Atlanta Botanical Gardens & Piedmont Park – A Perfect Day Out!

Are you ready to discover my favorite place to visit in Atlanta? Look no further than the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, where imagination comes to life with the enchanting Trolls Save the Humans exhibit! (Open through September 17th) This captivating experience is perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and storytelling.

When it comes to family-friendly destinations in Atlanta, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens is a must-visit. Not only does it offer a stunning display of flora and fauna, but it also hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year that cater to children. “Trolls Save the Humans,” is just one example. In fact, you can still find traces of past exhibitions strewn throughout the garden as they have become part of the permanent collection. (We can only hope a troll decided to stay!)

But that’s not all – the Atlanta Botanical Gardens has something for everyone in the family. Little ones will be delighted by the Children’s Garden, a whimsical oasis designed just for them. Here, they can explore interactive exhibits, build their own log cabin and find a hidden playground to enjoy. In the summer there is a small splash pad to cool off in as well.

In addition to the Children’s Garden, families visiting the Atlanta Botanical Gardens can also explore other sections that are sure to delight both young and old. The Fuqua Orchid Center showcases an incredible collection of orchids from around the world, while the Japanese Garden offers a serene setting with its traditional architecture and tranquil ponds. From breathtaking flower displays to tranquil woodland trails, there’s no shortage of beauty to behold. (We love to look for frogs in the water garden in front of the large greenhouse.)

And don’t forget about Piedmont Park! Just a stone’s throw away from the gardens, this sprawling urban oasis boasts several playgrounds where kids can run wild and let their imaginations soar.

The Naoguchi playground (located near the 12th Street gate) was designed by world-renowned artist and sculptor Isamu Noguchi (1904 – 1988). It combines elements of creativity and imagination with traditional playground equipment, resulting in a truly unique experience for young visitors. I used to play on this playground as a child (my childhood home is just a few blocks away) so a visit to this playground is always on our Atlanta to-do list.

Piedmont Park also features the Mayor’s Grove Playground which caters to children of all abilities. This inclusive playground ensures that every child can enjoy the park’s amenities regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. The inclusive design includes access ramps, sensory play elements, and adaptive swings, among other features.

Beyond the playgrounds, Piedmont Park offers a range of family-friendly activities and amenities. Families can enjoy picnicking on spacious lawns or taking leisurely walks along scenic trails. The park also hosts various events throughout the year such as concerts and festivals that cater to both children and adults.

If packing a picnic isn’t your thing there are several family-friendly fast-casual restaurants near the 12th Street gate to check out. On our most recent visit, we picked up Shake Shack, but the local favorite Willie’s Mexican Grill shares the outdoor patio.

So whether you’re planning a day trip or looking to immerse your family in world-schooling adventures in Atlanta, make sure to include a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens on your itinerary. It’s an experience that will create lasting memories for everyone involved!