If you’re looking for something unique to do, you could do worse than live theatre in Atlanta.

There are few things more traditional than a restaurant followed by a movie for a date night. Every now and then though, why not impress your date with something a little different?

For the purposes of thinking out of the box, here are ten of the best places to see live theatre in Atlanta.

Atlanta is for Artists

The arts scene plays a huge part in making Atlanta stand out. The theatre community is a vital part of it, and breathes very specific life into the arts community as a whole. Actors from all over the country choose to migrate down South to make appearances on Atlanta stages regularly.

We have regional theatres, community theatres, city-wide awards, theatre companies strictly for young people, Broadway tours, and improv.

Should you choose to be an audience member at any of the theatres you are guaranteed to receive high-level, thought-provoking entertainment. 

Now on to our top ten places to catch a live theatre show in Atlanta!

1. The Fox

The “Fabulous” Fox Theatre is probably Atlanta’s most popular. It sits right on Peachtree Street downtown and is the oldest of all of our live theatre venues. It originally opened as a movie theater on Christmas Day, 1929.

Fox Theatre eventually became known worldwide as a premier venue for live entertainment. The Fox has featured Broadway tours, concerts, stand-up comedy shows, all while still showing movies.

In 2009 Billboard Magazine voted it as the #1 non-residency venue worldwide for the decade. 

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2. Alliance Theatre

This Tony Award-winning theatre leads all other producing theatres in the Southeast. With four different stages, Alliance Theatre has shows for all ages, including the annual “A Christmas Carol” which draws the most diverse of audiences. 

Alliance Theatre has produced runs of some of the world’s most popular shows like “The Color Purple,” Aida, Come Fly Away, The Last Night at Ballyhoo, and countless others.

Their family series and “Kathy and Ken Bernhardt Theatre for the Very Young” create spaces for teenagers and kids five and under to enjoy something a bit out of the ordinary. 

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3. True Colors Theatre Company

Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company aims to search for clarity and truth through art. Kenny Leon is a Tony Award-winning director who has worked with Samuel L. Jackson, Angela Bassett, Alicia Keys, Sean Combs. He was awarded the Julia Hansen Award for Excellence in Directing in 2010. 

True Colors’ aim is to be an important voice in America’s discussion and to search for diversity and individual understanding. Every single show they produce is driven by this idea, and they are conversation starters as well as amazingly entertaining. All of their productions take place at the Southwest Arts Center. 

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4. Youth Ensemble of Atlanta

This company is very near and dear to my heart. I learned what it meant to be an artist because of my time performing with this company.

Founded by Freddie Hendricks in 1990, the Youth Ensemble of Atlanta is the premier African American youth theatre company in the South. 

Y.E.A has been writing and producing their own shows since its inception. They focus on issues like apartheid in South Africa, AIDS, sexuality, teen pregnancy, self-love, the complications of womanhood, youth violence, child abuse, and others.

Don’t worry, they do a sketch comedy-type show for Christmas every year if you’re looking for something a bit lighter. 

If they are doing a show when you’re in town, PLEASE go and have your mind blown by these amazing young people. 

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5. OnStage Atlanta

Yet another company that is very near and dear to my heart. 

OnStage Atlanta has been around since 1971, and completely fulfills its mission of breaking down barriers through the art of live theatre. OSA is like that “mom and pop” restaurant that half the city had their first date at with the person they’ve been married to for twenty years. They’re a veteran theatre that does high-quality versions of some lesser-known shows. 

OnStage Atlanta has permanent groups of actors, writers, directors, and technicians. This way they can guarantee the high-level product they provide to the community. I definitely recommend giving them a shot. 

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6. Horizon Theatre Company

I know I’ve already said that two of these companies were near and dear to my heart, but this is another one!

The Horizon Theatre is located in Atlanta’s Little Five Points neighborhood, and has been since 1983. Their casual atmosphere and friendly staff only add to the sophisticated pieces of theatre they produce. At Horizon, the focus is on telling stories to promote positive change.

In addition to their mainstage productions, they have a family series and free outdoor performances at Piedmont Park and right up the street from their venue in Little Five Points.

Since 2006 they’ve won seven Suzi Bass awards and three Atlanta Theatre Fan awards. You can’t go wrong with spending a few dollars here. 

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7. Dad’s Garage

Life can get stressful sometimes, right? Well if you’re in need of some laughs, this is the best place to go in the city.

Dad’s Garage has been fulfilling their mission to “transform people, communities, and perspectives through laughter” since 1995. They moved from Inman Park to Old Fourth Ward in 2013 and have only gotten better. 

Ninety-five percent of what you see at Dad’s Garage is created by the company because their specialty is improv.

If you want to know what you’re getting into, you can actually find them on YouTube, but honestly, no need. You’ll love what you see here. AND… They have a full bar!

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8. Aurora Theatre

Twenty-five Suzi Bass awards and the only professional theatre company in Gwinnett County. That alone should pique the interest of any theatregoers.

Opened in 1996, the Aurora Theatre is well-known in the city for their highly diverse production choices. In one season you can see a high profile musical, something created by local Atlanta artists, and a show completely done in a completely different language. 

This cozy space was converted to a theatre from an old hardware store, and has had an obvious impact on the community. In addition to shedding a light on the arts, it’s been voted as one of the city’s best places to work. If the work environment is good, you know the product will certainly follow suit. 

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9. The Shakespeare Tavern

Theatre is obviously not theatre without the works of good ole Willie Shakes.

The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is the host of the Atlanta Shakespeare Company which has been around since 1984. Their first show was done at Manuel’s Tavern on North Highland Avenue, and full steam ahead the company went. 

