ML Interest Tag: brunch-buffet

5 Musts for a Perfect Holiday Staycation in Atlanta

by Tinybeans Team

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and luckily for Atlanta parents, we live in a city that knows how to celebrate the season. From world-class performances at The Fox to only-in-Atlanta spectaculars like Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden, you don’t have to pack up your sleigh for a weekend full of festive play. And if you want to really delight the family, book a stay at Atlanta’s new Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead—which balances luxury with family-friendly amenities—to guarantee your name at the top of Santa’s nice list. Keep reading for our picks for a perfect Atlanta holiday staycation, below.

Holiday Performances

Clay Walker

Whether you're looking for something uniquely local or world-wise, Atlanta plays host to performances of all types. Don't miss Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer at Center for Puppetry Arts, or this year's final production of the Atlanta Ballet's Nutcracker in The Fabulous Fox Theatre (it moves to Cobb County's Center for Performing Arts in 2020). A Christmas Carol at Horizon Theatre and Madeline's Christmas in East Atlanta at the Horizon Theater are at the top of our list of must-see holiday performances.

Keep in Mind: The Center for Puppetry Arts offers sensory-friendly productions on Sundays, and includes the Make-a-Puppet Workshop and Museum admission. 

Seasonal Spectaculars

Atlanta Botanical Garden

We're partial to a big production in the Big Peach, and our holidays are no exception. From the million-lights of the artfully designed Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden, to the over-the-top Atlanta Chinese Lantern Festival downtown, our city stands by it's decision to "go big." And it doesn't stop on December 25th. Family-friendly Noon-Years Eve events can be found with bubbles and balloon drops at the Children's Museum of Atlanta's Bubble Bash and Fernbank's Dino Drop, while you can ride the Macy's Pink Pig—our city's most unique holiday tradition—through January.

Extra Intel: Keep your eyes out for Nature’s Wonders at Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden. It's the world’s largest curtain of synchronized light and sound, and the exhibition runs nightly through Jan. 11, including Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.

The Big Guy

S. Massey

What's a celebration without a special appearance by Santa, himself? In Atlanta, you can find Santa on every block, from The Battery to Lenox Square, Perimeter Mall, and Sandy Springs' Santa's Fantastical. But if you're looking for a special spot on Santa's schedule, consider the Santa Tea at Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, where you can indulge in decadent desserts and seasonal offerings alongside your laid-back visit with Santa.

Teas & Traditions

S. Massey

When you're feeling a little fancy, Atlanta's world-class hotels and restaurants are ready to roll out the red carpet for you and your little elves. You'll find a refined holiday tea at Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, and an uniquely local experience during Candlelight Nights at the Atlanta History Center. Head to Christmas at Callanwolde for weekly events, including a holiday artist market, Breakfast with Santa, and Tea with Santa.

Splurge Worthy: You'll find a very festive celebration of decadent desserts at the over-the-top holiday dessert buffet at Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead. Be sure and book in advance, though, as you won't want to miss this special treat.

A Sensational Stay

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead

Enhance your staycation with a night or two at the new Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, which is the most recent luxury hotel brand addition to our city. Located squarely in the heart of Buckhead, its prime location offers guests walkable proximity to Buckhead shopping and dining. Spacious adjoining rooms mean that families can enjoy the comforts of the hotel without the cramp, and its catalogue of unique holiday and seasonal family offerings—including complimentary holiday movie screenings (in a private room with comfy lounge pads and plenty of hot cocoa), festive holiday teas (Santa makes an appearance at many), and a Holiday Wonderland Package—means you don't have to pack the car to delight your darlings with a trip during the holidays.

Food for Thought: Spend Christmas at the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead and enjoy a special four-course Christmas Eve dinner, then wake up and begin Christmas Day with the hotel’s lavish brunch buffet, set to the sound of festive Christmas music.

—Shelley Massey

Lodging and select Atlanta experiences were hosted by Hilton, but all opinions expressed here are the author’s own. 

 

RELATED STORIES:

Brilliant! 7 Santa-Worthy Christmas Light Displays in Atlanta

Ride the Rails: 6 Holiday Train Rides Near Atlanta

Car Games & Toys for Your Next Road Trip

Yo Ho Ho! How to Call the Santa Hotline This Year

. . . and check out our Events calendar for even more suggestions.

