Top Things To Do In Atlanta With Kids | Family Fun

Atlanta, Georgia, is a fantastic destination for the entire family, offering a blend of rich history, fun outdoor activities, and Southern charm. This bustling city has enough to keep kids entertained for days, has lots of outdoor experiences plus plenty of indoor adventures as well! I truly appreciate the amount of things to do in Atlanta with kids, so it really is a great option for a long family weekend!

Recommended Length of Stay

For a well-rounded experience, plan to spend 3-5 days in Atlanta. This timeframe allows you to explore the city’s top attractions, squeeze in a couple of day trips, and enjoy some downtime in family-friendly parks and dining spots.

Itinerary Ideas 

• 3 Days: A short but fun-packed itinerary that allows you to cover Atlanta’s main attractions, such as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the Atlanta Zoo. With three days, you’ll focus on the city’s top family-friendly sites and have just enough time for a quick day trip to Stone Mountain or LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
• 4 Days: This extra day lets you add more variety to your trip. After visiting the must-see attractions, use the fourth day to dive into activities tailored to your family’s interests, such as a tour of Chick-fil-A HQ or a stroll around Ponce City Market and The BeltLine. The added day also allows you to experience unique museums like the Fernbank Museum or the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, giving kids more interactive experiences.
• 5 Days: With five days, you can enjoy a mix of iconic attractions and relaxing downtime. This length allows for a couple of half-day or full-day trips to places like the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Amicalola Falls, or Warm Springs. Five days means you’ll have time to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, enjoy some southern dining, and even add in special seasonal events, like a laser show at Stone Mountain or holiday lights at the Botanical Garden.

This 3-5 day visit length also provides flexibility for a mix of excitement and relaxation, ensuring that your family can cover the essentials and explore at a leisurely pace!

Getting Around Atlanta

While Atlanta has a reliable public transit system (MARTA), renting a car can offer more flexibility, especially if you plan on exploring areas outside the city. MARTA’s trains are ideal for hitting downtown attractions, but a car will be helpful for visiting places like Stone Mountain and Six Flags. Rideshare services, cars, vans, bikes and scooters all included, are also widely available.

Transportation Tips

• MARTA Passes: If you’re using public transit, MARTA offers unlimited ride passes for different durations, which can save money if you’re staying several days.
• Parking: Parking downtown can be tricky, so look for hotels with free or discounted parking.
• Bike Rentals: Atlanta has a growing network of bike trails and bike-share options, such as the BeltLine, which is a great way to explore at a relaxed pace.

Family-Friendly Places to Stay

Atlanta offers many family-friendly accommodations with spacious rooms, pools, and other kid-friendly amenities. Here are some top choices:

• Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park: Right in the heart of downtown, this hotel is a short walk from Centennial Olympic Park and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola.
• The Westin Peachtree Plaza: Families will love the views from this iconic tower hotel and the proximity to major attractions.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park: Known for large suites and complimentary breakfast, this hotel is ideal for families looking for comfort and convenience.

Things to Do with Kids in Atlanta

There are plenty of things to do in Atlanta with kids of all ages! From exploring museums with self-guided tours to finding hands-on fun at interactive locations, it’s the ideal place to spend a long weekend. 