The Shakespeare Tavern playhouse was built to resemble the Globe Theatre where Shakespeare’s works were performed in London. The facade gives you a 1600’s vibe, and all of the costumes are appropriate to the time in which these shows take place.

As Atlanta’s only Shakespeare company, performing in the nation’s only Shakespeare tavern, this is a must. 

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10. Theatrical Outfit

I’m someone who is fascinated by history, and this theatre indeed has a beautifully fascinating history.

Theatrical Outfit is the second oldest theatre company in the city, and the first to receive L.E.E.D (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. They are also located on the same land as the first restaurant that desegregated in Atlanta.

If you want to say we saved the best for last, you certainly could. This company’s aim is to tell stories that stir the soul, and start “the conversations that matter.”

Given its rich history, I think it’s safe to say they are falling in line with the land they occupy. Their drive is bringing joy and compassion, and they cite inclusion as being central to their purpose.

When it comes to their product, Theatrical Outfit isn’t one of the longest-running theatres in the Atlanta for no reason, you can bank on that. 

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Expand your horizons with live theatre!

Movies are great form of artistry, as are concerts and museums, but there is nothing quite like the live action of the theatre.

Theatres provide an unfiltered showing of vulnerability right in front of you, and tell stories in ways other art forms simply can’t. 

Check out a live theatre show at one of these amazing venues the next time you’re in Atlanta!

Ever been to one of these theatres? What show did you see? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re looking for some fun holiday activities to do with your kids in Atlanta this season, look no further! We have a list of ten awesome activities that are kid-friendly and won’t bore the pants off of you either!

Atlanta knows how to do the holidays (even without snow)

The second Thanksgiving ends, and well before in many cases, Christmas mode is in full effect. Lights are shining, Christmas tunes are in heavy rotation, and those crazy looking sweaters are appearing everywhere.

Then, of course, there are the commercials showing kids playing in the snow that we know we ain’t getting in Atlanta. Yikes.

Never fear! Even without snow, there are plenty of things to do with your kids over the holiday season!

Here are our top pics for fun holiday activities in Atlanta that your kids are sure to love:

Rudolph at the Center for Puppetry Arts

As stated in previous articles, the Center for Puppetry Arts is a staple here in Atlanta, and that won’t change anytime soon. 

Every year they run a production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer based on the animated classic that airs on television every year. The show will run until the 29th of December and the all-inclusive ticket covers entrance to the show, a puppet creation workshop, and the world puppetry museum. 

Celebration in Light at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta

The “Celebration in Light” is a month-long homage to holidays including Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Las Posadas. If you’re looking for a fun activity that can also be used as an opportunity to expand the cultural horizons of your children, I highly recommend this event.

There will be a sock skating rink (yep, exactly), a Curious George exhibit, a dance party with family-friendly music, and a “New Years Bubble Bash” to send 2019 out with a bang. 

Here’s their daily calendar.

Celebration At The Station at Atlantic Station

Atlantic Station is holding their “Celebration at the Station” event until the 24th of December. There’s live music, an outdoor skating rink, snow shows, and a chance to meet and take pics with Santa.

This is a great chance to drag your children with you to do your shopping and then reward them for the (in their minds) torturous experience after. 

Or you can just make a full day of hanging at the station. Shop, grab some food, catch a movie, and then end the night with some ice skating. 

The Nutcracker at Various Theaters

Let’s be honest, Christmas just ain’t Christmas without The Nutcracker. The great thing about a performance art hub like Atlanta is that there are several different productions happening within and on the outskirts of the city.

Here are a few of our amazing dance companies that will be performing the classic this season:

The Atlanta Dance Theatre

Atlanta Ballet

Ballethnic (The Nutcracker with an Urban twist – my personal favorite)

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre

The Decatur Square

The city of Decatur is one of the most prolific areas in Atlanta, and its value and convenience is becoming more evident to locals every day. 

With that being a fact, inside the square there are a number of activities centered around the holiday season that both Children and adults can enjoy. There are all-day dance shows by the Decatur Arts Alliance, Marshmallow roasts at a bonfire, holiday markets and cafes, brunch with Santa, a Christmas Carol concert, and tons more! 

If you’re looking for fun that won’t even come close to breaking the bank, hang out down here. 

Christkindl Market at Centennial Olympic Park

The Christkindl Market is certainly a step out of the box. This traditional German-styled market is a place where families can purchase tree ornaments, decorations for your home, and gifts for your loved ones while listening to live music and munching on German cuisine. The event will run through the 24th. 

Holidays in the Park at Six Flags

Holiday in the Park at the always amazing Six Flags has been named one of the best holiday events in all of Georgia.

There are thousands of LED lights and Christmas trees lining the streets, with fireside s’mores and several other treats to keep you warm. There’s an all-new musical revue, the Bugs Bunny Boomtown, the Peppermint Plaza, a slapstick comedy show and a plethora of other means to satisfy all members of the family. It’s a fun time!

This event is on select days until the 5th of January. Check the calendar for dates.

Toys R Us Adventure at the Lenox Marketplace

The Lenox Marketplace has partnered with Toys R Us to bring this annual adventure to life again for 2019. Here, children can experience a full-on playland with eight different rooms of life-sized toys from brands such as Paw Patrol, and Melissa and Doug. (I’m super jealous, right now.)

This event will last until Jan 5th and you should purchase tickets in advance.

The Mystery of the Christmas Star at the Fernbank Science Center

The Fernbank Science Center is giving a modern retelling of how the Three Wise Men followed the star that led them to find the young Messiah in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago. It provides a scientific explanation of how the northern star’s appearance could be possible. 