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Cheap Eats: 11 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Cheap or Free

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Dinner out can offer a break from a sometimes monotonous evening routine but restaurant dining can add up quickly–especially when kids tag along. Finding that perfect balance between kid-friendly fare and a grown-up atmosphere can further complicate the search. We did some digging to find the best options beyond your local fast food joint. Scroll on to discover the the most budget-wise menus in the DMV – some options are even free.

photo: iStock

Old Ebbitt Grill
This one is the priciest on the list, but the history of the place earned it a spot here. Established in 1856, this eatery was a fave of presidents Cleveland, Grant, Harding and Theodore Roosevelt. Children’s entrees come with milk, fruit juice or soft drink, plus a choice of fries, tater tots, fruit, salad, organic applesauce or veggies followed by seasonal potato ice cream, sorbet or fruit. Main courses include old standbys like chicken tenders or PB&J, and some choices for more refined palates such as salmon teriyaki and sautéed Maine cod.

Cost: $9
Where: 675 15th St. NW
When: Any time
Online: ebbitt.com

photo: Roofers Union

Roofers Union
This Adams Morgan restaurant takes an elevated approach to modern, American fare. Kids will enjoy the house-ground hamburger, a gourmet PB&J sandwich or a haute take on simple grilled cheese. When the weather is nice, enjoy a family meal on the restaurant’s roof top. On Thursday nights from 5-8 p.m. kids 12 & under eat free with the purchase of an adult entree. Any other day of the week, expect to pay $5-8 for kid plates.

Cost: Free
Where: 2446 18th St. NW
When: Sundays, 5-8 p.m.
Online: roofersuniondc.com

photo: The Pig

The Pig
This farm-to-table restaurant with a nose-to-tail menu caters to pork aficionados with an appreciation for bourbon-heavy cocktails. It’s a grown-up menu with some surprising kid-pleasers. You’ll find pork tenders, grilled cheese, mac-and-cheese and more for kids 12 & under. There are a few pricier options (like a $12 cheeseburger), but you’ll find most of the kid’s meals are under $9. They also have crayons on hand to keep little hands busy.

Cost: $7-12
Where: 1320 14th St. NW
When: Any time
Online: thepigdc.com

 

photo: Pinstripes

Pinstripes
The kids’ menu is available all the time, with each meal costing $9. But kids eat for half-price on Sundays after 5 p.m. with the purchase of an adult entrée, which run $13 for a salad to $32 for the Filet Mignon Trio. Kids can choose from mini cheeseburgers, buttered noodles, pizza and grilled or crispy chicken tenders along with sides, parmesan bread, dessert and a drink. On Sundays, kids 5 and under can have the brunch buffet for free (it’s $15 for 6- to 12-year-olds), and it features a special just-for-kids table with mac and cheese, fries, and eggs, plus a sweet table with a chocolate fountain. By the way, this place also offers bowling and bocce so burn off some calories with a game. Note: A location is opening in Bethesda on Aug. 5.

Cost: $4.50 – $9
Where: 1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW
When: Any time, but eats eat for half-price on Sundays after 5 p.m.
Online: pinstripes.com

photo: Martin B. via Yelp

Silver Diner
With options such as gluten-free quinoa coconut pancakes, grilled nitrate-free all-beef hot dogs, teriyaki sustainable fresh salmon and sliders made from grass-fed, antibiotic-free beef, turkey or bison, it’s almost hard to believe the menu is from a diner. Until you see the 3-D old-fashioned truck each kid gets and the mini jukeboxes on the tables. And did we mention that every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. is Kids’ Night with entertainers and activities? There’s also the Kids’ Club for kids 12 and younger that comes with perks such as a free kid-size shake with dinner on Kids’ Night and a free meal on your birthday.

Cost: $4.99 – $6.49
Where: 10 area locations
When: Any time
Online: silverdiner.com

photo: Ted’s Bulletin

Ted’s Bulletin
While grown-ups scarf down comfort food such as grilled cheese with tomato soup and slurp spiked milkshakes, kiddos can enjoy breakfast any time of the day with Mr. Breakfast, a huge pancake with fruit and bacon, or they can balance their own milkshake with Mr. Healthy Habbits: fresh fruit, hummus and carrots. If those don’t do the trick, Ted’s also has kid favorites such as PB&J, grilled cheese and macaroni.

