Bright lights, massive skyscrapers, and busy streets only tell a part of the story of Atlanta, Georgia. This large, vibrant Southern city harbors an eclectic range of family entertainment options for visitors of all ages. From world-class museums and cultural institutions to exciting outdoor activities, Atlanta offers countless things to do during an unforgettable getaway. Book a stay at an Atlanta vacation rental today. Without further ado, check out the top family-friendly activities in Atlanta.
1. Sip on Sodas
Learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about cola at the World of Coca-Cola in downtown Atlanta. This popular family attraction features historical information, artifacts, old ads, and interactive displays about Coca-Cola. Watch the 4D movie to delight the senses of everyone in your party. Any kids in your party who enjoy soda look forward to the final exhibit: the tasting lounge. Fountain-style soda machines fill the room with Coke products from around the world, and you can taste as many as you want. Pick up some Coke glasses in the gift shop to fill the cupboards in your vacation rental’s kitchen.
2. Dive Down Deep
As the largest aquarium in the Western hemisphere, the Georgia Aquarium delights young and old with a vast collection of aquatic animals. Kids love being surrounded by massive tanks full of many species. View beluga whales, sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and whale sharks, along with many smaller species. Younger kids may need a break, as the aquarium is huge and takes the time to complete. Retreat to your vacation rental if your little one has seen more than enough sea life.
3. Explore Wild Animals
Zoo Atlanta lets you get close to more than 1,000 animals, and it’s one of only a few zoos in the U.S. with giant pandas on display. Stop by the petting zoo so your little ones can touch favorite animals. A carousel and train ride add excitement to the day for younger kids. Take a break at the playground, or challenge older kids to scale the zoo’s rock climbing wall.
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4. Act Like an Olympian
Home of the 1996 Olympics, Atlanta makes good use of the space used for the games at Centennial Olympic Park. Fountains shaped like the Olympic rings delight kids of all ages with water sprays synchronized to music and lights, and kids can splash in the water on hot days. An audio walking tour is an option for older kids who want to learn more about the Olympics and Atlanta in general. Catch live music in the park, and let your kids burn off energy in the green spaces. Several restaurants in the area let you refuel before continuing. When you get back to your vacation rental, come up with your own Olympics competitions for fun.
5. Take in a Game
If you time your trip right, you can take the kids to catch live sports action in Atlanta. During the baseball season, buy some peanuts and Cracker Jack at an Atlanta Braves game at SunTrust Park. Football season brings new fun when the Atlanta Falcons take the field at the Georgia Dome. Basketball fans can enjoy games with the Atlanta Dream and Atlanta Hawks. Grab a pennant at the stadium to add a little team spirit to your vacation rental during your stay.
6. Get a Birds-Eye View
Get some exercise and a great view of the city at Stone Mountain. This popular Atlanta attraction features many activities, including a scenic railroad, ropes course, and Laser show Spectacular. The Geyser Towers area is a water play area perfect for helping kids of all ages cool off. Hike to the top if your kids are older, or take the Summit Skyride, a Swiss-style cable car that makes the trip easier. You may even be able to spy your vacation rental once you reach the top.
7. Play With Puppets
With more than 200 puppets on display, the Center for the Puppetry Arts is the largest of its kind. Kids and adults alike are drawn to the large collection of Jim Henson’s puppets on display. Enjoy a performance in the theater, or take a behind-the-scenes tour to see the puppet-building workshop and other areas. Kids can also make their own puppets. When you get back to your vacation rental, put on your own puppet show with your creations while you unwind.
8. Be a Football Player
Immerse yourself in an interactive college football experience at the College Football Hall of Fame. Customize your experience by selecting your favorite college team when you register your pass. When you enter the Quad, look for your team’s helmet. The facility is full of interactive displays and experiences all revolving around football. Kids can burn off energy on the indoor playing field. If you visit Atlanta during football season, head back to your vacation rental to catch a game after your Hall of Fame experience, or toss around a pigskin in your rental’s backyard.
9. Get Your Fill of Thrill Rides
Head to Six Flags Over Georgia for ride and attractions for all ages. Gentle kids’ rides entertain the youngest members of your family, while older kids tackle thrill rides like the Blue Hawk roller coaster. Cool off on the water park rides in Hurricane Harbor. An interactive kids’ water area gives younger family members a place to play.
10. Learn About Natural History
If you have a dinosaur lover in your family, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History is a must on your Atlanta itinerary. Dinosaur Plaza is an outdoor space full of bronze dinosaur sculptures. In the Great Hall, explore cast replicas of giant dinosaur fossils, and let your kids marvel at the size of the creatures. The museum also covers Georgia history through a variety of displays. After learning about the past, head back to all the modern comforts of your vacation rental.
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