If you go on the right day, you’ll probably catch me there too!

Candlelight Nights at the Atlanta History Museum 

Candlelight Nights at the Atlanta History Museum are a definite winner.

There are crafts and other creations at their Christmas Market; three 1930’s era houses that will give insight into how Christmas was celebrated in the South during that time; and music, food, and beautiful decorations all through the grounds and gardens. 

I’d definitely recommend this one!

Atlanta has tons of fun holiday activities for your kids!

Being one of the biggest and most populated cities in our nation means making sure the key times in the year are ones where memories will always be created.

As always there are countless things to do in Atlanta, and amazing things to see all around and outside the city.

Making a day, an evening family outing, or just a couple hours of “selah” will be easy with any option we’ve provided.

We can’t wait to hear your holiday stories!

What are you most looking forward to doing this holiday season? Let us know in the comments!

Looking for things to do in Atlanta? Don’t know where to start planning your trip to ATL?

No matter what you’re into, this website guide can help you find a plethora of things to do in Atlanta!

Where to start?

As Atlanta continues to evolve and grow, it’s becoming a hotspot for culture and tourism. We’ve already shown you some of the cool things Atlanta has going on, from the Beltline to live shows to pretty awesome date night ideas.

There’s so much going on in our city, it’s hard to know where to start when looking for things to do in Atlanta! To help you out, we’ve compiled the top eight online resources to get you started planning your visit to Atlanta:

1. Discover Atlanta

Discover Atlanta is one of the most visited online travel references for the city. After exploring the site a bit I completely understand why. 

The first thing that pops up is an option to download their free guide, entitled Most Instagrammable Spots in Atlanta. Alright, my interest is piqued because who doesn’t love Instagram? Definitely get this guide just to give your eyeballs something awesome to look at!

(If you’re going to check out these photogenic spots the next time you’re in ATL, you might want to also check out Discover Atlanta’s article on the Top 12 Best Apps for Your Phone’s Camera before you go snapping away. Guaranteed to make your IG followers jealous!)

Further down the home page, you’ll find links for everything you want to know about Atlanta. There’s info on sports, travel, restaurants, tours, schools, accommodations, attractions, theme parks. There is a range of featured articles covering everything you’d ever want to know about Atlanta and a plethora of free travel guides to download.

You can spend hours on this site exploring everything Atlanta has to offer!

Explore Discover Atlanta’s Site>>

2. Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Atlanta Convention and Visitors Center is Atlanta’s most popular online travel and event guide. This is the site where you can get a full look at all things Atlanta, including the city’s history.

This site appeals to traveling business people, new Atlanta residents, outdoorsy types, parents of all ages, and nerds (of which I am, and proudly so). 

What’s most impressive about this site to me is their outstanding job of giving insight into the different neighborhoods of Atlanta. This “Explore Atlanta’s Coolest Historic Neighborhoods” article is a great crash course on some of the city’s fastest-growing communities. 

If you want to take a deep dive into Atlanta as a city, you need to check out this site!

Check out the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau>>

3. 365 Atlanta Traveler

365 Atlanta Traveler is an awesome site with some amazing information on Atlanta and traveling all around the South.

Under the “365 Daily” tab you can find stories about entertainment and restaurants, to travel and “can’t-miss events.” All the way to the right of the taskbar is the “Only in Atlanta” section where you can find free things to do, festivals, places to grab a bite, and so much more.

An article I find particularly interesting is The 36 Best Event Venues in Atlanta For Your Special Occasion. It sheds light on some of the gems in the city that everyone should be aware of. 

Visit 365 Atlanta Traveler’s site>>

4. Atlanta Parent

Given the name, I’m sure our amazing readers with little ones running their lives know this one is for them. 

The Atlanta Parent Magazine is a great source for all of your family needs. There’s a section completely for education, but there are also links to family-friendly theatre productions, an event calendar, and parenting links that cover topics like community service and parenting a special needs child.

For those that are just passing through Atlanta for a few days or less, there are recommendations for travel destinations near and far, guides for camping, and road trip games to keep the traveling drama to a minimum. 

The site offers so much more than can be covered here you’ll definitely like, like this Top Holiday Events Beyond Atlanta article. 

Check out Atlanta Parent>>

5. GA Followers

GA Followers is one of my favorite sites! It isn’t just a travel site but a news outlet. Readers get insight into what’s going on in Atlanta music, comedy, movies, fashion, restaurants, and events.

The section that I urge you to give your attention to is their one on comedy. In a very creative and absolutely hilarious way, the writers lay out some “rules for survival,” if you will, while you’re in Atlanta. An article that I (as a born and bred ATL-ien) love is How to Drive in Atlanta. One of the tips is that “Friday’s rush hour starts on Thursday morning.” Where’s the lie though?

Go to GA Followers>>

6. TimeOut Atlanta

While TimeOut Atlanta isn’t as fancy or information-heavy as the other sites on the list, it provides some amazing lists of must-see, must-eat, and must-drink spots in Atlanta. 

You can, in little time and with minimal effort, find twenty-one things to do, fifteen bars and hotels worth your hard-earned money, twenty-five restaurants you have to eat at, and ten museums that will scratch that education itch. 

As a history nerd, I have to draw your attention to their article on the 10 Best Museums in Atlanta. You’ve got to visit one of these museums the next time you’re in ATL!

Check out TimeOut Atlanta>>

7. Explore Georgia

Explore Georgia is one of the few sites that covers the entire state of Georgia equally. It’s a great resource for people that may want to take a day trip outside of Atlanta to explore the different scenic areas Georgia has. I think people will be surprised at just how much Georgia has to offer.

