The Ultimate Weekend in Atlanta with Kids: Two-Day Family Fun Itinerary

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Planning a family trip to Atlanta? As someone who lives in the Atlanta suburbs and has spent years bringing my son into the city for adventures, I’ve learned that the best weekends balance big attractions with time to run around, explore and grab a good meal.

Atlanta makes that easy. Many of the city’s top attractions are clustered together, parks offer plenty of space for kids to burn off energy and there are endless restaurants where everyone can find something they love.

Here’s how I like to spend a fun-filled two-day weekend exploring Atlanta with kids.

Day 1: Downtown Atlanta Adventures

Morning

Dive Into the Georgia Aquarium

We start our weekend at Georgia Aquarium, one of Atlanta’s most exciting attractions and the largest aquarium in the United States.

Kids are immediately drawn to the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit where whale sharks and manta rays glide through the water overhead. Walking through the tunnel while fish swim all around you is one of those experiences that makes everyone stop and stare.

If you have time, check the schedule for dolphin or sea lion presentations, which always are a hit with younger visitors. Pro-tip: Pre-register for shows online to ensure your entry. Arriving early helps you beat the crowds and gives you plenty of time to explore before lunch.

What makes it great: Massive marine exhibits, unforgettable underwater tunnels and interactive shows make this one of Atlanta’s most exciting attractions for families.

Midday

Lunch Near the Aquarium

After a busy morning, it’s time to refuel with an easy, family-friendly lunch near the aquarium.

I usually head to one of these nearby spots:

• Atlanta Breakfast Club for Southern comfort favorites
• Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria for crispy pizza, wings and salads
• Wild Leap Atlanta for casual burgers and shareable plates
• The casual dining options inside Signia by Hilton Atlanta offer a variety of easy choices just a short walk away

Before heading to your next stop, grab a coffee and pastry at Friendship Market. If you are visiting on a warm day, the house-made ice cream is a fun treat for kids and adults alike.

What makes it great: Quick, flexible dining options that make it easy to keep the day moving.

Afternoon

Explore the World of Coca-Cola

Next, walk over to the World of Coca-Cola, where kids can explore the story behind Atlanta’s most famous beverage.

Interactive exhibits walk visitors through the brand’s history, but the highlight for many families is the tasting room, where you can sample Coca-Cola products from around the world.

Before you leave, don’t miss the chance to take a photo with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear.

What makes it great: Interactive exhibits, global soda tastings and fun photo opportunities keep kids engaged while parents enjoy the nostalgia.

Evening

Skyline Views on SkyView Atlanta

As the sun starts to set, take a ride on SkyView Atlanta, the giant Ferris wheel overlooking Centennial Olympic Park.

The climate-controlled gondolas slowly rise above Downtown, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the skyline and the park below. It’s a relaxing way to wind down after a busy day of exploring.

For dinner nearby, consider:

• Der Biergarten for giant pretzels and German comfort food
• Park Bar for burgers, sandwiches and a laid-back vibe

What makes it great: A relaxed evening activity with beautiful skyline views and plenty of casual dining options nearby.

Day 2: Midtown Parks and Interactive Museums

Morning

Atlanta Botanical Garden and Piedmont Park

Start your second day in Midtown at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Families love the Children’s Garden, which includes interactive play areas, musical instruments and nature-inspired spaces designed just for kids. It’s a place where kids can explore while still learning about plants and the environment.

When you’re finished, walk next door to Piedmont Park. The open green space offers plenty of room for kids to run, and the skyline views are some of the best in the city.

What makes it great: Interactive nature play areas paired with one of Atlanta’s most iconic parks make this a relaxing start to the day.

Midday

Lunch Near Piedmont Park

Midtown has plenty of family-friendly lunch spots within a short walk or drive.

Some favorites include:

• The Nook for burgers and tater tots
• Sean’s Harvest Market for sandwiches and picnic supplies
• Zocalo for casual tacos and quesadillas
• Grab a breakfast sandwich and coffee at Larikin.

On a nice day, grabbing food to go and eating in Piedmont Park makes for an easy and relaxing break.

What makes it great: Casual restaurants, picnic options and easy park access make lunch simple and stress-free for families.

Afternoon

Center for Puppetry Arts

Next, head over to the Center for Puppetry Arts, one of Atlanta’s most unique museums.

The museum features a massive collection of puppets from around the world and a gallery dedicated to Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets. Kids can see famous characters like Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy up close.

Live puppet performances add another layer of fun and often become the highlight of the day for younger visitors.

What makes it great: A unique blend of theater, hands-on exhibits and beloved puppet characters that entertain both kids and adults.

Evening 

Dinner in Little Five Points + Neighborhood Exploring

Wrap up your weekend in Little Five Points, one of Atlanta’s most eclectic neighborhoods known for its colorful storefronts, street art and laid-back energy.

There are plenty of casual, family-friendly spots for dinner. Grab a slice at Savage Pizza, tacos at Elmyr or burgers at The Vortex, then take your time wandering the area. Kids will love popping into quirky shops, spotting murals and taking in the lively atmosphere.

If you have room for dessert, stop by Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for a scoop before heading out.

What makes it great: A creative, offbeat neighborhood filled with color, character and easy dining makes for a fun and memorable way to end the weekend.

Getting Around Atlanta

Getting around Atlanta with kids is easier than you may expect, especially when focusing on neighborhoods where attractions are clustered together. Many of the stops on this itinerary are located within a short distance of one another, making it easy to combine walking, rideshare and public transportation throughout the weekend.

On Day 1, several major attractions including the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park and SkyView Atlanta are all located in the same Downtown district. Families can comfortably walk between these spots, making it simple to explore with kids and strollers.

For trips between neighborhoods like Downtown, Midtown and the Old Fourth Ward, rideshare services are often the easiest option. A quick ride can connect destinations like Piedmont Park, Center for Puppetry Arts and Ponce City Market without the hassle of navigating traffic or searching for parking.

Visitors can also use MARTA, Atlanta’s rail system, which connects Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport with major areas including Downtown and Midtown. From many stations, it’s easy to continue the trip with a short walk or rideshare to reach nearby attractions.

Once you arrive in places like Piedmont Park, Ponce City Market or along the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail, exploring on foot becomes part of the experience. Wide paths, parks and lively public spaces make it easy for families to slow down, discover public art and enjoy Atlanta at their own pace.