• Georgia Aquarium: Home to thousands of marine animals, including whale sharks, beluga whales and playful sea otters, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-see. Kids will love the interactive touch pools, dolphin shows, and the chance to see majestic sea creatures up close. We absolutely LOVED our experience at the aquarium- it was the main reason for our visit and lived up to the hype! 
• World of Coca-Cola: At this immersive experiences museum, kids and adults alike can dive into the history of Coca-Cola, sample flavors from around the world, and get a glimpse behind the brand’s iconic marketing. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits, memorabilia displays, and fun photo ops with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear. I recommend the skip the line pass for this!
• Chick-fil-A Backstage Tour: For something truly unique, tour the Chick-fil-A headquarters, located in Atlanta. During the tour, families can explore the history of Chick-fil-A, visit Truett Cathy’s original diner, and see quirky memorabilia. This is a fun experience for food lovers and Chick-fil-A fans alike.  If you have status with the Check-fil-A app you can get free admission! (Note: Tours must be booked in advance.)
• Atlanta Botanical Garden: Take a stroll through the garden’s lush landscapes, including the enchanting Children’s Garden, which features a splash pad, climbing area, and a model train display. Seasonal exhibits add a bit of magic, especially during the holidays.
• Zoo Atlanta: In Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta offers the chance to see animals from around the world, including giant pandas, gorillas, and giraffes. The zoo also has a petting area and fun, interactive exhibits perfect for kids.
• Piedmont Park: This expansive urban park in Midtown is perfect for a family picnic, bike ride, stroll around the lake or simply spend time in the great outdoors. Piedmont Park often hosts festivals, outdoor concerts, and farmer’s markets, making it a vibrant spot to relax and enjoy the city’s green space.
• The Children’s Museum of Atlanta: This interactive museum is designed especially for kids, with hands-on exhibits, an art studio, and opportunities to role-play in a pint-sized grocery store and farm. It’s a fantastic stop to let kids explore and learn through play.
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History: From dinosaur skeletons to a giant outdoor adventure area, Fernbank is a great spot for curious young minds. The museum also features science exhibits where kids can try their hand at science experiments and enjoy rotating special events, often with kid-friendly activities.
• College Football Hall of Fame: Sports fans will love exploring the College Football Hall of Fame, where interactive exhibits let visitors practice their skills, tour the Hall of Fame, and learn about the sport’s history. The game-day atmosphere here makes it exciting for all ages.
• Ponce City Market & The Roof: A visit to Ponce City Market offers a mix of shopping and dining options, and families should definitely check out The Roof. Here, you’ll find mini-golf, carnival games, a slide, and other activities with beautiful city views. Kids will love the games, and adults will enjoy the scenery and food choices.

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located in Phipps Plaza, LEGO Discovery Center offers LEGO rides, a 4D cinema, hands-on building experiences, and LEGO-themed play areas. This spot is a favorite for younger children who love to build and create.
• Stone Mountain Park: A 30-minute drive from downtown, Stone Mountain has scenic hiking, a summit cable car, seasonal laser light shows, and family-friendly festivals throughout the year. It’s a fun spot for outdoor adventures and great views of Atlanta from the top.
• Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: Located just outside of Atlanta, Medieval Times offers a lively and immersive dinner show, where knights in armor compete in jousting tournaments. With plenty of excitement and a royal atmosphere, it’s a thrilling experience for kids.
• Atlanta Film and TV Locations: Atlanta has become a popular filming location for major movies and shows, from The Walking Dead to Stranger Things and Marvel movies. Consider booking a filming locations tour to see some iconic spots and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s role in entertainment.
• Center for Puppetry Arts: A one-of-a-kind experience, the Center for Puppetry Arts offers puppet shows, a museum, and hands-on workshops where kids can learn about the art of puppetry. It’s a fun, creative outing that lets kids discover the magic behind the scenes. 
• Delta Flight Museum: Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy this unique museum dedicated to the history of Delta Airlines and the aviation industry. Kids can climb into a retired plane, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the science of flight.
• Atlanta BeltLine: Walk, bike, or skate along the BeltLine’s multi-use trails to explore different neighborhoods, murals, sculptures, and playgrounds. Families can easily spend an afternoon discovering this vibrant part of the city.

The Atlanta CityPASS

I’ve mentioned before that we are huge fans of using the CityPASS when visiting popular cities, especially with kids! This one os no different. The Atlanta CityPASS is a fantastic way for families and travelers to experience Atlanta’s top attractions at a discounted rate. This bundled ticket option grants access to several of the city’s must-see destinations, providing savings of around 40% compared to buying individual tickets.

What’s Included with the Atlanta CityPASS

The CityPASS covers admission to five top attractions in Atlanta, giving you a chance to explore the city’s highlights. Here’s what you’ll get:

1. Georgia Aquarium
2. World of Coca-Cola
3. Zoo Atlanta
4. Choice Between the National Center for Civil and Human Rights or the Fernbank Museum of Natural History
5. Choice Between the College Football Hall of Fame or the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Pricing and Savings

The Atlanta CityPASS costs around $96 for adults and $78 for children (ages 3-12). With this pass, you’ll save up to 40% compared to buying each ticket separately, making it a cost-effective choice if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

Benefits of the Atlanta CityPASS

• Significant Savings: With one pass, you access five popular attractions at a substantial discount, perfect for families or anyone planning to see Atlanta’s major sites.
• Skip the Ticket Lines: In most cases, CityPASS holders can bypass ticket lines, saving time at each location.
• Flexible Timing: Once activated, the pass is valid for 9 consecutive days, so you can space out your visits and explore Atlanta at a relaxed pace.
• Customizable: The pass lets you choose between two attractions for your fourth and fifth visits, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.

Is the Atlanta CityPASS Worth It?

The Atlanta CityPASS is definitely worth it if you’re planning to visit at least three of the included attractions, as you’ll start saving with just a few visits. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, and anyone wanting to get a full Atlanta experience with less planning.

Day Trips from Atlanta

If you want to turn your trip to Atlanta into a longer USA road trip or spend more time in the area while having a single home base, there are plenty of great options nearby! If you are ready to explore more of the greater Atlanta area, these will be fun options for the whole family. 

• Chattahoochee Nature Center (30 min)
  Just a short drive from the city, this nature center features hiking trails, a wildlife rehabilitation center, and canoeing opportunities along the Chattahoochee River.
• Callaway Gardens (1 hr 30 min)
  A peaceful day trip with nature trails, butterfly gardens, and seasonal events. Kids will enjoy exploring the gardens and lakes, as well as seeing the Birds of Prey show.
• Athens, GA (1 hr 20 min)
  Known for its vibrant music scene, Athens also has family-friendly attractions like Bear Hollow Zoo, Sandy Creek Nature Center, and plenty of outdoor parks.
• Lake Lanier (1 hr)
  Head to Lake Lanier for water activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and a lakeside beach. Lake Lanier Islands also offer zip-lining, mini-golf, and family-friendly restaurants.
• Helen, GA (1 hr 30 min)
  This quaint, Bavarian-inspired town in the mountains has charming shops, tubing in the summer, and festive events during Oktoberfest and the holiday season. You have likely found this town on social media for the adorable area. 
• Amicalola Falls State Park (1 hr 15 min)
  For families who love the outdoors, this park features a beautiful waterfall, hiking trails, and picnic spots. Kids will enjoy spotting wildlife and playing in nature.
• Warm Springs and F.D. Roosevelt’s Little White House (1 hr 20 min)
  Learn about FDR’s connection to Georgia at his former retreat, now a historic site. Warm Springs also offers beautiful views and serene spots for a quiet family outing.

Closest Larger Cities to Atlanta

If you are considering a US road trip and want to make Atalanta one of the stops, these other cities are within a 3-4 hour drive and could be a great stop before or after your journey through Atalanta. 

• Chattanooga, Tennessee
  • Distance: ~2 hours
  • Highlights: Known for its scenic riverfront, the Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain, Rock City, and Ruby Falls. Chattanooga is family-friendly and has outdoor activities, great dining, and museums.
• Birmingham, Alabama
  • Distance: ~2.5 hours
  • Highlights: This city offers a mix of history, art, and Southern charm. Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the Birmingham Zoo, and the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The McWane Science Center is also a hit with kids. Checkout my ultimate guide to Birmingham, Alabama with kids. 
• Greenville, South Carolina
  • Distance: ~2.5 hours
  • Highlights: Greenville has a picturesque downtown with Falls Park on the Reedy, which includes a waterfall and pedestrian bridge. The city has excellent restaurants, unique shops, and a growing arts scene.
• Nashville, Tennessee
  • Distance: ~4 hours
  • Highlights: Nashville is known for its live music, historic sites like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, and family-friendly attractions like the Nashville Zoo, Adventure Science Center, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
• Macon, Georgia
  • Distance: ~1.5 hours
  • Highlights: A city rich in history and culture, Macon offers museums like the Tubman Museum, the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, and beautiful Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring.
• Augusta, Georgia
  • Distance: ~2 hours
  • Highlights: Known for the Masters Tournament, Augusta also has the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, the Augusta Museum of History, and beautiful riverside views.
• Knoxville, Tennessee
  • Distance: ~3.5 hours
  • Highlights: Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a mix of outdoor activities and urban fun, including Market Square, Knoxville Zoo, and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

Atlanta’s family-friendly mix of interactive museums, outdoor spaces, and hands-on family activities makes it a fun destination for kids and adults alike. With so much to see and do, your family will leave Atlanta with plenty of new memories and a desire to return for more exciting experiences from this list of things to do in Atlanta with kids.