Family Summer Fun in Atlanta 2013: Outdoor Recreation Edition

May 24, 2013 By Leave a Comment

 

ATLSummer2013_Cover (1)

The rise of temperature and longer daylight is a sure sign that summer is here in Atlanta. Join Atlanta With Kid and Expedition Mom as we celebrate 120 ways to enjoy summer fun in Atlanta with the entire family.

For the next 6 weeks, Expedition Mom and Atlanta With Kid will highlight one section from our guide on our site with detail information on fun ways to celebrate summer in Atlanta.

With the beginning of summer, the temperature is still in more manageable. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor recreation in Atlanta. There are so many fun things to do outdoor in Atlanta. So head on to Expedition Mom for all the scoop of fun outdoor recreation in Atlanta.

You can download our complete summer fun in Atlanta guide here.

Family’s Favorite Parks and Playgrounds in Atlanta (Northeast Metro)

May 6, 2013 By Leave a Comment

 

Finding the playground that is fun, easily accessible, well-maintained and has great play structure that can entertain kids for hours is like finding a hidden gem. Once you have found it, your kids will beg to go back there again and agin. So today we are excited that our Atlanta Parent Squad, Cheryl Miller, shares with us her family’s favorites parks and playgrounds in Atlanta 

Parks & playgrounds in Atlanta

If you are new to the Greater Atlanta area but have settled somewhere in the suburbs on the northeast side, you may not know about some of the great parks that are available to you and your family to enjoy. Here are a few of my family’s favorites:

 

Family Friendly Parks and Playgrounds in Atlanta

 

Henderson Park

 

Parks & playgrounds in Atlanta Henderson park

This family-friendly park in Tucker is well known for its youth soccer league, Triumph Youth Soccer Association, the largest youth sports association in DeKalb County. However, anyone can enjoy the beauty of this park when you want to get outside, get some fresh air and maybe have a picnic or let the kids play on the playground.

It is actually 121 acres of beautifully cared for nature preserve with walking trails, a community garden and even a duck pond, waterfull and small lake.

You can find out more from the Friends of Henderson Park, a community group that helps tend to the area and promote it in the community. Address: Henderson park, Tucker, GA Website: http://hendersonpark.org/

 

Stone Mountain Playground

If you have a season parking pass for the Stone Mountain Park, you already know what a great investment you’ve made in your family’s leisure time. For a small price, you can come and go from the park all year and enjoy the beauty of the mountain from a more local, less touristy perspective. There are picnic tables everywhere, covered pavilions, beachy areas and just plain beautiful patches of grass to plop down a blanket, open a picnic basket and let your kids run around and play.

Even better, Stone Mountain’s playground is perhaps one of the best in the area. It is large enough for plenty of kids to play freely all at once with plenty of spaces for a great game of hide n’ seek. But it is small enough and enclosed that parents can relax a bit without worry that their kids might suddenly wander off. And, there is a smaller playground for younger kids so they have an area to themselves. There are clean restrooms nearby, plenty of grassy open areas for a good game of Frisbee or catch.

Plus, every kid seems to love spending time at the giant sand box. Bring your beach toys and you will soon be building castles and making friends from all over Atlanta.

Check out more information for Stone Mountain park and playground. Address: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083  Website: http://www.stonemountainpark.com/

 

Piedmont Park

 

Parks & playgrounds in Atlanta Piedmont park

While Piedmont is still the park for the in-town crowd, it has really done a lot in recent years to become more accessible to families from all parts of Atlanta. There are a couple of new, urban “chic” playgrounds that kids really enjoy.

The downside is that you will most likely have to pay to park, but once you are inside the park, you can easily spend the entire day. Bring your own small cooler with drinks as sometimes the water fountains are spaced a bit far apart. And, make sure you are good with your directions because after walking a bit, it is easy to get turned around and not remember how to get back to your car.

But, if you are looking for a great place for roller-blading, bike riding or flying a kit, Piedmont is a beautiful way to spend a summer day.

For more information: Address: 400 Park Dr NE  Atlanta, GA 30306  Website: http://www.piedmontpark.org/

 

DeKalb Peachtree Park (PDK or Airport Park)

 

Parks & playgrounds in Atlanta PDK park

 

If you have ever found this gem, you know how much kids love it. The DeKalb Peachtree Park is in a most unusual place – the airport.

The DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK) just off Clairemont Road in DeKalb County has the most adorable little playground with a grand view of the small engine and private airplanes as they come in and take off from the runway.

It has clean, update playground equipment with plenty of climbing and swinging activities for a small group, plus a nice pavilion area if you just want to enjoy some sunshine and watch the runway. There are covered picnic tables and a nearby restaurant so you can plan to enjoy lunch while you are there, too.

