Rebecca Ruffin Leffler

Latest posts by Rebecca Ruffin Leffler

Kid-Friendly Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving in Atlanta

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Fri, 11/04/2022 - 11:05am

Seasons 52 offers a three-course Thanksgiving menu including turkey, gravy, brioche and sage stuffing, cranberry relish, mini pumpkin pies, and much more. Yum!

Instead of wearing yourself out by hosting turkey day this year, consider dining at restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Atlanta instead. You get to skip waiting in grocery lines, polishing the silver, cooking multiple items to please everyone, and cleaning up after everyone finishes.

Got a picky eater who doesn't love traditional Thanksgiving fare? We've included restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Atlanta offering a variety of foods to enjoy during the Thanksgiving feast. Our list of kid-friendly, Atlanta restaurants open on Thanksgiving is perfect for everyone— whether you're dining with a large group or just your little ones.

15 Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains Near Atlanta

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Sun, 10/23/2022 - 8:54am

In the hit holiday classic The Polar Express, a pajama-clad boy embarks on a magical journey aboard a holiday train to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa and holiday singing. What child (or parent for that matter) wouldn't want to do the same?

Fortunately, you can reserve a spot on a Polar Express or holiday train near Atlanta to usher your family into the season of wonderment. Although some holiday trains are located in neighboring states, most are within three hours of metro Atlanta. Consider combining your visit with one of these day trips to the north Georgia mountains, Chattanooga, or surrounding areas. Note: Buy tickets early as these holiday train rides sell out fast.

And before the season gets too busy, refer to our Atlanta Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for craft activities to make with your children and gift ideas for everyone on your list. You'll also want to subscribe to our free newsletter to stay in the know of all the exciting activities in Atlanta.

The Best Halloween Activities for Toddlers in Atlanta, 2022

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Sun, 10/16/2022 - 6:10am

Bring the kids for a spooktacular Halloween along the Boulevard at Avalon. Photo courtesy of Avalon

Halloween activities are tried-and-true ways for kids to exercise their creativity by dressing up as superheroes, princesses, fireman, or anything they can imagine. And they score lots of candy! We’ve rounded up a list of not-too-scary Halloween activities in Atlanta perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

To introduce young children to Halloween, visit Pumpkin Patches Near Atlanta for Fall Farm Fun or attend Fun Trunk-or-Treat Events in Atlanta that are age appropriate. And for even more Halloween inspiration, browse through our comprehensive Atlanta Halloween Guide for Kids full of craft activities, costume ideas, and much more.

Atlanta Haunted Houses and Scary Halloween Attractions for Teens

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Fri, 10/07/2022 - 10:11am

There are terrors around every corner at House of Four Scythes Haunted Attraction. Photo courtesy of the event

As Halloween approaches, you may realize that your older kids and teens (once scared of the dark) eagerly want holiday frights, complete with blood, guts, and gore. We’ve rounded up Atlanta haunted houses and Halloween attractions guaranteed to scare older kids and teens to pieces.

Please pay close attention to the recommended age guidelines for these scary Halloween events in Atlanta. Bear in mind the use of theatrical props, music, lighting, and stage makeup create a truly immersive and terrifying experience that some teens (and parents) can’t handle. Also, avoid long lines by going earlier in the season or purchasing fast pass/VIP tickets when offered.

21 Hayrides and Corn Mazes Near Atlanta Perfect for Fall

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Fri, 09/16/2022 - 9:05am

Yule Forest Corn Maze is one of the largest corn mazes near Atlanta full of fall fun. Photo courtesy of the farm

Fall is in the air! Celebrate the harvest season by exploring a corn maze and taking a hayride at a nearby farm. Hayrides and corn mazes near Atlanta are tried and true fall activities, just like football, apple picking, and pumpkin patches. In addition to outdoor physical activity, corn mazes encourage the use of directional awareness, problem-solving skills, and team building in a fun manner (the ultimate escape room). And who doesn’t love an old-fashioned hayride?!

Be sure to bring your camera as you'll find plenty of fall family photo ops! As you read our list of the best corn mazes and hayrides near Atlanta, note that many farms offer additional activities such as slides, jumping pillows, and petting zoos. Before setting out, check the farm’s website for payment policy (some only accept cash), reservation requirements, and inclement weather updates. Pets are generally not permitted.

For more fall activities, check out our Fall Fun Guide for Atlanta Kids and sign up for our free Mommy Poppins newsletter for upcoming events and activities.

14 Fabulous Fall Day Trips from Atlanta

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Fri, 08/26/2022 - 11:51am

The Japanese Garden at Gibbs Garden explodes with color during the fall. Photo by Bill Leffler

Fall day trips from Atlanta are perfect opportunities to regroup and spend time together since school is back in swing. While the routine is nice, you might find family members going in different directions with clubs, sports, and other extracurricular activities.

Fall means cooler temperatures and autumn leaves —fortunately, Mother Nature puts on a great show all over the Atlanta region. We’ve got great fall day trips from Atlanta covering everything from the North Georgia mountains to several neighboring states. We've even thrown in a couple of college towns so you can get your SEC football fix! To help usher you into the fall season, check out our Fall Fun Guide.

Teen Birthday Parties in Atlanta: Cool Party Places for Teens

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Sun, 07/24/2022 - 10:03am

SpaPartyz offers different birthday party packages for various age groups, including younger teens and tweens, as well as older teens. Cheers! Photo courtesy SpaPartyz

Though birthday party themes evolve as kids grow into teens, it's still all about the FUN! As kids get older, parent don’t have to invite the entire class —with fewer attendees, splurge and have a truly memorable experience for your teen birthday party. Don't stress about planning a teen birthday party as we’ve done all the research! We’ve listed fabulous teen birthday ideas to consider around Atlanta, as well as specific birthday venues to host your teen’s event. If your teen wants a party at home, read on as many companies can bring the party to your location.

And don’t forget the cake! Be sure to check out these festive and delicious birthday cakes to provide a sweet finale for a teen birthday celebration. Want a few more ideas beyond the birthday realm? Mommy Poppins has more things to do with Atlanta teens and tweens every day of the year!

Best Blueberry Picking Farms and Festivals in Atlanta for Pick Your Own Berries

Submitted by Rebecca Ruffin ... on Sun, 06/19/2022 - 7:09am

The only thing better than picking blueberries is eating them! Photo by Rebecca Leffler

The season is here to visit blueberry-picking farms! Featuring varieties of the native rabbiteye blueberry, most Atlanta farms open for the season from early June and end near late July. Now’s the time to gather your family (with hats, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes) and head to one of these u-pick blueberry farms in the area. These pick-your-own berries are delicious in baked goods, topped on cereal, or on their own as a tasty treat.