Atlanta strikes the right balance for families seeking quality without chaos. While other major cities overwhelm visitors with endless options and inflated prices, Atlanta delivers world-class attractions on a manageable scale. The intown area keeps families busy without breaking the bank, especially if you plan out your day and pack snacks.

With affordable and free attractions, you can enjoy a fun-filled day without worrying about your budget:

Wildlife & Green Spaces

Located in Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta focuses on up-close animal encounters rather than sheer size. Kids can feed giraffes and explore the Treetop Tykes Trail, while parents get a break at the KidZone playground. When temperatures climb, the splash fountain provides welcome relief. Admission runs $21.20 for children three to 11 and $26.70 for adults.

Nine major exhibits fill the Georgia Aquarium, with the massive Ocean Voyager tank serving as the centerpiece. Daily dolphin shows at 4 and 6 p.m. draw crowds. Pay a little extra for front-row seating. Tickets are priced at $67.99 for ages three and up. During Glow Nights after 4 p.m., save $10 and see it all under special lighting!

Currently spotlighting Alice’s Wonderland through September 14, Atlanta Botanical Garden showcases oversized plants that amuse kids and adults alike. The newer Enchanted Trees exhibit continues through January 2026, lighting up the garden after dark. Children under three enter free and everyone else pays $25.95 on weekdays and $28.95 on weekends. FLEX tickets cost more upfront but allow rescheduling when Atlanta’s weather doesn’t cooperate.

The Fernbank Museum brings dinosaurs to life in impressive fashion! Even teenagers engage with the Giants of the Mesozoic display, while younger ones gravitate toward the hands-on STEAM Lab activities. Please note that the outdoor Fernbank Forest closes at 4:30 p.m. so plan your visit accordingly. Admission runs $25.95 for ages 3-12, with younger children entering free.

Downtown Adventures

At Centennial Olympic Park, everything revolves around the Fountain of Rings, which shoots water 15 feet high with coordinated lights and fog effects. Shows occur at noon, 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 9 p.m. Parents appreciate the zero-depth design that lets kids splash safely without deep water concerns.

Piedmont Park, stretching across 200 acres in Midtown, is a vibrant space that offers a variety of activities for every type of family. Its year-round energy and diverse community festivals keep everyone engaged and excited.

Sports fans find their element at Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, where interactive displays put visitors directly in the action. Tickets cost $27 for ages three to 12, with toddlers admitted free. Please note the museum closes at 5:30 p.m. All ticket sales end at 4:30 p.m.

Museums & Cultural Spots

Targeting ages zero to eight specifically, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta packs four learning zones into 16,316 efficient square feet. Costumed staff called Imaginators add entertainment value to educational activities throughout the day. Daily hours run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Nearly 5,000 puppets, including the world’s most extensive Jim Henson collection, fill the Center for Puppetry Arts. Beyond seeing famous characters up close, visitors can catch any of the 500+ annual shows or join puppet-making workshops. Timed entry tickets start at $16.50 and help manage crowds effectively.

World of Coca-Cola covers the complete soft drink story, including access to that famous secret formula vault. All ages enjoy the 4-D theater, while the international tasting room features Coca-Cola flavors you won’t find anywhere else in America. Kids particularly love the undeniably fun polar bear photo opportunity!

Let KnowAtlanta be your guide to exploring this diverse city! Visit our About ATL page to find more fun and exciting ways to fill your days as you get to know the metro area. Click HERE to request your free copy of our relocation magazine.