Cost: $5.99
Where: 10 area locations
When: Any time
Online: tedsbulletin.com

 

photo: Brookland Pint

Brookland Pint
At this craft beer-, sustainability-focused restaurant, kids eat free all day Tuesdays, and entrees are usually $8. They include hot dogs, cheese quesadillas and barbecue pulled pork sliders, served with a choice of fries, sweet potatoes, fruit, mac and cheese, or veggies.

Cost: Free
Where: 716 Monroe St. NE
When: Tuesdays
Online: brooklandpint.com

photo: Pizzeria Orso

Pizzeria Orso
Every Tuesday, children ages 10 and younger get a free item from the kid’s menu for each traditional or house specialty pizza ordered. The pizzas cost $9 for a cheeseless marinara to $16 for the Orso, which has mozzarella, pecorino tuscano, fontina, grana, ricotta, garlic and prosciutto. Children’s dishes usually cost $5 to $9 for things like spaghetti and meatballs, fried mozzarella and pizza (duh).

Cost: Free
Where: 400 South Maple Ave., Falls Church, VA
When: Tuesdays
Online: pizzeriaorso.com

photo Girl and Goat D. via Yelp

Whitlow’s on Wilson
Part bar, part dance club, part Sunday brunch spot, Whitlow’s offers one child 10 or younger a free meal with the purchase of an adult meal Tuesdays through Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

Cost: Free
Where: 2854 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA
When: Tuesdays
Online: brooklandpint.com

 

Gusto’s Italian Grill
For every pizza or salad purchase on Mondays, children 12 and under get a free kids’ salad or pizza with apple juice or organic milk. Regular-price salads and pizzas are $8.95 for grown-ups. The idea is farm-to-table freshness with the speed and customization of Chipotle and Cava Grill.

Cost: Free
Where: 4733 Elm St., Bethesda, MD; 8512 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD
When: Mondays
Online: eatgusto.com

photo:Danny R. via Yelp

Vintage Restaurant
Sometimes the grass really is greener in the country. If you’re looking for farm-to-table fare that is, well, fresh from the farm, head to this worth-the-drive establishment in New Market. You can indulge in fancy cocktails with a sampler flight while your little one munches on housemade chicken nuggets or a local beef burger. All kids meals are just $5.

Cost: $5
Where: 8 W. Main St., New Market, MD
When: Any time
Online: vintage-eats.com

–Meghan Yudes Meyers and Stephanie Kanowitz

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Lunch With a View: Top Spots for Kid-Friendly Waterfront Noshing

by rtsarahvogel

What better way to enjoy the rising temps than with a family meal by the water? But where in the DMV can you take your kiddos without interrupting other diners or breaking the bank? We’ve done the sleuthing for you and found four family-friendly places for a meal with a view.

 Photo: Farmers Fishers Bakers via Facebook

Best for Brunch: Farmers Fishers Bakers
Farm-to-table dining is now a mainstay on the Georgetown Waterfront at Farmers Fishers Bakers, a restaurant known for its classic American fare and sustainable dining practices. The best bet for your brood is their all-you-can eat brunch buffet. From breakfast standards like waffles and scrambled eggs to sushi and jambalaya (we recommend the bruleed pink grapefruit), you’ll find plenty of options for young gourmands and picky eaters alike. Plus, kids under six eat free!

3000 K St., NW (Georgetown)
202-298-8783
Online: farmersfishersbakers.com

Photo: The Waterfront Market via Facebook

Best for a Quick Bite: The Waterfront Market
Snack attacks in Old Town can be fulfilled with a nosh at The Waterfront Market. A new addition to the Alexandria dining scene, this cafe/market hybrid offers quick food service alongside fabulous views of the Potomac. Enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches and even sushi either inside or outside on the dock. The market also offers great “to-go” options (local craft beer, anyone?) that you can enjoy at home.

