Things to do with grandparents in Atlanta

When the grandparents come for a visit, it’s an excuse to play tourist and show off our city. Finding spots that appeal to all ages in your extended family can be a challenge, but this list of places to take the grandparents in Atlanta should give you plenty of ideas.

Centennial Olympic Park

Dance with the grandparents in the iconic Fountain of Rings – the largest interactive fountain in the world! Then take a seat and watch the dancing water program that features lights and music. Visit the playground while you’re there and use the engraved bricks to invent new games.

The Atlanta BeltLine

Stroll or ride bikes on the BeltLine, stopping to admire artwork, pop onto a playground, or grab a bite at Ponce City Market. Grandparents who haven’t been to Atlanta in a while will be amazed to see the new trail networks and all the interesting spots along them.

Georgia Aquarium

Encounter underwater life, giggle through a dolphin show and make funny photos with the penguins in the viewing portals. Who doesn’t want to visit the beluga whales?!

Atlanta History Center

Exhibits covering Atlanta’s rich history engage grandparents. View the Texas Locomotive and hear the story of the Great Locomotive Chase. Kids love the special exhibits, trails and farm animals. Make a visit extra memorable by scheduling an appointment to have your kids interview a grandparent at the StoryCorps Booth on the AHC campus.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

The ideal place for a beautiful grandparent-grandkid pic, the Garden is pretty anytime of year. Plan to go during a special event or class, or just explore the level paths. Don’t miss the Edible Garden and the Canopy Walk! On view through Sept. 17, see six enormous folklore-inspired sculptures with Trolls: Save the Humans.

Sweet Auburn Curb Market

Atlanta’s oldest farmers market offers a bit of something for everyone. With many eateries and shops, it’s ideal for a very hot or very rainy day. Go hungry! This is a mealtime adventure that requires no compromising; everyone can find a bite to suit their tastes.

Basement Theatre Family Improv

Catch a G-rated comedy improv show in the style of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” on a Friday night. The whole family can make suggestions and volunteer to participate in stage games. Reservations are highly recommended; it fills up!

Wren’s Nest

A national history landmark, Wren’s Nest offers weekly storytelling experiences. Adults and kids can both enjoy these folklore adventures and learn about African American heritage at the home of author Joel Chandler Harris, who wrote the Brer Rabbit tales.

Kennesaw Mountain

Got a Civil War history buff in the fam? Take them to Kennesaw Mountain (you can drive to the top if the hike would be too difficult) for panoramic views of Atlanta. Special programs throughout the year bring history to life in the battlefield park.

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art has a large collection of art from a variety of time periods and art movements. On the UPS Second Sunday, enjoy free admission to see the art in the galleries, music by a local DJ and drop-in art making. September’s event is the same day as Grandparents Day!

Sloomoo Institute

On Grandparents Day, enjoy a day of slime at Sloomoo Institute. Make your own slime, play with kinetic sand, take photos, go on a behind-the-scenes tour with Elmer’s Glue, enjoy sweet treats and more.

Looking for more? Explore our giant list of great things to do in Atlanta with kids.

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