12 Things to Love About Downtown Atlanta

Downtown Atlanta | iStock

Downtown Atlanta is a great spot for family fun in any season. With easy access and plenty of kid-friendly attractions close together, it’s an ideal part of the city for exploring with kids. Here are 12 reasons why:

1. Many Attractions Close Together

Many of Atlanta’s top kid-friendly attractions are clustered together in downtown. Without getting back in the car (goodbye, traffic!) you can visit the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, The Center for Civil and Human Rights, The Chick-fil-A Fan College Football Hall of Fame, The World of Coke, Georgia Aquarium, and Oakland Cemetery. Tip: If you plan to hit several attractions in a short period of time, consider picking up the Atlanta CityPASS.

World of Coca-Cola | iStock

2. Seat of Georgia Government

The Georgia State Capitol building is in the heart of downtown. It’s free to check out the hallowed halls of our state’s legislature, and a self-guided tour through the exhibits gives great insight into Georgia’s history. Plus, there are unique animal exhibits that’ll excite the kids… believe us!

Georgia State Capitol building | iStock

3. Centennial Olympic Park

Downtown is home to one of Atlanta’s most historic and expansive parks. Families can have hours of fun enjoying the splashy Fountain of Rings (currently closed), the universally accessible playground, and open air concerts and events.

4. Public Art on Display

You can view sensational art without stepping inside a building! See the unique and colorful works at recently renovated Folk Art Park. Or, see the city of Atlanta’s downtown public art installations on a smartphone tour.

5. Special Events

Downtown Atlanta hosts more special events than any other part of the metro area. From DragonCon to holiday observances, like the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Christmas parade, there’s often a big celebration happening.

6. Home of the Atlanta StreetCar

Park your car and let the Atlanta StreetCar chauffer you through the Downtown Loop to attractions, parks and restaurants. Rides are inexpensive and air-conditioned!

7. Great Geocaching

Landmarks abound in downtown Atlanta, which means there are many geocaches in store. If you’re not familiar with the family-friendly treasure hunt activity, check out our AP beginner’s guide here.

8.  Cheer on ATL sports teams

Downtown is the place for sports fans to see their favorite players in person. Take in an Atlanta United match or see the Atlanta Hawks hit the court. Remember, arrive early for freebies and to enjoy pre-game activities.

Flatiron building | iStock

9. Self-Guided Tours

Maybe you’re interested in Atlanta’s downtown architecture, which includes styles from the Victorian period to Art Deco to contemporary. Or, you’d like to check out the buildings in downtown that were original to the city. There’s a tour for that! Download a self-guided walking tour like this one and start seeing the sights. From churches to office buildings with infamous pasts, there’s a lot of ground to cover.

10. Sky High Views

Want to really see the gorgeous Atlanta skyline? On a clear day you can see all the way to Kennesaw Mountain while riding a Skyview gondola. Or, visit The Sun Dial Restaurant and Observatory  for a 360 degree view of the city from on high.

Hard Rock Café | iStock

11. Kid-Friendly Eats

Grab a slice at longtime Atlanta restaurant Rosa’s Pizza or dine surrounded by rock and roll history at the Hard Rock Café. You can explore the historic Sweet Auburn Curb Market and find something to hit everyone’s spot, or visit the original Ted’s Montana Grill on Luckie Street. You won’t go hungry in downtown!

12.  Getting There is Easy

If you drive downtown, public parking lots are readily available. On weekends, you might get lucky with free parking at the courthouse or other business lot. Taking MARTA is a travel option that’s also an adventure for younger kids. Hop off at Five Points Station or any Downtown stop to start walking, or to catch the Atlanta Streetcar.