Quite unique, this park also features some history with a memorial to the war veterans of Georgia and the pilots who have served our country.

For more information: Address: 400 Park Dr NE  Atlanta, GA 30306  Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DeKalb-Peachtree_Airport

These are just a few of the many parks that exist around the Atlanta area. You may have to search a little or ask some of the “locals” if you are new to the area, but after a few turns and twists down our back roads and you will soon find those wide open spaces and playgrounds that will remind you of your own childhood. And, the great part is that most of these activities are free! So, pack up the sunscreen and bottled water this Summer, grab a blanket and load the kids in the car – let’s get out to visit the parks and enjoy living in Atlanta with kid(s)!

 

About Cheryl Miller
Cheryl Miller gave up her corporate, cut-throat career as a Marketing Research Manager for CNN in Atlanta for the “simple life” of a devoted wife and Mom of a fun-loving first grader. She blogs about the schools and cell towers on her group’s website:  www.GETtheCELLoutATL.org and writes news and opinion pieces for the Tucker Patch.  She has lived in DeKalb County for 13 years, the past 10 have been in Tucker. She hopes to bring some humor to her postings and help her Tucker community attract some new fans to its local events, kid-friendly restaurants and shoppes and other attractions

Atlanta With Kids: 13 Things to Do in Atlanta before You’re 13

April 15, 2013 By 1 Comment

Atlanta with kids: 13 Things to do before you're 13

For parents of newborn, toddler and preschooler, I have one advice, enjoy every moment (the good, the bad and the sleepless). It’s true when they said times fly. I still remember when we first moved to Atlanta when our kids were in preschool how every weekend was a fun new adventure for us to go out and explore what this great city has to offer. Fast forward a few years later, when our weekend activities are filled with friend’s birthday parties and sport activities.  And now my older daughter will go to middle school this coming school year. Soon before I knew it, she will be a teenager!

Those fun adventures are great memory we created as a family but don’t take it for grant. Some activities are fun for kids in certain age. Once they get older, they are less likely to enjoy them.

So here are our list of 13 things to do in Atlanta before your kids turn 13. You can also click to download printable pdf file to take along with you on the outing or put it up on your fridge.

13 Things to Do in Atlanta before You’re 13

 

1. Play, learn and explore at Children’s Museum of Atlanta

 
Children’s museum of Atlanta is an awesome place for kids from toddler to age 6. After that, it will be harder to hold their interest. But younger kids will be in awe and love to explore every inch of this great Atlanta attraction.

2. Build sand castle and swim at Buford Dam park beach

Most kids love swimming. What could be more fun than spending a beautiful afternoon on the beach and building sand castle. The Buford Dam Park Beach is a great way to escape for family that doesn’t involve a long car ride and crazy expensive admission price to water parks. Yet kids can still have fun in the water.
 

3. Make a puppet at Center for Puppetry Art

 
Center for Puppetry Art is a great place for a fun day indoor where kids will enjoy puppet show, learn about puppet history and even make their own puppet creation. The center has been a great destination for school field trips.
 

4. Taste soft drinks from around the world at World of Coca-Cola

 
Ok. This visit might still bode well even when your kids are well into their teen years. Who doesn’t want to try out all your heart or your mom will allow soda from Coca-Cola. But the World of Coca-Cola is not all about free drinks, kids will also enjoy meeting the polar bear, watch 4-D movie and see the factory. Our kids still beg us to go back there again.
 

5. Pick your own fruits at local U-Pick farms

 
Kids love to do things on their own. It makes them feel like an adult. So picking your own fruits is one of the best family activity. Luckily in Atlanta metro area we have several u-pick farms for all season from pick-your-own apples farms in Fall to strawberry picking in Spring.
 

6. Watch movie under the star at outdoor summer movie series

 
Summer can be stressful for parents to try to fill up the day of kids complaining about being bored at home. The outdoor summer movie series is a great way to chase away those boredom in the house. Pack up the car with lawn chairs and some snack and the whole family will enjoy a movie night under the star.
 

7. Eat cotton candy and funnel cake at Atlanta Dogwood festival

 
Spring festivals in Atlanta is fun and perfect for families. Cotton candy, hotdog, funnel cake and italian ice are some of food you can easily find at the festival. And one of the most popular festival in Atlanta, Dogwood festival, has a bit of everything and more for the whole families.
 

8. Learn to build at Home Depot Kids Workshop or Lowe’s Build & Grow

 
This might be the only time parents can feel at ease letting their kids handle real hammer and nail. The Home Depot Kids’ Workshop and Lowe’s Build & Grow offer free workshops for kids on the weekend.
 

