Dana Shemesh

Latest posts by Dana Shemesh

25 Things We Are Excited To Do in Atlanta with Kids This Winter

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Sun, 01/02/2022 - 9:13am

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a magical winter spot. Photo courtesy of the garden

Even as we enjoy fairly mild winters in Atlanta, most of us Southerners tend to hibernate rather than brave the not-quite-freezing temperatures. But for those of us who get cabin fever, there are some outdoor activities this winter that are sure to keep kids active and engaged.

From snow tubing at Snow Island in Margaritaville to MLK Day events, outdoor entertainment, and light shows, even in these COVID times there is something for everyone this winter in Atlanta. We've handpicked our favorite Atlanta winter activities, so bundle up, gather your crew, and prepare for some wintertime fun.

Best Playgrounds near Atlanta for Kids and Families

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Fri, 10/01/2021 - 10:42am

Enjoy climbing structures. swings, and plenty more at Morgan Falls Overlook Park. Photo courtesy of the park district

Packed with cool playground attractions, these Atlanta playgrounds are the best spots in town where kids can explore all day. Atlanta offers access to so much lush, green space, and Atlanta playgrounds make use of these idyllic spots by attracting the most energetic park enthusiasts: kids. These playgrounds from Buckhead to Smyrna have special attractions like water canons, climbing nets, rope pulls, and splash pads—as well as the tried-and-true classics like slides, swings, and monkey bars.

Looking for something else to do outside? Check out Atlanta's best playgrounds for toddlers, hikes for the whole family, and more in our Guide to Playgrounds and Parks in Atlanta.

The Illuminarium: A Journey Through Africa Without Leaving Atlanta

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Fri, 07/09/2021 - 11:42pm

Imagine stepping into the thick of the African plains, bearing witness to a lion pride seeking shelter during a thunderstorm, or looking deep into the eyes of a water buffalo taking a dip in a Saharan waterbed. These are some of the experiences you can expect at WILD: A Safari Experience at Illuminarium, a new entertainment concept making its Atlanta debut.

12 Great Restaurants in Atlanta for Easter Brunch and Dinner with Kids

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Mon, 03/15/2021 - 12:00pm

Choose from a family brunch, picnic lunch, or dinner package at La Madeleine French Bakery.

Easter is a special time to get dressed up and enjoy family time. With the weather (hopefully) favorable in early April, it's also a great opportunity to dine al fresco at some of Atlanta's restaurants that serve up a festive Easter Sunday meal.

Families who prefer takeout have plenty of options, too. Either way, we can still gather around the table to dye Easter eggs or perhaps another holiday craft; enjoy an Easter egg hunt in the backyard, balconies, or living rooms; and dress in our Easter best to share a special brunch or dinner with our families.

Christmas Tree Farms Near Atlanta Where You Can Cut Your Own

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Mon, 12/07/2020 - 9:15am

The Yule Forest "elves" will load your tree onto your car. Photo courtesy of the farm

There's nothing like the smell of a freshly cut pine tree and the ambiance it creates once its decorated for Christmas. It's no wonder this holiday season Atlanta families seem to favor live trees over their plastic counterparts to brighten their holiday tradition.

Most Atlanta-area tree farms offer an unforgettable experience for families, with knowledgable and helpful staffs who aid in cutting, prepping and hauling the trees. The atmosphere is not to be missed: A visit to a live tree farm offers the perfect photo opportunity for your newfound or recurring family holiday tradition.

We've rounded up eight cut-your-own Christmas tree farms a fairly close drive from the metro Atlanta area. So make a day of it and venture out to the farm to find the perfect holiday tree. Afterward, take a drive and glimspe some of these great holiday light shows.

Georgia's Babyland General Hospital: A Day Trip to the Cabbage Patch Doll Factory

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Wed, 08/19/2020 - 4:29pm

Where do babies come from? According to an one baby doll factory, there are no storks involved—only cabbages. If you've ever wondered how the iconic Cabbage Patch Doll is actually born, a visit to North Georgia's Babyland General Hospital may render you and your family speechless (and provide a fun and unexpected daytrip from Atlanta).

Georgia Reopening Phase 1: What's Open and What's Closed in Atlanta

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Wed, 05/20/2020 - 12:01pm

After weeks of coronavirus lockdown, only seeing each other in car parades and 8pm howls, giving our kids at-home haircuts for virtual birthday parties, and only buying gifts via pick-up or delivery, Georgia paved the way as one of the first states to allow businesses to slowly open doors. Phase one of the reopening began May 1, with more restrictions removed each week since. Governor Kemp's decision has been met with mixed feelings; while some patrons and businesses are eager to restart something that resembles pre-pandemic life, others still weigh the risks and choose to remain mostly at home. Whichever your perspective, there are options now for getting out of the house, and we've pulled together some that interest families most.

Support Atlanta! Toy and Book Stores Offering Curbside Pick-up & Local Delivery

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Mon, 05/04/2020 - 11:30am

Let Kazoo bring the fun to you with toys and games delivered once or twice a week while schools are suspended. Photo courtesy of Kazoo Toys

During these "life on pause" times, families have been able to do some pretty awesome things, like tackle cool science experiments at home, take virtual tours of famous sites around the world, and check off bucket list movies for family movie night. But sometimes we need a little something new, like a book or toy, to bring a burst of joy. Coming to the rescue are local Atlanta toy and book stores, which are offering unique toys, books, and gifts—some of them not offered by the big box chain stores. These handpicked gems offer curbside pickup and delivery, and some will even spend the time to beautifully wrap special and unique gifts. The special child in your life gets a toy to treasure, and you can feel good about supporting local, family-owned businesses.

For more ideas on what to do with your children to keep them engaged, check out our Stay-at-Home Guide with 100s of activities and resources for families on pause.