Visiting Atlanta Botanical Garden with Kids

One of the best botanical gardens in the country (as reported by USA TODAY) is right in our own backyard! A visit to Atlanta Botanical Garden with kids is filled with hands-on, playful ways to connect with nature in all its beauty. Here’s what you’ll find:

Children’s Garden

The Children’s Garden has a lot to offer. The splash pad is perfect for cooling off on hot days; caregivers and parents have plenty of room to supervise the fun. Plus, expanded bathrooms make changing clothes and diapers easier. The carnivorous plant bog is full of fasincating critter-eating plants, young architects can construct towers in a building play area, and a water “painting” wall is arty entertainment. A large treehouse play area includes more options for climbing and exploring with bridges, climbing nets and sizeable slides.

Fuqua Conservatory

See tropical plants, desert plants, and an astounding orchid display in the Conservatory. Kids love to visit the frogs in the lobby amphibian displays, see butterflies flutter by in the rotunda and peek into the Tissue Culture Lab to see rare and endangered baby plants growing in goo.

Canopy Walk

Let kids lead the way on the 600-foot long Kendeda Canopy Walk. Pause to take in the majestic views of the Storza Woods, one of the few mature hardwood forests in Atlanta. Kids are amazed by being so high in the trees at any time of day.

Outdoor Gardens

A whole garden filled with things you can eat? Yes! It’s fun to discover fruit and vegetables growing in the Edible Garden. Kids can also identify the scent of herbs you use in the kitchen at the Herb Wall. And the best smells are in the Rose Garden, where colorful blooms are everywhere you look.

Kids Programs

Themed garden playtime, storybook time, shows for seedlings and more take place weekly at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. With nature themes mixed into performances, art or hand-on projects, kids have a blast while learning. Check the calendar for dates and programs.

Special Events

Seasonal celebrations are can’t-miss events. Scarecrows in the Garden is a highlight of autumn, with spectacular and spooky scarecrows along the paths. Garden Lights in the winter brings exciting night-time displays. Concerts, special exhibits and more round out the year. Check the  calendar to make sure you don’t miss an outstanding event.

Tips for Visiting

The Garden is usually closed on Mondays, so check the calendar before you head out. The website offers itineraries, which are great for first time visitors. Dress the kids in swimwear and bring dry clothes to change into after a visit to the splash pad. The family restroom close to the water play area makes quick changes a breeze. Consider an annual membership if your kids love their visit. It is well worth it if you plan to go frequently. And remember, this is one of the most picturesque spots in Atlanta, so don’t forget a camera.