In the Neighborhood: Woodstock

Dupree Park / Visit Woodstock GA

Woodstock is the fastest growing city in Cherokee County. In the past decade, the city has doubled in size.

If you’re looking for some free outdoor fun, head to Dupree Park. The pirate-themed playground is a neighborhood favorite; plus, the park also has a pond with ducks and for fishing, pickleball courts, a community orchard, disc golf course and more. KidzStock Park is another Woodstock staple. Housed on the property of First Baptist Church of Woodstock, the playground features climbing structures, slides, swings, a wooden ship, a basketball court and a rock-climbing wall. There’s a separate area known as the Tot Lot for younger kids to enjoy.

The whole family will have fun gaming at The Blue Ghost Arcade. The arcade section features throwbacks like Frogger, Defender and Tron. Nintendo 64, Super NES Mini and Sega Genesis Mini are just a few of the gaming consoles you can try. They also have pinball machines and a variety of board games. It costs $18 for a day pass that includes unlimited popcorn and free play on all games. No tokens required! Kids ages 5 and younger are free.

If you need to beat the heat, plan a day of indoor activities at Big Air Trampoline Park and AMF Lanes. From the classic trampolines to dodgeball, obstacles courses and zip line, Big Air has something for everyone. Plus, they have two zones dedicated to toddlers, so they can enjoy jumping and exploring right-sized obstacles safely. If bowling and billiards is more your speed, AMF features 40 lanes. They also have a full menu and daily specials, like unlimited family bowling between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

A true neighborhood gem is Victoria Beach at Lake Allatoona. Kids can enter the water from the sandy beach or fish from the nearby boat launch area. You can bring a picnic or use one of the park’s grills. The park also features restrooms, which are well-maintained and great for changing before heading home. Entry is $5 per car; they do not accept cash. Dogs are not allowed at Victoria Beach.

Woodstock is home to three farms you can visit to pick berries, find pumpkins, enjoy hayrides and more, depending on the season. Berry Patch Farms is known for its blueberries; plus, they have pumpkins in the fall and a Christmas Market during the holidays. Big Springs Farm is a favorite destination for fall and is dog-friendly. Buckeye Creek Farm is more of an adult destination, offering cooking classes and gardening workshops. They also sell their organic produce at Woodstock Farmers Market, which is open every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon between April and December downtown on Market Street.

-Tali Benjamin