Best family-friendly things to do in Atlanta
Explore Georgia’s capital with kids, featuring walkable neighborhoods, family-friendly hotels, and stress-free activities for all ages.
Edited by Taylor Cahan | December 4, 2025
Atlanta is a city where family adventures come alive. With world-class attractions like Georgia Aquarium, interactive museums, and lush parks, planning an Atlanta family vacation is easier than ever. Families can enjoy walkable neighborhoods, car-optional itineraries, and hotel stays that put you steps from the action. Whether you’re seeking hands-on science exhibits, animal encounters, or splash pad play, the city’s array of family-friendly attractions ensure that every day is memorable.
Top 3 things to do in Atlanta with kids
1. Visit the Georgia Aquarium
Dive into Atlanta’s underwater wonders at Georgia Aquarium, home to beluga whales, whale sharks, and interactive exhibits that captivate all ages. The aquarium’s stroller-friendly layout makes exploring easy, and timed entry helps families avoid crowds (hours vary by day, so check ahead). After marveling at the Ocean Voyager tunnel, step outside to Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia’s legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. Kids can splash in the iconic Fountain of Rings and play on the two soft-surface playgrounds. Nearby, family-friendly restaurants offer casual bites for a picnic lunch in the park. For a seamless stay, Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown is right on the park and just a five-minute walk from the aquarium. Enjoy spacious suites and Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™, plus multiple pools, including an indoor pool with a Tippy Buckets water feature for kids.
2. Explore museums in Midtown
For hands-on learning, make your way to Midtown Atlanta to discover family-friendly museums. First up is the Center for Puppetry Arts, home to the largest collection of Jim Henson puppets, props, and costumes. Families can also enjoy theatrical performances and participate in engaging, hands-on puppet-making workshops. For a quick trip just outside of Midtown, the Fernbank Science Center offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium that will spark curiosity in school-age kids. If your family can stay up late, the center’s Dr. Ralph L. Buice, Jr. Observatory hosts free public stargazing on clear nights (Thursdays and Fridays, hours vary by season). Stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Midtown for suite-style accommodations, free made-to-order breakfast, room service, and an indoor pool for post-museum relaxation.
3. Enjoy parks, playgrounds, and animal encounters
Dedicate a day of your Atlanta family vacation to outdoor play and wildlife adventures. Zoo Atlanta welcomes guests year-round to visit their wide variety of animals, from giant pandas and sloths to lions and rhinos (open daily, typically 9 or 10 am to 5 pm). Extend your visit at the zoo’s Treetop Trail aerial playground or book an experience to hand-feed the giraffes or African elephants. After the zoo, the nearby Grant Park offers green space and playgrounds, plus plenty of spots for a picnic lunch. For families seeking a budget-friendly stay, Home2 Suites by Hilton Atlanta Downtown offers flexible rooms with full kitchens, free hot breakfast, and easy access to the city’s downtown parks, including the popular Centennial Olympic Park and Woodruff Park.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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