Things to do with kids in Atlanta in 2025

Things to do with kids in Atlanta go far beyond the usual. Buckle up, because we’ve got a list full of ideas for you. From vast museums to outdoor spaces ripe for the roaming, we’ve got fresh ideas and plenty of exciting things to do in Atlanta with kids.

Free Things to Do in Atlanta With Kids

Centennial Olympic Park

Centennial Olympic Park, in downtown Atlanta, is a 22-acre green space perfect for kids to explore and play. Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, the park is now one of the best things to do in Atlanta with kids. Stroll through verdant gardens or soak up the summer vibes in the park's splash pad centerpiece.  

• Address: 265 Park Ave W NW Atlanta, GA 30313 

• Cost/Admission: Free 

• Age requirement: Suitable for visitors of all ages 

• Hours of operation: Open from sunrise to sunset 

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park in Atlanta is a top family destination and and beloved green oasis offereing families space for games, picnics, and farmer’s market visits. It is one of the most beautiful parks in Atlanta. Join the weekly walking club or engage in a family game of frisbee near picturesque Lake Clara Meer. Every Saturday, Piedmont Park is home to a farmers’ market, where your hungry little ones can pick out tasty preserves and baked goods for lunch. 

• Address: 1320 Monroe Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30306 

• Cost/Admission: Free to access 

• Age requirement? All ages 

• Hours of operation: From 6 AM to 11 PM 

• Pro tip: Take a free guided history tour to learn about the rich history of the park, which started out as a forest in the 19th century. 

Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine offers families a one-of-a-kind adventure through a 22-mile former railway corridor transformed into a vibrant haven for pedestrians and cyclists. Take a leisurely bike ride, cruising past the colorful murals that line the BeltLine's Eastside Trail.  

It’s one of the best free things to do in Atlanta with kids and combines outdoor fun, urban exploration, and creativity in one dynamic experience. 

• Address: 619 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States (though there are multiple access points) 

• Cost/Admission: Free to access 

• Age requirement: Suitable for all ages 

• Hours of operation: The corridor opens from 6 AM to 11 PM 

• Pro tip: Stop by the Historic Fourth Ward Park, where your kiddos can conquer the playground's whimsical structures. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park invites families to step into history and explore the legacy of a civil rights icon. Begin your journey at the Visitor Center, where interactive exhibits and multimedia displays transport your family back in time.  

Little minds will be captivated by the stories of courage and resilience that echo through the walls. Next, venture to Dr. King's childhood home, a simple yet powerful symbol of the roots from which greatness can emerge.  

• Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Free to enter, but tickets are required for guided tours  

• Age requirement: Best suited for children aged 6 and up 

• Hours of operation: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Sundays and Mondays) 

• Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a spot on the free tour of Dr. King’s birth home. Space is limited, and fills up quickly! 

Dunwoody Nature Center

Dunwoody Nature Center invites families to explore its lush wetlands, wooded trails, and kid-friendly playgrounds. It’s 22 acres of pure, outdoor enjoyment, a park that encourages exploration, learning and fun all in one. It’s best appreciated in the summer months, with all the flora in full bloom. 

• Address: 5343 Roberts Dr, Dunwoody, GA 30338, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Free 

• Age requirement: Suitable for all ages 

• Hours of operation: Park hours are from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week 

Kid-Friendly Museums in Atlanta

SCAD FASH Museum of Film + Fashion

SCAD FASH Museum of Film + Fashion is the only museum of its kind in the Southeast, showcasing design and cinema. It’s both an institution of learning and museum, a chance to see fashion, costume design and film on full display. With over 10,000 sq. ft. of gallery space, you and the kids are sure to come away from your visit creatively inspired. 

• Address: 1600 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 

• Cost/Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for students/seniors/military, free for kids under 14 

• Age requirement: Best for anyone aged 8+ with an interest in fashion, film, or design 

• Hours of operation: From Tuesday to Saturday 10AM to 5PM 

• Pro tip: Check out their rotating exhibits calendar in advance, SCAD often hosts incredible fashion shows that even kids will love! 

Museum of Design Atlanta 

The Museum of Design Atlanta celebrates creativity through exhibits on architecture, graphic design, and innovation. From the city’s greatest architectural marvels to the role graphic design plays in our everyday lives, creatives of all stripes will be moved by design’s omnipotence.

• Address: 1315 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

• Cost/Admission: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, and $5 for students and kids aged 6-17 

• Age requirement: Ideal for kids aged 6+

• Hours of operation: Tuesday to Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM, closed on Mondays 

Trap Music Museum 

The Trap Music Museum in Atlanta immerses visitors in the cultural story of hip-hop through vibrant art and music exhibits. For music lovers (and budding musicians), it’s a must-see. Just like its name implies, it takes visitors through the journey and rich culture of rap music, as told through art.

• Address: 630 Travis St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, United States 

• Cost/Admission: General admission s $20-25 per person 

• Age requirement: Recommended for children aged 13+ 

• Hours of operation: Friday from 3 PM to 10 PM, Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM 

• Pro tip: Check out the Escape Room experience, a blend of storytelling, hip-hop history, and puzzle-solving. 

College Football Hall of Fame 

The College Football Hall of Fame brings the game to life with hands-on skill zones and interactive fan experiences for kids. Aspiring quarterbacks can test their skills in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone or immerse themselves in the game-day atmosphere of the Game Day Theater. 

• Address: 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, USA 

• Cost/Admission: ~$30 for adults, ~$23 for kids, discounts are available for seniors and students, and active and retired military members with a valid ID get free admission. 

• Age requirement:  Best for ages 6+ 

• Hours of operation: Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM 

• Pro tip: Make the trip more personal! Register your favorite college team as you enter. The museum’s interactive exhibits will update to reflect your preferred team’s colors and history. 

The Delta Flight Museum 

The Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta lets families discover aviation history and even try flying a commercial jet in the flight simulator. Housed in a renovated 1940s aircraft hangar, the museum pays tribute to Delta Air Lines' rich heritage, providing an up-close look at iconic aircraft, flight memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that will have your little ones dreaming of the skies.

One of the highlights for families is the Boeing 737 flight simulator. In this contraption, budding pilots can take the captain's seat and experience the thrill of flying a commercial jet. 

• Address: 1060 Delta Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30354, USA 

• Cost/Admission: $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 5-17), seniors, and students; free for children under 5; additional fee for flight simulator experience. 

• Age requirement: Best for ages 5+ 

• Hours of operation: Tuesday to Thursday from 10 AM to 4:30 PM 

• Pro tip: Book your flight simulator session in advance! It fills up quickly. 

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art in Atlanta introduces kids and families to classic and contemporary art in an engaging setting. It boasts an impressive collection of classic works to contemporary oeuvres. Here, you can get your fill of sculptures, paintings, and other forms.

• Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA 

• Cost/Admission: $18.50 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, $10 for kids aged 6-17, and free for children under 6. 

• Age requirement: All ages, especially budding art-lovers!

• Hours of operation: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday from noon until 5 PM, closed on Mondays. 

• Pro tip: Visit on Second Sundays for free admission and special family programming! 

Unique Family Activities to do in Atlanta 

Cirque du Soleil Shows 

Cirque du Soleil shows in Atlanta offer a magical experience that captivates kids and adults alike with jaw-dropping acrobatics, colorful costumes, and live music. If a tour is in town during your visit, come see us! It’s a great opportunity to introduce your children to world-class entertainment that blends storytelling, imagination, and thrill. All under one big top! 

• Address: Under the Big Top, Atlantic Station, Atlanta, GA 

• Cost/Admission: Depends on the tickets you choose. Multiple prices and combos available.

• Age requirement: All ages 

• Hours of operation: Depends on the day of the week. Representations run in the afternoon and at night.

• Pro tip: If you are planning your trip in advance, look out for special prices and deals. We usually have kids' tickets at lower prices.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park 

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park brings history to life for nature lovers and history buffs of all ages. On the weekends, ranger presentations and living history demonstrations bring the past to life. The walking trails that wind through the picturesque landscape offer scenic beauty and a chance for kids to discover the past in a hands-on way. 

• Address: 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr, Marietta, GA 30060, USA 

• Cost/Admission: $5 daily fee or $40 for an annual park pass

• Age requirement:  All ages 

• Hours of operation: Park grounds open from sunrise to sunset 

• Pro tip: Bring binoculars if you love birdwatching! 

Zoo Atlanta 

Zoo Atlanta offers families an up-close look at exotic animals, from elephants and giraffes to reptiles and amphibians. Here, you can spot towering giraffes, graceful zebras, and Msholo the elephant, who moved here in July 2019 after leaving the San Diego Zoo.

Also, head over to the Scaly Slimy Spectacular exhibit, which features more than 70 weird and wonderful species of reptiles and amphibians. It's the perfect place for kids who love to get up close with all kinds of creatures; four-legged, many-legged, and those with no legs at all! 

• Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA 

• Cost/Admission: General admission (ages 12+) ranges from $26 to $34; children (ages 3-11) from $21-$26, and seniors (65+) from $24 to $31. Check for special student rates. 

• Age requirement: Suitable for animal-lovers of all ages! 

• Hours of operation: 9 AM to 6 PM 

Center for Puppetry Arts 

The Center for Puppetry Arts is a unique, hands-on (literally) learning institution that’s fun for kids and adults. If you or your young’uns have ever been enchanted by the world of puppets or puppeteering, consider this on your list of fun things to do in Atlanta.

Take part in workshops, exhibitions, check out documentaries and beyond—there’s no shortage of fun to be had here. 

• Address: 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Free for kids under 2 years old; tickets prices vary from $12 to $17 depending on age group. 

• Age requirement: Fun for puppet-lovers of all ages! 

• Hours of operation: Closed on Mondays, open form 9AM to 5PM on weekdays, open from 10PM to 5PM on Saturdays and from 12PM to 5PM on Sundays. 

• Pro tip: Explore both the in-person and online programs to see the behind-the-scenes magic of puppet-making!

Atlanta Botanical Garden 

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is another fun thing to do with kids in Atlanta. One of the highlights of this lush city oasis is the Canopy Walk, an elevated walkway that takes you through the treetops for a bird's-eye view. From the serene Japanese Garden to the sweet-smelling Rose Garden, each area of the Atlanta Botanical Garden tells a unique tale.

• Address: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Adults pay around $30, tickets for children 3-12 are between $25, and children under 3 enter for free. 

• Age requirement: Suitable for visitors of all ages. 

• Hours of operation: From Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 9 PM

Stone Mountain Park 

Stone Mountain Park is a natural wonder just outside Atlanta that promises a day filled with outdoor activities and family-friendly fun. At the heart of the park is the Stone Mountain Walk-Up Trail, which will take your family to the top of the park for fantastic views of the Atlanta skyline. 

• Address: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE 

• Cost/Admission: There is a fee for parking at Stone Mountain Park but once inside, many of the activities are free.

• Age requirement: Suitable for visitors of all ages. 

• Hours of operation: 10:30 AM to 9 PM

Best Indoor Things to Do with Kids in Atlanta (Rainy day Ideas)

Children's Museum of Atlanta 

The Children's Museum of Atlanta is a hands-on space where young kids learn through imaginative play and interactive exhibits. It is one of the best, fun museums in Atlanta for kids and a world where imagination knows no bounds and curiosity leads the way.

From a pint-sized grocery store where little ones can play shopkeeper to a rocket launcher that allows them to design their own space mission, every corner of this museum is designed to ignite creativity and joy. 

• Address: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, USA 

• Cost/Admission: ~$20 for adults and children, free for children under 1 

• Age requirement:  best for kids aged 0-10 

• Hours of operation: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on Wednesdays 

• Pro tip: Get your tickets in advance because entry is timed, and things fill up quickly here! 

World of Coca-Cola 

The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta lets families taste beverages from around the globe and explore the brand’s fun history. From the moment you step into the lobby, the sweet scent of nostalgia surrounds you. The Taste It! exhibit offers a global sampling of Coca-Cola beverages, allowing you to savor unique flavors from around the world. 

• Address: 121 Baker St NW Atlanta, GA 30313, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Adults pay $19; seniors 65+ pay $18, and children aged 3-12 pay $17; Military and veterans get free entry into World of Coca-Cola, and employees of Coca-Cola receive discounts on admission. 

• Age requirement: All ages 

• Hours of operation: 10 AM to 7 PM daily and from 10AM to 8PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

• Pro tip: Purchase tickets in advance or consider purchasing an Atlanta CityPASS to save on price of admission. 

Georgia Aquarium 

The Georgia Aquarium is a top indoor attraction where families can explore marine life, from whale sharks to sea lions. It is where oceanic marvels come to life in an immersive aquatic haven and a boredom-destroying day if there ever was one!

What sets the Georgia Aquarium apart is its commitment to education and conservation. The Education Team offers a monthly program for K-12 homeschool students to help them learn at their own pace. You can also book up-close encounters with dolphins, penguins, and other sea creatures. 

• Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Single-day general admission starts at $44.49

• Age requirement: All ages 

• Hours of operation: 9 AM to 9 PM 

• Pro tip: Visit daily after 4PM to save $10 on the price of admission 

Fernbank Science Center 

The Fernbank Science Center inspires young explorers through hands-on science exhibits and its impressive planetarium shows. The Jim Cherry Memorial Planetarium, for example, invites kids on a journey through the cosmos with mesmerizing shows that bring distant planets and twinkling stars right into view. 

• Address: 156 Heaton Park Dr, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Admission is free, planetarium shows are $10 for adults and $5 for students or seniors. 

• Age requirement: Planetarium content is best suited for ages 6+ 

• Hours of operation: Tuesday-Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Sunday and Monday. 

• Pro tip: Check out the outdoor exhibit area, it features exploration stations where kids can unlock the mysteries of geology, physics, and more. 

Seasonal Family-Activities in Atlanta 

Atlanta Ice Cream Festival 

The Annual Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is a summertime favorite where local families and visitor gather in Piedmont Park to enjoy frozen treats and celebrate high summer during the last weekend of July. Whether you go for one scoop or three, it’s one of Atlanta’s most enjoyable family events in summer. 

• Address/Location: Piedmont Park at 10th Street & Charles Allen Drive 

• Cost/Admission: Free entry 

• Age requirement: Suitable for everyone, young and old

• Hours of operation: Saturday July 26th 2025

• Pro tip: Bring beach chairs or blankets so you can sit comfortably.

Summer Shade Festival 

 Summer Shade Festival, in Grant Park celebrates the end of summer with live music, food, and kid-friendly activities. It is held every August and is a free outdoor festival that sends off summer on a high note! The festival is run by the Grant Park Conservancy a non-profit dedicated to the beautification and restoration of the park grounds. 

• Address: 740 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA 

• Cost/Admission: Free 

• Age requirement: Suitable for all ages 

• Hours of operation: Next edition is on August 23rd 2025 from 10 AM to 10 PM and August 24 2025 from 10 AM to 6 PM 

FAQ about Family-Friendly things to do in Atlanta 

What are the best kid-friendly attractions in Atlanta? 

Popular family-friendly spots include the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, or the Atlanta Botanical Garden. 

Are there any free activities for kids in Atlanta?

Yes! Families can enjoy fun, free activities like the Atlanta BeltLine, cool down in the splashpads at Centennial Olympic Park, or explore the city’s numerous parks free of charge. 

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

Spring and fall are ideal, thanks to milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is great for water parks and splash pads, but — you’ve been warned — it gets toasty in the South! But there is no shortage of Atlanta indoor activities with kids to enjoy, too.

Fun awaits in Atlanta! 

Now you see: There are so many things to do with kids in Atlanta! From the wild wonders of Zoo Atlanta to the enchanting landscapes of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, we're sure you'll leave this city with a whole album full of treasured family memories. 

Don’t forget, catching one of our Cirque du Soleil shows in Atlanta can add an extra touch of wonder and inspiration to your family adventure. You’ll be mesmerized by the high-flying acrobatics and our spectacular performers as you immerse yourself in another world where anything is possible.