7 King St. (Alexandria, Va)
571-970-0552
Online: thewaterfrontmarket.com

 Photo: The Walrus Oyster and Ale House via Facebook

Best for Seafood Lovers: The Walrus Oyster & Ale House
Named for a Lewis Carroll poem, this National Harbor seafood spot offers views of the Potomac to go along with its beach-themed fare. A “Shucking Bar” features 15 varieties of oysters with fun names like Maryland’s Sweet Jesus and Royal Miyagis from California. While you chow down on chowder or fried seafood samplers, young foodies will enjoy a veritable feast off the kids menu. Each option, available for $10.50, includes fruit or salad, fries, entree and dessert

152 Waterfront St. (Oxon Hill, Md)
301- 567-6100
Online: walrusoysterandale.com

 Photo: Sam’s On the Waterfront via Facebook

Best for Bargain Hunters: Sam’s On The Waterfront
Annapolis is known for crabs and Chesapeake Bay views. You can enjoy both with family in tow at Sam’s. Get a table for your brood at the outdoor patio and enjoy Maryland favorites like crab cakes and locally-raised oysters while you watch the boats sail by. The restaurant’s got great happy hour specials every day of the week, but we’re a fan of their family-friendly twist on Thirsty Thursday: kids under 12 eat free!

2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr. (Annapolis, Md)
410-263-3600
Online: samsonthewaterfront.com

What’s your family’s favorite waterfront dining destination? Let us know in the comments below!

—Sarah Vogel

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Valentine’s Day Parties to Put on Your Calendar Now

by Maria Chambers

What’s more exciting than cracking open a box of chocolates? Partying with the whole family! (And then cracking open a box of chocolates.) Get your little loves in on the Valentine’s Day action by celebrating at joyful themed events. You’ll have a blast with heart-themed crafts, twirls across the dance floor, mountains of treats and much, much more. Scroll down for the sweetest happenings around town.

photo: Sod Room / TK Photography

CRAFTY CELEBRATIONS 

XOXO Valentine Playdate
Spend a glorious morning indulging your sweet tooth at the sweets table and playing alongside your cuties at Sod Room. Local artist Nora Balayti will be on hand to create a one-of-a-kind cartoon valentine of your little ones and TK Photography will host a pop-up studio to capture the love.

Sunday, February 8, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
$20 per adult & 1 child, $15 each additional child, $6 each additional adult
Sod Room
1454 S. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor
South Loop
312-922-3131
Online: sodroom.com

Make a Vase Party
Flowers are an essential ingredient in a perfect Valentine’s Day, so spend a special afternoon at the North Side art studio making a clay bud vase to house your sweet-smelling treat.

Sunday, February 1, 2-4 p.m.
$25 members, $30 non-members
Lillstreet Art Center
4401 N. Ravenswood Ave.
Ravenswood
773-769-4226
Online: lillstreet.com

Valentine’s Day Tea & Play Party
Come with pinkies up for a dazzling tea party accompanied by craft activities, cookie decorating, Valentine crafting and plenty of opportunities for exploration in Little Beans Cafe’s mini city-themed playspace.

Friday, February 13, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
$15 per child
Little Beans Cafe
1809 W. Webster Ave.
Lincoln Park
773-251-1025
Online: littlebeanscafe.com

photo: Purple Monkey Playroom

Valentine’s Day Party With the Queen of Hearts
The Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland (a fabulously costumed entertainer from Lookingglass Friends Entertainment) plays host as you craft the night away with ample opportunities for playtime and stories with a side of snacks and pizza.

Friday, February 13, 6-7:30 p.m.
$25 per adult and 1 child, $10 each additional person
Purple Monkey Playroom
2040 N. Western Ave.
Bucktown
773-772-8411
Online: purplemonkeyplayroom.com

Card-Making With Your Dolls
Girls 8 and up are invited to make a date with their American Girl doll creating handmade cards and matching envelopes using stickers and decorative paper.

February 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Free
American Girl Place
835 N. Michigan Ave.
Downtown
877-247-5223
Online: americangirl.com

Make-a-Mosaic Party
Pour your heart into creating a truly unique Valentine using handmade grout and fun mosaic elements, make cards and fill your tummies with refreshments. The art pros at Unicoi Art Studio show you how.

Saturday, February 14, 1-3 p.m.
$15 per project
Genesis Creative Center
2525 N. Elston Ave.
Lakeview
773-975-6515
Online: unicoistudio.com

photo: Sweet Mandy B’s 

COOKING EVENTS

Cupcake Decorating Class
Your pint-sized chef will spend an hour learning to prepare and decorate a special Valentine cupcake to take home, show off and gift to their love (or gobble up themselves).

