5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Atlanta Parks & Playgrounds

It's time to pack a picnic and head to one of these parks and playgrounds, where parking and crowds are not a problem.

By Tinybeans Team April 27, 2022

Atlanta is full of playgrounds and parks, and many of them have made their way into famous scenes from movies filmed in Georgia. From the giant treehouse at Chastain Park to the famed Noguchi playscape at Piedmont Park, kids in Atlanta get to enjoy some seriously fun places to play. But if you’re looking for something different to try, neighborhood parks are aplenty—and most are pretty epic. For a look at Atlanta’s lesser-known parks and playgrounds, keep reading.

Abernathy Greenway Art Park

jokes funny and laughing kids jokes — iStock

This Sandy Springs gem has 6 art installations that are each an unique playscape for kids to explore. And whether you've got some serious art critics in your crew, or you're just looking for a fun place to play, this park is worth a visit.

Helpful Hint: Since this hotspot is located alongside a busy road, you might want to check it out for the first time during a mid-week morning, when traffic is a little lighter and the noise is a little less.

Find It: Abernathy Rd and Brandon Mill Rd., Sandy Springs

Orme Park

Nestled in Virginia-Highlands, this neighborhood park is attended by donated children's toys, a playground, and a nature trail, just begging to be explored. There's even a sandbox for kids to dig in, if you don't mind them getting a little bit dirty.

Helpful Hint: There are no water fountains or public restrooms, but Orme Park is about a 2 minute walk to nearby restaurants and shops.

Find It: 774 Brookridge Dr. NE, VA-HI

Sweet Apple Park

a happy girl who heard inspiring words — iStock

You'll find playground equipment here that aren't at other parks, including a sandbox with toys to play with, a tandem swing, and a zip line (though recent reports are that it's been removed for maintenance with no ETA on its return). You'll also find standard slides and swings and playscapes, and plenty of shade.

Helpful Hint: You'll find a soccer field near the parking area of this park, so be sure to bring your balls!

Find it: 11850 Crabapple Rd., Roswell

Loring Heights Park

This neighborhood oasis is located in the southernmost tip of Buckhead, off Deering Rd., and is the product of an active community association who wanted to turn their small duck pond into something a little bit more. And they did! With the pond still the centerpiece of the park, the area has now been landscaped with native plants, bench swings installed, a deck built over part of the pond, an epic multi-tiered playground built into the contour of the ground, and a picnic area.

Helpful Hint: No potties here, but if you're into fishing and have a license, there are some seriously big ones to bag in the pond.

Find it: Loring Dr. and N. Garden Ln., S. Buckhead

Thrasher Park

With trains that run the nearby track, this small park located in the middle of downtown historic Norcross is a favorite of the train set. There are picnic tables, grills, restrooms, a pavilion and a playground for the kids, along with an Amphitheater, a Gazebo and fun art installations. It's also walking distance to restaurants in case you forgot to pack a lunch.

Helpful Hint: In the summer, the city hosts free concerts in this park. Check the schedule before you go to find out what act to catch, or possibly when to avoid the crowds.

Find it: 93 Park Dr., Norcross