Accessible Atlanta: All Kids Want to Have Fun!

Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites

Getting out and about with a child who has special needs can be a challenge. In Atlanta, many museums, venues and public spaces go above and beyond when it comes to “accessibility for all.” The amenities at these parks, attractions and playgrounds were thoughtfully created with accessibility in mind.

Georgia State Parks
Outdoors Beyond Barriers, the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites accessibility initiative, includes 20 all-terrain wheelchairs, available at 19 state parks and historic sites. GRIT Chairs – a hybrid wheelchair and mountain bike – as well as color-blind glasses will be available later this year. Other accessible offerings at select parks include ADA cabins and kayak launches, accessible trails and an accessible horse ramp. Check the website for a list of parks with accessible features.

Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center
Walking trails, interactive exhibits and even a turtle pond make the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center a great spot for exploring nature. The newly opened Sensory Treehouse, located along a 340-foot walkway in the forest, is ADA-accessible and features a viewing and activity platform. Along the walkway are multisensory environmental exhibits and experiences focusing on nature, pollinators and more. Buford.

Atlanta Braves
The Braves make it easier for families with kids of all abilities to enjoy a game. Their Exceptional Fans program includes a welcome kit with a sensory map, credentials with the option to skip concession lines and a Braves fidget. Truist Park also offers accessible parking and seating, listening devices and captioning, as well as noise cancelling headphones and a quiet room. Check the Access Guide for details; purchase game tickets through the Accessible Services department to receive a welcome kit.

PlayTown Suwanee
The PlayTown Suwanee playground has been redesigned to be a space for children of all abilities to engage in imaginative play. Wheelchair-accessible features include a continuous loop design, special surfacing, ramps and an accessible merry-go-round. There are also side-by-side slides, a cozy “cocoon,” disc and supportive swings, and sensory experiences. The playground also has a separate area for toddlers, a dinosaur “fossil” excavation area and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables.

Read Atlanta Parent’s Guide to Accessible Playgrounds.
Read Atlanta Parent’s Guide to Sensory Friendly Events and Programs.
Find resources in Atlanta Parent’s Special Needs Resource Guide.