Visit the barn to see a winger snipe the biscuit in the basket and celly! (Translation: Go to the Infinite Energy Center hockey arena and see a forward shoot the puck into the goal and celebrate.)

Don’t worry if your kids (or you) don’t know the lingo or all of the rules, hockey is a fast, physical sport that is fun to watch and easy to learn.

The Atlanta Gladiators are an ECHL (formerly East Coast Hockey League) Boston Bruins affiliate. This mid-level (beneath the NHL and AHL) hockey team has been around since 2003, and is Atlanta’s only professional hockey team. Atlanta’s NHL team, The Thrashers, left in 2011.

Each game has a special theme including the upcoming Star Wars Night (Feb. 18) and Princess Day (March 12), and throughout each game there are contests and interactive activities (puck toss, T-shirt give-a-way, on-ice relays).

Atlanta Gladiators Hockey is a fast-paced, fun family outing. My 4-year-old daughter loved the dance cam and was excited to meet the mascot, Maximus. My 7-year-old son, a hockey fanatic, loved being able to high-five the players as they skated onto the ice.

Know Before You Go: The Infinite Energy Center is easy to access, has free parking and has ample food vendors to make for a low-stress family outing. Lower ticket prices can be found if you take advantage of promotions such as Kroger Family Sundays. The temperature inside the arena is comfortable, so no need to pack your parka (most people just wear long sleeves). The overall atmosphere is family friendly, though there is the potential for an errant puck in the stands or an occasional on-ice scuffle.

– Megan Ratcliff

The Details

Atlanta Gladiators
6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth
atlantagladiators.com; 770-497-5100
Tickets: $12-$33
Schedule: Regular season through April 8; check the website for dates and times.