Atlanta, Georgia is a popular tourist destination throughout the year for families with children. Although many of the city's sites and events cost money to partake in, there are several attractions available in Atlanta that are free. Whether your family enjoys educational or nature activities, you will likely find a way to enjoy them for free in Atlanta.
The Fountain of Rings is free and located in Centennial Park, which was created when Atlanta hosted the Olympic Games in 1996. Families can spend time lounging in the park and kids can actually play in the fountain or in the All Children's Playground. The fountain show happens throughout the day, with shows at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., and is set to different music. Kids will recognize tunes from their favorite movies such has "Under the Sea" from "The Little Mermaid" and "Circle of Life" from "The Lion King," while adults will enjoy the fountain dancing to tunes such as "Dancing in the Street" by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas.
Centennial Olympic Park
265 Park Ave West N.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30313
404-223-4412
centennialpark.com
For families that want a free educational attraction, visit the Robert C. Williams Paper Museum, which is located in Georgia Tech University's Institute of Paper Science and Technology. This museum is renowned the world over as one of the best resources on the history of paper technology. The museum features a library of over 2,000 books, the Dard Hunter Collection of books and artifacts on hand papermaking, 10,000 watermarks, manuscripts, paper tools and machines. Kids will find the exhibits on pop art and paper clothing especially interesting. For souvenirs, there is a store located on site with gifts and paper crafts.
The Robert C. Williams Paper Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for the holidays that Georgia Tech recognizes.
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Institute of Paper Science and Technology
Mail Code 0620, Georgia Tech
500 10th Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30332
ipst.gatech.edu
The Martin Luther King Center is free to the public and is a historic site. It is a very popular attraction, and only a certain number of people are allowed admittance each day; it is best to arrive early. The late Coretta Scott King, widow of slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., established the center in 1968. Since then, it has served as a living memorial of Dr. King's legacy and the greatest non-violent movement for equality ever seen in the United States. Aside from looking at all of the historical artifacts and photos, kids will enjoy the "Children of Courage" exhibit.
The Martin Luther King Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Martin Luther King Center
449 Auburn Avenue Northeast
Atlanta, GA 30312
404-526-8900
thekingcenter.org