9. Hike up to top of the fall at Amicalola Falls

 
Hiking with kids might sound like a lot of work especially if you are not outdoor type person (like me). But a visit to Amicalola Falls will give anyone even the novice in hiking the sense of accomplishment and the joy of reaching the top the falls. If you are not sure about hiking for the first time, you can cheat a little bit and drive up to the parking lot where all you have to do just walk on a short trail to the top of the falls. Baby step!
 

10. Watch airplanes take off at Dekalb Peachtree Airport playground

 
There is something about seeing a huge metal thing flying out into the sky that mesmerizing to kids especially boys. The Dekalb Peachtree airport playground is a great place to let them run and play while spotting aircraft taking off and landing nearby.
 

11. Tour the farm at Cagle’s Family Farm

 
Kids love animal. It’s the fact. A visit to local farm like Cagle’s Family Farm is fun and entertaining for kids. They will meet farm animals and maybe even learn how to milk the cow.
 

12. Cool down with water fountain at the Centennial Olympic Park

 
There are several splash pad and water fountains around town but the most recognized one for Atlanta metro is none other than the Centennial Olympic Park. It’s just something you have to experience once. It was fun for kids to run through the rings of fountain. But be warned, there is very little to no shade around the fountain so bring the umbrella.
 

13. Meet the dinosaur at Fernbank Museum of Natural History

 
Fernbank Museum of Natural History has a lot to offer more than just the dinosaur that greets everyone as we enter the museum. With multi-level of learning and fun for kids to explore including IMAX movie and special exhibition that changes on a regular basis, kids can spend hours in there.

 

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Blueberry Picking in Atlanta: Guide to Pick Your Own Blueberries Farms

April 15, 2013 By 3 Comments

Look for guide to blueberry picking farms in Atlanta and North Georgia area? You have come to the right place. We have compiled a list of pick your own blueberries farms in Atlanta and the surrounding area for you.

Blueberry picking is another family fun activity that kids will enjoy.

Blueberry picking in Atlanta

 

Guide to Blueberry Picking in Atlanta

 

Adams Farm

Address: 1486 Georgia Highway 54 West, Fayetteville, Georgia 30214
Phone: 770-461-9395
Date & Hour: April 1st and ends mid-July. 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Saturday
More Info: Check website http://www.adamsfarmfayettevillega.com/About_Our_Farm.html

 

Berry Patch Farms

Address: 786 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, GA
Phone: 770-926-0561
Date & Hour: TBA. 8 AM – 9 PM
More Info: Check website http://www.berrypatchfarms.net/index.htm

 

The Blueberry Farm

Address: 1363 Highway 151, LaFayette, Georgia 30728
Phone: 706-638-0908
Date & Hour: early July – late August. 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, Monday – Tuesday & Thursday – Sunday
More Info: Check website https://www.theblueberryfarm.com

 

Cool Springs Blueberry Farm and Nursery

Address: 5975 Smith Mill Road, Gainesville, Ga 30506
Phone: 770-535-7350
Date & Hour: Mid June. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://u-pickblueberries.webstarts.com/index.html

 

The Dacula Briar Patch

Address: 2503 Cammie Wages Road, Dacula, Georgia 30019
Phone: 770-962-4990
Date & Hour: Second week of June. 7:00 am – 7:00 pm Tuesday to Saturday
More Info: Check website https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dacula-Briar-Patch/165015433521143

 

DJ’s U-Pick Blueberry Farm

Address: 1839 Prospect Road, Lawrenceville, Ga 30043
Phone: 678-442-7853
Date & Hour: TBA. 8am – 7pm Monday through Saturday
More Info: Check website http://u-pickblueberries.webstarts.com/index.html

 

Fleeman’s U-Pick Blueberries

Address: 716 Harrison Mill Road, Winder, GA. 30680
Phone: 770-867-3420
Date & Hour: TBA. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://www.fleemansblueberries.com/index.html

 

Gardner Farms

Address: 3192 Hwy. 42, Locust Grove, Georgia 30248
Phone: 770-957-4912
Date & Hour: TBA. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://www.Gardner-Farm.com

 

Hard Labor Creek Blueberry Farm

Address: 38 Knox Chapel Road, Social Circle, Georgia 30025
Phone: 770-464-2412
Date & Hour: TBA. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website https://sites.google.com/site/hlcblueberries/

 

Roberts’ Family Farm

Address: 5975 Smith Mill Road, Gainesville, Ga 30506
Phone: 770-535-7350
Date & Hour: Mid June. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://u-pickblueberries.webstarts.com/index.html

 

Whippoorwill Hollow Farm

Address: 3905 Hwy 138, Covington, GA 30014
Phone: 678-625-3272
Date & Hour: Mid June thru August. Call for hours & availability

 

Yule Forest Hwy 155

Address: 3565 Hwy 155 North, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281
Phone: 770-954-9356
Date & Hour: June 10th. 7a.m.- dark, 7 days a week
More Info: Check website http://www.aboutyule.com/blueberry-picking/

 

See Map to U-Pick Blueberries Farm near Atlanta, Georgia


View Blueberry Picking near Atlanta, Georgia in a larger map

 

Also see other Summer Fun in Atlanta Guides:

Strawberry Picking in Atlanta and North Georgia

March 26, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Strawberry Picking in Atlanta

Looking for where to take your kids for a strawberry picking in Atlanta metro area?

You are at the right place. We have updated our popular guide to strawberry picking in Atlanta metro for you.  Strawberry picking in Georgia season usually runs from Mid April till June (depends on weather of that year).

So I have done some digging and found several pick-your-own Strawberries farms around Atlanta. There are probably more that are not in the list. I pick farms that are within one hour drive from Atlanta. If you live in the suburb, your driving time might be less or more depends on where you live.

Since strawberry farms operate with the mercy of the mother nature, it’s highly recommend that you contact the farm on the day you plan to head there to confirm the availability of the strawberries. Also if you plan to go there during the weekend, it’s also recommended to call ahead to see if they have any strawberries left that day.

Strawberry Picking in Atlanta and surrounding area

 

Jenkinsburg: Deb – Deb’s Strawberry Farm

Address: 159 County Line Road, Jenkinsburg, GA 30234
Phone: 770-504-1486
Date & Hour: Open April – June. Monday – Saturday: 10AM – 8PM & Sunday: 1PM – 6 PM
Note: Check their facebook page for up-to-date information.

 

Fayetteville: Cottle Strawberry Farm

Address: 290 Banks Road near the water tower, Fayetteville, GA
Phone: 770-719-2600
Date & Hour: Open April – May.
Note: Call and if someone picks up the phone, it means they are open. If there is no one pick up the phone, it means the farm is not yet opened. As of now, they plan to open by this weekend. Call first! See website for more info.

 

Stockbridge: Cottle Strawberry Farm

Address: 4830 E Fairview Road, Stockbridge, GA 30281
Phone: 770-761-7822
Date & Hour: Open April – May.
Note: Call and if someone picks up the phone, it means they are open. If there is no one pick up the phone, it means the farm is not yet opened. As of now, they plan to open by this weekend. Call first! See website for more info.

 

Fayetteville: Adams Farm

Address: 1486 Georgia Highway 54 West, Fayetteville, GA 30241
Phone: 770-461-9395
Date & Hour: Open April – June. Monday -Saturday from 9AM-4:30PM.
Note: Accept cash or check only. Check website for more info.

 

Loganville: Washington Farm

Address: 3650 Loganville Hwy., Loganville, GA  30052
Phone: 770-554-8119
Date & Hour: Open April – May.
Note: Call before head out because farm might close due to weather. Or check out their website for update.

 

McDonough: Southern Belle Farm

Address: 1658 Turner Church Road, McDonough, GA 30252
Phone: 770-898-0999
Date & Hour: Open Mar 27th – May. Monday – Friday: 8am-6pm ; Saturday: 8am-6pm; Sunday: 1pm-6pm
Note: Check their website or become a fan on their Facebook fan page for update.

 

Oxford: Mitcham Farm

Address: 797 Macedonia Church Road, Oxford, GA 30054
Phone: 770-855-1530
Date & Hour: Open Mid March – June. Monday – Friday from 9AM – 5PM. Saturday from 1PM-5PM. Sunday from 9AM-5:30PM.
Note: Open now. See website for more info.

 

Dallas: Harry Stacy Farm

Address: 623 Poplar Road, Dallas, GA 30157
Phone: 770-443-0292
Date & Hour: Open April – June.
Note: Check website to update on the operating hour. CASH only. See website for more info.

 

Monroe: Red Sun Farms

Address: 1599 Vasco Adcock Road, Monroe , GA 30655
Phone: 404-569-1199
Date & Hour: Open April – Mid June. Monday-Saturday: 8AM-8PM
Note: Check website for update information on opening date, price and hours. Accept Cash and Checks only!

 

Cumming: Warbington Farms

Address: 5555 Crow Road, Cumming, Georgia 30041
Phone: (770) 380-2920 & (770) 889-1515
Date & Hour: Open April
Note: Check website for update information on opening date, price and hours.

 

See our map for U-Picked Strawberry Farms near Atlanta, GA


View Pick Your Own Strawberry Farms near Atlanta, Georgia in a larger map
Atlanta Things To Do

 

Also see other Summer Fun in Atlanta Guides:

 

Photo Credit: The Green Squirrel

4 Things to Do in Suwanee with Kids on Rainy Days

March 25, 2013 By Leave a Comment

The spring season is here but the mother nature is as erratic as she can be. Looking for fun things to do  in Suwanee with kids on a rainy day? Check out a suggestion from Heidi Clarke, our Atlanta Parent Squad. Heidi is a mother of two energetic, sweet, crazy little boys and a writer to juicingpedia.com, a site all about her escapades and education in health and nutrition.

Things to do in Suwanee with kids Rainy days

Suwanee April Showers: Top 4 Places to Go on Rainy Days

April Showers bring…FUSSY kids. At least in my house. Rain is usually a death sentence for my house – toys will erupt all over the house, and kids will turn into Nascar racing Banshees. To avoid myself breaking down into a fit of despair, we must escape the prison that is our house during an “April Shower” day. I’m sure many of your children are perfect little angels during rainy days, and simply read and color all day long. If not, here are four spots I have found that are perfect rainy day escapes in the Suwanee/Sugar Hill/Buford areas.

 

1. Gary Pirkle Park

 

Gary Pirkle is a haven for mucky, rainy days…because it is COMPLETELY covered. No, it is NOT indoor. It simply has a full pavilion roof that covers the entire (very cool, I might add) playground.

Drawbacks? The swings are not covered, so kids may still get wet (why is it that my sons never like the swings until it’s raining outside?)

Perks? The surrounding soccer field is made completely out of astroturf, and thus gets much less wet than normal rained-on grass. In fact, many times we have gone to Gary Pirkle when it was raining, played on the playground until the rain stopped, then ran around in the fields WITHOUT getting wet or muddy. It really is the ideal (FREE) outdoor location for those April Showers.

You can find Gary Pirkle Park off of Suwanee Dam, past Highway 20, going towards Lake Lanier. Turn right off of Suwanee Dam at Austin Garner Rd, then follow the signs in.

 

2. Library

 

There are two beautiful public libraries both within 10 minutes of my house in Sugar Hill: The Suwanee Library and the Buford Library.

Both have Toddler and Preschool storytimes that are FANTASTIC (and free!). They also often have puppet shows, magic shows, and plays. AND…(here’s the clincher!) they have kid-safe computers, with kid-friendly learning software.

During a rainy day, I can go check out new books for my sons and myself, while allowing my four-year-old to quietly explore this new world of technology WITHOUT me fearing for the life of poor computer. I know most toddlers manipulate iPhones and iPads these days, but this mom just doesn’t have the money to let my clumsy, sticky-fingered child anywhere near my expensive techy stuff.

So…for a quiet, indoor rainy activity, the Suwanee Library is right off of Suwanee Dam, across the street from Town Center, and/or the Buford Library is off of Buford Highway, going towards Gainesville. To get a library card, all you need is proof of residence and an ID.

 

3. Catch Air Suwanee

 

Think Monkey Joes or any of those other bounce house-style indoor playgrounds, but with a few key differences: a three story (solid) jungle gym, a ball pit, a rope swing, ride-on toys, giant foam blocks for building, and (my niece’s favorite) a disco-style light-up dance floor, with laser lights and bubbles to add to the groove.

But there is a cost to all the fun. It’s $8 per kid 3 and up, $5 for 1-3 year olds (adults are free, thank goodness!)

HOWEVER…the Catch Air Suwanee facebook page posts a code word every day that gets you 20% off (so that makes the price a bit more affordable). And you can enter and leave as many times as you want the same paying day (for naps, lunch), so a long rainy day can potentially become much shorter…

Just don’t forget to bring socks. They’re required for everyone, even adults. Catch Air is off of Suwanee Dam, close to exit 111 off of 85.

 

4. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center

 

This spot is also a bit on the expensive side. $7.50 for adults and $3.50 for kids 3-12. It is worth it, though.

It has a little aquarium inside, as well as changing child-centered exhibits, and it is VERY hands on. They have a whole room dedicated to water, including a ball pit that teaches about evaporation and rain, a miniature river that you can manipulate with dams, boats, and alternative terrain, as well as a full water play area, where you can use pulleys, suction, and wheels to move water.

My boys were entertained for three full hours. That is saying A LOT. Truthfully, my four-year-old wanted to stay and play, but my one-year-old was needing a nap.

It is close to the Mall of Georgia, off of Woodward Mill and Plunkett Road.

 

So don’t get caught in the “Cat in the Hat”-style rainy day play. Get out of you house and enjoy the day!

 

About Heidi Clarke
Heidi Clarke is first and foremost a mother to two energetic, sweet, crazy little boys (both under the age of 4). She is also the wife of a busy medical student. In her spare time she is writing for juicingpedia.com, a site all about her escapades and education in health and nutrition, with many lovely juicing recipes included. She found that thus far she has had no opportunity to use her Master’s in Education, but plan on using it someday….maybe after these chubby bums are clean and little mouths are fed…

 

Photo credit: Adwriter

5 Family Favorite Local Things to Do in Atlanta

March 18, 2013 By 1 Comment

Find out where local family love to go on their weekend. Our Atlanta Parent Squad and local mom, Jessica Dickson, shares with us her family favorite things to do in Atlanta for any season. Jessica is a full- time mommy (of two unbelievable children) and wife as well as a part- time event planner/ family educator at a local community center.

Local Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids

When my husband, the eternal Yankee, committed to staying in Atlanta with me, his eternal Southern wife, he made me promise that we would always live ITP so we could access all that Atlanta has to offer. I kept this promise for many years however like many people we finally moved OTP…to Dunwoody. However we realized Atlanta really is our oyster. All we have to do is get in the car and go… and that is what we do. Below are five of our top local activities with our kids:

Festival Seasons

As we approach spring my husband starts to get jittery with the excitement of Festival season. Between the Dogwood, Inman Park, Virginia- Highlands, and many other festivals there are many to choose from. Luckily in Atlanta we have both spring and fall (love the Daisy and Sandy Springs) festival seasons. I am not sure if we enjoy the food, crafts, weather, or the family activities most. There is always something fun to experience at an Atlanta festival. However I would be remiss if I did not give a huge shout out to the Inman Park Festival Parade which allows us to teach our kids about history, diversity and most importantly how to tell which floats will throw candy all in one place!

Stone Mountain Park

We have bought many family memberships for Atlanta area attractions- few we get our money worth. However we love our Stone Mountain Park memberships. There is so much to do for people of all ages. There is relatively posh camping with little drive from home to set up your site. Three months of the year the activities such as the 4-D movie, the Sky Hike, playing in the Barn, mini golf, and train rides (all included in the Park Membership) are all open. In the winter (for an additional charge unless you are a premium member) the Snow Mountain experience is phenomenal. Even if you choose not to buy the park membership, it is well worth buying a parking pass to bike ride, climb the mountain, watch the laser light show, or enjoy the wonderful playground.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Just over the Chattahoochee River in East Cobb is a family friendly location (a hidden gem if you will), the Chattahoochee Nature Center. At CNC people can learn about nature from the small museum area or from the many talks and walks that they offer. This is a wonderful facility but the real highlight takes on the bottom floor of the CNC - the Exchange Center where children can bring nature items to exchange for other items based on a point system. The staff at the Center takes time and awards kids extra points for research and answering questions about their items. Kids can either trade for an item each time they are there or bank their points for a larger trade later. This system encourages learning about nature, math (point values, etc) and research. It is a wonderful place!

Yellow River Game Ranch

A two mile drive past Stone Mountain Park is an animal rescue facility that allows hands-on time with “wild” animals. The first time I took my son we almost pushed the stroller over a 200 pound pig in the middle of the path! Better than the zoo for small children, YRGR offers a close up look at all its animals. Bring some carrots from home to feed animals out of your hand. Germaphobes beware otherwise this is one place where the early bird finds the most hungry animals.

Free/ Cheap Activities

Summer in Atlanta brings a plethora of free and cheap activities to do with kids. Check out the Roswell Summer Puppet Series through the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Roswell Parks and Recreation Dept also offers two wonderful spraygrounds for young children that are nearly free. If you want to get out of the sun (or go in the winter) Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Dept boasts several indoor water parks which have minimal admission fees. Decatur’s Music in the Square program is enjoyable as are the many movies under the stars.

My best recommendation is to get out there and partake in all that Atlanta has to offer!

About Jessica Dickson
Jessica Dickson is a full- time mommy (of two unbelievable children) and wife as well as a part- time event planner/ family educator at a local community center. Besides enjoying sharing her opinion, she also likes to craft, watch UGA football, and spend time with family and friends.

Budget Friendly Things to Do with Kids in Cherokee County Georgia

March 14, 2013 By Leave a Comment

 

Get the scoop on fun things to do with kids in Cherokee county Georgia from our Atlanta Parent Squad extraordinary, Tara Nalley. Tara is a mom of 2 boys and a wife to her high school sweetheart of 16 years. She is the “go to” person among friends and family when they are searching for a deal, coupon, or free and/or cheap activity.  So we are excited to have her as part of our Atlanta Parent Squad to share free or cheap things to do in Cherokee county.

Things to do with kids in Cherokee county, Georgia

As a mom of 2 very active boys, ages 3 and 8, we are always on the lookout for fun and free things to do.  We love to check out the Zoo Atlanta DVD from our local library and use the accompanying free passes, we have enjoyed countless fun trips to the Georgia Aquarium, and we dig the dinosaurs at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History.  But, with these fun trips, come the “are we there yets,” gassing up the car, and lunches out.  Then, one day it hit me, why are we spending our time driving around from place to place putting miles on the car and gas in the tank listening to whining and complaining?  As a native of Cherokee County, we have plenty to do right here at home!  Museums, outdoor activities, animals and more are right here where Metro Meets the Mountains.

Tanglewood Farm

Step back in time and visit this Wild West Town with more than 100 Miniature Farm Animals to pet and feed. Take a walking tour and visit a real pioneer village that includes a bank, saloon, jail and trading post with snacks and souvenirs. As you tour the Town, you’ll be able to meet the miniature cows, sheep, horses, and donkeys. Explore the Mine Shaft where the miniature goats live and check out the old school house where miniature chickens and turkeys roost. Don’t forget the mini potbellied pigs in back of the school house.  Last but not least, head over to the Livery Stable where the kids can take a pony ride.

Location: 171 Tanglewood Drive, Canton

Hours: Open year around (except holidays) Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 10 AM to 2PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Admission: $10, ages 1 and up

 

Funk Heritage Center

Enjoy a visit to the Bennett History Museum and Appalachian Settlers Village, with exhibits focusing on the history and art of the Southeastern Indians and European settlers.  The Rogers Gallery of Contemporary Indian Art includes a collection of paintings, sculptures and creative works. Tools of the Trade is an astonishing exhibit of thousands of tools dating back to the 17th century. Be sure to check out Warluskee’s Corner, a comfortable and child friendly place for parents to stop and talk to children about the history of Georgia’s first people complete with children’s books, hand puppets, and hands on activities

Location: Reinhardt University Campus, 7300 Reinhardt University Circle, Waleska

Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 9-4, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 1-5. Closed on Mondays and major holidays

Admission:  $6 adults, $4 children

 

The Valley at JJ Biello Park

The Valley is one of the largest playgrounds in Georgia.   With a rock climbing wall, interconnected play areas, this playground will provide hours of tiring fun for all ages.  Swings and slides abound and there is a separate play area just for little ones, too.

Location: 250 Brooke Blvd, Woodstock

 

Cagle’s Family Farm

Home to one of the Metro’s most popular fall activities, Cagle’s Dairy has more to offer than just the annual Corn Maze.  Farm Fresh Ag-Venture farm tours run April through July and include ducks, goat, herding dogs, hayrides, and dairy cow milking demonstrations and even tours of the milk processing plant combine for a fun day on the farm!   Don’t forget to work off the last bit of energy on the Jumpee pillow!

Location: 355 Stringer Road, Canton

Hours: 10-4, on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month, Ag-venture farm tours at 10am by reservation!

Admission: $7, ages 2 and up

 

Splash Pad at Cline Park

Celebrate warmer temperatures with a splash at the Splash Pad at Cline Park in Waleska.  The park opened in 2012 and features three 10- to 12-foot fountains, eight water jets that shoot up from the cement base and other kid-friendly water features. Sit back and relax or chase the kids through the sprinklers to cool off.  Cline Park also offers a playground and walking track.

Location: 704 Bartow St, Waleska

Hours: 10-6 daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day

Admission: Free

 

Stop and take a minute to think about what is around you.   Load up the car and be a tourist in your own city and county.  Make a list of all the fun spots to visit and learn more about where you live.   As a native of Cherokee County, I enjoy re-visiting locales with my sons and learning about new ones, too.  I hope that you will do the same!

 

About Tara Nalley
Tara Nalley is a mom to 2 sons, Logan, 8, and Cooper, 3 and a wife to her high school sweetheart, Shane, whom she has been married to for 16 years.  She is a pharmacist by trade but also very involved in PTA at Logan’s school, Macedonia Elem., where her brother and she went as well as her parents and grandmother.  Logan races quarter midgets and She is involved in fundraising with NGQMA.  She is a frugal Mom always looking for a good deal and the “go to” person among friends and family when they are searching for a deal, coupon, or free and/or cheap activity.  

Top 5 Things to Do with Kids in Conyers/Covington, Gerogia

March 6, 2013 By 1 Comment

Today’s guide to fun things to do with kids in Conyers and Covington area is contributed by Kita Bryant, editor in chief of Kokoa Magazine www.kokoamag.com and a Conyers/Covington mom of 2 kids. We are thrilled to have her as part of our Atlanta Parent Squad.

Things to do with Kids in Conyers and Covington GA

I live in the country parts of Atlanta or what some would call the suburbs. We are far from the hustle and bustle of downtown life but we still want to know what there is to do on our side of town. Here are some of the things that my kids and I love to do that are not costly and a great way to save on gas and have a good time while meeting families that live in our own backyard.

