In the Neighborhood: Dunwoody

Brook Run Park/Paul Ward

A look at the top family-friendly spots in this part of metro Atlanta.

Population: 57,713; DeKalb County

Zip Codes: 30338, 30346, 30356, 30360, 31146

Known for being a vibrant community of suburban life; a prime location just outside the perimeter with many neighborhoods featuring swim/tennis.

Brook Run Park, at 110 acres, is the largest park in Dunwoody. The community hub features kid-friendly finds such as a large playground with structures for all ages and abilities, skate park, two artificial turf baseball fields and two artificial turf multisport fields. The whole family will appreciate the two-mile loop multi-use trail, disc golf course, dog park, community garden, amphitheater, open fields and event pavilion. The park is also home to Food Truck Thursdays (May-October), Groovin’ on the Green (June-October), a Saturday farmers market and many other events including Lemonade Days (Wednesday, April 23-Sunday, April 27), which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

Next door to Brook Run Park, Treetop Quest is a zip line adventure the whole family can enjoy. With five difficulty levels, including a challenge course for 4 to 6 year olds, check it out for the day or get a season pass. Safety equipment and training are provided by the friendly and educated staff.

Explore the great outdoors at Dunwoody Nature Center, 22-acre forest in the suburbs. The facility that includes a playground, trails and a wetland habitat is open daily and free to enjoy. Host to several events each year, the most popular is the Butterfly Experience in September when kids can interact with hundreds of butterflies, enjoy live music and activities, animal shows and more.

Off Lakeside Drive in Dunwoody, Windwood Hollow Park features a playground, two tennis courts, nature trails and an open meadow for free play in its 11 acres. The playground is shaded by trees and a sunshade for year-round enjoyment. Many families host birthday parties at the nearby picnic pavilion.

If indoor fun is more your family’s style, check out these gaming spots. For a family-friendly competition, check out Puttshack for putt-putt. Or, try the new Game Show Battle Room to be the stars of your own version of classic game shows. It’s great for older kids and groups of friends or extended family.

PAW Patrol lovers will have a blast at CAMP Atlanta. The themed experience includes an obstacle course, games and more. The space also features a slime bar, store and special events. The Dunwoody spot is great for hosting birthday parties as well.

Located in Dunwoody near Perimeter Mall, Ashford Lane features a green space with games for the kids and seasonal events. When it’s time to eat, walk to adjacent restaurants like Superica, Culinary Dropout, Hawkers or Hobnob or grab a sweet treat at Jeni’s Ice Cream. All have family-friendly atmospheres and menus. Also in walking distance is the food hall Politan Row.

In Dunwoody Village, check out Funwoody with a central courtyard with a huge screen, space for the kids to run around, and events like this month’s Green Eggs & Kegs. Surrounding the outdoor space are several restaurants including Message in a Bottle, Bar(n), Morty’s Meat & Supply and Yoffi. The newest addition is Good Vibes Ice Cream Shop & Soda Pop, a retro-style ice cream spot that includes hand-crafted sodas and arcade games.

Children’s resale is the name of the game at Kid to Kid. Whether you are looking to sell some of your gently used clothing, books, bikes, toys or gear or are in the market for shopping, this Dunwoody gem has you covered.

Located in Dunwoody Village, A January Love Children’s Boutique features high-end clothing and toys for babies and toddlers. The brands offered are eco-friendly and have style for the modern family in mind.

The Miller Family Faves

Andy, Michelle, Cooper (8) and Jacob (10)

We love the vibe/location of our neighborhood because: It is safe, familial and wholesome — we run into someone we know wherever we go, and it really feels like a community.

Our favorite playground is: Most recently, it has been High Street and anywhere else with a green space.

Our favorite restaurant is: Superica. Our kids also love Vintage Pizzeria.

You can’t miss this hidden gem: NFA burger in the Chevron gas station! It has now gained popularity and is opening a second location, but for years I’d say it qualified as a hidden gem.

Check out our ideas for exploring Sandy Springs.