Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids: Your Complete 2026 Guide

Atlanta is one of the best cities in the country for family fun and adventure. Whether you're a local looking for weekend activities or visiting from out of town, Georgia's capital offers an incredible mix of educational experiences, outdoor adventures, and world-class Atlanta attractions that kids absolutely love.

From the famous Georgia Aquarium with beluga whales to free parks across the metro area, we've compiled the ultimate guide to things to do in Atlanta with kids. Whether you're looking for indoor activities on rainy days or outdoor family fun in beautiful Georgia weather, this comprehensive trip guide has you covered.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids: Indoor Attractions

1. Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and consistently ranks as one of the top things to do in Atlanta with kids. This incredible attraction features beluga whales, whale sharks, sea otters, penguins, and thousands of other marine animals that create an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Highlights: Ocean Voyager exhibit (walk-through tunnel), dolphin shows, touch tanks, 4D theater, beluga whale encounter

Best for: All ages

Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta (downtown Atlanta)

Money-Saving Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the lines and save money, especially during summer and holidays. The gift shop offers great souvenirs, but plan your visit wisely to avoid impulse purchases.

2. World of Coca-Cola

Right next to the Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola offers an interactive experience exploring the history of the world's most famous soft drink. Kids loved the tasting room where they can sample Coca-Cola products from around the globe — it's one of the most popular things to do in Atlanta with kids!

Highlights: Meet the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, 4D theater experience, free tasting room with 100+ Coca-Cola beverages from different countries, museum exhibits

Best for: Ages 5+

Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta

Money-Saving Tip: Combo tickets with the Georgia Aquarium help you save money if you're visiting both. The World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium are within walking distance of each other.

3. Children's Museum of Atlanta

The Children's Museum of Atlanta is designed specifically for younger kids with hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play. From the Fundamentally Food exhibit to the Tools for Solutions workshop, every corner sparks creativity and fun.

Highlights: Climber to the Sky (3-story climber), construction zone, water play area, learning through play experiences

Best for: Ages 0-8 (perfect for younger kids)

Location: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta

4. Center for Puppetry Arts

This unique Atlanta attraction is the largest organization in the country dedicated to puppetry arts. The National Center for Puppetry Arts features the Jim Henson Collection (featuring original Muppets!), live puppet shows, and hands-on workshops where kids can explore the art of puppetry.

Highlights: Global Collection & Museum, live puppet performances, Create-a-Puppet workshops, Center for Puppetry Arts exhibitions

Best for: Ages 3+

Location: 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta (Midtown)

5. Fernbank Museum of Natural History

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History brings natural history to life with dinosaur exhibits, IMAX films, and hands-on science experiences. The Giants of the Mesozoic exhibit features the world's largest dinosaurs in dramatic prehistoric scenes. Don't miss the Fernbank Forest, a 65-acre old-growth urban forest perfect for nature walks.

Highlights: Dinosaur exhibits, IMAX theater, Fernbank Forest trails, WildWoods outdoor exploration, rotating natural history exhibits

Best for: Ages 5+

Location: 767 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta

Free Special Event: Check for Second Sunday programs — the Fernbank Museum offers free admission one Sunday per month for Georgia residents.

6. College Football Hall of Fame

Sports-loving families will enjoy the College Football Hall of Fame, an interactive museum celebrating college football's greatest players, coaches, and moments. Kids can test their football skills on the indoor playing field — it's one of the most fun things to do in Atlanta for active families!

Highlights: 45-yard indoor playing field, helmet wall (all 700+ teams), interactive exhibits, Football Hall of Fame inductee galleries

Best for: Ages 6+

Location: 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta (downtown Atlanta)

7. High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art in Midtown offers family-friendly programs and special events designed to introduce kids to world-class art. The High Museum's interactive exhibits and children's programs make art accessible and fun for all ages.

Highlights: European, American, and contemporary art collections, family workshops, special exhibitions, High Museum architecture

Best for: Ages 5+

Location: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta (Midtown)

Free Admission: Second Sunday of each month and select evenings offer free admission to save money on family outings.

Outdoor Activities & Parks for Family Fun

8. Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta in Grant Park is home to over 1,000 animals representing 200+ species, including the largest collection of gorillas and orangutans in the nation. The zoo features giant pandas, an African Savanna exhibit, and a popular petting zoo and splash pad for younger kids.

Highlights: Giant pandas, African Savanna, Gorilla habitat, petting zoo, splash pad (seasonal), reptile house, Zoo Atlanta education programs

Best for: All ages

Location: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta

Pro Tip: Visit Zoo Atlanta in the morning when animals are most active, especially during hot summer months. The splash pad is perfect for cooling off!

