Atlanta is packed with brilliant days out that won’t cost you a cent. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or looking for new ideas close to home, this city has parks, nature trails, historic landmarks and hands-on learning spots that families can enjoy for free. Here are 10 of our favourite free things to do in Atlanta with kids.
1. Centennial Olympic Park
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park is one of Atlanta’s best-loved green spaces and it’s free to visit all year round. In summer, kids love jumping around in the park’s famous dancing water fountain, and the park often hosts free weekly concerts and community events. Winter brings a festive lights display and an outdoor ice rink to the park too, so it’s worth checking what’s on whenever you visit.
2. Check Out the Stars at Fernbank Science Center
Admission is free at Fernbank Science Center, and families can explore the current exhibitions that make science fun and hands-on for kids of all ages. The centre’s observatory is home to one of the largest telescopes in the south eastern United States, and there are public observation evenings when local astronomers help position the telescope and answer questions from curious young stargazers. The planetarium has a small entry charge, so it’s worth checking current pricing before you go.
3. Enjoy a Hike on Kennesaw Mountain
Pack a picnic and head to Kennesaw Mountain, where 18 miles of interpretive trails wind through beautiful woodland with sweeping views from the top. Bring binoculars and cameras, the scenery is worth it. As well as being a natural beauty spot full of wildlife, Kennesaw Mountain is a historic Civil War battlefield, with monuments to fallen soldiers and occasional re-enactments bringing its history to life.
> “We love to hike Chattahoochee, Kennesaw Mountain and Sweetwater Creek.” — Chris V.
4. Explore Atlanta’s Nature Trails
Nature centres are one of our favourite free things to do in Atlanta with kids. On the south side of town, Dauset Trails offers a 1,200-acre preserve full of wildlife and a busy calendar of family events. On the north side, Dunwoody Nature Center is a lovely spot with:
- Peaceful woodland and wetlands hiking trails
- A shaded playground
- A playhouse for younger children
- An activity centre running special programmes throughout the year
5. Abernathy Greenway
Abernathy Greenway is a charming little park in Sandy Springs, with a patio, gardens, a lighted trail and a handful of striking art structures that double as play equipment. Kids are encouraged to climb, slide and swing from the sculptures, including a giant dragonfly structure complete with rope swings and multiple slides. It’s a fantastic free stop if you’re exploring the Sandy Springs area.
6. Take a Bike Ride Along the Atlanta BeltLine
If you can bring bikes, the Atlanta BeltLine is a flat, easy-to-follow path right within the city limits. Along the way you’ll pass the Old Fourth Ward Skate Park and a playground, plus plenty of public art and places to refuel if you get hungry. Bike rental is available locally if you don’t have your own.
> “Bike rides on the BeltLine are always good. We start at Old Fourth Ward Park and take the BeltLine to Piedmont Park.” — Chris V.
7. Georgia State Capitol
A visit to the Georgia State Capitol makes for a surprisingly fun history lesson. The building is child-friendly, with scavenger hunts and art searches designed to get kids excited about exploring Atlanta’s past. Free guided and self-guided tours are available, so you can pick whatever suits your family’s pace.
8. Acworth Beach
Acworth Beach and Park is another great picnic spot, with a sandy beach, a designated swimming area and two playgrounds to keep kids entertained. It’s a little quieter than some of Atlanta’s other swim spots, and the park regularly hosts concerts and community events throughout the year.
9. The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site
This meaningful historic site includes several facilities where visitors can learn about Dr. King’s life and lasting influence. The landscaped plaza’s focal point is the “I Have a Dream” World Peace Rose Garden, featuring a water fountain and messages of peace written by local Atlanta schoolchildren, a lovely, reflective stop for families.
10. Atlanta Federal Reserve
Curious kids can learn about money and the economy at the Atlanta Federal Reserve, which offers free self-guided tours during normal business hours. Older children in particular will enjoy learning how currency has evolved over time, watching the bill-counting machine in action, and picking up a bag of shredded money to take home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free things to do in Atlanta with kids?
Some top picks include Centennial Olympic Park, Kennesaw Mountain, the Atlanta BeltLine, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. Each offers a different kind of family day out, from active outdoor time to hands-on history.
Is Centennial Olympic Park good for young children?
Yes, the park’s open lawns and interactive water fountain make it a popular spot for younger kids, while older children enjoy exploring the wider park area and any events taking place.
Are the nature trails around Atlanta suitable for buggies and younger kids?
Many of the trails, including those at Dunwoody Nature Center, are family-friendly with manageable paths, though surfaces can vary. It’s a good idea to check trail conditions before you go if you’re bringing a buggy.
Do I need to book ahead for any of these free attractions?
Most of these spots, including the Georgia State Capitol and Atlanta Federal Reserve, welcome self-guided visits without booking, though it’s worth checking current visiting hours before you set off.
What should we bring on a day exploring Atlanta with kids?
A picnic, water, comfortable walking shoes and, if you’re heading to the BeltLine or Kennesaw Mountain, bikes or binoculars will help you make the most of the day.
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