Atlanta Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Atlanta
This budget-friendly itinerary for Atlanta families with children ages 3-12 balances thrilling paid experiences like the Children's Museum, Zoo Atlanta, and the festive Botanical Garden lights with wonderful free outdoor playtime at local parks and a community art walk. It ensures a mix of hands-on learning, active play, and holiday magic.
Friday Evening - Festive Family Fun
Friday, January 2Marietta Art Walk
Kick off your weekend with a stroll through the Marietta Square Art Walk.
This community event showcases local artists and provides a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere where you can browse and enjoy the local scene.
Perfect for a relaxed early evening. Kids will enjoy seeing the art, the lively atmosphere, and there's often space to walk around. Public restrooms are available in the square. Age suitability: All ages, parents can easily push strollers.
Ample paid parking is available around Marietta Square. Consider arriving a bit early to secure a good spot.
Garden Lights
Experience the enchanting 'Garden Lights, Holiday Nights' at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, featuring dazzling light displays with new music and choreography.
It's a magical walk-through experience that will captivate all ages.
A fantastic holiday spectacle for kids and adults. Children will be mesmerized by the lights and interactive displays. Strollers are generally accessible on paved paths. Restrooms are available throughout the garden. Dress warmly!
Paid parking is available in the Botanical Garden deck. Public transport (MARTA) is an option to Arts Center Station, followed by a short walk or rideshare.
Saturday - Downtown Discovery Day
Saturday, January 3Children's Museum Play
Dive into a world of imagination and discovery at the Children's Museum of Atlanta.
This hands-on museum is perfect for children aged 0-8, offering interactive exhibits that encourage play and learning.
Ideal for engaging curious young minds. The museum features various learning zones and activities designed to spark creativity and exploration. Restrooms are available, and the museum is stroller-friendly. Aim for an early entry for the best experience. Adults must be accompanied by a child to enter.
Located in downtown Atlanta, near several paid parking decks. It's also easily accessible via MARTA to the Peachtree Center Station or Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station, followed by a short walk.
Park Lunch & Play
Enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch and free play at Centennial Olympic Park.
This iconic park offers lush green spaces, impressive sculptures, and the famous Fountain of Rings which provides a choreographed water show.
A perfect spot for kids to burn off energy after the museum. There are two vast, soft-surface playgrounds with slides and swings suitable for all ages and abilities. The Fountain of Rings is a major highlight, with shows several times a day (check schedule on site). Public restrooms are nearby. Pack your own lunch to keep it budget-friendly, or grab something from nearby vendors.
Within easy walking distance from the Children's Museum. Many paid parking options are available in the surrounding downtown area.
Zoo Animal Encounters
Spend the afternoon exploring Zoo Atlanta, home to over 1,000 animals including giant pandas, gorillas, and elephants.
Enjoy the KIDZone with its playgrounds and petting zoo, perfect for younger visitors.
Kids (and adults) will love seeing the diverse animals and engaging with the interactive areas. The KIDZone features a rock wall, Canopy Climber, and a playground. Strollers are recommended for ease of movement. Restrooms and family facilities are widely available. Ensure comfortable shoes for walking.
Paid parking is available in the lot on Cherokee Avenue and the Grant Park Gateway parking facility. Daily maximum is $12.
Grant Park Dinner
Enjoy an early, kid-friendly dinner in the historic Grant Park neighborhood, home to Zoo Atlanta.
Numerous local eateries offer options suitable for families.
Choose from casual family restaurants. Look for places with kids' menus and early bird specials. This allows for a relaxed meal before heading home for bedtimes.
Many restaurants are within walking distance or a short drive from Zoo Atlanta. Parking may be street or small lot depending on the venue.
Sunday - Relaxed Explorations
Sunday, January 4Piedmont Park Playgrounds
Spend a leisurely Sunday morning at Piedmont Park, Atlanta's iconic urban oasis.
The park features two fantastic playgrounds: the Mayor's Grove Playground (inclusive for all abilities) and the Noguchi Playscape (unique, sculptural).
Perfect for energetic kids to run, climb, and explore. The playgrounds offer varied equipment for different age groups (3-12). Restrooms and picnic areas are available nearby. Great spot for a morning walk and to enjoy nature.
Parking is available in the paid deck via Monroe Drive. The park is also accessible via MARTA to Midtown Station, followed by a walk.
Garden Train Ride
Take a delightful ride on the Holiday Ride-on Train at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, running around the Great Lawn.
This is a special seasonal activity perfect for younger children.
The train is a charming experience, especially appealing to kids aged 3-8. It operates from 10 AM to 2 PM on weekends. This is the last day for the holiday train! Garden admission is required to access the train. Stroller access within the garden is good. Restrooms are available.
Paid parking is available in the Botanical Garden deck. Public transport (MARTA) is an option to Arts Center Station, followed by a short walk or rideshare.
Stone Mountain Views
Conclude your weekend with a visit to Stone Mountain Park.
While the full 'Stone Mountain Christmas' event officially ends today, you can still enjoy the park's natural beauty, hike the trails, or take the Summit Skyride for panoramic views of Atlanta.
Kids will love the vast open spaces, and the views from the top of Stone Mountain are breathtaking. There are playgrounds available within the park. Stroller access is good on paved paths and the Skyride is accessible. Restrooms are available. This offers a peaceful way to wind down the weekend. Check the park's website for specific operating hours of attractions on the last day of the holiday event.
A daily parking fee of $20 per vehicle is required for entry into Stone Mountain Park. Once inside, some attractions may require an Adventure Pass.
This weekend itinerary for Atlanta can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.