Monday, February 9 & Wednesday, February 11; 10:30-11:30 a.m. (ages 2-3), 3:30-4:30 p.m. (ages 4-10)
$20 per child
Sweet Mandy B’s
1208 W. Webster St.
Lincoln Park
773-244-1174
Online: sweetmandybs.com

Cookie Decorating With a Big Buffet
Spend a day on the farm decorating heart-shaped cookies and hand-crafting Valentine’s Day cards at the Magnolia Bakery. Leave with your cookie beautifully packed, making a perfect gift for a loved one. Come early for breakfast or stay to lunch at the kid-friendly buffet. Fudge, truffles and taffy apples will also be available for purchase.

Saturday, February 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
$3 per card
Lambs Farm
14245 W. Rockland Rd.
Libertyville
847-362-4636
Online: lambsfarm.org

 photo: Facets Multimedia / Rabbit & Deer

MOVIES, STORIES & MORE

Family Film Series: Best Buddies and Sweet Treats
Your little ones are probably still in the love-equals-cooties stage, so join indie movie house Facets Multimedia in celebrating friendship with animated short film stories about furry friends, tangoing cows and sweet cupcakes.

Saturday, February 14, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Facets Multimedia
1517 W. Fullerton Ave.
Lincoln Park
800-331-6197
Online: facets.org

Story Time in the Park
Love bugs ages 3-5 come ready to snuggle for story time, crafting and Valentine card creating. Share in a special sugary treat once the crafting is complete.

Thursday, February 12, 10-11 a.m.
$10 per child
Cantigny Park
1S151 Winfield Rd.
Wheaton
630-260-8162
Online: cantigny.org

photo: I Love Nature Dance @ Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

DANCE PARTIES

I Love Nature! Valentine’s Day Dance
Get your heart racing on the dance floor and enjoy exclusive after-hours access to Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. There’s also dinner, mocktails and desserts. While you’re there, visit the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven and create Valentine’s Day accessories from green materials.

Saturday, February 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
$20 for children 4-18, $10 for children 3 and under, $40 for adult members, $45 for adult non-members
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
2430 N. Cannon Dr.
Lincoln Park
773-755-5100
Online: naturemuseum.org

Enchanted Prince and Princesses Ball
Prince and Princess ages 2-6 from far and wide are invited by royal decree to don their fanciest attire for a night of dancing, games and fun.

Friday, February 6, 6:30-8 p.m.
$15 resident, $22 non-resident
Enchanted Prince and Princess Ball
Woodridge Community Center
2600 The Center Drive
Woodridge
630-353-3300
Online: woodridgeparks.org

Daddy Daughter Dance 
Step out for an evening of daddies and daughters dancing cheek to chest.

Saturday, February 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
$10 per person
Sheil Park
3505 N. Southport Ave.
Lakeview
312-742-7826
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

photo: Chicago Park District

Tots Valentine’s Dance With Inflatables
Boys and girls ages 3-5 are invited to dance their sillies out with music, games, inflatables, food and a boatload of fun.

Friday, February 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Free
Skinner Park
1331 W. Monroe St.
West Loop
312-746-5560
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Valentine Disco Bash 
Break out your favorite Saturday Night Fever gear and show baby how to do the hustle. No worries, for those who’ve forgotten how to hustle: Disco lessons will be served up alongside light refreshments.

Saturday, February 14, 3-5 p.m.
$2 per person
Indian Boundary Park
2500 W. Lunt Ave.
West Ridge
773-764-0338
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

 

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation’s Be My Valentine Family Event
Get the ball rolling with a brunch buffet, then boogie to tunes from DJ Kareem, rock out with Little Miss Ann, make jewelry, enjoy a mini makeover and play arcade games. It’s family fun for a good cause.

Sun., February 8, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
$85 per adult, $65/child per child (in advance); $100 per adult, $80 per child (at the door)
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Hotel
160 E. Pearson St.
Downtown
312-926-7133
Online: lynnsage.com

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day? Spread the word in the Comments below!

— Maria Barnes

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement