In the Neighborhood: Duluth, Johns Creek and Suwanee
PlayTown Suwanee
These northern metro suburban areas are well-known for having good schools, low crime rates, lots of parks, convenient locations and family‑oriented amenities and activities like community events and large town center areas.
Suwanee Town Center is a top spot for families who live in the area. The 10-acre park has large green spaces for picnics and free play, an interactive splash fountain for kids to cool off in the summer, a playground at PlayTown Suwanee that was built by community volunteers, and a 1,000-seat amphitheater that hosts a regular lineup of family-friendly events and performances.
Suwanee started as a Native American village — originally Shawnee, and later was also home to Cherokee and Creek peoples. Today, downtown Suwanee is home to SculpTour — 24 sculptures. Each piece of public art was designed and created by a different artist and you can vote for your favorite.
Johns Creek is the 10th largest city in Georgia and was named a best place to live, as well as the safest city in the U.S. in the crime subcategory, by US News & World Report this year. Plus, Newtown Dream Dog Park was named the Second Best Dog Park in America by USA Today.
Duluth is known for its culturally diverse and welcoming population that makes the city a vibrant community. It has also been recognized as one of the “Best Affordable Suburbs in America” by Bloomberg Businessweek.
Play Here
For families who enjoy the outdoors, McDaniel Farm Park is a must-see! The historic 1930s-era cotton farm in Duluth is home to miles of walking trails, a large playground, and historic barn.
Duluth Town Green
Duluth Town Green is the central hub of downtown Duluth with plenty of green space, a splash fountain in the summer, and a playground. It’s a great place to let the kids loose while enjoying seasonal festivals or a meal on the weekends.
A newer addition to Johns Creek, Cauley Creek Park is set along the Chattahoochee and its 203 acres is home to a playground, river overlooks, rubberized walking trails, athletic fields and courts, as well as a cricket pitch.
Fun for Tots
Funville Factory
Indoor play spaces can be overwhelming for toddlers, but Funville Factory in Johns Creek is dedicated to ages 10 months to 6 years. There are separate areas for the toddlers, so you can feel comfortable letting them explore and test their independence.
If your child is creative, check out Kidcreate Studio in Johns Creek. They offer classes for 18 months and older. Toddler classes keep little ones moving and engaged, while classes for preschoolers nurture independence and confidence. Classes are affordable and give you a chance to connect with your child in a fun way.
Area Attractions
For energetic kids, trampoline parks are a fun way to spend the day. Pokiddo in Duluth is a trampoline park with so much more! It features a climbing zone, ninja courses, Velcro wall, slides, an arcade and mini go-karts. In Johns Creek, check out XtremeHopp. This park has trampolines, a rock-climbing wall, and ninja warrior courses. Both indoor spaces have attentive staff for a safer environment.
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center in Johns Creek is a 46-acre preserve. Ideal for animal lovers and history buffs, you can explore woodland trails, animal exhibits, and historic buildings.
Perfect for families with young children, the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth offers an afternoon of adventure with hands-on displays and train-themed activities. Little ones will have a blast getting on and off the train cars.
Eat Here
The Burger Factory
If you love burgers, check out The Burger Factory (TBF) in Johns Creek. It’s a casual place with friendly staff, and the menu features a variety of burgers and sides, including lemon pepper and sweet potato fries. Kids will love the option of adding a milkshake to dinner. Parents will appreciate the reasonable prices and choices for protein, including pork, chicken or beef.
Families in Suwanee love Seaside Oyster Bar. The family-friendly atmosphere with large tables has an affordable kids’ menu and options for those who don’t like seafood. Deepfried Oreos are a must-try for dessert.
Pancakes, eggs, French toast and waffles take center stage at Just Brunch Breakfast Bar in Duluth. The spot serves brunch six days a week. Little ones can choose to order from the kids’ menu or large selection of sides. And, unlike a lot of breakfast places, this one takes reservations!
The Hicks Family Faves
Anna, James Hudson (left) and Colson
We love the vibe/location of our neighborhood because: We love living in Johns Creek because it is such a safe, family-friendly diverse area. We can get to Suwanee, Norcross and Alpharetta with ease. We are surrounded by really good schools, nice parks and delicious places to eat. We feel blessed to live and work in such a great community.
Our favorite playground is: Town Green. There are so many playground obstacles that our boys can climb on, there is shade nearby for the parents which is key for those hot sunny days, and so many restaurants within walking distance if you need to grab a bite to eat.
Our favorite restaurant is: Sushi Momo. It is a small Japanese restaurant nearby that is family-owned; they have amazing food, our kids love eating the edamame and ramen, and the customer service is always top-notch.
You can’t miss this hidden gem: Confections Bakery & Cafe is such a good find. They have an amazing assortment of fresh baked desserts and it is such a great place to get birthday cakes. They use whipped cream instead of frosting so you don’t feel guilty after eating them.
-Tali Benjamin
Great family resources in Suwanee/Johns Creek/Duluth:
