Summer Fun Guide 2017

Swim and Splash: Get Wet Guide

SUMMER Fun Guide Brought to You By

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Take a walk on the wild side at Zoo Atlanta’s NEW Treetop Trail presented by Kaiser Permanente. Climb

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30 feet in the air, explore scenic nature views from new heights and see the world like your favorite animals do. Come monkey around on our suspension bridge, rope beams, cargo net and more. Discover more at zooatlanta.org

Say hello to sensational summer fun!

Family and Adult Performances Museum Exhibits and Tours Workshops for all ages Special Events Films and more!

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Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible via Arts Center Station Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows and events sell out quickly.

Kermit the Frog © 2017 Disney, Dr. Seuss text, characters and images TM and © 2009 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All Rights Reserved. Frisch Marionettes

4 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 7 8 10 12

Four Must-Visit Attractions Free Outdoor Movies Free & Almost Free Get Wet Guide l l l

20 22 24 26 28 31 32 34 36 Summer Go-To Bucket List / 41 SPECIAL ADVERTISING PAGE

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Fountains l Splash Pads Waterparks l Beaches Tubing l Rafting

Road Trips Close to Home Hop on a Train Roller-Skating Deals Ways to Stay Cool Out-of-the-Box Places Up Close with Butterflies Kids Eat Free Jump to New Heights Toddler-Friendly Fun

42

Totally Atlanta

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 5

6 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

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SUMMER Fun Guide

4 Must-Visit Attractions l Mammoths and Mastodons Fernbank Museum of Natural History June 17-Aug. 27. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Photo © The Field Museum

Explore the world of mammoths and mastodons through fossils, artifacts, media and the story of the best preserved baby mammoth ever found. Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

l Blue Man Group-Making Waves Children’s Museum of Atlanta June 10-Sept. 4. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This exhibit brings together science and art through a multi-sensory exploration of sound. Make music on the sand drum, tube phones or PVCs just like the Blue Man Group. Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $15.95; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

l Treetop Trail Zoo Atlanta Test your skills like tree-dwelling animals in this new aerial playground high above Zoo Atlanta. Children must be 48 inches tall and fit inside the safety harness to participate without an adult chaperone. Kids less than 48 inches tall cannot go on the Sky Rail, which is the zip line at the very top of the aerial playground. Atlanta.

404-624-5936. $13.95 plus general admission; ages 12 and older, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

l Dinosaur Explore Stone Mountain Park / Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Through Dec. 31 Meet over 20 life-size dinosaurs that act like the real thing! Kids can see them roar and move, play in the dino dig area, learn about dinosaur habitats and more. Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. Admission included with daily Adventure Pass ($31.95; ages 3-11, $26.95; ages 2 and younger, free) or yearly membership. Daily parking, $15. stonemountainpark.com

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 7

SUMMER Fun Guide

Free Outdoor Movies

Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and head out to one of these area parks for a kid-friendly movie under the stars.

Check the websites before visiting to make sure they aren’t rescheduled because of inclement weather. l Movies

Under the Stars

Mall of Georgia Village Amphitheatre Movies begin at 9 p.m.

July 4 – “The LEGO Batman Movie” (PG) – post 9:35 p.m. fireworks July 8 – “Hidden Figures” (PG) July 15 – “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (PG-13) July 22 – “Moana” (PG) July 29 – “Kong: Skull Island” (PG-13) Location: 3333 Buford Dr. NE, Buford. l Georgia

Movies in the Park See georgiamoviesinthepark.com for showtimes.

July 11 – “SING” (PG): Cumming July 21 – “Moana” (PG): Woodstock July 22 – “The LEGO Batman Movie” (PG): Canton July 25 – “Trolls” (PG): Cumming Aug.11– TBA: Dawsonville Aug. 25 – “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” (PG): Woodstock Aug. 26 – “The Boss Baby” (PG): Canton Dawsonville: Veterans Memorial Park, 186 Recreation Rd., Dawsonville Cumming: Vickery Village, 5860 S. Vickery St. Woodstock: Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Rd. Canton: Browns Park, 251 E. Marietta St. l Flicks

on the Bricks

Duluth Town Green Movies begin at dusk.

July 7 – “Alice Through the Looking Glass” (PG) Aug. 4 – “Moana” (PG) Sept. 1 – “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (PG-13) Location: 3142 Hill St. NW, Duluth. l Johns

Creek Movies in the Park Newtown Park Movies begin at dusk.

July 8 – “LEGO Batman Movie” (PG) Aug. 12 – “Moana” (PG) Location: 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek

8 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

l B

at the Movies from B98.5

Movies begin at dusk. On double feature nights movies begin at 7 and 9:15 p.m.

July 8 – “The LEGO Batman Movie” (PG): Lillian Webb Park, 5 College St. NW, Norcross.

July 15 – “Finding Dory”(PG): Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell.

July 22 – “The LEGO Batman Movie” (PG) and “Captain America: Civil War” (PG-13): Suwanee Town Center Park, 330 Town Center Ave. July 29 – “Moana” (PG): Custer Park, 600 Kenneth E Marcus Way, Marietta. l KISS

at the Movies from KISS 104.1 Movies begin at dusk.

July 7 – “Hidden Figures” (PG): Riverdale Town Center, 7210 Church St. Aug. 5 – “The Secret Life of Pets” (PG): Stockbridge City Hall, 4640 N Henry Blvd.

Sept. 23 – “The Jungle Book” (PG): Lithonia Park, 2501 Park Dr. l Movies

on the Town

Town Brookhaven / Movies begin at dusk.

July 13 – “The LEGO Batman Movie” (PG) July 20 – “Hidden Figures” (PG) July 27 – “LaLa Land” (PG-13) Location: Peachtree Road adjacent to Oglethorpe University l Movies

on the Lawn

Lawrenceville Lawn Movies begin at dusk.

July 14 – “Smokey and the Bandit” (PG) Aug. 11 – “The LEGO Batman Movie” (PG) Location: 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville l Flick-Nic Candler Park / Movies begin at dark.

Aug. 5 – “SING” (PG) Aug. 19 – “The Jungle Book” (PG) Sept. 9 – “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (PG-13) Location: 1500 McLendon Ave. NE, Atlanta l Outdoor

Movie Series

Swift-Cantrell Park / Movies begin 6 p.m.

Sept. 9 – “Zootopia” (PG) Location: 3140 Old Hwy. 41 NW, Kennesaw

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SUMMER Fun Guide We All Scream for Ice Cream!

Here are four places to get your favorite scoop.

U-Pick U-Pick Summertime family

F FUO RN

EVERYONE! Subject to availability … and Mother Nature! Call or visit us online for details & events.

Tasting Room

Bakery & Market

Kids Classes

706 - 632 - 3411 • MERCIERORCHARDS.COM 8 6 6 0 BLUE RIDG E DRI V E • BLUE RIDG E, G A 30513

OPEN DAILY

7am-6 pm

Queen of Cream

l Queen

of Cream

Favorite scoops: Sprinkle Cookie and Guava Cheesecake.

Kid’s scoops: Cookies + Cream, Vanilla Bean and Deep Chocolate.

Atlanta; queenofcream.com l Jeni’s

Splendid Ice Creams

Butterfly Encounter

June 5 - July 31

Get up close and personal with hundreds of native butterflies!

Favorite scoops: Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Brambleberry Crisp and Sweet Cream.

Kid’s scoops: Milkiest chocolate, Roasted Strawberry Buttermilk and Wildberry Lavender. jenis.com; Atlanta, Decatur and Alpharetta l Jake’s

Presented by

Ice Cream

Favorite scoop: Chocolate Slap Yo Mama, made with chocolate sauce, chocolate chips and Oreo cookies.

Kid’s scoop: Max’s Magic Kisses, a sweet cream base turned blue, with white chocolate chips and marshmallows. jakesicecream.com; Atlanta and East Point (ice cream truck) l Morelli’s

Ice Cream

Favorite scoop: Salted caramel.

Kid’s scoop: Dirt and worms with vanilla ice cream, Oreos and two gummy worms on the side. morellisicecream.com; Atlanta and Dunwoody (inside of Farm Burger)

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Included with general admission and FREE to CNC members 770-992-2055 x238 • 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075

Chattnaturecenter.org

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 9

SUMMER Fun Guide

Free and Almost Free

Plenty of ways to have an awesome summer without spending a lot.

Museums with free days l Atlanta History Center, High Museum, Tellus Science Museum and Center for Civil and Human Rights: One free admission on the first weekend of each month for Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders. l The Children’s Museum of Atlanta: Free admission the second Tuesday of each month. 1-7 p.m, June and July. Reverts to 1-6 p.m. in Aug. l High Museum of Art: Free admission the second Sunday of each month. Special programming from 1-4 p.m. l MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta): Family Free Day the second Sunday of each month. l Michael C. Carlos Museum: To celebrate the museum’s centennial, they are hosting 100 days of free admission from 1-4 p.m. on Thursdays in June and July and Aug. 17; see carlos.emory.edu for other dates.

Museums (always free) There are several museums in metro Atlanta that don’t charge admission. Here are a few: The Georgia Capitol Museum Tour, where kids can learn about the government; The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site, which includes his boyhood home; The Marietta Fire Museum and the Roswell Fire Museum, where fire fighting history and antique fire trucks are just part of the artifacts that fascinate kids.

Bowling Visit kidsbowlfree.com, bowlsummergames.com or the bowling center’s website for information. Discounted bowling at these locations and more: l Metro Fun Center l Bowlmor Atlanta l Bowlero l AMF Lanes l Most locations of Stars and Strikes l Pin Strikes Entertainment Center l The Comet Pub and Lanes

Concerts Metro Atlanta has an abundance of free, family-friendly outdoor concerts in the summer. Make sure and check out our comprehensive list on atlantaparent.com l Roswell Riverside Sounds at Riverside Park: first Saturday each month. l Summer Concert Series at Mall of Georgia: every Saturday through July 29. l Glover Park Concert Series in Marietta Square: times vary; last Friday night of month beginning after Memorial Day. marietta.com/glover-park-concert-series The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

10 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

l Concerts by the Springs on Heritage Green in Sandy Springs: second Sunday of each month.

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At the Library Local libraries offer a great list of free children’s storytimes, but they also offer special events such as yoga, music or language classes as well as free crafts, origami or cartooning. Check with your local library for schedule.

Check out free passes at your local library to several area attractions: l Georgia ParkPass or a Historic Site Pass for free admission and parking for up to four visitors at Georgia State Parks and Historic sites. l Free admission for two adults and two children to Zoo Atlanta. l Up to four free museum admission passes to the Center for Puppetry Arts Museum. l Other free admissions that vary by county (Gwinnett County, for instance, has passes to the Hudgens Center for the Arts and the Southeastern Railway Museum).

Free Classes Many stores offer free or almost free class for kids year-round: l Michaels stores: Arts and crafts classes for ages 3 and older for $2 per child.

AMF Lanes

l Home Depot and Lowe’s: free classes on weekends for young builders. l Bass Pro Shops: Outdoor skills workshops and special, free children’s events held monthly. Check basspro.com and choose the Lawrenceville location for schedule. l Lakeshore Learning: Make a different free craft each week.

Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 3 and older.

Roller Skating Several metro Atlanta roller skating centers participate in a Kids Skate Free Program by kidsskatefree.com. Kids 10 and younger can register to receive a free coupon (does not include skate rental). Each center sets their own “free” skate hours. Rinks include: Sparkles Family Fun Center, Hot Wheels Skate Center and Skate Zone.

Movies

Summer Movies

In the summer there is an abundance of free, outdoor movies in local parks. Make sure to check out our comprehensive list on atlantaparent.com.

Theater chains also offer low-cost kid-rated movies for as little as $1-$2 a movie on weekdays. Some participating theaters include: Aurora Cineplex, Cinemark Fayetteville, Georgia Theatre Company and Regal Cinemas. Visit websites for showtimes.

Playgrounds with Shade These playgrounds give some cover from the sun on hot summer days.

For more great places to play, see Atlanta Parent’s 75 top playgrounds at atlantaparent.com l Brook Run Park Playground The Children’s Adventure Garden has clusters of bright play structures with shades above to hide from the sun. There is so much to get into: slides and swings of varying sizes, several sets of monkey bars, a multicolored tunnel, and a “log roll” for balancing. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. l Morgan Falls Overlook Park Playground This modern playground with unusual climbing elements has plenty of green spaces and overlooks the Chattahoochee River. Shades give cover from the sun and the AstroTurf helps with falls. 200 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs.

Morgan Falls Overlook Park Playground

l Gary Pirkle Park Playground This playground wins for hot summer days or the unexpected rainstorm because it is completely covered by a large pavilion to keep the weather out.

No more having to leave the playground because of a storm. 6195 Austin Garner Rd., Sugar Hill.

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 11

SUMMER Fun Guide

Get Wet Guide

Summer in Atlanta gets hot – stay cool with these ways to splash! Jump through a fountain or splash pad, soar down a waterslide or hang at a beach close to home.

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline. Please check beforehand to confirm dates and times.

Fountains Free: l Duluth

Town Green Fountain

In the middle of Duluth’s Town Green, this kid-friendly fountain spews water two stories in the air.

Where: 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. duluthga.net l Fountain

of Rings, Centennial Olympic Park

Get sprayed, surprised and chilled in these dazzling fountains, and stick around for the water show that’s synchronized to music.

Showtimes: 12:30, 3:30, 6:30 and 9 p.m. daily.

Where: 265 Park Ave. NW, Atlanta. 404-222-7275. centennialpark.com l Legacy

Fountain at Piedmont Park

Splash in this fountain that has more than 70 jets reaching up to 30 feet in the air.

Where: 1320 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. piedmontpark.org l Suwanee

Town Center Park: Big Splash Interactive Fountain The largest interactive fountain in Gwinnett County uses 1,400 gallons of recycled water every minute.

Where: 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 770-945-8996. suwanee.com l Village

Pavilion in Mall of Georgia This fountain surrounded by shops and restaurants is a sweet spot for kids to splash around.

Where: 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 770-2719458. simon.com/ mall/mall-of-georgia Village Pavilion in Mall of Georgia

For a Fee: l Geyser

Suwanee Town Center Park: Big Splash Interactive Fountain

12 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

Towers, Stone Mountain Park

This attraction features a splash pad and a climbing structure with gushing geysers.

Where: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. stonemountainpark.com Cost: Included in daily Adventure Pass: ages 12 and older, $31.95; ages 3-11, $26.95. Parking, $15.

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l Atlanta

Botanical Garden

With the recent renovation, the Children’s Garden boasts a new splash pad area complete with great seating for caregivers.

Where: 1345 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. atlantabg.org Cost: Included with paid admission: Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 3 and younger, free. l Splash

Fountain at Zoo Atlanta

During the heat of summer, this splash pad adds fun to your zoo trip.

Where: 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. zooatlanta.org Cost: Included with paid admission: ages 12 and older, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free.

l Historic

Fourth Ward Park Splash Pad

Prepare to leave with soaking-wet kids because this splash pad has jets that stream water from all directions.

Where: 680 Dallas St., Atlanta. 404-477-3003. beltline.org/parks/historic-fourth-ward-park Cost: Free l Laurel Park Sprayground This spot is a great area for kids to expend their energy by running through the numerous sprinklers and water sprayers.

Where: 3100 Old Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville. 770-535-8280. hallcounty.org, go to “Parks and Leisure” Cost: $2 l Lillian

Park

Splash Pads l Center

An awesome fountain, waterfall and interactive splash pad for kids to play in all summer long.

Where: 5 College Street, Norcross. 678-421-2010. norcrossga.net, go to “Parks and Facilities” Cost: Free

Hill Park Splash Pad

Kids will love playing in a water tunnel and hurdling over in-ground spray jets to fight the heat at this city park splash pad.

Where: 2305 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy. NW, Atlanta.

404-546-6788. atlantaga.gov Cost: Free l D.H.

Webb

Stanton Park Splash ‘N Play

Cont’d on page 14

This splash pad is the first solar-powered park in the city.

Kids love the spray jets, stationary water cannons and structures to hide behind.

Where: 1052 Martin St. SE, Atlanta. 404-477-3003. beltline.org/parks/d-h-stanton Cost: Free

Historic Fourth Ward Park Splash Pad

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 13

SUMMER Fun Guide

l Old

Atlanta Park

Kids of all ages will have loads of fun at this 34-acre park with a splash pad and playground.

Where: 810 Nichols Rd., Suwanee. 770-205-4646. forsythco.com/parks Cost: $2 l Perkerson

Park Splash Pad

This water zone features spectacular fountains for great water fun.

Park offers tennis and basketball courts, too.

Where: 770 Deckner Ave. SW, Atlanta. 404-477-3003. beltline.org/parks/perkerson-park Cost: Free l Riverside

Park Splash ‘N’ Play

Cool off beneath a spinning mushroom and try to dodge the in-ground spray jets at this Roswell sprayground.

Where: 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-594-6158. roswellgov.com, go to “Recreation and Parks” Cost: $2 l Sewell

Old Atlanta Park

Park Pool

This splash pad is perfect for cooling off during the hot summer days and having fun under the palm tree fountain.

Where: 2055 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-509-2741. cobbcounty.org/parks Cost: Ages 18 and older, $4.50; ages 2-17, $3.50. l Splash

Island at Adams Park

Prepare for some fun at this newly-designed splash pad at Adams Park.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic to eat under their large pavilion.

Where: 1581 Logan Ln. SW, Atlanta. 404-753-6091 Cost: $5 l Spray

Station at East Roswell Park

This premier sprayground offers hours of fun and extravagant features for kids and toddlers Where: 9000 Fouts Rd., Roswell. 770-594-6188. roswellgov.com, go to “Recreation and Parks” Cost: $2 l Swift-Cantrell Perkerson Park Splash Pad

Park Splash Pad

Newly open, the 3,200-square-foot amenity offers water play options controlled by motion sensors. Elements include a fountain spray, ground geyser, jet stream, magic mist and multiple sea silhouettes.

Where: 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. swiftcantrellpark.org Cost: $2; ages 2 and younger, free. l Waleska

Splash Pad

This splash pad will leave kids with smiles as they play under the water buckets and umbrella fountains.

Where: Cline Park at 704 Bartow Street near Reinhardt University.

678-880-4760. crpa.net/parks Cost: Free

Pools & Waterparks On the Cheap: l Bethesda

Riverside Park Splash ‘N’ Play

14 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

Park Aquatic Center

This location features a giant waterslide that curves out of the building and then re-enters before dropping you into a pool, a lazy river, zerodepth entry into the leisure pool and dunking buckets.

Where: 225 Bethesda Church Rd., Lawrenceville. 678-277-0880. gwinnettparks.com, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25.

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l Bogan

Park Aquatic Center

Indoor leisure pool with beach entry, giant waterslide and water play structures.

Where: 2723 North Bogan Rd., Buford. 678-277-0853. gwinnettparks. com, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25. l Browns

Mill Family Aquatic Center

This aquatic center is a water amusement park featuring slides and sprayers to keep children happy and smiling.

Where: 4929 Browns Mill Rd., Lithonia. 770-414-2119. co.dekalb.ga.us, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $12; ages 17 and younger, $10. l Cherokee

Aquatic Center

Climb the steps all the way to the top of the two wild water slides and zip down into the outdoor pool featuring a playground with water cannons, a zero-depth entry area, geysers, deck sprays, a current channel and basketball hoops.

Where: 1200 Gresham Mill Pkwy., Holly Springs. 678-880-4760. crpa.net Cost: Adults, $7; ages 2-13, $6; younger than 2, free. l Collins

Hill Aquatic Center

This outdoor attraction has a zero-depth pool entry, interactive water features, slides, squirty play areas and more. There is also a toddler pool and lazy river.

Where: 2200 Collins Hill Rd., Lawrenceville. 770-237-5647. gwinnettparks.com, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25.

Cont’d on page 16

Cumming Aquatic Center

Open Daily 9-6 Memorial Day – Labor Day (weather permitting)

Cool River Tubing

Zip the Hooch NEW Aerial Adventure Park Tubing • Zip Lines • Water Slide

COOL RIVER TUBING Edelweiss Strasse Helen, GA 30545

COOL RIVER ADVENTURES 112 Poplar Stump Road Helen, GA 30545

www.coolriveradventures.com • www.coolrivertubing.com 706-878-COOL

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Group Rates Available

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 15

SUMMER Fun Guide l Cumming

Aquatic Center

Enjoy two slides, a lazy river and a play structure for children.

Where: 201 Aquatic Cir., Cumming. 770-781-1781. cummingaquaticcenter.com Cost: Adults, $5; ages 2-17, $4; ages 1 and younger, free. l Seven

Springs Water Park at Wild Horse Creek Park

The activity pool is four feet in depth and has an in-water seating area and two basketball back boards. The spray and fountain play areas and two water slides connected to a leisure river also add to the fun.

Where: 3820 Macedonia Dr., Powder Springs. 770-528-4035. cobbcounty.org, go to “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $9; ages 2-17, $7. l South

1-844-FUN-TUBE DULUTH AND

MACON

Cobb Aquatic Center

Splash down the huge enclosed spiraling slide, slip through the yellow tube slide and into the water and finally enjoy a “lazy river” float.

Where: 875 Riverside Pkwy., Austell. 770-739-3180. cobbcounty.org, go to “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $4.50; ages 2-17, $3.50. l Piedmont

Park Aquatic Center

Features beach entry, lap lanes, natural and structured shade on the pool deck, concessions and recreational activities.

Where: 1320 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. piedmontpark.org Cost: Adults, $4; ages 6-16, $2; ages 5 and younger, $1.

Summer Splurge: l LanierWorld Find Georgia’s largest wave pool at Lake Lanier Islands’ beach and waterpark. Splash-happy tots adore “Kiddie Lagoon” and thrill seekers soar down the four-lane slide for a race, plus there is a wide variety of slides for all ages.

Where: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 770-932-7218. lakelanierislands.com/lanierworld Cost: Adults, $41.99; kids under 42 inches, $30.99; ages 2 and younger, free. Parking, $10. l Six

Flags White Water

The largest water park in the South boasts some 50 attractions, including the “Dive Bomber” featuring a five-story drop down an enclosed slide, the “Atlanta Ocean” wave pool and “Little Squirts Island” for younger kids.

Where: 250 Cobb Pkwy. N, Marietta. 770-948-9290. sixflags.com/ whitewater Cost: Adults, $44.99; kids under 48 inches $39.99; ages 2 and younger, free. Parking, $15.

For the Best Family Calendar of Events go to atlantaparent.com Piedmont Park Aquatic Center

16 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

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The Beach at Clayton County International Park

l Six

Flags Hurricane Harbor

Beaches

Ride the surf in the giant wave pool, plummet down an enclosed tunnel into a zero-gravity wave slide on the “Tsunami Surge” or take on the three, twisting slides of the “Bonzai Pipelines.” “Paradise Island” includes an interactive children’s playground.

Where: 6 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. sixflags.com/overgeorgia/hurricane-harbor Cost: Included with Six Flags Over Georgia General Admission: $66.99; children under 48 inches, $46.99; ages 2 and younger, free.

l Acworth

l Malibu

Hang out on the beach, play some volleyball, catch some rays and enjoy food from the boardwalk.

Where: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 770-945-8787. lanierislands.com Cost: Big Beach only: Adults, $10 Mon.-Fri., $15 Sat.-Sun; ages 6 and younger, free. Parking, $10.

Grand Prix Norcross

Buccaneer Cove has a super-sized water play area that is five levels high with slippery slides, wet tunnels, spray loops and a huge splash bucket. The park features a two-lane open slide and both lanes start at the first level for a big thrill for kids under 36 inches.

Where: 5400 Brook Hollow Pkwy., Norcross. 770-416-7630. malibunorcross.com Cost: All day unlimited access pass, $9.99 all day.

Beach at Cauble Park

The beach area features a white sand beach and roped off area for swimming.

Where: 4425 Beach St. NW, Acworth. 770-917-1234. acworth.com/attractions/acworth-beach Cost: Swimming is free. Parking, free Mon.-Fri.; $10 per vehicle. Cash only. for non-Acworth residents on weekends between 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. l Big

Beach at Lake Lanier Islands

l Robin

Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, miniature golf, a floating playground with obstacles, paddle boats, inflatable waterslide, rock climbing wall and more.

Where: 17800 US Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800-852-3810. callawaygardens.com Cost: Adults, $20; children ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free. l The

Beach at Clayton County International Park

The colorful and immense “adventure kiddie pool,” with fountains, towers, “water shooters” and more offer something for the big kids, too. The beach action includes big slides and even a water trampoline.

Where: 2300 Highway 138 S.E., Jonesboro. 770-603-4165. claytonparks.com Cost: Ages 13 and older, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. Bonus: One price gains access to both the beach with lake for swimming and the water park area. See website for special and holiday pricing. l The

Swimming Beach at Red Top Mountain State Park

Six Flags White Water

atlantaparent.com

Cool off in the sandy beach area and roped off swimming area nestled in a cove and surrounded by trees at Lake Allatoona, and enjoy the nearby putt-putt golf and large playground.

Where: 50 Lodge Rd. SE, Cartersville. 770-975-4226. redtopmountainstatepark.org Cost: Parking, $5.

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 17

SUMMER Fun Guide

Float Down the ‘Hooch

Traveling down the Chattahoochee River by inner tube or raft is a great way to cool off.

Do it yourself or visit one of these companies for a relaxing day on the river. l DIY

Shoot the ‘Hooch The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is open for rafting and tubing from dawn to dusk during the summer; all you need is a life vest and raft or tube. It can be an economical way to cool off with your family.

Parking is $3 at any of the parking lot access points. Just make sure to leave a second car where you decide to end on the river. l Check weather reports and call for dam water release information. This provides recommended calm water times for floating. Buford Dam: 1-855326-3569. l Minimum age to float down the river is 5, if renting supplies from a company; if not, it is up to the parent.

Cool River Tubing

l Cool

River Tubing, Helen

The fun thing about this tubing company is that it sits right in the German-inspired village of Helen and also has a zip line, waterslide and climbing areas. After snaking down the Chattahoochee River, explore the town and have a German dinner.

Cost: Purchase tickets at the Headwaters or Chattahoochee Outposts or the Main Street Booth. $10 per person for a onetube trip; $14 per person for all-day tubing; prices vary for other activities.

The Details: Open daily, 9 a.m. to dusk. The minimum age for tubing is 3. 706-878-2665; coolrivertubing.com

l $10

River Tubing, Duluth

If you want a river tubing experience close to home, try this tubing company.

They provide the life vests, tubes and shuttle service needed for a day on the river.

Cost: $10 per person for a two-hour trip.

The Details: Open daily, 10 a.m.7 p.m. 678-349-6880; rivertubing.com

l Ages 12 and younger must wear a life vest at all times. Ages 13 and older must have one in the raft or tube. l Rubber-soled shoes are a must for tackling slippery rocks.

Where to Go: l Abbotts Bridge to Medlock Bridge, 4 miles; 3-4 hours. l Medlock Bridge to Jones Bridge, 3 miles; 1.5-2 hours. l Morgan Falls Dam to Johnson Ferry, 2 miles; 1-2 hours. l Johnson Ferry to Powers Island, 3.5 miles; 2-4 hours. l Powers Island to Paces Mill, 3 miles; 1-3 hours.

See nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/ boating.htm. Call 678-538-1200 for more information.

$10 River Tubing

18 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

atlantaparent.com

SUMMER Fun Guide

Ride the Rapids

Sit tight, pay attention to your guide and prepare to paddle through the wild ride ahead. It’s so much fun that families make the two-to-four-hour drive from Atlanta again and again to spend time on nearby whitewater rivers, including:

Nantahala Outdoor Center

l Pigeon

River

l Rafting

Companies

Rafting on the Pigeon River is done in two sections. The Upper Pigeon is more exciting and the Lower Pigeon is calmer. Located near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tenn.

Nantahala Outdoor Center

l Ocoee

Ocoee Rafting

River

Ocoee River rafting is separated into three sections. The river is dam-controlled and has scheduled water releases all summer. Half-day and full-day trips are available depending on releases. Located in Ocoee, Tenn. l Chattooga

River

You can book your adventure to include half-day, full-day or multi-day rafting trips. Located on the Chattooga River in North Georgia. l Nantahala

River

At Nantahala you can whitewater raft and experience views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located at the Nantahala River Gorge, N.C.

noc.com

ocoeerafting.com

Ocoee Adventure Center ocoeeadventurecenter.com

Rolling Thunder River Company rollingthunderriverco.com

Southeastern Expeditions southeasternexpeditions.com

Smoky Mountain Rafting smokymountainrafting.com

Wildwater Rafting

Know Before You Go:

wildwaterrafting.com

Check the rafting company’s guidelines for age restrictions; typically kids need to be 8 years old. To be more comfortable on this adventure, wear water shoes or outdoor sport-type sandals and a pair of shorts over a bathing suit, and bring a change of dry clothes for afterwards. Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen. Rafters do some light hiking carrying paddles and some smaller gear to get to the river.

Whitewater Express

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whitewaterexpress.com

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 19

SUMMER Fun Guide

Road Trips Close to Home

Atlanta has its fair share of exciting attractions, but if you love rollercoasters and the thrill of water slides here are a few picks worth the drive.

Nashville Shores

Water Parks Many water parks are affiliated with amusement parks and have combined ticket prices. Most water parks are open from April to October. l Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park. Destin, Fla. Find a place to stay cool among the lazy river, slides and 40 other water attractions.

Scream down the five-story Jumanji or the Maui Pipeline. bigkahunas.com l Carolina Harbour. Charlotte, N.C. Part of Carowinds, this water park recently got a name change from Boomerang Bay, and now includes Kiddy Hawk Cove, Myrtle Turtle Beach and other Carolina-themed rides and slides. carowinds.com l Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park. Pigeon Forge, Tenn. A 35-acre water adventure park that combines the beauty of the Smoky Mountains with the excitement of rides, slides and attractions. New for 2017 is the TailSpin Racer, a six-lane racing slide longer than a football field. dollywood.com/waterpark l Family Kingdom Water Park. Myrtle Beach, S.C. The city’s only oceanfront water park is home to some of the “coolest” fun on the Grand Strand. Ride down water flumes speed slides, kiddie slides and a lazy river with waterfalls. familykingdomfun.com

20 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

l Nashville Shores. Hermitage, Tenn. Brave the waves in a gigantic wave pool, plunge down eight thrilling water slides, or splash in Kowabunga Beach, a water treehouse and playground. nashvilleshores.com l Point Mallard Park. Decatur, Ala. Hidden among northern Alabama‘s wooded pines, the family park lets you stay in tune with nature. The area includes a water park (with one of America’s first wave pools), tennis courts, ice rink, nature trails and more. pointmallardpark. com l Shipwreck Island Water Park. Panama City Beach, Fla. More than a dozen water attractions for thrill seekers, families and children. Tadpole Hole is a fun spot for kids. shipwreckisland.com l Splash in The Boro. Statesboro, Ga. Kids can race their friends on the five-lane mat racer, plus enjoy slides for toddlers, three large tube slides, a lazy river and more. splashintheboro.com l Splash Island Water Park. Valdosta, Ga. Part of Wild Adventures, this fun water park boasts plenty of ways to get wet.

Children’s water play area, wave pool, lazy river and the new Ohana Bay with seven more slides. wildadventures.com

atlantaparent.com

l Splash Lagoon. Bowling Green, Ky. Beech Bend’s water park includes thrills such as the Cyclone Saucers and Polynesian Plung or visitors can relax in the leisure pool. Little ones also have their own area to splash around. beechbend.com l Spring Valley Beach Water Park. Blountsville, Ala. Thrilling slides from the Sidewinder to the Need for Speed, this small, family-owned park has something for everyone. The kids’ area includes a two-acre pool and slides. springvalleybeach.com l Summer Waves Water Park. Jekyll Island, Ga. Take relaxing laps around Turtle Creek Lazy River, ride the waves of the Frantic Atlantic or take high-speed thrills down Pirate’s Passage. jekyll-island.com /activitiescategory/summer-waves l Waterville USA. Gulf Shores, Ala. The 20-acre water park and amusement area, located in the beach resort community includes many opportunities for wet fun. Experience thrill slides and relaxed family attractions. watervilleusa.com

Amusement Parks Take the whole family for a fun-filled day of exciting roller coasters, spinning rides and entertainment. l Alabama Splash Adventure. Bessemer, Ala. Just west of Birmingham, this park was purchased by Koch Family Parks and has received a number of new rides and attractions to turn this into a park worth visiting. It features nine water rides, two roller coasters, a train, Drop Zone and a laser maze. alabamasplash.com

t i s i V & e Com

A DAY AT THE FARM JUNE 29TH

Come and Enjoy Rancho Alegre’s Full Farm Experience! Take a tour through six educational stations on this special day open to the public! $9 per person (2 and older) Teachers free!* *Please bring school badge.

SUMMER CAMP

3-DAY CAMP (JUNE 5-7 and JULY 10-12) Campers play with the animals while they learn about gardening, composting, how animals help with growing food, and see how a farm works on daily basis.

DISCOUNT DAYCARE DAYS

JUNE 8 & 13 and JULY 7 & 28 Your group can come out and enjoy a field trip at a discounted price!

2225 Givens Road • Dacula, GA 30019 (770) 339-3065 • www.RanchoAlegreFarm.com

l Beech Bend Park. Bowling Green, Ky. A 379-acre, multi-purpose entertainment complex nestled amongst a Beech tree forest and the Barren River in Southern Kentucky. Water slides, amusement rides, minigolf, go-karts and more. beechbend.com l Carowinds. Charlotte, N.C. Tons of action-packed rides, shows and attractions, including Carolina Harbor Waterpark, Plants vs Zombies Garden Warfare: 3Z and Carolina Skytower. carowinds.com l Dollywood. Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Major theme park with thrilling rides and family attractions, water rides, live shows and roller coasters including Lightning Rod, the fastest wooden roller coaster in the world. dollywood.com l Family Kingdom Amusement Park. Myrtle Beach, S.C. More than 30 fun-filled rides for all ages, and the only seaside amusement park in Myrtle Beach. familykingdomfun.com l Lake Winnepesaukah. Rossville, Ga. More than 30 kiddie, family and thrill rides to please the entire family. 2013 expansion added SOAKya Water Park. lakewinnie.com l Pavilion Park. Myrtle Beach, S.C. Three areas to enjoy: East Park (original and new rides), West Park (kiddie rides) and Central Park (thrill rides). pavilion-park.com l Tweetsie Railroad. Blowing Rock, N.C. Many family rides from the Tilt-A-Whirl to the Tweetsie Twister and even a petting zoo. The park is based on the early Tweetsie Railroad, whose nickname derives from the shrill “tweet, tweet” of its whistle. tweetsie.com l Wild Adventures. Valdosta, Ga. The park includes a mix of many rides and attractions, including roller coasters and wild animals. Splash Island Water Park expanded this year with Ohana Bay, which includes seven new slides. wildadventures.com

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 21

SUMMER Fun Guide

All Aboard! Hop on a Train Get out of town for the day or plan an overnight trip with these excursions perfect for families who love locomotives. l Great

Smoky Mountains Railroad Bryson City, N.C. 800-872-4681. gsmr.com The Wizard of Oz Train Ride: July 14-30. Fri.Sun. 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Arrive early.

This 2½ hour round-trip journey will retell the story of “The Wizard of Oz,” on board a real train. Dorothy and several of her friends will climb aboard. Ages 13 and older, $38-$62; ages 2-12, $33-$45; ages younger than 2, $10, free in coach. Other train routes also available. Parking, $5. l Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

22 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

Valley Railroad

Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. tvrail.com Choose from a variety of trains this summer: Missionary Ridge Local, Hiwassee River Rail Adventure and more to see scenic views of the Tennessee wilderness. Prices vary by excursion.

l Blue

Ridge Scenic Railway

Blue Ridge, Ga. 877-413-8724. brscenic.com The summer four-hour tours go around the Toccoa River and to the towns of McCaysville, Ga. and Copperhill, Tenn. Train departs at 11 a.m. daily. Ages 13 and older, $44-79; ages 2-12, $29; younger than 2, free. l SAM

Shoreline Excursion Train Cordele, Ga. 229-276-0755. samshortline.com Watermelon or Peanut Express Train Rides: Travel to Jimmy Carter’s childhood home by train, explore the museum and sample peanut butter treats. During the Peanut Express, explore the Georgia Rural Telephone Museum. Ages 13 and older, $35.99-45.99; Ages 2-12, $25.9935.99. VIP, $55.99 per person. Other train routes also available.

atlantaparent.com

SAM Shoreline Excursion Train

l Tweetsie

Railroad

Blowing Rock, N.C. 800-526-5740. tweetsie.com Head to this amusement park with rides of all kinds from Tilt-A-Whirl to the Tweetsie Twister, enjoy live entertainment and the petting zoo.

The park has various themed train rides throughout the year.

Close to Home:

ALPHARETTA and MIDTOWN

l Stone Mountain Scenic Railway Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. stonemountainpark.com Climb aboard the full-size locomotive from the 1940s with open-air cars that will take you on a five-mile excursion around the mountain. Marvel at beautiful views of Stone Mountain and the surrounding landscape. Included with daily adventure pass: Ages 12 and older, $31.95; ages 3-11, $26.95; parking, $15. l Southeastern Railway Museum Duluth. 770-476-2013. train-museum.org Walk around and explore the 90 pieces of historic steam and diesel locomotives. Kids can pretend to be a engineer for the day while they explore train cabooses, see giant wheels and more. Don’t miss the Second Thursday preschool program every month or Trains, Trucks and Tractors, Aug. 4-6. Ages 13 and older, $10; Ages 2-12, $7; younger than 2, free. l The Southern Museum Kennesaw.770-427-2117. southernmuseum.org Experience the history of railroads in the South through models and hands-on activities. Kids can head to the telegraph stations to send messages via Morse Code or drive a replica train on their own. The Mommy & Me Preschool Program is every Thursday, and includes different themes each month. Railroad Rendezvous is each July and includes model trains, crafts and more.

Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Vinings School of Art All 1-hour group classes for ages 2-14 are $12 -$15 per class P Draw, Paint, Sculpt P Dramatic Art/Acting P Spanish (6 levels)

Saturday drop-in classes are available year round

678-213-4278

viningsschoolofart.com SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 23

SUMMER Fun Guide

Go Retro:10 Roller-Skating Rinks Skating is good exercise and is great fun for all ages.

Here are some summer specials we found. Check websites before you go.

l All

American Skating Center

l Let’s

aaskate.com Mon. 6-9 p.m. $2 admission and $1 skate rental Wed. $3 admission (for three people, $1 per person) and $3 skate rental per person Location: 5400 Bermuda Rd., Stone Mountain

letsrollskating.com Tues.-Sat. noon-5 p.m. $7 admission $3 skate rental Tues. and Thurs. 7-10 p.m. $20 for four admissions or $7 admission and $3 skate rental Fri. and Sat. 7-11 p.m. $8 admission and $3 skate rental Sun. 1-6 p.m. $7 admission and $3 skate rental Location: 5065 Piney Grove Rd., Cumming

l Alpharetta

l Metro

Skate Center

Family

coolerathletics.com Skate rental $4 Tues., Thurs., Fri. 3-5 p.m. $7 admission Sat. 1-5 p.m. $8 admission Sun. 1-4 p.m. $8 admission Location: 10800 Davis Dr., Alpharetta l Cascade

Skating

atlantafamilyfuncenters.com/cascade Tues. 7-10 p.m. $5 admission and free skate rental Fri. 7:30-11 p.m. $8 admission and $3 skate rental Sat. 1-6 p.m. $8 admission and $3 skate rental Sun. 3-7 p.m. $8 admission and $3 skate rental Location: 3335 MLK Jr. Dr., Atlanta l Hot

Wheels Skate Center hotwheelsskatecenter.com $4 skate rental Tues. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $7 admission Tues. 6-8 p.m. $2 admission; $2 skate rental Wed. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 admission Wed. 5-8 p.m. $1 admission; $2 skate rental Thurs. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $7 admission Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 admission Fri. 5-11 p.m. $8 admission Sat. noon-11 p.m. $8 admission Sun. 2-6 p.m. $7 admission *Tues.- Fri. $7 admission includes pizza/hotdog and drink Location: 228 Farm Ridge Dr. NE, Woodstock

24 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

Roll Skate and Fun Center

Family Fun Center

atlantafamilyfuncenters.com/metro Fri. 6-11 p.m.

Sat. 1-11 p.m.

Sun. 3-10 p.m. $7 admission and $3 skate rental Location: 1959 Metropolitan Pkwy. SW, Atlanta l Skate-A-Long

USA

skatealongusa.com $4 skate rental Mon.-Fri. noon-4 p.m. $4 admission Mon. 6-9 p.m. $1 admission Tues. 6-9 p.m. $3 admission Fri. 7-11 p.m. $7 admission and free skate rental Sun. 2-8 p.m. $6 admission Location: 744 Beaver Ruin Rd., Lilburn l Skate

Towne Roller Rink

skatetowne.com $3 skate rental Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $6 admission, free skate rental Tues. 7-11 p.m. $3 admission Fri. 7:30-11 p.m. $6 admission Sat. 1-6 p.m. $7 admission Sun. 3-7 p.m. $6 admission Location: 5570 Old National Hwy., College Park l Skate

Zone

sk8-zone.com Wed 6-10 p.m. $2 admission and $2 skate rentals Fri. 6-11 p.m. $6 admission and $3 skate rental.

Location: 6766 Mount Zion Blvd., Morrow l Sparkles

Family Fun Center

sparklesfamilyfuncenters.com Hours and prices vary by location.

Check website calendar for promotions.

Locations: Hiram, Kennesaw, Smyrna and Gwinnett.

atlantaparent.com

9 LOCATIONS IN THE ATLANTA AREA TO SERVE YOU! LAWRENCEVILLE 770-277-7300

SOUTH FORSYTH 770-346-9809

JOHNS CREEK 770-418-2424

SNELLVILLE

770-982-0822

NORTH FULTON 770-993-4428

WOODSTOCK 770-592-3844

EAST COBB

770-977-7073

CONYERS

770-760-9460

PEACHTREE CITY 770-632-0330

atlantaparent.com

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 25

SUMMER Fun Guide

8 Ways to Keep Your Cool

Escape Atlanta’s heat with these fun indoor “hot” spots.

l Shake

l Glow

Things Up Stop in for a milkshake and stay awhile in cool surroundings. Try Shake Shack (shakeshack.com) in Buckhead and Perimeter Mall, Shakeaway in Cumming (shakeaway.com) or Steak ‘n Shake (steaknshake.com), with locations all over metro Atlanta. l Get

in the Dark

Indoor mini-golf courses that glow-in-the-dark are cool in all respects. Two to try are Lunar Mini Golf in Sugarloaf Mills Mall in Lawrenceville (glowminigolf.com) and Monster Mini Golf in Marietta (monsterminigolf.com). Glow Galaxy in Norcross (glowgalaxy. com) has mini-golf as well as a lot of other glow-in-the-dark entertainment. l Spend

a Day at the Museum

Pick one of Atlanta’s fun museums and spend the day at play. In fact, with so many to choose from, pick one for each week of summer. Some museums offer family discount days or free days. Three special exhibits you’ll want to see are Blue Man Group-Making Waves at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta (childrensmuseumatlanta. org), Mammoths and Mastodons at Fernbank Museum of Natural History (fernbankmuseum.org) and Painter and Poet: The Wonderful World of Ashley Bryan at the High Museum (high.org).

Ice Cold

Lace up a pair of ice skates and do some laps around the rink – even a novice can master the basics and have fun. Try one of these locations: the Alpharetta Family Skate Center (coolerathletics.com), Center Ice Arena in Sandy Springs (centericearena. com), Ice Forum in Duluth or Kennesaw (iceforum. com), The Ice in Cumming (theice. info) and Marietta Ice Center (mariettaicecenter.com).

l Splash

Indoors

No need for sunscreen at an indoor water park, where features like water slides and water play structures keep kids moving. Three to try are Bethesda Park Aquatic Center in Lawrenceville (gwinnettparks.com, search Aquatics), Bogan Aquatic Center in Buford (gwinnettparks.com, search Aquatics) and South Cobb Aquatic Center in Austell (cobbounty.org, go to Aquatic Centers under Directory).

Shakeaway

26 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

atlantaparent.com

Center for Puppetry Arts

l Play

with a Puppet

Take the kids to a puppet show at the Center for Puppetry Arts and stay for a “create a puppet” workshop or a visit to the museum (puppet.org). Cinderella Della Circus is being produced through July. The Roswell Summer Puppet Series continues through July 22. The shows are staged by traveling puppeteers and the lineup this year includes “Pinocchio,” “Robin Hood” and “Beauty and the Beast” among others (roswellgov.com/puppetshows). l Go

for a Spin

Hop in a vehicle for indoor go-kart racing at K1 Speed in Duluth (k1speed.com), Slingshot Entertainment (slingshotplay.com) and Andretti Indoor Karting & Games (andretticarting.com) or get behind the wheel at Tiny Towne-Drive Safely (tinytowne.com) and have fun while learning the rules of the road. l Climb

the Walls

Kids can have hours of fun testing their stamina and skills on a rock climbing wall. Try one of these: Adrenaline Climbing in Suwanee (adrenalineclimbing.com), Atlanta Rocks! In Atlanta (atlantarocks. com), Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center in Atlanta and Kennesaw (ssclimbing.com) or Wall Crawler Rock Club in Atlanta (wallcrawlerclimbing.com).

Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features: minigolf football soccer basketball air cannons glow-in-the-dark inflatables lighted interactive game floor

PRIVATE PARTIES Party Rooms with glow & regular lighting 6527 JIMMY CARTER BLVD. NORCROSS ❖ 770-368-3008

WWW.GLOWGALAXY.COM

Open Play Times K1 Speed

atlantaparent.com

(See website for times)

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 27

SUMMER Fun Guide

Out-of-the-Box Places

We love Atlanta’s well-known landmarks and traditions, but here are some other lesser-known places to weave into your plans. l Get

a Clue

Explore metro Atlanta with Clue Town Books, a series of scavenger hunts in locations such as Piedmont Park, Oakland Cemetery, Downtown Decatur, Atlanta BeltLine, Grant Park and Emory University. Each book comes with a pencil and compass to help solve clues. Buy books ($7$15) at cluetownbooks.com and some specialty shops. l The

BAPS Mandir

New Hollywood

Get the inside scoop on the film industry in Georgia with Atlanta Movie Tours. Guides will share behind-the-scenes stories as you visit film sites from “The Walking Dead,” “Gone with the Wind” or the “Hunger Games” series. Atlanta.

855-255-3456. atlantamovietours.com l Ride

on a Miniature Railroad

North Georgia Live Steamers miniature outdoor railroad club gives public rides on small live steam locomotives.

Adults and children can both ride. Upcoming dates for rides are June 17 and Aug. 26. Trains run 1-4:30 p.m. weather permitting. Conyers. All ages, $2 per ride. northgeorgialivesteamers.org l Walk

Serenbe Playhouse

Around the Solar System

Learn about the placement of planets in relation to the sun and moon on the Solar System walking tour that serves as a scale model of the solar system. Created by the North Georgia Astronomers Group, the tour covers 1.8 miles, one way, and begins in downtown Gainesville. For a copy of the brochure, containing descriptions of planets and a directional map, call the Gainesville Tourism Office, 770-5312680. gainesville.org/attractions/solar-system-walking-tour l Watch

a Bicycle Race

Take in a bike race at Dick Lane Velodrome, with family admission, music and commentators explaining the action.

The one-fifth mile, 36-degree banked concrete track is set in a green space, providing tranquil views. East Point.

Visit dicklanevelodrome.com for a complete schedule of upcoming races. l Taste

Tiny Doors of Atlanta

28 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

of India in Atlanta

The BAPS Mandir, a Hindu place of worship and community gathering place, was assembled like a giant 3-D puzzle from more than 34,000 individual pieces of three types of stone.

Take an audio tour that gives details about the building, as well as info about Hindu art, architecture and philosophy.

Lilburn. 678-906-2277. baps.org atlantaparent.com

l Robin

Hood in the Garden

Enjoy the classic story of the man who steals from the rich to give to the poor at Serenbe Playhouse. Characters will fly through Serenbe’s magnificent forest on a zip line, redistributing wealth as they go.

Through Aug. 13. Showings Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. and Sun. 2 p.m. Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-1110. Adults, $20; younger than 12, $10. serenbeplayhouse.com l Hunt

for Tiny and Secret Doors Go on a family scavenger hunt for the tiny and hidden doors of Atlanta. They are hand-crafted and painted to go along with their locations, and some even include tiny figurines and pets. Tiny Doors of Atlanta: Krog Street Tunnel, Old Fourth Ward Skate Park, King of Pops and more. tinydoorsatl. com The Secret Doors of Decatur: Sushi Avenue, Decatur Visitor Center, Wylde Center and more. secretdoorsdecatur.com l Public

Art Tour

The Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs offers a Public Art Tours App highlighting unique works of art in Downtown Atlanta. ocaatlanta.com. Also take a walking art tour of downtown Suwanee. Suwanne SculpTour brings a variety of sculptures to the area each year. suwanee.com l We

All Scream for Ice Cream Stay cool by taste-testing different flavors of made-from-scratch ice cream and sorbet. The Highroad Creamery Ice Cream tasting room is open every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Marietta. 678-701-7623. highroadcraft.com

Old-School Tunes

atlantaBABY FROM ATLANTA

a Junior Ranger

GuiDe

June 2017 / atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Paren t Magazine’s

Education Guide 2017

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

Camp Guide

SUMMER Fun Guide

Hand-Pick Your Hospital

50 Kid-Fr iendly Pla ces

Books What Baby Don’t Tell You

Splish,Splash, It’s Bathtime pproved OBs

Inside: Mom-A

ost Activities Little-or-No-C

and Pediatricians Entertainers

●

Mobile Party Services

●

Party Places

●

Supplies and

The Bestol Scho Guide

Rentals

Yummy! Kids Eat Free

Early Education Private Scho Public Scho ol ol Boarding Scho Special Need ol s Field Trips

Day Camps

Overnight Camps

Summer Program s

IP

Kids can earn badges to become a Junior Ranger through the Georgia state parks and historic sites program for ages 6-12. Stop by a Georgia state park and pick up the free Junior Ranger Activity Book or download the book from the website. Work through the book to earn badges. Some activities include tree identification, fishing and bird/ wildlife observation. gastateparks.org/ juniorranger.

PaRTY

FL

l Become

PARENT MAGAZINE

Swim and Splash: Get Wet Guide

AtlantaParent

t Magazine’s Atlanta Paren

2O17

The Atlanta Parent Family of Publications

Ju for O ne ou VE Is r R su e

Hear bluegrass and gospel musicians at Everett’s Music Barn, a heritage concert venue where Saturday night shows have been played for 50 years. Suwanee. everettsmusicbarn.net

æ

l Hear

Call 770-454-7599 for advertising information.

AtlantaParent.com

Cont’d on page 30

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 29

SUMMER Fun Guide

Drive.

Play.

Learn.

CDC Museum

Summer Fun Field Trips Norcross • 470-545-7227 tinytowne.com Voted Best of Atlanta Parent FAMILY FUN 2016, 2017

Parties

l CDC

Museum

Learn about the history of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention right next to the world headquarters. They really are discovering new diseases and cures right here in Atlanta. Older kids will love seeing the studies behind Ebola or the development of vaccinations. Atlanta.

404-639-0830. cdc.gov/museum/ l Go

Fishing

The Buford Trout Hatchery is located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River and includes a family fishing pond for catch and release fishing. Ages 15 and younger can fish for free, but ages 16 and older must have a Georgia Fishing License. Cumming.

770-781-6888. georgiawildlife.com/ Hatcheries/Buford l Get

Spooked

Ghost tours aren’t just for Halloween; several ghost tour companies are also open in the summer. Decatur, Roswell, Marietta and Lawrenceville Ghost Tours all offer spooky frights while walking around old mansions, cemeteries and paranormal hot spots. Visit websites for schedules: decaturghosttour. com, roswellghosttour.com, ghostsofmarietta. com and scarystroll.com l Waffle

House Museum

The very first Waffle House restaurant was in Atlanta, and now stands as a museum.

Today, the chain has 1700 restaurants in 25 states. The Museum features Waffle House memorabilia from the past 60 years.

Decatur. 770-326-7086. wafflehouse.com/ waffle-house-museum l Drive-In

Movie

Starlight Drive-In Theatre is a perfect activity for summer nights. Pack your family into the car with pillows and snacks and head to the lot. The $9 adult ticket (ages 10 and older) and $1 (ages 5-9) children’s ticket allows admission for two movies playing on the same screen. Tune your radio to the correct FM station and enjoy!

Atlanta. starlightdrivein.com 30 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

atlantaparent.com

SUMMER Fun Guide

Up Close with Butterflies!

See a butterfly land right on your hand, arm or even head! Interact with hundreds of native butterflies in these butterfly encounters. l Butterfly Encounter Chattahoochee Nature Center June 5-July 31. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sun. noon-4:30 p.m.

Cost: Adults, $10; ages 13-18, $7; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Roswell; 770-992-2055. chattnaturecenter.org l Day Butterfly Center Callaway Gardens Open year-round 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (until 6 p.m. March-Labor Day Weekend).

Cost: Ages 13 and older, $20; ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free.

This ticket price also includes other Callaway Gardens attractions.

Pine Mountain; 800-225-5292. callawaygardens.com

atlantaparent.com

Dunwoody Nature Center

This annual festival also include face painting, crafts, music and more. l Butterfly Festival Dunwoody Nature Center Aug. 19. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: Adults, $10; ages 4-12, $5; ages 3 and younger, free.

Dunwoody; 770-394-3322. dunwoodynature.org

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 31

SUMMER Fun Guide

Kids Eat Free

Eating out with your family can sometimes be pricey – we rounded up a list of the places where kids eat free, some every weekday or every day!

Call each restaurant before visiting to ensure the deal is still valid.

Restaurants often change their deals and menus.

Local: l Buckhead Pizza: Tuesdays with purchase of an adult entrée.

Buckhead and Cobb Galleria. buckheadpizzaco.com l Doc Chey’s Noodle House: Morningside: Mon.-Thurs. 3-6 p.m. and Grant Park: Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Children eat free when guests use their registered “Karma Card” (one free kids’ meal per adult entrée with beverage purchase). doccheys.com l El Azteca: Tues. 5 p.m.-close with purchase of an adult entrée.

Buckhead, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Milton. elaztecaatlanta.com l Fickle Pickle: Tues. 3-9 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée.

Roswell. ficklepicklecafe.com and Fun Begins Where The for All Ages! ds Never En

Book No w fo Birthday r a Great Party!

l Genki - Noodles & Sushi: Sundays. Buckhead, Sandy Springs and Virginia Highland. genkiatl.com l HOBNOB: Sun.-Thurs. 5-7 p.m. Atlanta. hobnobatlanta.com l Holy Taco: Tuesdays with $20 minimum purchase per table. Two kids eat free per table. Atlanta. holy-taco.com l Imperial l Radial

Buy One ALL-DAY Wristband & get another for Half Price!

INCLUDES UNLIMITED: Go Karts • Mini Go Karts • Mini Golf Tornado Ride • Pirate Ship • Rock Wall • Bumper Cars Spider Zone • Bumper Boats • 2 Sessions of Laser Tag 10 Water Balloons • 2 Down Pour Derby & a $5 play card.

Recommended for 44” or over. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Challenge your mind and figure out the mystery of the Egyptians and escape the tomb!

Fez: Sundays. Atlanta. imperialfezrestaurant.com

Café: Weekdays. Atlanta. radial.us

l Suburban Tap: Mondays with purchase of an adult entrée.

Marietta. suburbantap.com l Tin Drum Asian Café: Saturdays and Sundays with purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. North Druid Hills, Lindbergh Plaza and Atlantic Station. tindrumasiankitchen.com

$25/person 6 max. / session Reservations must be made in advance

706-335-3866

706-335-FUNN

40155 Hwy 441 • Commerce, GA • Interstate 85@ Exit 149

www.FunopolisFamilyFunCenter.com 32 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

Buckhead Pizza

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PEACHTREE BATTLE SHOPPING CENTER 2385 Peachtree Rd. NE, Suite A1E Atlanta, GA 30305 Flying Biscuit Cafe

l Wahoo!

Grill: Mon.-Fri. 5-6:30 p.m. Decatur. wahoogrilldecatur.com

l Williamson Bros. Barbeque: Mon.-Thurs. with purchase of a platter ($10.99 value) or more and a beverage. Canton location only. williamsonbros.com

404-812-1750 shopkeeper@mudmonkeyonpeachtree.com www.mudmonkeyonpeachtree.com Mon-Thurs 11am-7pm; Fri-Sat 11am-8 pm; Sun 12-5 pm Private parties by appointment

l Yeah! Burger: Mondays with purchase of an adult entrée. Virginia Highland and West Midtown. yeahburger.com

Chains: l Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar: Tues. 4-10 p.m. ($0.99 kids’ meals). Two kids’ meals per purchase of an adult entrée.

Dine-in only. 36 Atlanta locations, call ahead to check participation. applebees.com

COME HAVE FUN CREATING LIFE-LONG MEMORIES WITH US!

l Barberitos: Varies by location, with purchase of an adult entrée.

Buckhead: Mon. after 4 p.m. Roswell: Thursday and Sunday. Buford: Wed. after 4 p.m. and Sundays. barberitos.com l Chick-fil-A: Varies by location. Call ahead to check participation. chick-fil-a.com l Denny’s: Tues. and Sat. 4-10 p.m. Call ahead to check participation. dennys.com l Flying Biscuit: Candler Park and Midtown: Mon.-Thurs. 4-7 p.m.

Brookhaven, Peachtree City, Terminus and Howell Mill: Mon.-Fri. all day with purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. flyingbiscuit.com l IHOP: Every day 4-10 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. ihop.com l Moe’s Original Barbeque: Midtown: Tues. after 5 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. Roswell: Mon. after 5 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. Carrollton: Mondays, kids eat for $1 with any adult purchase. moesoriginalbbq.com l Moe’s Southwest Grill: Saturdays at these locations: Alpharetta, Windward Plaza; Alpharetta, Old Milton Parkway; Chamblee, ChambleeTucker Road; Atlanta, Auburn Avenue; Canton, Reinhardt College Parkway; Carrollton, South Highway; Fayetteville, GA Highway 85; Marietta, Johnson Ferry Road; Roswell, Shallowford Road. moes.com l O’Charley’s: Every day with purchase of an adult entrée. ocharleys.com l Ruby Tuesday: Tues. 5 p.m.-close with purchase of an adult entrée. rubytuesday.com l Steak ‘n Shake: Every day with printed website coupon. One kids’ plate with every $9 spent. steaknshake.com

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 33

SUMMER Fun Guide

Jump to New Heights

Grab some socks and let the kids get their jump on. These indoor play places and trampoline parks will keep the kids bouncing.

Hours vary by location. Check the websites for times before you go.

Sky Zone

Trampoline Parks l Get Air Stone Mountain; Johns Creek; Fayetteville; Gainesville Small Air is available for kids under 46 inches on the smaller play areas.

Big Air includes the ninja course, dodge ball and basketball and foam pit.

Cost: $8-$22 getairroy.com/locations

l X-drenaline 1611 Roswell Rd., Marietta; coming soon: Milton; Alpharetta; Cumming Open jump, foam pit and ninja obstacle course and rock wall.

Cost: $15-$33 (pre-purchased tickets recommended). xdrenaline.com

Bounce Places

l Jumping World 4200 Wade Green Rd. NW, Kennesaw In addition to trampolines, the area has two huge dodgeball courts, an arcade and a concession area, plus a jumping house for toddlers.

Cost: $11-$25 facebook.com/jumpingworldkennesaw

l Catch Air Cumming; Johns Creek; Marietta; Sandy Springs; Midtown; Snellville Let the kids out on the interactive dance floor or enjoy play structures by age group.

Cost: Varies by location, $7-$14. catchairparty.com

l Sky Zone Kennesaw; Roswell; Suwannee; McDonough; Newnan Play basketball and jump into the large foam pit. All jumpers will be separated by age and size.

Cost: $10-$21 (pre-purchased tickets recommended). skyzone.com

l HippoHopp Indoor Playground 1936 Briarwood Ct. NE, Atlanta Eco-friendly indoor play areas, a café with healthy choices, a reusable discount card and a large toddler area.

Cost: $5-$9. hippohopp.com

34 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

atlantaparent.com

Leapin’ Lizards

l Jump Jump 6315 C. Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners In the middle there is a large, open play area for easy supervision, and a trampoline area for jumping. Separate jump area for ages 2 and younger.

Cost: $7-$12. jump-jump.com l Kid’s Paradise 5050 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross Jump or climb on the obstacle courses. Separate toddler area and adult lounge.

Cost: $5.99-$12.99. kidsparadiseparty.com

A healthy, green kids party & play space!

Featuring a Full Bistro-Style Café

Aw a rd W in n in g B ir th d a y P a rt ie s

HIPPOHOPP.COM 404-634-4964 1936 Briarwood Ct. NE Atlanta, GA 30329

l Leapin’ Lizards North DeKalb Mall, 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur Offers parents’ night out and large open play arena with inflatables for all ages.

Cost: $5-$8. leapinlizardsplay.com l Monkey Joe’s Cumming; Marietta; Newnan; Tucker Play areas designated by age featuring jumps, slides and games and a mini monkey zone for ages 3 and younger.

Cost: Varies by location, $5.50-$11.99. monkeyjoes.com l Woody’s Jump n Play 1300 McDonough Pl., McDonough A designated play area for ages 3 and younger located near the parents’ lounge for easy supervision.

Cost: $6-$9.50 woodysjumpnplay.com

where science truly becomes an adventure!

Visit the Wonders of the Universe!

Daily Planetarium Programs 70-ft. Diameter Planetarium 4K Laser Projection System Exhibit Hall With Live Reptiles

fernbank science center 156 heaton park drive • atlanta 30307

678-874-7102 • fsc.fernbank.edu Woody’s Jump n Play

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 35

SUMMER Fun Guide

Toddler-Friendly Fun

Atlanta’s museums and major attractions are introducing kids to fun and educational environments at an early age. Spend time with your toddler making music, being artistic, or staying active.

Please check beforehand to confirm dates and times.

For Every Toddler l Little Acorns The Plaza at Avalon / Every Tues. through Oct. 10 a.m.-noon.

Face painting, storytime, crafts, character visits and more for preschoolers.

The Details: Free. Alpharetta; 770-765-1000. experienceavalon.com l Toddler Tuesdays: Preschool Playshop Center for Puppetry Arts / Select Tues. 10 and 11:30 a.m.

Workshops for ages 2-4 featuring reading activities, fingerplays and puppet-making to help build toddler motor and social skills.

The Details: Adults and children age 2 and older, $10.50; younger than 2, free. Atlanta; 404-873-3391. puppet.org l Tot Spot Atlantic Station’s Central Park / Every Tues. through Sept. 10 a.m.-noon.

Atlantic Station becomes a playground on Tuesdays for toddlers, with games, storytelling, toys, music and special guest appearances.

The Details: Free. Atlanta; 404-410-4010. atlanticstation.com l Toddler Time LEGOLAND Discovery Center / Every Tues. 10 a.m.

Guided play and storytime for toddlers in the DUPLO Village.

After storytime, toddlers can stay and play as long as they wish inside the attraction.

The Details: $11.95 per person; ages 2 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-848-9252. atlanta.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Learn About History l Magic Mondays Atlanta History Center / Second Mon. of each month. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including arts and crafts projects, music and storytime. Ages 18 months to 5 years.

The Details: Adults, $6.50; children, $5.50. Atlanta; 404-814-4000. atlantahistorycenter.com l Mice Tours Marietta Museum of History / Second Wed. of every month. 10:30 a.m.

Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts for ages 3-5. Reservations required.

The Details: $5 per family (one adult and up to three children). Marietta; 770-794-5710. mariettahistory.org

Little Acorns

36 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

l Mommy and Me Preschool Program Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History Every Thurs. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Explore the museum’s history with themes and educational activities for ages 3-5.

The Details: Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.

Kennesaw; 770-427-2117. southernmuseum.org

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l Welcome Wednesdays The DeKalb History Center / Second Wed. of each month. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Children will listen to a story and work on an art project based on that program’s theme.

The Details: Ages 2-5 and one adult, $6. Decatur; 404-373-1088. dekalbhistory.org l Second Thursday Program Southeastern Railway Museum / Second Thurs. of each month at 10:20 a.m.-noon A vehicle-themed class with five components, 15 minutes each, including games, stories and songs, activity and crafts. Ages 2-4. Advanced registration preferred.

The Details: $10 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $12. Duluth; 770-495-0253. train-museum.org.

Get Artsy l Toddler Thursdays High Museum of Art / Every Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits.

Recommended for ages 2-4.

The Details: Free with admission. 6 and older, $14.50; 5 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-733-4400. high.org l Toddler Fridays Hudgens Center for the Arts / Last Fri. of every month. 10:30 a.m.-noon Hands-on art activities, music and storytime for ages 1-4 led by a retired art educator.

The Details: $7/child; $5 each additional child. Duluth; 770-623-6002. thehudgens.org

Explore Nature l Preschool Adventures Autrey Mill Nature Preserve / Select Tues. and Fri. Sept.-May 10-11 a.m.

Kids ages 3-6 learn about the natural environment of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve.

Adventures might include a walk and hands-on activity or craft.

Advance registration preferred.

The Details: Adults, free; $10 per child. Johns Creek; 678-366-3511. autreymill.org l Garden Stories Smith-Gilbert Gardens / June 14 and 28. 10:30 a.m.

Story on a garden-related topic, crafts and more for ages 3-6.

The Details: Adults and children ages 2 and older, $7. Kennesaw; 770-919-0248. smithgilbertgardens.com l Garden Grooves Atlanta Botanical Garden / Every Thurs. through Oct. 10:30-12:30 p.m.

Get ready to wiggle and warble in the Children’s Garden Amphitheater to songs and dances for ages 2-5. The Garden also offers Garden Playtime and Storybook time.

The Details: Included with admission, adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-876-5859. atlantabg.org l Tadpole Tales/Tree Top Tales Fernbank Museum of Natural History June 10, 11:45 a.m.; June 17, 11:30 a.m.; July 1, 11:30 a.m.; July 15, 11:45 a.m.

Preschoolers will enjoy a story with a Fernbank educator along with an activity or song.

The Details: Included with admission, adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org l Adventure Cubs Zoo Atlanta First Wed. of each month. Select Sat. 10-11 a.m.

Go on a Zoo tour, explore and play at interactive learning stations and meet an animal ambassador up-close. The hands-on program allows you to explore different toddler-friendly concepts about animals. Ages 3 and 4. Registration required. The Zoo also offers Stroller Cubs for ages infant-2 years.

The Details: $24 for one adult/child pair includes Zoo admission. Atlanta; 404-6245822. zooatlanta.org

atlantaparent.com

High Museum of Art

Get Moving l Toddler Time Sky Zone trampoline parks offer special jump times for ages 5 and younger.

The Details: Suwanee, Roswell, Kennesaw, McDonough or Newnan. Check each location for schedule and prices. skyzone.com l HippoHop Mon.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Sat. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

This indoor play place has an eco-friendly indoor play area, a café with healthy choices and a large toddler area.

The Details: Ages 3-10, $9; ages 1-2, $5; younger than 1, free.

Atlanta; 404-634-4964. hippohopp.com l Tiny Tots Sparkles Skating Rinks 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Kids younger than age 5 using ride-on toys and skates are welcome on the skate floor or in the bounce house.

The Details: Kennesaw, Smyrna, Hiram and Lawrenceville. See sparklesfamilyfuncenters.com for dates. $5-$8 with lunch.

Other Ideas l Model Train Garden Gainesville Botanical Garden Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. March-Oct. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov.-Feb. Calling all train-loving children, visit the Model Train Garden to play with toy trains and watch the model train go around the tracks.

The Details: Included with admission. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. Gainesville; 404-888-4760. atlantabg.org/ visit/gainesville l TinyTowne Your car enthusiast will love getting to drive around in small cars and watch big kids drive in larger ones. Ages 1-3 can learn to hold onto the steering wheel and ages 3-6 can drive a freely-moving vehicle on the Tiny Track..

The Details: Norcross; 470-545-7227. See tinytowne.com for pricing. l Local Libraries Libraries are ideal, free places to visit with toddlers. Not only do you encourage picking up a book and reading from a young age, most metro libraries schedule weekly storytimes, craft activities and even puppet shows. Visit your local library’s website for a calendar of events.

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 37

SUMMER Fun Guide l Decatur Toy Park Scooters, tricycles, small slides, push cars galore – this toy park is filled with toys families have donated, and is a great place for toddlers to play. The sidewalk “track,” which runs along the edges is great for riding all types of plastic toys, which are readily available all over the grass and mulch area.

The Details: First Christian Church, Decatur. decaturdisciples.org

Year-Round Toddler Fun These two museums take toddler time to the next level, with engaging exhibits and displays to delight any child. l Children’s Museum of Atlanta Kids can climb aboard a John Deere tractor, try milking a cow or play chef in the diner. Resuming in the fall, kids ages 2-5 can also participate in Tiny Club Mondays to become a Tiny Artist, Tiny Foodie, Tiny Maker or Tiny Scientist.

The Details: $14.95 per person. Atlanta; 404-659-5437. childrensmuseumatlanta.org l Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc. Toddlers will love pretending to fly in an airplane, checking out x-rays on a light board, pretending to be a dentist or learning how to handle money. INK allows for many role-playing experiences.

The Details: Mon.-Sat. $8 per person. Sun. $6 per person.

Gainesville; 770-536-1900. inkfun.org

Get Splashing!

It gets really hot during Atlanta summers – stay cool and learn swim skills with these programs. l Aqua-Tots Swim Schools Swim lessons for ages 4 months and older. From infant safety classes to swimming technique classes, you can start your child young.

The Details: Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Douglasville and Atlanta (opening fall 2017). aqua-tots.com l Dynamo Swim Club Dynababies classes are for ages 6 -36 months in a heated pool; these introductory classes help get baby Goldfish Swim School comfortable in the water. Preschool classes are for ages 3 and 4 to work on basic swim skills.

The Details: Seven Atlanta locations. See dynamoswimschool.com for schedule and pricing. l Goldfish Swim School Year-round swim lessons for children 4 months to 12 years and for swimmers of all abilities. The pool is even heated to a warm 90 degrees for year-round swimming.

The Details: Johns Creek; 770-744-0250. See goldfishswimschool.com for schedule and pricing.

The Children’s Museum, Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Alliance Theatre for the Very Young also have great toddler programs that resume in the fall. Check websites for schedule of events.

More than 50 family-friendly activities Back for our 14th year, it’s Atlanta’s favorite family festival!

October 14th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Mercer University Atlanta Campus

Join the FUN!

Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

Exhibit, Volunteer, Donate 770-454-7599 • LPowell@atlantaparent.com

www.atlantaparent.com/familyfestival 38 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

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SUMMER Fun Guide Hear a Great Tale Every child loves a good story. The addition of special guests, costumed characters or music adds to the fun. Visit any of these places to listen to a free story. l Libraries Metro libraries offer more than reading programs. Find family-friendly events all summer long. Check with your local branch to learn about their special events.

Atlanta-Fulton: afpls.org Clayton County: claytonpl.org Cobb County: cobbcat.org Coweta County: cowt.ent.sirsi.net DeKalb County: dekalblibrary.org Forsyth County: forsythpl.org Gwinnett County: gwinnettpl.org Henry County: henry.public.lib.ga.us Conyers-Rockdale County: conyersrockdalelibrary.org

Learning Express

l More

Storytelling

Barnes and Noble Storytelling Saturdays 11 a.m. barnesandnoble.com Brilliant Sky Toys & Books Sandy Springs / Thursdays 10:30 a.m. brilliantskytoys.com Learning Express Alpharetta; Marietta; Woodstock Alpharetta and Marietta: Mondays 11 a.m.

Woodstock: Thursdays 11 a.m. learningexpress.com Little Shop of Stories Decatur / Tuesdays and Thursdays 11 a.m., Sundays 3 p.m. littleshopofstories.com

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SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 39

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This handy checklist means your family won’t miss a minute of fun this summer!

Your Summer Go-To Bucket List

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Hippo Hopp hippohopp.com

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Historic Downtown Acworth visitacworth.org

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The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort kingandprince.com

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The Dancing Granny at Alliance Theatre alliancetheatre.org

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Lane Southern Orchards lanesouthernorchards.com

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Join the Braves Kids Club braves.com/kids

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Mercier Orchards mercierorchards.com

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Lion King Jr. Experience at Camp Village campvillage.com

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Mud Monkey on Peachtree mudmonkeyonpeachtree.com

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Center for Puppetry Arts puppet.org

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Museum of Aviation museumofaviation.org

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Chattahoochee Nature Center chattnaturecenter.org

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Music & Arts Center musicarts.com

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Children’s Museum of Atlanta childrensmuseumatlanta.org

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Rancho Alegre ranchoalegrefarm.com

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Zip the Hooch with Cool River Adventures coolriveradventures.com

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River Tubing rivertubing.com

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Cool River Tubing coolrivertubing.com

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Dynamo Swim School dynamoswimschool.com

Roswell Summer Puppet Series at Roswell Cultural Arts Center roswellcac.com

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Fernbank Museum of Natural History fernbankmuseum.org

Southeastern Railway Museum train-museum.org

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Funopolis funopolisfamilyfuncenter.com

Tellus Science Museum tellusmuseum.org

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Summerfest at Gaylord Opyrland Resort gaylordopryland.com/summerfest

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum tvrail.com

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Glow Galaxy glowgalaxy.com

Tiny Towne tinytowne.com

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The Wizard of Oz Train Ride at Great Smoky Mountains Railroad gsmr.com

Kidzone at Topgolf topgolf.com/kidzone

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Woodruff Arts Center Family Fun Days woodruffcenter.org/create-atl

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High Museum of Art high.org

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Zoo Atlanta zooatlanta.org

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Special Advertising Page

SUMMER Fun Guide 2017 Atlanta Parent 41

SUMMER Fun Guide

Totally Atlanta Put these icons on your to-do list.

l Atlanta Braves SunTrust Park, the brand new home of the Atlanta Braves, was built with families in mind. From the impressive, carnival-like children’s area to an enormous Atlanta Braves symbol made out of LEGOs, there is so much to see and do before the first pitch. Atlanta. braves.com l Delta Flight Museum Our city has one of the busiest airports in the world, but we have one hometown airline – Delta Air Lines. The Delta Flight Museum allows visitors to experience the rich history of Delta Air Lines and get up-close with some massive airplanes. Atlanta. 404-715-7886. deltamuseum.org

l Inside CNN Studio Tour The tour begins with a ride on the world’s largest freestanding escalator. Next, see what it’s like to work inside the control room, and try your hand at delivering the news and weather. Atlanta. tours.cnn.com l Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Watch doughnuts chug down the conveyor belt and be showered in sweet, sticky glaze, still piping hot. (Just be sure the sign reads “Hot Now” before you head over). Atlanta. 404-876-7307. krispykreme.com l Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center includes his birth home, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and Freedom Hall, where you can view Dr. King’s Nobel Peace Prize and one of the largest collections of American civil rights materials in the world. Atlanta. 404-331-5190 ext. 5046. nps.gov/malu/index.htm l Oakland Cemetery Tours and walks through the cemetery reveal the rich history behind each gravestone. Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first African-American major and Margaret Mitchell, author of “Gone with the Wind” are both buried here. Atlanta.

404-688-2107. oaklandcemetery.com

World of Coca-Cola

l Stone Mountain The area has great attractions, but also boasts a lot of history. The Confederate Memorial Carving is the largest high relief sculpture in the world. Hike up the mountain or take a tour of the Quarry exhibit. Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. stonemountainpark.com l The Big Chicken Located at the intersection of Cobb Parkway and Roswell Road, the “Big Chicken” stands tall. The chicken and KFC was renovated this year, keeping the signature eye roll and moving beak, but also adding a voice. Tune into 820 AM to hear the chicken speak. Marietta. 770-422-4716. marietta.com/attractions l The Varsity What’ll ya have at this famous drive in? Try a chili dog, a frosted orange and a fried pie. This Atlanta institution has been serving up the favorites since the 1920s. Your children will soon be yelling “One naked dog walking, mom!”

Atlanta. 404-881-1706. thevarsity.com

Atlanta Braves

l The Fox Theatre Stop by this landmark for a show, or take a behind-the-scenes guided tour. You can learn facts about the building including the “Mighty Mo,” the largest working Moller theatre organ in the world. Atlanta. 404-881-2100. foxtheatre.org l World of Coca-Cola For most children, the best part about visiting the World of Coca-Cola is the tasting room at the end, where you can sample Coke products from around the world. Also don’t miss the Vault of the Secret Formula where the legendary recipe for Coca-Cola is secured. Atlanta. 404-676-5151. worldofcoca-cola.com

The Varsity

42 Atlanta Parent SUMMER Fun Guide 2017

l Waffle House Museum The very first Waffle House restaurant was in Atlanta, and now stands as a museum. Today, the chain now has 1700 restaurants in 25 states. The Museum features Waffle House memorabilia from the past 60 years. Decatur. 770-3267086. wafflehouse.com/waffle-house-museum

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