But I digress. Back to Atlanta! If you look under the “Explore Destinations” tab, the first city on the list will conveniently be Atlanta. On the Atlanta page you will find articles on places to catch live music, twenty free things to do, a list of bed and breakfast locations, and a place to shop for vinyl records. (In case you’ve been living under a rock, vinyl’s back in a big way, baby!)

One of my favorite articles really captures a key aspect of the culture it’s Atlanta’s Best Neighborhoods for Colorful Street Art. The art they’ve featured here is so cool! (Check out that tiny door! #tinydoorsatl)

Click to go to Explore Georgia’s Atlanta Guide>>

8. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

As the only major newspaper for the metro area, The AJC is the premier news source in Atlanta and has been for a number of years. This source has seen Atlanta through some of its most drastic changes. Before their merger in 1982, the Atlanta Journal and the Atlanta Constitution were separate publications dating back to the mid and late 1800s. 

Their longevity has to be the result of their commitment to high quality. So even though the concept of a newspaper may seem like an outdated concept in this digital world, it’s definitely a source that can be trusted. 

They have a unique “things to do” section which includes (but isn’t limited to) restaurants, podcasts and tv, holiday events, and flashback photos. Their “life” section is where you’ll find travel information including this See the sea for a coastal Christmas in Georgia article which is very intriguing and definitely worth a read. 

Give The Atlanta Journal-Constitution a look>>

There’s a ton of things to do in Atlanta!

If you’re planning a visit to ATL and don’t know where to start, give a few of these sites a look. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find so many things to do in Atlanta, your head will spin!

Let us know in the comments which of these sites is your favorite to find things to do in Atlanta!

If you’re looking to find the best live music venues in Atlanta, look no further! We’ve compiled the eight best places to catch a live show below!

Whether it’s a date, a solo night out, or a group gathering, live music is one of the best experiences to have. In a melting pot city like Atlanta, there are several different venues that host artists of several different genres of music.

Here is a list of the top eight live music venues in Atlanta:

1. The Fox

The Fabulous Fox Theatre is a venue we’ve mentioned in previous blogs. In addition to hosting Broadway musicals that go on tour, The Fox has been the sight for almost one hundred and fifty concerts.

In the past five years alone, the Fox has had performances by Paramore, Prince, Chance the Rapper, Bon Iver, Christone Ingram, and several others. 

The Fox is one of Atlanta’s most treasured, historical, and beautiful venues. If you’ve been in the city for longer than a day or two, you’ve probably at least heard about it.

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2. The Variety Playhouse

Stationed in the Little 5 Points neighborhood is another one of the most treasured venues in the city: The Variety Playhouse.

The building has been around since the ’40s as a movie house, a community meeting space, and a performance space. Since the ’80s, the venue has focused on live music, and it overwent a complete renovation in 2016 when it came under new management. 

This place continues to be a go-to in the city and has a 4.7 out of 5 rating on Google. You won’t be disappointed with this place!

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3. The Earl

The EARL is a gem in the East Atlanta Village that has hosted some great up-and-coming bands.

Its cozy music space is separate from its restaurant, but patrons are able to go back and forth between the two. The menu is full of tasty bar food at some of the best prices you’ll find, and the staff is exactly what you’d want in a venue like this. 

While it is on the smaller side, what it lacks in size it makes up for in acoustics, and you’ll always find interesting EAV locals to connect with. 

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4. The Loft

The Loft is definitely the coziest on our list. This downtown venue is on the smaller size, so the acoustics are amazing. The placement of all the furniture compliments the space well, while making the place feel a little bigger than it is. 

If you’re looking for a venue with a more intimate setting, and great menu prices, The Loft is a great option. And you can’t beat the view!

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5. The Tabernacle

I absolutely love the Tabernacle!

This Live Nation-operated venue used to be home to a church, a nursing school, and a medical center. It was converted into a music venue in 1996 just after the Olympics, and has been under different owners since then.

To me, The Tabernacle is the best-converted venue on the list. It has the perfect mix of modern touches and old Atlanta soul. 

I saw Lupe Fiasco in concert here a number of years ago. The lights, the sound, the size of the stage…it’s all perfect!

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6. The Apache Cafe

Apache definitely has the highest amount of sentimental value for me. My introduction to live music in Atlanta happened here when I was 16, and it’s been a love of mine ever since.

Apache Cafe is another cozy and intimate space, but it serves the artists that are booked here so well. The vibes are fly and relaxed, and the menu is great!

Along with enjoying some great music, you’ll be able to check out cool art pieces and even take part in some deep corporate discussions.

They are currently in a temporary space as they prepare their new building, but that hasn’t changed anything.

If you don’t love this place, I’ll pay for your ticket myself!*

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*Just kidding! I can’t really pay for your ticket, but I promise you’ll love it!

7. Eddie’s Attic

Eddie’s has been around since 1991, and it’s definitely not going away any time soon. This venue is where a lot of true music enthusiasts find their home away from home.

Eddie’s Attic isn’t just a music venue, it’s a “listening room” where you’re asked to silence your cell phones and listen intently to the artists. This venue is well-respected and held in high regard by patrons and artists alike.

Music powerhouses like John Mayer, Ani DiFranco, Sheryl Crow, The Indigo Girls, Dana Cooper Sugarland, India Arie, and several other huge names have graced the stage at this Decatur landmark.

A full bar and great menu complete the Eddie Attic experience! 

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8. Terminal West

Rounding out our list is West Midtown’s Terminal West.

Converted to its current function from an iron factory, this venue, with its factory aesthetic still intact, opened its doors in 2012. Since then it has hosted acts like Imagine Dragons, T.I, The Killers, Alessia Cara, and others. 

The space allows for a great view of the stage no matter where you are in the room. The food has been raved about in reviews, and the bar menu is extensive. Their outside area is beautiful, and the staff is a breath of fresh air. You absolutely cannot go wrong here!

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Music Unites

Music is one of the cornerstones of the world we live in. Music shapes, informs, and even critiques culture in a way that unites people in a time of much division.

These venues are not only places of entertainment, but a means of release for people simply trying to navigate their way through the craziness of life.

So check out one of our best live music venues in Atlanta and enjoy some great performances!

What’s the best concert you’ve been to at one of these venues? Let us know in the comments!

Looking for Halloween fun that’s a little less scary and a little more family-friendly? We did the research for you and came up with the best things to do with your kids for Halloween in Atlanta!

2020 is just over two months away, can you believe it?!

As we reach the end of October, the primary thought in most of our minds is Halloween. So here’s a quick list of some family-friendly Halloween fun you can have in Atlanta:  

Stone Mountain Park: Pumpkin Festival

Every weekend during the month of October, Stone Mountain Park hosts its Pumpkin Festival. There’s a pie-eating contest, a big dance party, along with carnival-style games and a parade.

The highlight of the festival is definitely “Glow By Night”, which showcases more illuminated jack-o-lanterns than your kids will know what to do with. This a guaranteed good time for the whole family. 

Click here for more information.

Zoo Atlanta: Boo at the Zoo

On the 26th and 27th, Zoo Atlanta is hosting “Boo at the Zoo.” This event will have a live DJ, a costume party, an inflatable corn maze, and some treats to munch on while you’re running around. 

Click here for more information.

Harry Potter at the Symphony

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will be presenting Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in concert from the 25th through the 27th.

Dress your kids (and yourself!) in your favorite Harry Potter gear, and be wowed by the beautiful music. 

Click here for more information and tickets.

The Callanwolde Mansion

On October 25th The Callanwolde Mansion will be decorated for “CALLOween”. There will be games, trick or treating, movie screenings, face painting, and more!

That not enough for you? Well, there’s pizza as well! Don’t miss this one! 

Click here for more information.

Chattahoochee Nature Center: Halloween Hikes

For our amazing readers that love a good hike, this one is for you!

On the 26th and 27th, your family can enjoy a very well-lit hike during the night. On this trail, you will find campfires, face-painting stations, and some cool woodland creatures to greet you.

Dress in your best costume complete with comfy shoes! 

Click here for more information.

Fernbank Museum: Dinosaur Trick-or-Treat

One of my personal favorite places in all of Atlanta is our Fernbank Museum.

On October 26th, your family can visit this museum for its “Dinosaur Trick-or-Treat.” There will be plenty of games and treats for kids in costumes, along with a life-sized Giganotosaurus replica.

Also, what’s a Halloween event for kids without a dance party, right?! 

Click here for more information.

Georgia Aquarium: Halloween Extravaganza  

On Halloween Day, the Georgia Aquarium is hosting its “Halloween Extravaganza.”

This event will have arts and crafts, trick-or-treating, and plenty of photo ops so you can show your kids off on Instagram.

Kids under 12 get in free! 

Click here for more information.

Ponce City Markets: Trick-or-Treat

Rounding out our list, and also on Halloween Day, is the market-wide trick-or-treat at Ponce City Markets. Vendors will be passing out candy to your costumed kids, and this event is completely free!

(Parents, you can unwind with a glass of wine, or a beer, and watch your kids have a blast!)

Click here for more information.

Scarily safe

It can be hard finding things to do with your kids for Halloween. If you want a family-friendly Halloween, none of these events will disappoint! Be sure to get out there before October flies by!

Happy Halloween, everyone!

What’s your favorite kid-friendly Halloween activity? Let me know in the comments!

Looking for something romantic to do for date night in Atlanta? We’ve got you covered!

Since #datenight is one of the most used hashtags in all of social media, why not give you some great romantic date ideas in Atlanta?

Here are our top picks for a romantic date night in Atlanta:

1. Take a Walk in the Park

“Let’s take a long walk around the park after dark. Find a spot for us to spark conversation, verbal elation, stimulation. Share our situations, temptations, education, relaxations…” These are lyrics from the amazing “A long walk” by Jill Scott. She makes taking a walk sound so poetic doesn’t she? 

When the weather is suitable, there’s nothing quite like a nice stroll in one of Atlanta’s beautiful parks. As we (very slowly) transition into autumn, multi-colored leaves provide quite the vision for a romantic evening strolling down a tree-lined trail.  

A walk in the park slows things down after being enveloped by the pace and busyness of our to-do lists. We can breathe, relax, and simply be ourselves with that special someone.

If that’s not authentic romance… I don’t know what is.

Bonus idea: Find a great spot to see the sunset while having a picnic before or after your stroll. It’s the perfect addition to an already romantic day out!

Our top parks for a romantic stroll:

Piedmont Park (info|directions)

Stone Mountain Park (info|directions)

Chastain Memorial Park (info|directions)

Sweetwater Creek State Park (info|directions)

Centennial Olympic Park  (info|directions)

2. Catch a Show

Going to the cinema is one of the most popular date night ideas globally. Nine times out of ten it solidifies a good time out, but why not go to a place where the action isn’t confined to a screen?

Opting for a live theater performance shows more thought and will automatically add to the romance. 

If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch a production of “Shakespeare in the Park.” This is one of Atlanta’s most loved events and guarantees a great and unique night out. 

If you’re not attending a show out at Piedmont Park, get yourself dressed up (you won’t be the only one), and head to one of the many amazing theatres the city has to offer. Afterward, find a great restaurant with some low lighting and great wine and keep the vibes going until the night ends. 

