Top 10 Family Activities in Atlanta - Part 2

A note from Marchet: Melinda Continues her top ten kid and family friendly activities in the Atlanta area. If you missed Part 1, find it here!

It's summertime and I know those kids are itching to get out and do something fun. Here is part 2 of my Top 10 Atlanta Family Activities.

Big Trees Forest Preserve: This is a beautiful series of easy walking trails covering 30 acres of land.  We started going here 12 years ago and have taken kids as young as 1 and grandparents in wheelchairs. (One path is wheelchair accessible).  What makes this amazing is all of the beautiful trails—complete with streams, springs, rock outcroppings, large trees, cliffs, and shaded paths—are all found and only 4 miles north of 285 in the heart of Sandy Springs.  Tip: The parking lot is also the parking lot for Fulton County Government offices. Go to the back corner of the parking lot and you will see the entrance.

Tellus Science Museum:  My family absolutely loves Tellus. The science museum features planetarium shows, dinosaurs, gems, scientific play area for kids, and (included in admission price) gem mining and fossil digging.  Tip:  Think seriously about getting a membership here.  The activities during the year are outstanding and we loved the “Lunch and Learn” lectures they have once a month—amazing topics and kids are welcome.

Atlanta Botanical Garden:  This is an amazing place to visit.  Plan to spend at least half a day here.  So many amazing flowers to look at—absolutely beautiful.  I will admit that the Children’s area is my favorite part of the Gardens—fun for the kids and beautiful to look at. Tip: From May to October of 2014, there is a special exhibit of giant animals made from plants.  The pictures of this exhibit are amazing!

Beaches at Lake Lanier:  It isn’t like going to visit the ocean, but the beaches at Lake Lanier are a great place to visit when you want a day at the beach without the long drive!  There are so many beaches to visit; it isn’t hard to find one that has all the amenities that you are looking for. Tip: Be sure to bring a few dollar bills with you. Some places require a small day parking fee.




INK:  INK is such a fun children’s museum!  My kids love it because it has so many different stations for pretend play: an airplane, a dentist's office, a cow you can milk, a court room, even a '50s burger shop.  There are plenty of props for each station and lots of benches for parents to sit at while you wait.  There is also a large area where you are welcome to eat your picnic lunch.  My favorite part of the museum is that there is only one way in and one way out.  If I sit near the entrance, I can be sure that no one is leaving the play area. That means I can relax while still letting the kids play and explore on their own.

Have questions about other fun family activities in the area?  Comment below!