Looking for fun for the whole family? From downtown to the suburbs, Atlanta has plenty of activities to make everyone happy.
The most centralized area of family activities in Atlanta has to be downtown. Located near Centennial Olympic Park are several sites that offer both indoor and outdoor activities. The park itself has ongoing events such as concerts and family fun days. Also located within the park is the Fountain of Rings. This is the centerpiece and features lights and water fountains in the shape of the Olympic symbol. Built for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, the fountains come alive four times a day, everyday of the year and also offer a great way to cool off on a hot summer day. For updated information on all of the events at Centennial Olympic Park, visit www.centennialpark.com.
Located just across the street from the park is the Georgia Aquarium, which is the largest aquarium in the world. The Georgia Aquarium, which opened in 2005, has over 500 species in over 8 million gallons of water. Some of the more popular animals include the whale shark, which is touted as the largest fish in the world, and the beluga whales. Kids as well as adults will be thrilled and amazed as they pass through the many exhibits. The aquarium is a wonderful way to educate the public about our beautiful creatures from the sea as well as magnificent entertainment. For more information on admission prices and hours of operation, visit www.georgiaaquarium.org.
Also near Centennial Olympic Park are the Atlanta Children’s Museum and the new World of Coca-Cola, which opens to the public in May of 2007. Both offer opportunities to learn new things, but the coke museum has artifacts from around the world to see and taste. Then, when everyone needs a break, walk over to CNN Center for a quick bite to eat or a little shopping for a souvenir.
The Atlanta Zoo is another great way to spend the day. The zoo offers animal attractions, rides, and educational opportunities. It’s also home to Atlanta’s newest resident, Mei Lan, who is a giant panda cub born at the zoo in 2006. Be sure to make an appointment to stop by and say hello. For more information, go to www.zooatlanta.org.
Less than 20 miles east of Atlanta is Stone Mountain Park. This park contains over 3,000 acres, including a lake and woodlands. As well as activities like camping, hiking and walking trails, the park also offers boat rides and a nightly laser show on the world’s largest piece of exposed granite. Stone Mountain Park is open seasonally, so more information on ticketing and times of operation, go to www.stonemountainpark.com.
The Atlanta area also has three other theme parks: Six Flags over Georgia, Six Flags White Water, and American Adventures. All three offer rides for thrill seekers of all ages and is a great way to spend a summer day. For more information, go to www.sixflags.com.
Finally, if you are in to sports, Atlanta has got you covered. Whether it’s baseball, football, basketball, hockey, or even collegiate sports, there’s usually a game going on somewhere in the city and it shouldn’t be hard to find. Just follow the screaming fans with face paint and jerseys.
So if you’re going to Atlanta for business or a quick holiday, bring the whole family. This city has a little of everything and surely offers something for everyone.