This type of date is going to require a few more bucks in the bank, but the romance will make it totally worth it. 

Our top theatre picks for a special night out:

Alliance Theatre (productions|directions)

Horizon Theatre  (productions|directions)

Fox Theatre  (productions|directions)

Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse (productions|directions)

True Colors Theatre (productions|directions)

3. Reenact a Famous Movie Scene

“Unchained Melody”: A beautiful song, right?!

Most people know this song from the 1990 classic romance film Ghost. If you’ve seen it, then you know that one of the most famous scenes in all of cinematic history is the pottery making one from this film. If you’re unfamiliar, just go to YouTube and you’ll find it there. 

Now, don’t get me wrong, your evening probably won’t look like this scene, but how cool would it be to do this with your partner? Mudfire Studio in Decatur offers sessions that can be just the two of you and an instructor. They’ll give you a tour of the studio first, then you can get to learning and making some pottery. The best part? BYOB! 

Take your date, have a drink to ease the edge a bit, and enjoy yourselves.

Go ahead and reenact that scene:

Mudfire Studio (info|directions)

4. Catch an After Hours Event

Tons of traditionally “kid” places are jumping on the bandwagon to offer adults-only after-hours events.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History hosts its event on the second Friday of every month. This event is for those aged 21 and up, so you’re guaranteed to be around some legal adults in a very classy environment. There’s live music, a full bar, access to their amazing state-of-the-art theatre, a tapas menu, and different themed science demonstrations. This is another idea that’s unique and thoughtful so the romance can flow.

Sips Under the Sea is hosted by the Georgia Aquarium. Just like Fernbank they offer a few different options. There’s music, access to the exhibits, a full bar, food, lectures, a murder mystery (only for the Halloween season), and even the possibility to sleepover (yeah!) if you so choose to. Have some drinks, learn some cool stuff that you can brag about later, hold hands in the peaceful aquatic environment, and create the most unique of memories. 

Rounding out the after-hours suggestions is Jazz at the High. This takes place at the High Museum of Art in Midtown every third Friday of the month. Each month will feature a different style of jazz, which you and your date can listen to while sipping on cocktails and taking in some art. This is the type of evening that is a perfect cure for a long work week. 

For adults-only events:

Fernbank Museum of History (info|directions)

Sips Under the Sea (info|directions)

Jazz at the High (info|directions)

5. Have a drink

Atlanta has some amazing wine bars!

If you’re in the Buckhead area there’s Pour Bistro in Brookhaven.

If you’re near the East Atlanta Village there’s Barcelona Wine Bar.

There’s the Krog Bar in the Krog Street Market.

If you’re near the Beltline and want to take a walk to Ponce City Market there’s City Winery Atlanta. (Bonus idea: Check out some other Beltline spots before heading in for a drink!)

Even if you’re up north of the city, there’s the Stem Bar located in Marietta. 

These are just a few options available in Atlanta! These wine bars offer great food options as well, so make a night of it, and the romance will handle itself. 

Our top wine bars:

Pour Bistro (directions)

Barcelona Wine Bar (directions)

Krog Bar (directions)

City Winery Atlanta (directions)

Stem Bar (directions)

BONUS IDEA: Take a little getaway

This idea is a bit of a wild card because it’s not located in Atlanta, but if you’re here, it would make a great day trip or weekend getaway. 

Lookout Mountain provides hang gliding, underground waterfalls, and summits with breathtaking views. It’s also only ten minutes away from downtown Chattanooga so you will not be short of restaurant and bar options. 

After a hard week at your nine-to-five, why not give yourselves space for a romantic getaway a bit further out from all the chaos? The experiences you’ll have together will be unforgettable leaving some residual romance to bask in long after you’ve left. 

Get away for a while:

Lookout Mountain (info)

Outside the box…

Traditional date nights can be great, but why not think outside the box?

New ideas lead to new memories, and you never know what other ideas could come from less tradition and more creativity. 

Give one of these date night ideas a try the next time you’re in Atlanta! You won’t regret it!

Have you tried one of these date night ideas? Have other unique date night ideas in Atlanta? Let us know in the comments!

Missed your flight in Atlanta? There are few life circumstances more stressful than a missed flight.

Getting through an airport by your own will is frustrating enough, but being forced into being there makes it so much worse.

To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of what to do when you miss your flight in Atlanta.

“I only have a few hours…”

Hartsfield-Jackson is one of the busiest airports in the world, and its size certainly reflects it. If you miss your flight and you’re able to catch a flight within three hours or less (congrats!), just stay there. 

Just as the airport is built for travel, it caters greatly to those that may be there for a few hours before catching their flight. The airport is loaded with great restaurants both in the atrium and the terminals.

Every restaurant that isn’t 24 hours opens before 10 am, and the options are quite varied. You can have pancakes for breakfast, sushi for lunch, and Southern fried chicken and collard greens for dinner. There’s fast food, there are bars with big-screen TVs, and there’s coffee. Whatever you crave you’ll find it at the airport.

If you’re looking for what to do when you miss your flight in Atlanta satisfying your appetite is always a great place to start, especially if you’re not going to be around longer than a few hours. 

“It’s gonna be a while…”

So if your missed flight has positioned you in the city for more time than just watching Netflix will cure we’ve got some great suggestions for you as well. 

Right outside the gates of baggage claim you can find the MARTA railway. Like most big cities, there are several “tourist attractions” that are easily accessible when using Atlanta’s public transit.

For train stations and schedules, click here.

The CNN Center is about a thirty-minute ride from the airport and a ten-minute walk from Five Points Station. The CNN Center is one of Atlanta’s most popular tourist attractions offering a fifty-minute walking tour of the building. This tour allows people to see how the broadcast is shot and produced, and after, there’s a food court on the first floor.

For the college sports superfans, the College Football Hall of Fame would be a great option for you. It’s only a twenty-minute ride to the Peachtree Center Station with a short, ten-minute walk after. Inside you’ll find over seven hundred schools represented, an indoor field with cool activities including an obstacle course, and an exhibit highlighting some of the best moments in college football history. 

For art lovers, we highly recommend taking the twenty-minute ride to the Arts Center Station and visiting the Woodruff Arts Center. There you can find the High Museum of Art and the Alliance Theatre. Nearby are the Center for Puppetry Arts, and the Jewish Heritage and Holocaust Museum. 

After visiting the museums and theatres near the Woodruff Arts Center, you can take a shuttle straight to Atlantic Station where you can shop, eat, and catch a movie. 

For train stations and schedules, click here.

“Oh no, I’m here overnight…”

Sometimes the travel struggles get real, real! Staying overnight in a city you weren’t expecting to because of flight issues is obviously not unheard of. So in addition to the options in the previous section, we want to provide you with a full list of “to-do’s” to reduce the struggle.

First, if your flight isn’t until mid-afternoon or later, you should definitely see if one of our listings are available. Both our Sylvan Hills and Adair Park locations are less than 10 miles from the airport and would only cost about 15 dollars in an Uber or Lyft. 

I always mention the Beltline to anyone unfamiliar with things to do in Atlanta. The Beltline is a loop that connects the city and runs through several neighborhoods with public parks, restaurants, and other establishments along it. There’s a three-hour bus tour of the Beltline that begins at the Inman Park Marta Station that outlines the history and the progress of the project.

If you’re looking for something to do after, nearby the Inman Park station is Little 5 Points where you can eat and shop at very unique places. 

Offering much of the same experience but at a larger scale is the Ponce City Markets. It’s a great spot for a solo day out, a date, and a family outing. 

For train stations and schedules, click here.

Don’t Panic…

Atlanta is filled with plenty of options that will make any travel woes seem minuscule. Between the museums, theatres, shopping, and restaurants, finding what to do when you miss your flight is made fairly easy.

Even if you plan on just hanging out at the airport there’s enough to keep you occupied, full, and rested. 

Either way, don’t panic, if you do miss your flight in this great city, we’ve got plenty of ways to pass the time and ease your mind!

What do you recommend for people who’ve missed their flight in Atlanta? Let us know in the comments!

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Have a couple of days in Atlanta and don’t know what to do with your kids? You might not think “kid-friendly” when you think of Atlanta, but a closer look just may change that.

Here’s a list of just some of what you can do in Atlanta with kids:

Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta has everything from lions and tigers to gorillas, snakes, cranes, owls, pandas and so many more. You certainly won’t be disappointed. 

In addition to the wide range of animals, the zoo offers six food stops and multiple structured kids activities. The “Vet Academy” gives insight into what vets do at the zoo. There are two playgrounds and even a chance for some detective work.

Before you leave, be sure to take the train to the safari slide, the treetop trail, and the petting zoo. Your kids will love this place, and you just might too!

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium was the largest in the world until 2012. Now as the 4th largest, it holds about 10 million gallons of water that house over 10,000 animals from 500 different species. 

This amazing attraction won’t just leave you to yourselves as you explore the many exhibits that inhabit it. There are dive shows and sea lion encounters and you can even feed piranhas and swim with gigantic whale sharks!

You can certainly make a full day or even an overnight experience of your visit to the aquarium. Sleep Under the Sea is the Aquarium’s overnight program. Sleepovers include a snack before bed, breakfast in the morning, and guided tours of the exhibits.

Do you know of another place like this? We don’t either. 

Fernbank Museum

The Fernbank Museum has an amazing natural history museum that consists of dinosaur, nature, cultural, and Georgia history exhibits. This museum also has an amazing 3D theatre and a seventy-five-acre forest with trails and exhibits that your kids will greatly enjoy.

The King Center

The King Center might be the most important public space in all of Atlanta. This museum chronicles in solid detail the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Here, you’re offered much more than the watered-down version of him taught in most schools. There are pictures, writings, videos, and audio snippets adding to the experience. It’s so much more than just a museum.

The Center for Puppetry Arts

Atlanta is an absolute hub for the arts. One of the gems that I hope never goes away is the Center for Puppetry Arts. This center is the largest non-profit one dedicated solely to puppets nation-wide. Jim Henson cut the ribbon back in 1978, and if he endorses it, who are we not to?

Within the museum, you will find an interactive Jim Henson Collection. This exhibit highlights places where Henson spent his time creating and displays some of his most iconic puppets. 

The global puppet collection celebrates puppets from the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. This exhibit shows how puppetry is used as a teaching and communication tool as well. After you visit the museum you can either learn how to create your own puppets or watch a performance in the theatre. 

This place is a memory creator for sure. You’ll find it both nostalgic and awe-inspiring. Don’t miss out! 

World of Coca-Cola

In 1886 the world’s most popular soda was founded right here in Atlanta. So, naturally, we have a full history of it documented at the World of Coca-Cola.

The place is loaded with theatres, historical artifacts, and a secret formula vault. The main attraction is the “Taste It” room where you can try more than one hundred different sodas from around the world.

Atlanta City Parks

After having the ultimate sugar rush from all those soda selections, our public parks are great to burn off some of that energy.

Piedmont Park is loaded with large lawns and playgrounds for flying kites and letting your children to run themselves ragged in. Centennial Olympic Park is twenty acres of homage to the ’96 Olympics and holds several events throughout the year.

Kid-Friendly Atlanta

If you’re looking for things to do with your kids in Atlanta, you certainly won’t be short of options. What we’ve provided here is just the tip of the iceberg. Arcades, trampoline parks, the Skyview Ferris wheel, and of course Six Flags can be added to the list.

There are tons of options to consider when looking for kid-friendly ideas in Atlanta. We look forward to hearing about the memories created as your family takes advantage of them!

Leave us a message in the comments telling us your favorite kid-friendly activities in Atlanta!

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Southerners love competition, and Atlanta has some of the best sports teams to around. And with the addition of Atlanta United, the 2018 MLS Cup winner, the buzz around Atlanta’s sports teams buzz continues to grow.

Here are ten Atlanta sports teams you don’t want to miss!

1. Atlanta United (Soccer)

Mercedes Benz Stadium is the newest addition to the sports scene in Atlanta. It has replaced the Georgia Dome and is the new home to a couple of our most popular teams. This stadium has already solidified itself as a go-to for visitors and locals alike.

There are two of Atlanta’s must-see teams that compete in this venue.

A championship-winning team in its first year, Atlanta United has brought a major spark to the city. Since soccer is the number one sport worldwide, having a team here only makes sense.

The crowds are rowdy, the team is great, and the stadium is beautiful! This will be a blast as a family outing, a date night, or an evening with the guys (or girls). 

2. Atlanta Falcons (Football)

The Atlanta Falcons have been the representative for the city in the NFL since 1965. There has always been a lot of energy surrounding this team.

Even when they don’t win, attending the games are a lot of fun. The streets are full of vehicles decked out in Falcons gear, there’s tailgating, and there’s loud music.

It’s a full-on experience. 

3. Atlanta Dream (Basketball)

Yet another new addition to the Atlanta sports venue lists, State Farm Arena is home to our basketball teams. This arena used to be Philips Arena, and before that, it was the Omni Coliseum. It now stands tall in downtown with lights that are visible from miles away.

The Atlanta Dream have been going really strong for the city since 2008. This fun-to-watch WNBA team has been to the playoffs seven times and to the finals three times. What a track record!

4. Atlanta Hawks (Basketball)

Although they are rebuilding, the Atlanta Hawks are another classic team in the city.

The past couple of seasons have been rough, but most years they do quite well. Since the 2007 season, they’ve been to the playoffs ten consecutive years. There’s no doubt they’ll be back very soon. 

5. Atlanta Braves (Baseball)

The Atlanta Braves have been nicknamed the “Team of the ’90s.” Don’t allow that name to misrepresent how awesome this current lineup is. They have the perfect mix of great veterans and talented new blood that make them so much fun to watch.

In addition to them being well respected in baseball, SunTrust Park is stunning. 

SunTrust Park is in an entertainment district called The Battery. It opened in 2017 loaded with restaurants, bars, retail stores, a movie theatre, and a wide range of other businesses.

If you plan on going to a Braves game, you can spend the entire day walking around before the first pitch is thrown. 

6. Gwinnett Stripers (Baseball)

You’ve got to have love for the little teams, too.

Our minor league baseball team, the Gwinnett Stripers, may play a little outside the city, but they’re affiliated with the Braves, so that makes them part of Atlanta.

Besides, minor league tickets are cheaper and you never know who might be using the Stripers to ease back in after an injury!

7. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (Football, Baseball, Basketball, and Softball)

When you think of NCAA teams in the south Georgia Tech is one that usually comes to mind. They have formidable football, baseball, and softball teams. They draw huge crowds every single year, and the fanfare surrounding them is something to see.

In football, Georgia Tech has fifteen conference titles and has produced twenty-one all-American players. The baseball team has won the ACC tournament nine times, with three College World Series appearances. In softball, they have five conference titles and have had eight different players awarded Freshman of the Year.

If you love college sports, either of these teams are great options to check out. You’ll get great insight into why some people call college sports a religion down here. 

8. Atlanta Hustle (Frisbee)

Into less popular sports? We’ve got you. The Atlanta Hustle is our very own ultimate frisbee team, playing as one of the twenty-seven teams in the American Ultimate Disc League.

While they’re a relatively new franchise (founded in 2015), the Atlanta Hustle is representing our city well in the league. I recommend catching them in action!

9. Atlanta Blaze (Lacrosse)

If you’re looking for something a little different, our lacrosse teams are a perfect fit. The Atlanta Blaze pro lacrosse team play right in Midtown Atlanta at Grady Stadium. It’s easy to get to from most parts of the city, and they’re improving as a team each year. If you’re looking for southern competition with smaller crowds, check this up-and-coming team out. 

10. Georgia Swarm (Lacrosse)

The Georgia Swarm rounds out our list and for good reason. Since moving to Georgia from Minnesota, The Swarm have made the playoffs every year.

They play at the Infinite Energy Arena in Duluth which is about twenty miles north of Atlanta. Although the distance may be sizeable, the arena is beautiful, and there’s a high possibility that you’ll see the home team take home the W. 

Who is your favorite sports team?

We talk a lot about unity in this country, though the concept may be less visible these days. Sporting events are a great way to remind ourselves of how beautiful unity is.

One thing you’re guaranteed when attending any games in Atlanta is great conversations with complete strangers. If you leave one of these events and don’t high five someone you’ve never seen before, you simply ain’t doing it right. 

The next time you’re in our city, be sure to catch one of these must-see Atlanta teams playing a game!

Let us know in the comments which Atlanta team is your favorite!