We have lived in Atlanta pretty much our entire lives, so we hold this city very near and dear to our hearts. From the big city lights to that friendly Southern feel, Atlanta offers so much for tourist and locals alike.
One thing that this city is not lacking are things to do as a family. There are countless delicious kid-friendly places to eat and numerous top-notch attractions to visit. No matter what your tastes or interests, Atlanta has it all!
Where to PLAY
Centennial Olympic Park: This park, in the heart of Atlanta, was originally created as a gathering spot for visitors and locals to enjoy during the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. Perhaps the most iconic and recognized part of this park is the Fountain of Rings. It is an interactive fountain representing the Olympic Rings symbol and there are four free shows daily, put to music, that combine water and music in a way you would not think possible — the water literally dances in front of your eyes! When the Fountain of Rings show is not taking place, you will find children (and adults with a child-like spirits!) running and splashing in the fountains.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History: Named one of the top 10 places in the world to learn about dinosaurs, this museum has exhibits all about natural history and it entertains as well as educates. They present hands-on exhibitions perfect for kids and also have an IMAX theater featuring the biggest movie screen in Atlanta.
Braves games: Do you have a little (or big) baseball fan? The Atlanta Braves are one of America’s most historic baseball teams and with their stadium located right in downtown Atlanta, it makes for an easy attraction to visit. It doesn’t even matter if the team is playing in town when you’re visiting — there are tons of activities, even in the off-season. Turner Field offers tours that will take fans through the Braves Museum and Hall of Fame, press boxes and the dugout. The Coca-Cola Sky Field features large over-sized Adirondack chairs that afford you excellent views of Atlanta’s sky-scape and a base-line that children (both young and old) can run to test out their speed. To enhance your base running experience, kids can participate in the Kids Run The Bases program where they get to run on the actual field.
World of Coca-Cola: This Atlanta attraction celebrates one of the most famous brands in the world, Coca-Cola. Not everyone knows, but it all began from a secret recipe originating in Atlanta. This fun museum features brand favorites and memorabilia from Coca-Cola’s beginnings, pop-culture and even the Olympics. Also not to be missed is the fun 4-d movie and a tasting room featuring Coca-Cola products from around the world.
Where to EAT
Fox Bros. BBQ: You can’t come to the South and not visit one of our famed BBQ joints! One of our favorites is Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q. Located in the beautiful Candler Park neighborhood, this finger-licking BBQ with a Texas-twist is a huge hit. From ribs to pulled pork to their Fox-A-Roni, you can’t go wrong.
Googie Burger: While you are at Centennial Olympic Park, be sure to stop by this fun burger place. They have no freezers in-house, which means everything is made fresh. Their menu offers delicious burgers with creative sauces and hand-spun shakes that you can enjoy in the outdoor seating area while you take-in the sights and activity of the park.
Fellini’s Pizza: While New York and Chicago might lay claim as the pizza kings, the South does offer a few challengers. Fellini’s Pizza has several locations throughout the city of Atlanta and makes one of the best pies we have ever tasted. Their restaurants have large outdoor seating spaces and the atmosphere is always enjoyable with kids. You can order full pies or pizza by the slice to sample a little bit of all the cheesy goodness offered.
King of Pops: This unique Popsicle company was started by two local brothers and has grown into a successful business that is an Atlanta favorite. In addition to their permanent location and their availability in local restaurants, you can find their carts all over town at special events, farmer’s markets and food truck events. Their pops are made with fresh ingredients, are all-natural and their flavors are truly unique. Some of our favorites are Chocolate Sea Salt and Watermelon Lime!
Where to EAT and PLAY… in the suburbs
Here’s the deal with Atlanta… most people you’ll meet that tell you they are from the ATL do not technically live in Atlanta. Most of us live outside the city limits, in sprawling suburbia. However, because of the massive suburban sprawl of Atlanta, our ‘burbs also have some really fantastic places to eat and things to do, so we wanted to be sure to share a few of our local favorites!
American Girl Boutique and Bistro: If you have doll obsessed little girls, the American Girl Boutique and Bistro is a perfect way to spend some time. With one of the few locations nationwide, North Point Mall, just north of Atlanta, hosts a store that is almost like a museum where you can shop in doll heaven followed by a delicious meal or even tea in the adjacent bistro. Not only will you and your girl enjoy the tasty treats, but their dolls will too! The American Girl Bistro has thought of it all, including doll sized seats, cups and saucers for them to use during your meal.
Tellus Museum: About 45-minutes north of Atlanta in Cartersville, Tellus is hands-down one of the best museums in the Atlanta metro area. Tellus is a hands-on interactive museum for kids of all ages. Exhibits feature dinosaurs, gemstones and jewels, a solar house, mind puzzles and a planetarium.
Stone Mountain Park: One of the most popular attractions in the state is just 10-miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Stone Mountain is the largest exposed mass of granite in the world and the park offers numerous family activities as well as thousands of acres of natural and historic sights. You can hike to the top of the mountain or take the Summit Skyride. Some other family favorites are the SkyHike adventure course, the Scenic Railroad ride around the mountain and viewing the state of the art digital graphics Lasershow as a way to end your day.
McEntyeres Bakery: This friendly neighborhood bakery entices you with its impressive display of sweet treats and boutique goods the moment you walk in the door! It is a great place for lunch, as it offers an impressive selection of yummy sandwiches and soups. The Kickin’ Chicken sandwich is our favorite and you can leave with out some cheese straws and a Petit Four.
Moxie Burger: This great burger place just north of Atlanta was created as a neighborhood gathering place for families and it has become just that. It is a hidden gem, tucked into a shopping village, but doesn’t deter the crowds as it is a favorite amongst the locals. Everything is delicious and the atmosphere is warm and perfect for a family-friendly meal. They have toys on-hand for children and a fun patio with a chalkboard table for kids to play and get crafty pre- or post-meal. Also, for Mom and Dad, they have a fabulous wine and beer list!
Have you ever been to Atlanta? What are some of your favorite places?
This post was contributed by The Magnolia Mamas as part of the Savvy Sassy Moms Product Scouts program. You can find more about their adventures in and around Atlanta on their blog.
