Need a break from Atlanta's constant buzz? Whether you’re a mom or a nanny, sometimes a quick escape is just what the doctor ordered and these family-friendly day trips from Atlanta offer a refreshing escape. So, gather up the kids, pack your favorite snacks, and let’s embark on a little adventure!
1. Stone Mountain Park
Distance from Atlanta: 30 minutes
Why Go? Stone Mountain Park is one of the most popular day trips from Atlanta, offering kids and families plenty of outdoor adventures just a short drive away. Start with the Scenic Railroad—kids will love chugging around the mountain while you take in the views. Got a tiny explorer? The Dinosaur Explore exhibit features life-size dino replicas that roar and move, which will definitely wow your little ones. When the weather's warm, cool off at the Geyser Towers, a playground with rope bridges and water features that’ll leave kids soaked and smiling.
Prices: Park entrance is $20 per vehicle; attractions pass starts at $39.99 per adult and $34.99 per child.
Pit Stop: It’s a short drive, but if you need a quick snack or potty break, the Dekalb Farmer’s Market is nearby and worth a stop for fresh fruit or a smoothie.
Stroller Friendly? Absolutely! The park is very stroller accessible, with paved paths and ramps.
Lunch Spots: Refuel with these kid-friendly options nearby:
- Stone Mountain Pizza Cafe: Dive into delicious pizza and pasta in a laid-back setting—perfect for refueling the troops.
- Metro Cafe Diner: Offering hearty meals that'll satisfy those adventure-sized appetites.
- Sweet Potato Café: Serving farm-to-table dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Great for those looking for a healthier twist.
2. Chattahoochee Nature Center
Distance from Atlanta: 40 minutes
Why Go? Chattahoochee Nature Center is another fantastic option for day trips from Atlanta, with interactive exhibits and nature trails that make for a fun and educational escape. Don't miss the Nature Playscape—your little ones can climb logs, dig in the sand, and splash around, learning about Georgia’s ecosystems through pure play. It’s an outdoor classroom designed to entertain and enlighten without feeling like a lesson.
Prices: General admission is $20 for adults and $14 for children, with extra fees for special programs.
Pit Stop: The drive’s a breeze, but if you need to grab a quick bite or let the kids stretch their legs, check out the Avalon in Alpharetta. It’s got great shops and clean restrooms.
Stroller Friendly? Yes, the center has paved paths and boardwalks, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.
Lunch Spots: Nourish and delight at these nearby gems:
- The Flying Biscuit Cafe: Known for its hearty, Southern-inspired breakfasts and lunches.
- Mellow Mushroom: Offers a creative array of pizzas in a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Roswell Provisions: Perfect for grabbing quick, tasty sandwiches and snacks.
3. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hours
Why Go? The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is one of the most scenic day trips from Atlanta, allowing families to experience the beauty of the mountains in a unique way. It’s like stepping into a storybook. Start your day at Mercier Orchards where kids can pick their own apples (seasonal) and enjoy fresh apple cider donuts. Then, hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a ride along the Toccoa River—perfect for waving at the fishermen and spotting wildlife. Don’t forget to stop by the Blue Ridge Adventure Park, where kids (ages 7 and up) can tackle a high ropes course!
Prices: Train tickets start at $42.99 for adults and $3.99 for children, with various package deals available.
Pit Stop: The drive is mostly highway with some beautiful mountain roads. If you need a break, stop by the quaint town of Ellijay for a coffee and bathroom break.
Stroller Friendly? Mostly, yes. The town of Blue Ridge is easy to navigate with a stroller, though some of the adventure parks may require you to park the stroller and explore on foot.
Lunch Spots: Enjoy these family-friendly eateries in Blue Ridge:
- Southern Charm Restaurant: Offers traditional Southern dishes just 5 minutes from downtown.
- Harvest on Main: A farm-to-table experience located in the heart of Blue Ridge, just a 3-minute walk from the train station.
- Blue Jeans Pizza and Pasta: About 4 minutes from downtown, it’s a hit for families craving Italian comfort food.
4. Callaway Gardens
Why Go? With Callaway Gardens, you can easily plan day trips from Atlanta that include butterfly watching, mini-golf, and a relaxing beach day for the kids. Start your day at the Butterfly Center, where the kids can get up close with some fluttering beauties—imagine tiny butterflies landing right on your kiddo's hand, total photo-worthy moment! Then, head over to Robin Lake Beach. The sand is soft, the water's shallow, and there’s tons of room for the little ones to splash and play. Plus, if your crew's up for a bit more excitement, there’s mini-golf and a treetop adventure that’s perfect for your little thrill-seekers. It’s all the fun of a beach day mixed with a dash of adventure park vibes, making every visit to Callaway Gardens a day to remember!
Prices: Starting at $24.99 for adults and $19.99 for children for day access, but different events and attractions may vary. Check out their military discounts and other deals they run throughout the year.
Pit Stop: If you’re driving from the south side of Atlanta, Newnan is a good halfway point with plenty of clean restrooms and fast-food options.
Stroller Friendly? Yes! The gardens have wide, paved paths perfect for strollers.
Lunch Spots: Grab a bite at these convenient locations:
- Fox's Pizza Den: Offering hearty pizzas in a casual setting.
- Three Lil' Pigs BBQ: Practically next door at only 0.2 miles away, it serves up delicious, finger-licking good barbecue.
- Moore’s Whistling Pig Cafe: Known for its homey feel and tasty American classics.
5. Helen, GA
Distance from Atlanta: 1.5-2 hours
Why Go? Ever wanted to whisk your family away to a tiny German village without the transatlantic flight? Helen, Georgia, is your spot! It's like stepping right into a Bavarian postcard. You can float down the Chattahoochee River—tubes and life jackets ready to go—and soak in those serene vibes. And if your kids are into something a bit magical, take them to BabyLand General Hospital to see where Cabbage Patch Kids come to life! For the little adventurers, there's also a super kid-friendly hike at Anna Ruby Falls, where you can trek to stunning waterfalls that look straight out of a fairy tale. Helen is all about charming streets, unique shops, and loads of family fun that feels worlds away but is right in our backyard.
Prices: Most attractions are free to wander, with fees for activities like tubing starting at $10 per person.
Pit Stop Alert: Cleveland is a good spot for a quick break before you hit Helen. There’s a Chick-fil-A and some local diners with clean restrooms.
Stroller Friendly? The town is stroller-friendly, but some of the cobblestone streets may be a bit bumpy. The Anna Ruby Falls trail is smooth and easy for strollers.
Lunch Spots: Dive into the local flavor at these spots:
- Muller's Famous Fried Cheese Cafe: Offering hearty German and Czech fare that’s a hit with families.
- Cafe International: Located by the Chattahoochee River, perfect for a scenic meal with a mix of German, Italian, and American options.
- Hofer’s of Helen: A cozy bakery and cafe that’s just a short walk from the main attractions, serving up delicious pastries and robust meals.
6. Savannah Rapids Pavilion & Canal
Distance from Atlanta: 2.5 hours
Why Go? Need a chill day surrounded by nature? Grab the kids and head to Savannah Rapids Pavilion. It’s the perfect spot to stroll or bike along the canal, maybe even rent a boat and glide along the water. Let the kids loose on the expansive grassy fields to burn off some energy. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles and birds, or just soak in the stunning views. It’s a tranquil escape that feels a world away from the city hustle, perfect for unwinding and making some family memories
Prices: Free access to most areas; boat rentals and other activities have varying costs, generally under $20.
Pit Stop Alert: It’s a longer drive, so stop in Augusta for a quick bite and restroom break before heading to the pavilion.
Stroller Friendly? Yes! The trails along the canal are smooth and flat, perfect for strollers.
Lunch Spots: Recharge at these nearby spots:
- Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and fresh seafood, ideal for a relaxing meal.
- Farmhaus Burger: Offers a variety of creative burgers in a family-friendly environment.
- The Pizza Joint: Provides a casual setting for families to enjoy a wide range of pizza options.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, riding scenic trains, or picking apples straight from the tree, these day trips from Atlanta provide the perfect mix of adventure and convenience for families. So go ahead, plan that perfect day out, and make some memories that you’ll treasure long after the car ride home.
Ready for a fun family day out in Atlanta?
If you need a little break or some help with the kids afterward, SitterTree makes it easy to find trusted babysitters in your community. Get $20 off your first sitter at the link below!