Things to Do With Kids in Atlanta: Your No-Stress, All-Fun Insider Guide
Atlanta might be best known for peaches, “The Real Housewives,” and being the actual filming location of like, every Marvel movie ever, but turns out it also knows how to keep kids wildly entertained without sending parents into meltdown mode.
Whether you’ve got toddlers on the verge of nap-related chaos or tweens who roll their eyes at everything, Atlanta delivers. We’re talking panda sightings at Zoo Atlanta, a splash-worthy time at the Children’s Museum, and hands-on science so fun your kids might forget it’s educational.
Even the food scene plays along, with spots that serve chicken tenders and craft cocktails, because balance. This is the kind of city where you can pet stingrays before lunch, ride a Ferris wheel before dinner, and still make it back to your hotel in time for some blessed screen time.
So pack the snacks, charge the tablets, and prepare to be the MVP of family travel.
Where to Get Your Feet Wet in Atlanta (Figuratively and Literally)
If your crew loves things that swim, splash, or make bubble noises, you’re in luck. Some of the most exciting things to do in Atlanta with kids involve water, fins, and a few animal encounters that’ll leave your little ones wide-eyed and soaking up every second (sometimes literally).
Georgia Aquarium
Yes, it’s a touristy aquarium. But it’s also jaw-droppingly cool, with whale sharks, beluga whales, and a tunnel that makes you feel like you’re in Finding Nemo IRL.
Zoo Atlanta
Pandas. Enough said. But if that’s not convincing, this place also has a splash pad, a petting zoo, and enough animal encounters to wear your kids out just in time for dinner.
Screen-Free(ish) Fun in Atlanta That Still Feels Like Playtime
Got curious little humans who need to touch everything in sight? These interactive attractions are your golden ticket. They make the list of fun-filled things to do with kids in Atlanta turn learning into a full-on adventure, with fizzy drinks, building blocks, and hands-on exhibits that let your crew burn energy while soaking up knowledge (without realizing it).
World of Coca-Cola
Learn the bubbly backstory of one of the world’s most iconic drinks, then try over 100 different sodas from around the globe. (Pro tip: the Beverly is a prank. Don’t fall for it.)
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
This is your child’s dream and your feet’s worst nightmare, but honestly? Worth it. Build race cars, tackle obstacle courses, and let them loose in a LEGO jungle.
Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Perfect for the “touch everything” crowd. It’s hands-on, high-energy, and sneakily educational—which is basically the trifecta of parenting wins.
Playgrounds, Petals, and Plenty of Space to Run Wild
When cabin fever hits and the kids are climbing the walls (literally), it’s time to head outside. From scenic strolls to full-on adventure zones, these outdoor kids activities Atlanta families swear by will have your crew running wild in the best way possible—and yes, there are snacks and skyline views involved.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
A whimsical escape with fairy-tale level flora and splashy fountains. The kids will love the treetop walkway, and you’ll love pretending you’re in a Nancy Meyers movie.
Piedmont Park
This is Atlanta’s version of Central Park, but with more Southern charm and fewer pigeons. Think playgrounds, skyline views, and space to run like you’re not totally exhausted.
Stone Mountain Park
Climb it, hike it, laser-show-it. This granite beast is an all-in-one outdoor experience with serious wow factor and plenty of photo ops.
Big Feels, Big Fun, and Big Foam Dinosaurs
Not every adventure needs a jungle gym. Some of the most memorable Atlanta kids activities involve puppet shows, dinosaur bones, and hands-on exhibits that are more “whoa” than “meh.” These off-the-beaten-path experiences are perfect for when you want something unique, educational-ish, and totally unforgettable.
Center for Puppetry Arts
Where else can you meet Kermit and watch a puppet show that doesn’t make you want to claw your eyes out? It’s cute, quirky, and surprisingly heartfelt.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Dino bones. Giant sloths. An outdoor nature trail that makes science feel like an adventure movie. Fernbank is part museum, part playground, part “whoa.”
College Football Hall of Fame
Even if you don’t know a touchdown from a field goal, the interactive exhibits and high-energy vibe here will have the whole family cheering. Bonus points for the giant helmet wall.
Explore Atlanta’s Neighborhoods
From food truck tacos in Grant Park to mural-spotting in Cabbagetown, every corner has its own flavor. It’s the kind of city that makes wandering feel like a curated tour.
Take a Stroll on the Atlanta BeltLine
Part park, part art walk, part people-watching goldmine at the BeltLine. It’s stroller-friendly, dog-friendly, and comes with bonus ice cream stops if you play your cards right.
Buy Your Atlanta Attraction Tickets
Ready to lock in the fun without paying theme park prices for literally everything? Buy your Atlanta attraction tickets on Tripster and skip the full-price drama.
We’re talking discounted access to the Georgia Aquarium (yes, the one with the massive whale sharks), Zoo Atlanta (home to actual pandas and zero boring enclosures), and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where your kids can build entire cities while you contemplate whether or not your feet will ever recover.
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Want to be an overachiever? Bundle your tickets with a hotel or tack on passes to more must-do spots and save without lifting a finger. Fewer tabs open, more money in your pocket, and one step closer to hearing your kids say, “This was the best day ever.” You earned that.