Stonecrest Mall Play Area

We only have one mall that close to us and that’s Stonecrest mall located in Lithonia, Ga which is about 20 minutes from the Covington area. While you can shop until your heart is content, you can also bring your kids to the play area that is located in front of the Jcpenny store on the inside of the mall. The play area is free for the little ones and you can rest or just bring the kids for a good time and meet other parents. I have met 2 parents from the play area within the past year and we have become great friends.

Georgia International Horse Park

The Horse park is located in Conyers, Ga and has a lot of events that are open to the community. Not only can you enjoy some of the events but you can also ride horses and enjoy trails of greenery on any regular day the park is open. They have lots of fun activities for you to do especially during certain holiday seasons.

Monastery of the holy Spirit

If you are looking to renew your spirit or just find some peace make sure you check out the Monastry located in Conyers, GA.  This is home to Cistercian monks for over 65 years, and you can admire the beauty of Bonsai specimens all while gaining some peace of mind in the process.

Downtown Covington on the square

Most Wednesday nights you will catch my family in downtown Covington catching the free concerts right after we eat at Amici’s where they have wings for 50 cents apiece. After we eat, we walk over to the square to enjoy the scenery and see what is going on. We also love to visit the shops in and around the square to support our local businesses.

Ice Skating

I have no idea how to skate but that does not stop me from going to my local skating rink here in Conyers, Ga to enjoy seeing the kids try to skate. Make sure you check out their website for times and schedules .

Interested in sharing family friendly information in your own backyard? Join our Atlanta Parent Squad today.

About Kita Bryant
Kita Bryant is an editor in chief of Kokoa Magazine. Originally from Charleston,SC but resides outside of Atlanta in the Conyers/Covington area, mother and wife to 2 kids with a love for reading and writing. In her spare time she loves to cook, travel, and learn. You can always contact her on Facebook www.facebook.com/kokoamagazine or on twitter @kokoamagazine

Photo credit: courtneymcgough

Spring Break Camps in Atlanta 2013: Parks & Recreation Edition

February 5, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Spring Break Camps in Atlanta Parks & Recreation

Parks & Recreation department from county or city always offers family-friendly activities for kids at the reasonable price. And this year there are also several Spring Break Camps available in various parks & recreation. Check out our list of Spring Break Camps in Atlanta with Parks & Recreation.

As we strive to create the most comprehensive list for families in Atlanta to enjoy spring break, please do not hesitate to let us know if we missed anything and we will add them to the list. Also make sure to call first to confirm the information listing.

Spring Break Camps in Atlanta 2013 – Parks & Recreation Edition

 

City of Alpharetta Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Gymnastic Camp – Go to page 12 for more detail & Spring Break Teen Art Academy – Go to page 17 for more detail

Date: April 1-4, 2013

Cost: Gymnastic Camp Fee: $96 for resident and $144 for non-resident

 

 

Dawson County Parks & Recreation

Program: United Futbol Academy Spring Break Camp

Date: April 1-5, 2013

Cost: Camp Fee: $25 per day or $100 per week

 

DeKalb County Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Day Camp – Go to page 2 on the Winter Guide for more information.

Date: April 8-12, 2013

Cost: Camp Fee: $6 per day or $25 per week

 

Douglas County Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Arts Camp – Go to page 20 on the Winter Guide for more detail

Date: April 8-12, 2013

Cost: Camp Fee: $90 per week ($75 for CAC member)

 

Forsyth County Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Camp - Fun & Games camp. Campers will participate in games, art and other fun activities. Bring a lunch and two snacks and a change of clothes each day. This is for children in kindergarten through fifth grades.

Date: April 1-5, 2013

Cost: Camp Fee: $115

 

Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Camps – Offers various camps from Adventure camps to Sport camps.

Date: April 1-5, 2013

Cost: From $45 – $135

 

Henry County Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Camps - Activities include: arts and crafts, games, swimming, field trips and other creative means of expression and recreation.

Date: April 1-5, 2013

Cost: Camp fee: $100 per child

 

Johns Creek Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Baseball Clinic - Young athletes can hone their pitching, hitting and fielding skills at the Johns Creek spring baseball clinic, conducted by professional baseball staff from Sports A Rama.

Date: April 2-4, 2013

Cost: Camp fee: $115 per child

 

Sandy Springs Parks & Recreation

Program: Spring Break Camp – KidzArt & Create It Theater “Act 2″

Date: April 1-5, 2013

Cost: Camp fee: $125 per child (for Art Camp) & $85 (for Theater Camp)

 

See also other Spring Break Camps Guide:

 

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