9. Centennial Olympic Park

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park (also called Centennial Park) is downtown Atlanta's gathering place. The Fountain of Rings featuring the Olympic Rings is a huge hit with kids during warm weather — bring swimsuits and towels for free family fun!

Highlights: Fountain of Rings water feature, Olympic Rings monument, playgrounds, green space for picnics, free special events and live music

Best for: All ages

Location: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta

Cost: Free! This is one of the best free things to do in Atlanta with kids.

10. Piedmont Park

Atlanta's answer to Central Park, Piedmont Park offers 200+ acres of green space in the heart of Midtown. With multiple playground areas, sports fields, walking trails, and seasonal special events, Piedmont Park is a local family favorite for outdoor play and family fun.

Highlights: Large playground structures, dog parks, Atlanta Botanical Garden within walking distance, Saturday farmers market, free live music events

Best for: All ages

Location: 1071 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta (Midtown)

Cost: Free to visit and explore Piedmont Park!

11. Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden in Midtown features themed gardens, seasonal exhibits, and the Skyline Garden with amazing city views. The Children's Garden is perfect for younger kids with tree houses, interactive water features, and nature play areas. Don't miss Garden Lights during the holiday season!

Highlights: Canopy Walk, Edible Garden, Children's Garden with interactive exhibits, seasonal Garden Lights holiday display, Atlanta Botanical Garden special events

Best for: All ages

Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta (Midtown, walking distance from Piedmont Park)

12. Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is a network of trails connecting neighborhoods across the city. Families love biking or taking a walk on the Eastside Trail with stops at Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, public art installations, and playground areas along the way.

Highlights: 22 miles of trails (growing), street art, bike rentals, connects to Piedmont Park and other parks, free to explore

Best for: Ages 5+ (for biking/walking)

Cost: Free! Just bring your bikes or rent them along the trail.

13. Stone Mountain Park

Just 20 minutes east of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park offers year-round family fun. Hike to the top of Stone Mountain, ride the Summit Skyride, explore Adventure Golf, or enjoy the seasonal attractions and theme park elements.

Highlights: Summit walk (1.3 miles to top), Skyride, Scenic Railroad, SkyHike ropes course, Crossroads village, special events throughout the year

Best for: Ages 5+

Location: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, Georgia

Note: Parking fee required; individual attractions have additional costs.

14. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

The Chattahoochee River offers 48 miles of protected natural areas perfect for family adventures. Go tubing, kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoy an easy riverside walk through Georgia's natural beauty.

Highlights: Tubing (summer), nature trails (all levels), fishing, picnic areas, free access to National Center trails

Best for: Ages 6+

Popular Access Points: Cochran Shoals, Island Ford, Paces Mill

Educational & Cultural Experiences

15. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The Center for Civil and Human Rights (also called the National Center for Civil and Human Rights) offers a powerful educational experience connecting the American Civil Rights Movement to today's human rights issues around the world. This museum features interactive exhibits that help families explore civil rights history and modern human rights challenges.

Highlights: Civil Rights Movement exhibits, lunch counter sit-in experience, Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. Collection, human rights issues galleries, Center for Civil and Human Rights special exhibitions

Best for: Ages 10+

Location: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta (downtown Atlanta, walking distance from Centennial Park)

16. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park preserves the birthplace and childhood home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This important historical site offers families an educational experience to learn about Martin Luther King, the Civil Rights Movement, and the life of Coretta Scott King.

Highlights: Martin Luther King Jr. birth home tours, Ebenezer Baptist Church, King Center, exhibition hall exploring Martin Luther King's life and legacy

Best for: Ages 8+

Location: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta

Cost: Free! Tours of the Martin Luther King Jr. birth home require advance reservation.

17. Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center offers 33 acres of history exhibits, historic homes, beautiful gardens, and museum collections. Kids enjoy exploring the Civil War exhibits, vintage train cars, and the 1860s Smith Family Farm.

Highlights: Swan House, Smith Family Farm, Civil War and Georgia history exhibits, forest trails to explore, special events

Best for: Ages 7+

Location: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta

18. Fernbank Science Center

Not to be confused with the Fernbank Museum, the Fernbank Science Center features a planetarium, observatory, and nature trails. Best of all, it's completely free — making it one of the best free things to do in Atlanta with kids!

Highlights: Planetarium shows, observatory (open select nights), forest trails to walk and explore

Best for: Ages 6+

Location: 156 Heaton Park Dr NE, Atlanta

Cost: Free to visit!

Unique Atlanta Experiences

19. SkyView Atlanta

SkyView Atlanta is a 20-story Ferris wheel in the heart of downtown. Each climate-controlled gondola offers stunning 360-degree views of the city — a unique perspective of Atlanta that the whole family will remember. The Ferris wheel operates year-round and is perfect for special occasions.

Best for: All ages

Location: 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta (downtown Atlanta)

Duration: 12-15 minute Ferris wheel ride (4 full rotations)

20. Ponce City Market

Ponce City Market, a renovated historic Sears building, offers food, shopping, and entertainment for the whole family. Kids loved the rooftop with Skyline Park (mini golf, games, and city views). The market connects directly to the BeltLine for easy access.

Highlights: Rooftop Skyline Park (seasonal fun), food hall with diverse options, unique shops, connects to BeltLine trails, Ponce City Market special events

Best for: Ages 5+

Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta (Midtown)

21. Krog Street Market

Krog Street Market is another popular food hall and gathering space along the BeltLine. Families can enjoy diverse food options, browse local vendors, and walk to nearby attractions along the trail. The market atmosphere and variety make it a fun stop during a day of exploring Atlanta.

Best for: All ages

Location: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta

Cost: Free to visit and explore; food and shopping prices vary

22. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

For high-energy family fun, Andretti Indoor Karting offers go-karts, arcade games, bowling, rope courses, and more — all under one roof. Perfect for rainy days or birthday parties, this indoor attraction keeps kids entertained for hours.

Highlights: Indoor go-karts (height requirements apply), arcade, ropes course, bowling, virtual reality experiences, indoor play options

Best for: Ages 6+

Location: 11000 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell, Georgia

23. Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta

Legoland Discovery Center near Phipps Plaza is an indoor attraction with Lego play zones, 4D cinema, building classes, and Miniland (Atlanta landmarks built from 1.5 million Lego bricks!). It's perfect for younger kids who love to build and play.

Highlights: Miniland Atlanta, Master Builder Academy, Kingdom Quest laser ride, Lego racers, indoor play areas

Best for: Ages 3-10 (especially younger kids)

Location: 3500 Peachtree Rd NE #301, Atlanta (near Phipps Plaza)

Seasonal Activities & Special Events

24. Atlanta Braves Game at Truist Park

Take the whole family out to a Braves game during baseball season (April-September). Truist Park offers a family-friendly atmosphere with kids' zones, splash pad, and fireworks nights throughout the summer.

Best for: Ages 4+

Location: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta

Pro Tip: Check the schedule for Family Sundays with special events and giveaways.

25. Six Flags Over Georgia

For thrill-seeking families, Six Flags Over Georgia offers roller coasters, family rides, and Hurricane Harbor water park (included with admission during summer). This is one of Georgia's top theme parks for all-day fun and adventure.

Best for: Ages 5+ (height requirements vary by ride)

Location: 275 Riverside Pkwy SW, Austell, Georgia

Season: March-October (check calendar for hours and special events)

26. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Watch knights joust while enjoying a four-course medieval feast at Medieval Times. Kids loved cheering for their knight and experiencing the live music, horse show, and medieval atmosphere.

Best for: Ages 4+

Location: 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville, Georgia

Duration: 2 hours of family fun

Educational Day Trips Near Atlanta

27. Tellus Science Museum

Located 45 minutes north in Cartersville, Georgia, Tellus Science Museum features a planetarium, fossil gallery, mineral collection, and hands-on science exhibits that rival any big-city museum. It's worth the trip for families who want to explore natural history and science.

Highlights: Dinosaur fossils, planetarium shows, gem panning for kids, transportation gallery

Best for: Ages 5+

Location: 100 Tellus Dr, Cartersville, Georgia

Outdoor Summer Fun: Day Camps in Atlanta

If you're looking for a full-day outdoor experience to keep kids active all summer long, Josh Powell Camp has been Atlanta's trusted day camp since 1972. Located just 30 minutes north of Atlanta in Acworth, Georgia, we offer week-long summer sessions for kids ages 5-10.

Unlike indoor programs, Josh Powell Camp gets kids outside for real adventure and family fun, with archery, swimming, canoeing, ropes courses, fort building, and nature exploration on our 30-acre campus. We highly recommend visiting our campus for a tour!

We offer convenient bus pickup from three Atlanta locations, so you don't have to spend time driving to Acworth.

Summer 2026 sessions run Memorial Day through end of July. Learn more about our summer camp program or plan your visit and register for summer 2026.

Planning Your Atlanta Family Adventures

Money-Saving Tips for Atlanta Attractions

• Atlanta CityPASS: Bundles admission to top Atlanta attractions (Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Zoo Atlanta, and more) to save money at 40% off regular prices

• Free Days: Many museums and attractions offer free admission on select days each month (Second Sunday programs, High Museum free evenings) — check websites to plan your trip and save money

• Pack Lunches: Bring snacks and lunches to parks and outdoor attractions to save money on food

• Look for Combo Tickets: The World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium offer discounted combo tickets

• Free Attractions: Centennial Park, Piedmont Park, BeltLine, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and Fernbank Science Center are all free to visit

• Gift Shop Strategy: Set expectations before entering any museum gift shop to avoid overspending on money

Best Times to Visit Atlanta

• Spring (March-May): Perfect weather for outdoor family fun, fewer crowds than summer, splash pad season begins

• Summer (June-August): All Atlanta attractions open, but expect crowds and heat — arrive early and plan indoor activities during peak heat!

• Fall (September-November): Beautiful weather for outdoor play, fall festivals, pumpkin patches, comfortable temperatures to walk and explore

• Winter (December-February): Fewer crowds at popular attractions, special events (Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden), indoor activities are perfect

Getting Around Atlanta with Kids

• MARTA: Atlanta's public transit system connects to major attractions in downtown Atlanta (Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Center for Civil and Human Rights, Centennial Park)

• Parking: Downtown Atlanta attractions often have paid parking; arrive early for better rates and walking distance to multiple attractions

• Walking Distance: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other in downtown Atlanta and Midtown — plan to visit multiple sites in one trip

• Traffic: Avoid I-285 and I-85 during rush hours (7-9am, 4-7pm) when you plan your trip

Additional Shopping & Dining

• Phipps Plaza: Upscale shopping center near Legoland Discovery Center with dining options and family-friendly stores

• Ponce City Market: Food hall and shopping in a historic building with rooftop fun

• Krog Street Market: Diverse food options along the BeltLine

• Each museum gift shop: Unique souvenirs related to exhibits (World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Fernbank Museum)

Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids

Atlanta offers an incredible variety of things to do in Atlanta with kids of all ages.

From free parks and trails to educational museums, theme parks, and seasonal special events, Atlanta truly has something for every family and budget.

We highly recommend visiting Atlanta's diverse neighborhoods like downtown Atlanta, Midtown, and areas along the BeltLine to explore different attractions and experience the city's unique culture and life.

Use this guide to plan your trip, and don't forget to check back as we update it with new Atlanta attractions, special events, and seasonal activities throughout the year!

Looking for Summer Day Camp in Atlanta?

Josh Powell Camp offers outdoor day camp for kids ages 5-10 with archery, swimming, canoeing, and more outdoor play and family fun. Week-long summer sessions from Memorial Day through July, with free bus pickup from three Atlanta locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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• Where should families stay when visiting Atlanta?

  Atlanta offers several family-friendly hotel options in the downtown area. The Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center is conveniently located near major attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. The Hilton Atlanta provides comfortable accommodations in the heart of downtown, while the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Atlanta Downtown offers good value for families visiting the city.

• What are some good family dining options in Atlanta?

  Atlanta has diverse dining options for families. Ponce City Market features a food hall with variety that caters to different tastes, making it perfect for families. For quick bites, Halal American Deli offers American favorites, Philly G Steaks serves classic Philly cheesesteaks, and Bowl-Shi: Sushi in a Bowl provides a unique sushi experience that kids often enjoy.

• How much does it cost to visit Atlanta attractions with kids?

  Costs vary by attraction. The Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola each cost around $30-40 per person, while Zoo Atlanta is approximately $25-30. However, many of Atlanta's best family activities are completely free, including Piedmont Park, Centennial Olympic Park, the Atlanta BeltLine, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Consider purchasing an Atlanta CityPASS to save up to 40% on major attractions.

• What's the best time of year to visit Atlanta with kids?

  Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather for outdoor activities with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with all attractions open but expect heat and larger crowds. Winter offers special events like Garden Lights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden and typically has the lowest hotel rates.

• Can we do multiple Atlanta attractions in one day?

  Yes! Many attractions are within walking distance of each other. A typical downtown day could include the Georgia Aquarium in the morning, lunch at Centennial Olympic Park, and the World of Coca-Cola in the afternoon. In Midtown, you can visit Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Garden on the same day. Plan 2-3 major attractions per day to avoid overwhelming kids.