Discover things to do in Atlanta for the entire family. From aquariums that let you feel like you’re walking deep under the sea to breathtaking national parks where you can surround yourself with nature, Atlanta is more than just a hub of cultural activity, or renowned for being the birthplace of Coca-Cola. It’s a thrilling destination for adults and kids alike.
Indoor Fun
1. Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Let your kids participate in an imaginative journey at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Unlike other museums, your little ones have free rein to explore and interact with exhibits here. It’s a world where they can experience what it’s like to launch a rocketship or feel the life-like shockwave of an earthquake.
Rotating programs ensure there’s always something new to encounter at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, even if you’ve been here before. Special events take place throughout the year, including a weekend-long United Nations convention celebrating other cultures or snow-themed activities to welcome winter with hands-on fun.
2. LEGO Discovery Center
What toy has enthralled the minds of kids and the young-at-heart for generations? Why, it’s LEGO, of course. You’ll find no limit to your creativity at the LEGO Discovery Center. You’ll have millions of bricks at your fingertips — enough to build fortresses, warships, and out-of-this-world geometric mountains.
However, if you want a more immersive experience, that’s possible, too. Can you save the princess from trolls or fend off marauding pirates? Younger kids will also love the colorful world of DUPLO Park, with its dinosaur carousel and duck fishing pond.
If you’re unsure what to build, LEGO’s Master Model Builders are available to share some tips and inspiration.
3. Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Gravity won’t get you down at Atlanta’s heart-pounding Sky Zone Trampoline Park. This unique park is one of the best things to do in Atlanta with kids, so the whole family can experience the joy of soaring up in the air.
The littlest jumpers will feel right at home in Sky Zone’s Freestyle Jump Area — a place where kids and parents can jump to their own rhythm. If you’re older and seeking more exhilaration, don’t miss the chance to play basketball on the Air Court.
If you’ve ever wanted to jump higher than Michael Jordan, now’s your chance!
4. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
If you’re looking for exciting family activities, it doesn’t get much better than go-karts. At Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, you can race against your children. We’re big fans of how lighting can create immersive environments, so we feel right at home among the vivid neon glow.
When you’re done karting, take the little ones over to the arcade for a retro gaming experience. There’s also a 4,000-square-foot laser tag arena set on two floors. But remember, bragging rights belong to the winner alone!
5. The Escape Game Atlanta
Open the door to a place of mystery and adventure. The Escape Game offers a puzzling world of intrigue where family members must work together to advance. As a well-oiled team, you’ll experience what it’s like to break out of a prison cell or accomplish the perfect heist.
The Escape Game has six unique puzzles. Each follows a specific theme, immersing you in the environment fully. But don’t spend too long staring at the scenery because the clock is ticking.
Outdoor Adventures
6. Zoo Atlanta
See animal conservation in action at Zoo Atlanta. The zoo is home to some of the world’s most majestic and impressive creatures, such as the fearsome lion and the adorable giant panda.
You’ll also get an unbeatable view of unique birds, such as kookaburras, and aquatic animals, such as the giant otter.
Zoo Atlanta’s learning opportunities are another highlight for families. Take a moonlit stroll through the environment to view exotic animals after dusk, or get up close and personal with them by joining the zoo’s behind-the-scenes Wild Encounters.
7. Stone Mountain Park
Experience camping and hiking across 3,200 acres of beautiful natural land. Situated at the foothills of the magnificent Stone Mountain, the park provides picturesque surroundings for the whole family to enjoy.
If you’re feeling like an outdoor activity, why not take a family day to explore one of Stone Mountain Park’s 15 miles of trails? There’s also a scenic railroad with a 1940s-style train the kids will adore and a dinosaur park with 20 impressive replicas of ancient reptilians. The dinosaurs can even roar.
8. Atlanta Botanical Garden
From humble beginnings of just a few small plots in 1976, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is gradually growing into a 30-acre urban sanctuary. It features many unique plants you won’t see elsewhere, such as the carnivorous Venus flytrap.
You can also take selfies in the Japanese Garden if you’re looking for an exotic location for a photoshoot.
Throughout the year, the Atlanta Botanical Garden hosts several fun events for families. From endangered plants to frog-feeding excursions, you’ll get to experience the beauty of nature.
9. Chattahoochee Nature Center
Atlanta may be a bustling metropolis, but it has no shortage of natural marvels. Situated on the city’s north side, the Chattahoochee Nature Center is an educational destination for fans of the great outdoors. It allows the whole family to learn about conservation and local wildlife.
The center is home to diverse environments, including wetlands and forests. You can explore at your own pace, strolling along the many hiking trails. It also has guided tours and special programs, letting both kids and adults experience everything on offer.
10. Six Flags Over Georgia
Looking for one of the most thrilling things to do with the family in Atlanta? Look no further than Six Flags Over Georgia — Atlanta’s most beloved amusement park.
Adults seeking heart-pounding excitement will love the Twisted Cyclone roller coaster, with its 10-story drop and zero-gravity rolls. But younger kids can also enjoy gentler experiences, such as the Looney Tunes Adventure Camp and a tugboat that rocks and spins, evoking a stormy trip to far-off lands.
Educational Experiences
11. Georgia Aquarium
From magnificent sharks to alien-like jellyfish, aquatic life is truly unique and beautiful. That’s why no marine enthusiast should miss a trip to the Georgia Aquarium.
Experience the otherworldly atmosphere through the aquarium’s large viewing panels, enhanced by immersive lighting and sound. Kids who love penguins will also get a unique chance to see these stunning creatures up close and learn about the conservation efforts safeguarding their future.
The only thing missing from this excursion is water inhabitants of a different kind: synchronized swimmers. However, if you come to our show “O", you can see a tank full of flexible performers. You might just leave believing they, too, are missing vertebrae.
12. Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Imagine a museum that seems to grow out of a forest, where interactive exhibits are reachable across canopy bridges. For kids, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History is the ultimate tree house — a place where they can learn about nature while experiencing it firsthand.
While outdoor adventures through the WildWoods are central to the interactive museum experience, they’re not the only thing on offer. Families can also see impressive dinosaur displays and learn about the prehistoric earth.
Ferns are one of the oldest plant groups, existing alongside the dinosaurs, so we think this is a fitting combination.
13. Center for Puppetry Arts
Puppetry has the ability to bring the impossible to life. You’ll see plenty of puppetry in our shows alongside the otherworldly costumes of our performers. That’s why we hope budding young creatives will develop an interest in this timeless art at the Center for Puppetry Arts.
Of course, adults will also feel right at home among the classic characters of Jim Henson in the center’s museum. There are even create-a-puppet workshops and puppet manipulation classes, allowing the family to learn how to put on a show together.
14. College Football Hall of Fame
Get ready to hustle! As you step into the College Football Hall of Fame, you’ll be greeted by memorabilia and historical artifacts that played a role in some of the most exciting college football games. You can also revisit some of these thrilling memories in the theater.
Test your own sporting skills, and make memories with the kids with the Hall of Fame’s interactive experiences. For kids who want to know more about football, there’s even educational content and seasonal events to nurture their passion.
Wow-Worthy Circus Acts!
Get ready to be amazed in Atlanta! Jaw-dropping Cirque du Soleil performances are just a click away.
15. Atlanta History Center
The American South, famous for its unique culture, food, and architecture, has experienced a tumultuous and rich history, creating a melting pot of diverse traditions. Enjoy the soulful melodies of jazz musicians and comfort food with African, French, and Spanish influences.
At Atlanta History Center, you can learn more about the distinctive culture of the South. You can even explore historic houses from the '20s and several beautiful gardens that replicate periods throughout Georgia’s past.
Seasonal Picks
16. Pumpkin Festivals in Fall
As the leaves change color and begin to fall, creating a beautiful canvas of red, orange, and gold foliage, Atlanta prepares to host a spirited pumpkin festival.
The festival celebrates delicious produce and provides opportunities for families to spend time together and enjoy various park attractions.
Once evening comes around, your little ones will be captivated by the parade that takes place. Stone Mountain also lights up with dazzling LEDs for a spooky way to welcome Halloween.
Speaking of the holidays — when the time comes, check out our list of New Year’s Eve events in Atlanta.
17. Holiday Lights at the Botanical Garden in Winter
Lights hold a special place in most peoples’ hearts during the holidays because they create an enchanting ambiance. So, what better thing to do with the family during the festive season than take a look at some of Atlanta’s most beautiful light shows?
Of course, the holiday lights at the Botanical Garden are some of the most magnificent in the city. The decorated walkways provide a colorful glow overhead, creating an almost dreamy atmosphere as you explore the surrounding gardens.
When you’re done looking at the light show, take a moment to relax at Longleaf Restaurant. There, you’ll dine next to the gorgeous illumination, bringing your evening to a showstopping finish.
18. Splash Pads and Water Parks in Summer
If you’re visiting Atlanta with the family in summer, there’s no better way to cool off than by swimming. However, this might not be ideal if your children are still quite young or scared of the water.
Splash pads and water parks offer a gentler experience for the whole family while still helping you beat the heat on scorching summer days.
Instead of deep water, splash pads provide fountains and shallow pools so your little ones can jump in. Feel the exhilaration as you engage in play fights and chase each other through the jets and mist.
19. Outdoor Movie Nights in Various Parks During Spring/Summer
Outdoor movie nights are one of the best ways to experience films during the hotter months. You can feel the breeze against your skin and view all the impactful moments with other moviegoers. Luckily, there are many opportunities to watch movies this way in Atlanta.
Movie nights feature newer releases and also plenty of classic films. For example, Hocus Pocus, the beloved Halloween starring Bette Midler, is one of October’s highlights. Kids and the young-at-heart will also enjoy opportunities to watch Shrek, E.T., and Kung Fu Panda.
More importantly, you’re allowed to bring your own drinks and snacks.
Atlanta Has Something for Everyone in the Family
You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy go-karting or puppets, but your little ones will never forget all the fun things for families to do together in Atlanta.
Whether you’re interested in arts and history or want to explore nature, the city has something for all members of the family. Visit some of these exciting attractions, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
Do you know what else lasts a lifetime? The memory of the soaring acrobatics and dazzling lights at our shows. You’ll be swept away by larger-than-life characters and compelling storylines as you live the adventure while still sitting safely in your seat.
Visiting one of our shows in Atlanta is the perfect way to end your trip and ensure the whole family can’t wait to return again.
The adventure awaits, so book your tickets today and prepare to be mesmerized like never before.