Go ziplining, bowling, and shopping in Atlanta’s most picturesque suburb
Just 30 minutes outside Atlanta, a family-friendly town full of outdoorsy fun, great playgrounds, and delicious food waits for your next family getaway. Dunwoody, GA is the perfect destination if you and your family want to try a ropes course or take a quick train ride into Atlanta for even more exploring. And you’ll find family restaurants with eclectic menus and yummy treats. We know this spot will be the perfect road trip destination—here’s why:
Things to Do in Dunwoody with Kids
Plan the perfect day trip from Atlanta, and prepare for a fun family getaway. For the adventurer, you can zip across the treetops or slide down an epic playground slide. For the foodie, Dunwoody has something delicious for every food lover. For the memory maker, you’ll love every minute of fun in this family-friendly town.
Start any Dunwoody vacation with a family afternoon at this outdoor lover’s dream of a nature center. While the parents and grandparents may want to stick to the trails complete with rushing streams and small waterfalls, the kids will probably head straight to the hidden playgrounds at the top of the hills. Either way, there’s so much to do and see.
With something for all ages, this adventure across the treetops is a must-do in Dunwoody, GA. For little adventurers, head to the Chick Pea Courses, perfect for ages 4-6, and zipline in a small wooden rollercoaster or jump on the net trampoline. With full-body harnesses, helmets, and gloves, you won’t have to worry about safety; your little ones can explore for hours.
Pro Tip: Be prepared to help with a few obstacles and ropes, as little hands can’t always reach them.
DHA Farmer’s Market at Brook Run Park
Just a short drive or walk from TreeTop Quest Dunwoody is a Saturday morning full of locally made goodies, meats, and goods. Stop by the Farmer’s Market to shop small and eat well. Your kids will love the live music and cornhole set. Also, take advantage of Ziparoos, the mom-owned business that offers reusable storage bags, beeswax covers, and more.
Skate Park and Playground at Brook Run Park
After the Farmer’s Market, let your kids burn off all that energy at the playground and skate park just around the corner. Each playground area has age-appropriate fun for all ages (even the tiniest tot). And across the parking lot, there’s a fenced-in skate park where your shredder can skate and play for hours (helmets required). They offer lessons, too.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to skip the weekend crowds.
Make sure to plan some family bowling fun at Bowlero. You can book two hours of unlimited bowling or pay by game. Then, when you’re finished adding up those strikes, the arcade at Bowlero has games for everyone in your crew. No need to get food before you go; they offer a family-friendly menu and full bar.
Pro Tip: The bowling alley becomes more of a club-like atmosphere after dark. Stick to daylight hours for all the family-friendly fun.
Bar{n} Dunwoody
Yes, the food at this restaurant is fantastic. Yes, adults will love the drink menu. But, more importantly, this is THE place to watch the big game on the biggest outdoor screen in Dunwoody. So grab a bean bag for some cornhole, or sit on one of the swing chairs at an outdoor table. Either way, get ready to cheer on your team and make some epic memories.
Ashford Lane
Go for the ice cream and stay for the shopping and wide open green space. Start your shopping adventure with ice cream at Jeni’s Ice Creams, where you’ll find unique seasonal flavors in delicious waffle cones. Then, head to the green space to run around and play tag when the sugar rush hits. It’s a great spot to enjoy beautiful weather in Dunwoody, GA.
Perimeter Mall
Before you check in at your hotel, stop by Perimeter Shopping Mall to grab any last-minute items for your trip or do some souvenir shopping. Dunwoody offers excellent shopping opportunities throughout town, and the mall is the perfect place to hit many stores in one location.
Day Trip to Atlanta
Take a 20-minute train ride from the Dunwoody MARTA station to Peachtree Center or GWCC Station, and you’ll be in the heart of all the family-friendly Atlanta Fun.
Known as the largest aquarium in the world until 2012, you’ll want to stop at this impressive aquarium to enjoy phenomenal shows and exhibits. A portion of the proceeds from each ticket purchased supports their work to improve marine health and habitat worldwide. The walk-through tunnel with sea creatures swimming above and around you and the dolphin shows are always a big hit.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets and parking pass online because this popular spot sells out.
Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Reserve your morning or afternoon play session to maximize the play and learning time inside this immersive museum. With everything from a kitchen and shopping area to a Waffle House and paint wall, kids of all ages will love this fun and interactive museum. Of course, the indoor playground is a hit, too.
Where to Eat with Kids in Dunwoody
Pizza and family vacations make the perfect combination, and this restaurant offers some of the best slices in town. Grab a spot on the patio if the weather is nice and get ready to enjoy yummy food and a fun family meal. If pasta is your thing, try the shrimp scampi. You won’t be disappointed.
Shake Shack
Known for fast service and some of the best hot dogs in town, this is an excellent stop for a quick and delicious meal. Locals say the burgers taste like the ones mom makes, and the buffalo fries have a yummy kick. Remember to finish your meal with one of their famous milkshakes.
Alon’s Bakery
Plan an early morning stop for fresh croissants, colossal French toast, and goodies to take home with you. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a family meal, and the covers help keep out the rain.
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Get ready for lunch and a “show” as you check out the view of the brewery from your comfy seats inside the restaurant. With everything from a salmon burger to Baja tacos and chocolate lava cake, everyone in your crew will find something they like. Ask to sit next to the wall of windows for an indoor/outdoor dining experience.
Where to Stay with Kids in Dunwoody
Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center
Book your stay at this ideally located hotel with a swim-through indoor/outdoor pool, delicious restaurant, incredible views, and family-friendly rooms. Just 22 miles from the Atlanta International Airport and next door to the Dunwoody MARTA (train) station, you’re in the perfect place to see all Dunwoody and Atlanta have to offer.
What an EPIC Weekend in Dunwoody Looks Like with Kids
Discover More Details About Dunwoody
Dunwoody is the ideal family destination with great playgrounds, outdoor adventures, and tons of family fun. Check out Discover Dunwoody for more ideas on what to do on your next weekend adventure.
Note: This trip was paid for by Discover Dunwoody, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.