Your baby’s first year is an endless string of milestones. The first smile, the first tooth and, hopefully, the first sleep through the night. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of first adventures to experience throughout Atlanta. Just because your little one won’t remember these special moments, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore—even if it’s just to leave the house for a change of southern scenery! Here are 30 things to do in Atlanta before your baby turns one (everything from visiting Zoo Atlanta to taking a stroll along the BeltLine with your little one in tow).
1. Open rain or shine on Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings, the Peachtree Road Farmer’s Market is the perfect place to stock up on farm fresh produce and baked goods. The family-friendly atmosphere includes a green space for picnicking, free sunscreen and water. Your baby will love the fresh air and interacting with fellow guests and their dogs.
2. Create a Pinterest-worthy keepsake at All Fired Up. Channel your inner Picasso and dip your baby’s little fingers and toes into paint to create a memorable pottery piece.
3. Experience the beauty of the Atlanta Botanical Garden in the heart of the city. Cruise the grounds with your stroller and check out Garden Playtime. This hands-on session includes sensory stations suitable for babies starting at six months.
4. Take a trip to the Georgia Aquarium. Your little one will gaze in wonder at beluga whales, dolphins, manta rays and thousands of fish. They even have special Toddler Time activities on the first Monday of the month.
Georgia Aquarium
5. With 190 acres, a few trips to Piedmont Park is in order! Feed the ducks, stroll paved paths and caffeinate at Blue Donkey Coffee.
6. When fall arrives, take a short road trip outside Atlanta to one of many apple farm in Elijay or Blue Ridge. Bring the baby carrier, enjoy the fresh air, and indulge in apple cider and desserts.
7. Captivate your little pilot’s attention with a visit to Peachtree-Dekalb Airport Park. Your baby will love the excitement of frequent takeoffs and landings. The airport features a playground with baby swings, picnic area and viewing deck. Afterwards, visit the nearby Frosty Caboose for ice cream.
8. Atlanta is home to many outdoor festivals. Popular options for families with little ones include Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Inman Park Festival and Virginia Highland Summerfest.
Shawn Robertson
9. During the summer, beat the heat by splashing through the Fountain of Rings at Centennial Olympic Park.
10. Sing, dance and play instruments together at The Music Class. With locations all across Metro Atlanta, you’re sure to find a class near you. The upbeat atmosphere will keep baby clapping and socializing with others.
11. King of Pops literally pop up in various places throughout the city (and have a permanent location at Ponce City Market). Your little one will love the taste and the cool, soothing relief on their teething gums. Popular flavors include Banana Puddin’, Strawberry Lemonade and Fresh Peach.
12. Try out the Tiny Tykes class at My Gym. Babies and their parents stretch, exercise and tumble during the motivating program. A post-gym nap is almost guaranteed!
13. Enroll in a tadpole swim class at Aqua Tots. Together with your baby, you’ll focus on water adjustment, safety skills and breath control.
Fotolia/Microgen
14. Explore the outdoors at Chattahoochee Nature Center. Bring the stroller and meander through the Butterfly Garden and various trails.
15. Caffeinate in peace and tranquility in Atlanta’s best kept secret! Nestled within an apartment community, the Chattahoochee Coffee Company is situated on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. On a pleasant day, sip coffee outdoors and let baby explore the ample green space set against picturesque views.
16. Connect, laugh and swap experiences with other Moms at a mom meetup.
17. Get your baby’s haircut at Pigtails & Crewcuts! First haircuts are celebrated with a souvenir card, a lock of hair and a photo.
Pigtails and Crewcuts
18. Explore Atlanta’s thriving Westside Provisions District. Grab lunch or dinner at popular restaurants like Yeah! Burger or Taqueria Del Sol. Afterwards, shop at unique stores like Seed Factory and Crafted.
19. Visit the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Babies will especially love the bubble wall, play car and little house in the Leaping into Learning area.
20. Take a Fit4Mom class. Choose from Stroller Strides or Stroller Bare. Your baby will be entertained and providing encouragement with each squat, lunge and tuck.
21. Discover Zoo Atlanta Stroller Cubs. Stroll along and visit animal exhibits, meet an animal ambassador, and chat with fellow parents. Make sure to take a spin on the endangered species carousel, too!
Flickr/Chhorn Gonzales Lim
22. Encourage life-long reading with a story time at local Atlanta Public Library branch or the popular Little Shop of Stories.
23. There’s no shortage of seasonal and year-round activities at Stone Mountain Park. Crowd favorites include the laser show, the Fall Pumpkin Festival and Stone Mountain Christmas.
24. Enjoy fresh air and shopping at Avalon in Alpharetta. Take a shopping break and visit the indoor/outdoor play area featuring an interactive squirrel theme.
25. Plan a family photo shoot against an Atlanta landmark. Unique options include The Goat Farms Arts Center, Lenox Park or Sope Creek.
Allison Gjuka
26. Visit one of Atlanta’s many Chick-fil-A restaurants and treat your little one to their first milkshake. Don’t worry, there will be plenty to share!
27. Grab your game day attire (don’t forget that themed onesie!) and root for the Falcons, Hawks or Braves.
28. Visit Atlanta’s best miniature petting zoo at Tanglewood Farm. Your baby will love interacting with miniature sheep, horses and goats.
29. Stroll the Atlanta BeltLine with baby in tow. Visit some of the city’s best restaurants situated along the various trails.
30. Order baby’s birthday cake from your local Publix Bakery. First birthday cakes come with a free, matching smash cake.
