riding at sunset. This experience is a great complement to a visit to Centennial Olympic Park, offering a different perspective of the area.

Krog Street Market & Ponce City Market

These two vibrant food halls offer a fantastic culinary experience for families, combining local eateries, artisan shops, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for finding diverse things to do in Atlanta with kids, especially around meal times. Krog Street Market has a more intimate, neighborhood feel, while Ponce City Market boasts a massive rooftop amusement park (Skyline Park) and direct access to the BeltLine. Both are excellent choices for families with diverse tastes looking for a casual yet delicious meal.

• Prices: Food and shopping prices vary widely. Skyline Park at Ponce City Market has separate admission.
• Stroller Access: Excellent at both markets and along the connected BeltLine trail.
• Typical Duration: 1-3 hours, or significantly more for Ponce City Market if you include Skyline Park.
• Pro-Tip: At Ponce City Market, grab some delicious food downstairs from the many vendors and then head up to Skyline Park for vintage games, mini-golf, and thrilling slides. Krog Street Market is ideal for quick, yet incredibly tasty, bites.

Catch a Braves Game at Truist Park

Experience the excitement of America’s favorite pastime by catching an Atlanta Braves baseball game at Truist Park. This stadium is remarkably family-friendly, featuring a dedicated “Sandlot” kids’ zone with a Wiffle ball field, a climbing tower, and batting cages. Even if your family aren’t huge baseball fans, the electric atmosphere and numerous entertainment options make it one of the most exciting things to do in Atlanta with kids.

• Prices: Varies widely depending on the game, day, and seating location.
• Stroller Access: Good within the stadium, though navigating large crowds can be challenging during peak times.
• Typical Duration: A baseball game typically lasts 3-4 hours, including pre-game activities.
• Pro-Tip: Arrive early to explore The Battery Atlanta, the entertainment district surrounding the park, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and pre-game activities perfectly suitable for families before the game even begins.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Escape into a world of natural beauty at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, a serene yet engaging option among the many things to do in Atlanta with kids. Children will absolutely love the Canopy Walk, which offers stunning views from 40 feet above the ground, providing a unique perspective of the gardens. The Children’s Garden is a must-visit, featuring a refreshing splash pad, interactive exhibits, and a large treehouse perfect for exploration. Seasonal events, like the incredibly popular holiday lights display, are also a fantastic reason to visit.

• Prices: Varies by age, with discounts available for booking your tickets online in advance.
• Stroller Access: Excellent, as most paths are paved and easily accessible for strollers.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2-4 hours to comfortably explore all the gardens have to offer.
• Pro-Tip: The Children’s Garden is an absolute must-visit for families with younger kids. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the vast lawns, or grab a bite at the garden’s pleasant cafe. You can even use our personalized Itinerary Generator for Atlanta to create a custom plan for your visit!

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Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing

Navigating a new city with kids requires a little strategic planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are five practical tips for making your Atlanta family adventure memorable, covering essential aspects of finding the best things to do in Atlanta with kids and managing your journey.

1. Understand Atlanta Traffic

Atlanta is notorious for its traffic, especially during weekday rush hours (typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). To minimize time spent sitting in the car, plan your travel between attractions outside these peak times or consider utilizing MARTA for central destinations. Being aware of traffic patterns will significantly improve your travel flow and reduce stress.

2. Utilize MARTA Strategically

Atlanta’s public transportation system, MARTA, can be a great option for reaching downtown attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park. While convenient, some stations may have stairs, so a lightweight, foldable stroller, perhaps one of the best compact airline-friendly strollers, is advisable. Consider purchasing a Breeze Card for easy tap-and-go travel, simplifying your journeys around the city. For those traveling with infants, knowing the ultimate guide to travel car seats for kids can be really helpful even if using public transport for part of the trip.

3. Consider an Atlanta CityPASS

If your family plans to visit multiple major attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Zoo Atlanta, and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, an Atlanta CityPASS can offer significant savings on admission fees. It bundles tickets for several top sights, often providing a cost-effective way to experience the best things to do in Atlanta with kids. Before purchasing, compare the cost of individual tickets against the CityPASS to ensure it aligns with your itinerary.

4. Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Atlanta’s outdoor attractions and parks. During these seasons, you’ll experience comfortable temperatures and fewer issues with high humidity, making walks and outdoor play much more enjoyable. Summers can be quite hot and humid, while winters are generally mild, though you might still want to pack extra layers for evening outings. Planning your trip during these milder seasons will enhance your experience of all the wonderful things to do in Atlanta with kids.

5. Book Accommodations in Family-Friendly Areas

When selecting your lodging, look for hotels or vacation rentals in family-friendly neighborhoods like Midtown, Downtown, or areas near Piedmont Park. These locations often provide easy access to many of the key attractions, beautiful green spaces for kids to play, and a wide variety of dining options suitable for families. Additionally, consider how close your accommodation is to MARTA stations or major roadways to minimize travel time between your chosen things to do in Atlanta with kids. Remember to pack wisely, referring to guides like the best kids luggage buying guide, and don’t forget essentials like the essential compact carry-on first aid kit for family travel, best kids headphones, best kids backpacks, and best portable chargers for travel with family to keep everyone happy and connected. For more inspiration on planning your travels, check out our Family Travel Guides or information on the most child-friendly airports worldwide.

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Final Thoughts on Your Atlanta Adventure

Atlanta truly shines as a family-friendly destination, offering a captivating blend of history, science, nature, and pure fun. By mixing iconic landmarks with hands-on activities and local favorites, you’re sure to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. There’s an endless list of things to do in Atlanta with kids, ensuring every day is an adventure. Embrace the city’s Southern charm and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in the heart of Georgia!

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