What’s New at Things to Do in Atlanta With Kids in 2025?
In 2025, Atlanta offers several family friendly and exciting things to do with kids, and the lineup is giving main character energy.
First up, the Georgia Aquarium is turning 20 and clearly entering its glow-up era with a bioluminescence exhibit that literally shines. Throw in a summer-long celebration with glowing tunnels and ambient ocean vibes, and you’ve got a ticket to underwater magic that doesn’t require scuba certification.
Over at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the museum is back and bigger after a major expansion, serving up more powerful, interactive exhibits for kids who ask “why?” on repeat.
And for the little mystery-solvers in your crew, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is hosting SCOOBY-DOO: Mansion Mayhem, where the only thing more fun than the haunted house setup is watching your kid pretend to be a detective in light-up sneakers.
But wait, there’s more. The Brick Fan Expo is dropping into town, and it’s basically Comic-Con for LEGO® kids (and low-key for their parents, too). Expect massive builds, interactive zones, and actual LEGO® Masters—yes, they’re real people, and no, you are not cooler than them.
If you’re into the classics, don’t worry. The World of Coca-Cola is still serving international soda chaos with its new Scent Discovery exhibit, and the Atlanta Zoo just introduced a new African elephant named Titan, who might be the biggest new celeb in town.
Spring brings the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, which is equal parts art show, snack fest, and “how did we end up on a Ferris wheel?” moment.
Add in laid-back days at Piedmont Park, skyline hikes at Stone Mountain, and history deep-dives at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, and boom—you’ve got a jam-packed, meltdown-minimizing Atlanta itinerary. You just need snacks and maybe a portable fan.
Reviews on Atlanta Things To Do With Kids
Georgia Aquarium reviews are glowing—literally and figuratively. Guests can’t stop raving about the massive whale sharks, immersive ocean tunnel, and new bioluminescence exhibit that feels like stepping into a real-life glow party.
Meanwhile, Zoo Atlanta reviews are equally wild, with families loving the chance to see giant pandas up close, plus shady paths, a splash pad, and just enough snack stops to avoid a full-blown toddler meltdown.
And LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta reviews? Let’s just say it’s a certified hit with the LEGO®-obsessed. From building zones to kid-sized rides and a surprisingly epic LEGO® replica of Atlanta, this indoor playground is chaotic, colorful, and completely kid-approved.
Three stops, zero boredom, and a whole lot of “Can we go again?”
Ready to Make Some ATL Magic?
Haven’t tackled these kid-approved spots yet? No shame—just opportunity. Whether you’re planning your first aquarium deep dive or still searching “how to survive LEGOLAND without stepping on a brick,” we’ve got you.
Got questions, tips, or snack-saving secrets? Drop them below and let’s crowdsource some parenting wins.
Kid Activities Atlanta FAQs
Is Zoo Atlanta Worth It If We’ve Been to Other Zoos?
Yes, because this one has pandas. Also: splash pads, a petting zoo, and plenty of shady spots that’ll keep everyone semi-sane until snack time.
Any Outdoor Spots in Atlanta That Don’t Feel Like a Chore?
Try Atlanta Botanical Garden for the fairy-tale vibes, Piedmont Park for playgrounds and skyline views, or Stone Mountain if your crew needs to climb something dramatic. Pack snacks, wear comfy shoes, and thank us later.
Are Atlanta’s Neighborhoods Walkable With Kids?
Yes, and surprisingly stroller-friendly. Explore Grant Park, Cabbagetown, and the BeltLine for murals, snack stops, and just enough space for kids to run without you totally losing track of them.
What Are Some Rainy Day Things to Do in Atlanta With Kids?
Rainy days are made for LEGOLAND Discovery Center, the Children’s Museum, World of Coca-Cola, or Fernbank’s massive indoor exhibits. Bonus: no wet socks or whiny weather complaints.
Are There Food Options at These Attractions or Should We Pack Lunch?
Most spots have on-site food (and it’s pretty decent), but packing a snack stash is always the move. Pro tip: Goldfish crackers are basically currency in every line.
What Festivals or Seasonal Events Should We Plan Around?
The Atlanta Dogwood Festival is a big hit in the spring with art, food, and kid-friendly chaos. In summer, keep an eye out for the Georgia Aquarium’s anniversary events and outdoor concerts at Centennial Olympic Park.
How Walkable Is the Atlanta BeltLine With Kids?
Super walkable, stroller-ready, and filled with distractions like public art, ice cream stops, and people-watching gold. It’s one of the few places where “going for a walk” doesn’t spark complaints.
How Many Attractions Can We Realistically Do in a Day?
Two max if you want to keep your sanity and avoid an end-of-day meltdown. Mix one high-energy stop with something lower key, then reward yourself with a strong iced coffee or quiet hotel room moment.
What If My Kids Don’t Like Museums?
Atlanta’s museums are not your typical whisper-and-stare variety. Fernbank has dinosaurs and nature trails, the Civil Rights Center is interactive and meaningful, and even the puppets are weirdly cool.
