Keeping kids entertained every weekend, school break, and the days in between can get tedious, especially on days when the weather isn’t great. These are my 9 favorite memberships for Atlanta families, and yes, we’ve had them all at some point. I’ll put an asterisk next to the membership we currently have (5 out of 9!). I’ve found that 2 visits is the break even point for most of these, so if you think you’ll want to visit 2 or more times, the membership is definitely worthwhile.
We’ve had a Georgia Aquarium membership for a few years now and it’s always worthwhile (why I made it #1 on my favorite memberships for Atlanta families!). It saves us from rainy days, hot days, cold days, and days that feel like they last 100 years. They’ve recently redone the food court and it’s so much easier to navigate. We usually buy lunch there, but you could pack lunch or make a day of it and enjoy something in the city. With a membership you don’t have to reserve an entry time so it can be a spur of the moment activity. Be sure to check their activity calendar for special events (to go to or avoid). Marta is a bit of a walk, so we always drive. Your whole family will love this membership – great for kids of all ages.
* The aquarium offers a GA resident special price or a package with the Zoo *
We are so lucky to have a great zoo nearby. Zoo Atlanta is gorgeous and has a great variety of animals, plus a petting zoo, carousel, train, ropes course, and splash pad to turn this into a full day activity. For our family this is a seasonal activity – Spring and Fall only. Even with the calendar limits, we manage to make the membership worthwhile. This year we did the kids passport to earn free carousel and train rides which are really the kids’ favorite part. Pack a lunch, the food options are not great (IMO). Parking in the lot is paid, but there is free street parking. We only go to the zoo at opening – if we won’t make it that early then we skip it. We love Boo at the Zoo and the IllumiNights Lantern Festival. This is a great membership for Atlanta families with kids of all ages.
A membership to Fernbank Museum in Atlanta is perfect for families seeking year-round adventure, learning, and fun. With access to dynamic exhibits, immersive IMAX films, and stunning outdoor experiences like WildWoods and Fernbank Forest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can spark their curiosity through hands-on science displays and engaging nature programs, while adults can explore the museum’s fascinating cultural and historical exhibits. Special members-only perks, such as discounted tickets and exclusive events, make every visit even more rewarding. Fernbank is a great year-round activity since there is so much to do indoors, and the outdoor areas are a must on days with nice weather. This Atlanta membership is great for families with kids of all ages – a play area for littles and exploration activities for bigger kids.
The Atlanta Botanical Gardens are endless family fun and exploration in one of the most enchanting spots in the city. Families can stroll through breathtaking gardens, discover vibrant seasonal displays like the dazzling Holiday Lights (a must for us every year) and enjoy interactive children’s programming in the Lou Glenn Children’s Garden (includes a splash pad in the summer). There’s something blooming March – November, making this a good year round activity for nice days. Families of all ages will enjoy the Botanical Gardens. Bring a camera or sketch pad to make it more interactive for older kids!
A membership to the High Museum of Art is the perfect blend of culture, creativity, and fun, making it a favorite membership for Atlanta families. With world-class art collections, rotating exhibitions, and interactive spaces like the Greene Family Learning Gallery, the museum offers endless ways to spark curiosity and imagination for kids and adults alike. It’s so close to Marta that we love making a day of it and including a “train” ride. This family membership is best for older kids, ages 4 and up, especially if you have a budding artist!
A membership to the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a favorite Atlanta family membership for hands-on fun, creativity, and learning. Tailored to spark the imaginations of kids, the museum offers interactive exhibits like the STEM-focused Innovation Station and the exciting Waffle House Diner play area. It’s a great year-round activity, with rotating exhibits to keep things fresh. This family membership is best for little kids, I’d say ages 2 – 5. After 5 I noticed my kids got bored after 30 minutes.
Just an hour’s drive from Atlanta, Gibbs Gardens is a stunning escape into nature for families. With over 300 acres of themed gardens, including the vibrant Japanese Garden, the enchanting daffodil fields in spring, and the wildflowers in late summer, there’s always something new to explore. Kids will love the open spaces to roam, while parents enjoy peaceful views. Each season brings something new for families to discover together. We pack snacks and buy lunch from their small restaurant (everything we’ve had there is good!). This membership just outside Atlanta is great for families of all ages. Paths are mostly stroller accessible. Be sure to bring your camera!
Just a two-hour drive from Atlanta, the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga offers unforgettable adventures for families. Kids love exploring colorful fish, playful otters, and sharks. I love that the aquarium is in 2 buildings – River Journey and Ocean Journey – giving you an easy stopping point for a lunch break. The aquarium combines fun and education, creating lasting memories for kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect day trip destination, or make a weekend of it and visit the Creative Discovery Museum and Rock City.
Just two hours from Atlanta, the Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga offers hands-on fun for kids and families. Interactive exhibits spark creativity through science, art, and music. Kids can climb, build, and explore in a safe, engaging environment. Special exhibits ensure there’s always something new to enjoy. The museum makes learning exciting while creating lasting family memories. Perfect for a fun-filled day trip! This museum is geared toward older kids, so stick to the Children’s Museum when they’re little and then head up Chattanooga once they get older. I think families with kids ages 3+ will get the most out of this membership.
One last membership I should mention – a bonus number 10 favorite membership for Atlanta Families! I offer a 3 session membership for families who are committed to getting their photos taken every year. Membership sessions are good for 2 years and give you priority booking throughout the year. Contact me to learn more about the BEST membership on this list.
Ali Winston is an Atlanta-based photographer for newborn, babies and families.
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