End-of-Summer Day Trips
Enjoy the last days of summer before they’re gone! Plan a day of fun with our list of family-friendly parks, attractions and gardens. They’re not far from home!
Make a Splash: Water Parks
Margaritaville’s Fins Up Water Park
When you’re craving water adventures, Fins Up is the place to go! This lakeside adventure park features the Apocalypso waterslide coaster, along with daredevil water slides Intimidator and Triple Threat. Enjoy the wave pool at Parakeet Springs, ride through an illuminated tunnel in Mango Mania, or explore a water obstacle course at Wibit Aquatic Adventure. Relax in the shade on the beach, and enjoy cool drinks and food from several restaurant and walk-up food options.
More Water Parks We Love:
Lake Life: Fun in the Sun
Lake Lanier
With 680 miles of shoreline and located just north of Atlanta, Lake Lanier is the perfect lake destination. Find spots for camping, fishing, swimming and watersports at multiple local and state parks, including Don Carter State Park, Buford Dam Park or Big Creek Park. Lanier Islands Resort has plenty of things for families to do, including boats for rent, the Game Changer entertainment venue, restaurants, hiking and walking trails, a beach, waterpark and more.
More Lakes We Love:
Enjoy Nature: Parks and Gardens
Stone Mountain Park
Just a few miles east of metro Atlanta, this iconic park has something for everyone, including scenic views, fascinating history, special events, rides and attractions. Hike or take the Summit Skyride to the top of Stone Mountain for spectacular views of the Atlanta skyline and the Appalachian Mountains. Explore historic buildings, zipline or paddleboard on Stone Mountain Lake, or enjoy picnic with a mountain view. Visit the Dinosaur Explore and Dinotorium exhibits, see “The Lost World” in 4D and go mini-golfing at the Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf. Climb through the trees on SkyHike, visit the Geyser Splashpad (through August 31) or see the Summer Light Show. Check the website for schedules and special event dates.
More Parks and Gardens to Visit:
Thrills and Chills: Amusement Parks
Six Flags Over Georgia
An Atlanta favorite since 1967, Six Flags is a great place for kids and kids-at-heart to spend the day. Take a spin on the park’s newest coaster, Georgia Gold Rusher, where you’ll get a high-speed, high-elevation ride and even some splashes. More thrill rides include the Dare Devil Dive, BATMAN: The Ride and the Georgia Surfer. Kids and the less adventurous can try the BATCOPTERS, Riverview Carousel, ACME Trucking Company, or take a train ride on a real locomotive. Enjoy live summer entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and more special events.
More Not-to-Miss Amusement Parks:
Walk on the Wild Side: Safari Experiences
Georgia Safari Conservation Park
This park boasts 530 acres and a range of African species, including giraffes, rhinos, zebras and antelope. Board a safari truck for a guided tour (1.5 hours) or safari encounter tour (2.5 hours), where you’ll see and learn about the animals and life on the savanna. VIP safari tours (3 hours) include an animal encounter and behind-the-scenes opportunities.
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Discover Gold
Learn about Georgia’s gold rush past and pan for gold and gems at these fun spots.
Air and Space Adventures
For kids who love air and space, these spots offer a look into the history of aviation and space travel.
Ride the Rails: Train Rides
Relax and enjoy the mountain views, charming towns and beautiful scenery during a train excursion.
