Magic in the ATL
The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly
Holiday Activities in Atlanta
When the holiday season arrives in Atlanta, the city transforms into a winter wonderland that rivals the North Pole itself. From dazzling light displays to festive performances and everything in between, Atlanta offers families countless ways to create magical memories together. Whether you're a local looking for new traditions or visiting for the holidays, here's your guide to the best family-friendly activities the ATL has to offer this season.
Spectacular Light Displays
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is arguably Atlanta's most enchanting holiday experience. This annual tradition features over a million twinkling lights transforming the garden into an illuminated paradise. Kids will love walking through the Orchid Display House dressed in holiday splendor, riding the model train display, and sipping hot chocolate while exploring light tunnels and animated displays. The centerpiece 60-foot Christmas tree is Instagram gold, but more importantly, it's the kind of sight that makes children believe in magic.
For a drive-through option, Lake Lanier Islands' Magical Nights of Lights offers a seven-mile route featuring millions of lights in elaborate displays. It's perfect for families with younger children who might get tired walking, and you can enjoy it from the warmth of your car while singing along to holiday music.
Classic Holiday Shows and Performances
No Atlanta holiday season is complete without catching a performance of The Nutcracker. The Atlanta Ballet's production at the Fox Theatre combines world-class dancing with the venue's stunning Moorish architecture, making it a feast for the eyes from curtain to curtain. First-timers should arrive early to explore the Fox's opulent lobby and grab a photo by the grand staircase.
For something uniquely Atlanta, Center for Puppetry Arts offers special holiday puppet shows that captivate children and adults alike. Their intimate theater setting makes it perfect even for younger kids who might struggle to sit through longer productions.
Ice Skating Under Southern Skies
Yes, you can ice skate in Atlanta! Park Tavern's Skate in the Park sets up a seasonal rink with stunning views of Piedmont Park and the city skyline. There's something delightfully paradoxical about gliding across ice while palm trees sway nearby. The rink offers skate helpers for wobbly beginners, and the adjacent restaurant means you can warm up with comfort food after working up an appetite on the ice.
Festive Train Rides
All aboard! The North Pole Express at the Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad takes families on a magical journey to meet Santa. Children wear pajamas, sing carols, and receive hot chocolate and cookies during the ride. When you arrive at the "North Pole," Santa boards the train to greet each child personally. It's the kind of experience that creates core holiday memories.
For train enthusiasts, don't miss the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in Kennesaw, which features an elaborate holiday model train display with tiny towns, snowy landscapes, and incredible detail that fascinates visitors of all ages.
Stone Mountain Christmas
Stone Mountain Park's Christmas celebration deserves its own category. The park goes all-out with a mountaintop snow experience (real snow, even in Georgia!), a holiday lights spectacular synchronized to music, Christmas village with artisan vendors, nightly snow fall on Main Street, and opportunities to meet Santa. You can easily spend an entire day here, and the park's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for family photos.
Festive Markets and Shopping
Ponce City Market becomes particularly magical during the holidays, with twinkling lights, a rooftop holiday bar (for the adults), and local vendors selling unique gifts. The building's industrial-chic aesthetic paired with holiday décor creates an atmosphere unlike any mall experience.
For a traditional European-style market, the Atlanta Christkindl Market brings German holiday traditions to life with authentic crafts, ornaments, food, and drink. Children can mail letters to Santa from the market's special mailbox and watch artisans create handmade treasures.
Sweet Holiday Treats
No holiday outing is complete without special treats. Visit Café Intermezzo for their legendary desserts and hot chocolate topped with mountains of whipped cream. Or take the kids to Sublime Doughnuts for their holiday-themed creations that are almost too beautiful to eat (almost).
Plan Your Atlanta Holiday Adventure
The beauty of Atlanta's holiday offerings is their variety. You can create a different magical experience every weekend throughout the season. Many attractions offer discounted tickets for early booking or multi-visit packages, so plan ahead to make the most of your holiday budget.
Most importantly, don't try to do everything in one day. The holidays should be joyful, not exhausting. Pick a few favorites, leave room for spontaneity, and remember that the best gift you can give your family is your presence and attention as you create these memories together.
What are your favorite Atlanta holiday traditions? However you celebrate, may your season be merry, bright, and filled with the special magic that only happens when Atlanta puts on its holiday best.
