In the Neighborhood: Buckhead
Chastain Park Playground
A look at the top family-friendly spots in this part of metro Atlanta.
Population: 108,388
Zip codes: 30305, 30326, 30327, 30342, 30324.
Known for: Upscale homes, shopping, hotels and restaurants; a commercial and financial center in the city.
At 268 acres, Chastain Park is one of the metro area’s largest parks and is a central part of the Buckhead community. Some of the park’s features include a swimming pool, tennis courts, gymnasium, walking trails, softball/baseball diamonds, a golf course, urban garden and horse park. There is also an amphitheater that hosts concerts and cultural events. The best spot for families is the 40,000-square-foot playground. The nature-inspired design is fully wheelchair accessible and includes some unique elements such as “oodle” swings, an outdoor piano, a treehouse and roller slides built into the hillside. Bring a picnic to enjoy before or after you play.
Kids who love to build will enjoy LEGO Discovery Center at Phipps Plaza. Complete with play areas, hands-on building opportunities and a VR coaster, the attraction offers hours of fun. There’s also a 4D movie and a calm ride that the whole family can enjoy. From toddlers to 9 year olds, the experience is worth the price of admission.
If you haven’t checked it out yet, the Goizueta Children’s Experience at Atlanta History Center is a must see in Buckhead. The new, 5,000-square-foot permanent space is dedicated to kids and allows them to experience the city through play, exploration and storytelling. Plus, you can visit the farm and gardens on the grounds from some fresh air and a look back in time.
Keep your house clean and let the kids get messy with a trip to Sloomoo Institute. Everyone can make their own slime creation, hang out in the squishy pit, explore scents, and slingshot slime. Elevate your experience with a behind-the-scenes tour or a visit to Sloomoo Falls where you get slimed.
While Buckhead may be known for luxury shopping, explore the great outdoors at Blue Heron Nature Preserve. The 30 acres of woodlands, wetlands, riparian areas and meadows is located in North Buckhead just off Roswell Road and is truly a nature-lover’s dream. Use the three-mile Blueway Trail to discover all the natural wonders. Parking is free or take Marta’s bus route 5. You can download a map before your visit at bhnp.org.
Get dressed up and enjoy an elegant afternoon tea. There are a few places to choose from in Buckhead — St. Regis, Waldorf Astoria or Swan Coach House. Each location offers a variety of sandwiches, scones and sweet treats to accompany your tea. Reservations are recommended.
Play Time
If the weather isn’t great, check out some of these indoor spaces that will keep the whole family entertained.
- Kids Avenue is an indoor playground designed for babies through 8 year olds. Kids will love interacting in the pretend city where they can be a firefighter, baker or shopper. One adult is free with each child.
- Older kids and tweens will have a blast at Activate, an interactive gaming space. In the various rooms, you become the game pieces solving problems and competing against time and one another to score points. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes as the experience is a workout.
- Head to Miami Circle for sliding, jumping, wall climbing and more at Oodazu. The obstacle course and games, like air hockey, are great for elementary school aged kids; drop-ins are welcome, though reservations are recommended on the weekends. Adults are free and two-hour play increments are $20.
-Tali Benjamin
More great resources for families in Buckhead:
