Plan an Epic Family Vacation in the ATL Airport District

Eat lunch at the original Chick-fil-a and tour a double-decker 767 airplane on your next family getaway

Pack your bags and get ready to enjoy quality family time in Atlanta’s Airport District. Atlanta’s Southside is the perfect getaway for families that love sports, unique history, and delicious food. So whether you are road-tripping through Georgia or taking a day trip near Atlanta, Hapeville is a vibrant town full of must-see places and family-friendly activities everyone in your crew will love. So keep reading to plan the perfect weekend getaway in Hapevilla, GA, in the ATL Airport District.  

Things to Do near ATL Airport District with Kids

Located on the outskirts of Atlanta, Hapeville, in the Atlanta Airport District, is famous for the Delta Flight Museum, with hangars full of fun exhibits and a tourable 747, and The Dwarf House, the original Chick-fil-a. And there’s so much more this town has to offer, so we rounded up our favorites. 

College Park Skyhawks Game

An NBA G-League game is a must-see at the Gateway Center Arena during basketball season. You won’t regret taking your crew to one of these NBA minor league games. Splurge on the VIP tickets to enjoy a full buffet, drinks, and a prime viewing area. The halftime shows are electric, and the crowd goes crazy when the cheerleaders and mascot take the court. Everyone in your crew will love this exciting experience.   

Delta Flight Museum

Take a tour through Delta’s aviation history at this interactive museum just a short drive from the country’s busiest airport. First, walk through a double-decker airplane and rest quickly in First Class. Then, sit in the cockpit’s jump seat and pose for a photo op in a hot air balloon. Finally, swing through the gift shop to find model airplanes and fun aviation-related gifts.   

Hapeville Depot Museum and Visitor Center

Travel through history at this quaint and educational local museum. Learn how Hapeville locals passed notes to trains as they traveled through town. And find out how a major international airport hub made its home in Hapeville. Finally, try the keys of a vintage typewriter and stop for a photo op on the Worry Rock. The kind docents love telling their town’s history. 

Arches Brewing

Stop by this dad-owned business for some Friday night (or any night) family fun. The adults will enjoy the 14 different artisan beers brewed onsite, and everyone will love the kid-friendly outdoor space with shaded picnic tables, cornhole, and basketball. The staff is more than happy to chat about the 8-year history of this local gem and teach you a bit about brewing. If you aren’t a beer drinker, try the Sprezzatura. It’s light and delicious. 

Atlanta Printmakers Studio

Check their website before you visit this cool print shop in Hapeville, GA. You can sign up for an adult/child LEGO printmaking workshop. Hang out, work, and play together to create designs with Lego bricks, and the staff will help everyone print their creations using the Vandercook presses. In addition, you’ll get to take home your one-of-a-kind poster as a souvenir. 

Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta with Kids

Georgia Aquarium
Add the Behind the Seas Tour, an exceptional aquarium experience, when buying tickets to this incredible aquarium. For less than $20 per person, you’ll see the beluga whale and whale shark habitats from above. A friendly tour guide will take your family around to learn more about the behind-the-scenes action at the aquarium, and you may even get to see a midday feeding with the marine animal keepers. It’s a great way to learn more about the conservation efforts at the aquarium too. Remember to sign up for the Dolphin and Sea Lion shows when you arrive. Seats fill up quickly. 

World of Coca-Cola Museum

Add this fascinating museum to your Atlanta family vacation itinerary. You’ll start by watching a short video; then, you’ll walk through the main areas of the museum on your own. The 3D adventure movie is fun for kids, and the tasting room is a favorite for anyone who visits. You can taste hundreds of Coca-Cola brand drinks from around the world. In addition, the gift shop is full of fun Coca-Cola-themed gifts, toys and apparel. It’s worth a walkthrough.   

Where to Eat Near ATL Airport District with Kids

The Dwarf House

You can eat at the original Chick-fil-a with an epic outdoor playground and a whimsical tiny entrance door, perfect for little ones. Whether you eat on the traditional carryout side or in the full-service area of the restaurant, you’ll get the whole Chick-fil-a experience. Visiting on a beautiful day is fun so that everyone can enjoy the outdoor play space and seating.  

Pit Boss
After you visit Arches Brewing, head to this nearby family-friendly, casual BBQ restaurant. Locals will tell you they have the best burger in town, even though they’re indeed known for the smokey barbeque. Order from the counter, and grab a table while your kids try their hands at one of the video games. 

Breakfast Boys
Bring your hungry crew to this College Park all-day breakfast and brunch spot for some fantastic pineapple upside-down French toast or jerk chicken and waffles paired with peach cobbler lattes. The menu is surprising, and everything is delicious. This Atlanta Airport District restaurant is the perfect place to gather and enjoy good food together. 

Champions Beer Garden & Patio
Just inside Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, you can enjoy 14 beers on draft, various local craft brews, and a delicious menu of Southern comfort favorites. Stop in before heading to the nearby Atlanta Airport, Georgia International Convention Center, or Gateway Center Arena.

Where to Stay near ATL Airport District with Kids

Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway

Think indoor pool, family-friendly dining options, the perfect location, and connected rooms for bigger groups. You’ll find all that at this modern Atlanta Airport District hotel. You’re close to all the family-friendly attractions and a quick train ride away from downtown Atlanta. It’s the perfect home away from home to enjoy your family vacation.   

See how much you can pack into one weekend in the Atlanta Airport District. 

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Discover More Details about the ATL Airport District

The Atlanta Airport District is the ideal family destination with the perfect balance of relaxation and family fun. Check out the ATL Airport District website for more ideas on what to do on your next weekend adventure. 

Note: This trip was paid for by ATL Airport District, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.