I love living in Atlanta! There is so much natural beauty in Georgia, and with all of the museums and attractions, Atlanta is family-friendly and fun. My family has been fortunate to visit all of the locations I’m including in this list of fun day trips for Atlanta kids. Use this list when you plan your Spring Break and summer vacation in Atlanta.
This post contains affiliate links.
In-town Atlanta
Over the summer we had friends visit from out of state and one of the places they wanted to visit was World of Coca-Cola. Since we had never been before, we thought it would be a fun outing. All of us had a blast checking out the nostalgic memorabilia, multi media presentations and trying Coca-Cola products from around the globe. Read more about our visit to the World of Coca-Cola.
In addition to the World of Coca-Cola, we love Georgia Aquarium which can be found right across the plaza. We have been visiting the Aquarium since Benjamin was a toddler. It is a delight for the senses for visitors of every age with special sensory activities for the smallest of visitors, movies, live shows and even animal encounters available.
If your kids are a bit older, you might enjoy heading out to one of the myriad museums located in Atlanta. Two of our favorites are the High Museum of Art and Atlanta History Center, which was another stop with our out of town visitors. The Atlanta History Center is the new home to the Cyclorama which will be a huge draw for history buffs like my friend’s daughter. The grounds are also home to the Swan House (as seen in the Hunger Games) and Smith Family Farm to name a few.
The High Museum is a feast for the eyes with numerous collections and visiting exhibitions. They do a fantastic job at making art interesting for all with numerous programs and special family days to expose kids of all ages to the arts.
Save Money on Atlanta Attractions
If you’re planning to visit any (or all) of these local Atlanta attractions, CityPASS is definitely a must have!
CityPASS has hand-picked Atlanta’s top 5 must-visit destinations and bundled them together to offer up BIG savings on admission (up to 41% in Atlanta). In addition, CITYPass gives you up to 9 days to visit all the locations and offers expedited entry. No lines! Bonus!
But don’t wait! The Atlanta CityPASS price goes up March 1, 2020! It will still be an incredible deal but if you can save a few extra bucks, why not?!
The Rock Ranch
Last fall we got to spend the afternoon at The Rock Ranch for fun in their corn maze, corn kernel pit and so many other amazing activities that we can’t wait to go back. If you want an active, adventurous day outside, head here! Zip-lining, petting zoo, giant jumping pillow, Tiny Town, train rides, tree houses and so much more are available for visitors of all ages. The Rock Ranch not only offers up unique, scenic experiences but special seasonal events as well such as Country Christmas and the upcoming Spring Break Fridays special offer. Don’t miss their spectacular Easter Egg Hunt either! Check their events calendar for admission dates and events. Looking for a weekend adventure? Rock Ranch offers Farmhouse stays and camping in Conestoga Wagons too. Sign me up!
Stone Mountain
While not a far drive from Atlanta proper, Stone Mountain Park offers up so much to do that it can fill an entire day easily! Whether you decide to hike the miles of trails exploring the rich history of the locale or partake in the attractions, Stone Mountain Park offers up something for everyone in the family.
Kids will love the Farmyard, Geyser Towers, Adventure Train and numerous other attractions geared towards young people. Families can shop, dine and participate in a variety of recreational activities like golfing, boating, and fishing. Stone Mountain also hosts many special events such as festivals, holiday celebrations and more. The changing seasons will offer new and unique views of the park and even snow in the winter making Stone Mountain Park a place you will want to bring the family again and again.
Stone Mountain Park just announced a free Pre-K Pass program for kids, ages 3 through 5. Register and activate by May 25 for unlimited access to park attractions through Aug. 31
Kefi Buckhead
We hosted my son’s 7th birthday party at kefi in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta and boy was it a hit. Not only did the kids have a blast but the parents were impressed (and amused) too making this a must include on our Spring Break Day Trip list. I know it’s not really a “trip” from Atlanta but I can say with some confidence that most kids would happily spend the better part of a day exploring, creating and playing at this unique Play Space. Kefi has combined technology, toys, music and more to create a wonderland of hands on and exploratory experiences for kids of all ages. Parents will love hanging out or working in a lounge area where they can keep an eye on kids via live feed while enjoying quiet with light refreshments.
Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge locations are gaining popularity around the US and with good reason. Not only are the Lodges a hotel but offer a host of fun activities for kids with their Indoor Water Parks making water play a reality year round. The closest Great Wolf Lodge Atlanta is in LaGrange, making it a reasonable drive for day tripping. The kids will love swimming, splashing and floating in the Water Park. Our son sure did! Great Wolf also offers up tons of other fun activities for visitors and hotel guests including Camp H.O.W.L., a mecca of creative play from dress up to crafts to an outdoor play yard. There are character appearances, games, story times, campfires and so much more at this family oriented destination and it’s easy to save with online deals through their websites or Groupon.
North Georgia
North Georgia is chock full of charming spots like Alpine Helen, Ellijay, Dahlonega and other quaint towns scattered around the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are definitely an attraction in and of themselves. Spend the day hiking, horseback riding, kayaking or panning for gold. Outdoor enthusiasts will love spending an afternoon exploring Amicalola Falls State Park with views of gorgeous waterfalls and the start of the Appalachian Trail. With so much to see and do, your visit to Northern Georgia may be better planned for a 2-3 day stay. Last year Benjamin and I went on a mother & son weekend getaway in North Georgia, and had a great time!
Read next: The Ultimate Atlanta Bucket List of Things to Do
If your vacation plans have you leaving Atlanta, (*sniff*), check out the CityPASS website to see if your travels take you to one of the offered locations. They have discounts at top attractions in most major cities, including New York City, Orlando, Southern California, and more!
PIN TO YOUR ATLANTA AND FAMILY TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS
