Winter break is the perfect time for students and their families to explore Atlanta and make the most of time off from school. The city is packed with exciting attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained during February break.

Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Atlanta during winter break with kids — starting with one of the city’s most popular family destinations.

Start Winter Break at Georgia Aquarium

If you’re looking for an activity that’s educational, entertaining, and works for a wide range of ages, Georgia Aquarium is the ideal place to start. As one of Atlanta’s top family attractions, the Aquarium offers an immersive experience that kids, teens, and adults can all enjoy together — and with February typically being a slower month, it’s an especially great time to visit with fewer crowds.

As one of the largest aquariums in the world, it offers an awe-inspiring experience with its diverse marine life, interactive exhibits, and unforgettable aquatic shows. Make sure to check out the Ocean Voyager exhibit, where you can come face-to-face with our whale shark and manta rays.

Beyond being fun, a visit to Georgia Aquarium is a great way to keep young minds engaged while school is out. Kids can learn about ocean animals, habitats, and conservation in a way that feels exciting rather than classroom-like — a win for parents and students alike.

Parent tip: If your family plans to visit more than once during the year — whether for winter break, spring break, or summer activities — consider the Aqua Pass. This annual pass includes *unlimited general admission for a full year, making it a smart option for families who want flexibility and value while giving kids repeated opportunities to learn and explore. Blackout dates apply.

Explore Atlanta’s Museums and Attractions

In addition to Georgia Aquarium, families can explore some of Atlanta’s most beloved attractions, including the LEGO® Discovery Center Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola, and Zoo Atlanta.  From interactive play zones and iconic exhibits to up-close animal experiences, these destinations are perfect for keeping kids engaged and entertained during winter break.

Be sure to include these iconic Atlanta museums in your itinerary: the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, Fernbank Science Center, and Museum of Illusions – Atlanta. Conveniently located across the city, these family-friendly attractions make it easy to plan a full day of exploration, learning, and fun while experiencing the best of downtown Atlanta.

Parent tip: Check out CityPass and save up to 50% on visits to 5 top Atlanta attractions.

Enjoy Atlanta’s Great Outdoors

Cooler temperatures make winter one of the best times to explore the city outside. Walk, bike, or rollerblade the Beltline as a family while checking out murals, public art, and local shops. Fewer crowds mean more time to actually stop and enjoy what you’re seeing. 

Westside Park is a paradise for kids and families alike. This vibrant park boasts Atlanta’s largest green space, a 35-acre reservoir, scenic trails, lush meadows, art sculptures, multiple pavilions and playgrounds, and some of the city’s most spectacular skyline views.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center has been inspiring a love for the outdoors since 1976. Spanning more than 127 acres of forest, wetlands, and river habitats, families can explore scenic trails, discover native wildlife, and wander through beautiful gardens — whether on foot or by canoe. Be sure to check out the Center’s engaging exhibits and hands-on programs for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Parent tip: Explore even more hiking trails near Atlanta, here. 

Attend Family-Friendly Shows and Events

Atlanta’s entertainment scene doesn’t slow down for winter break, with a variety of family-friendly performances, concerts, and seasonal events to choose from.

Look for concerts, kid-friendly comedy shows, pop‑up events, or live performances happening around the city at venues like the Center for Puppetry Arts, The Fox Theatre, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Dad’s Garage brings the laughs with week-long improv camps for kids and teens during school breaks. Offering sessions for students in grades 3–6 and teens in grades 7–9. Each camp wraps up with a Friday showcase, where family and friends can enjoy a live performance featuring everything campers learned throughout the week.

Alliance Theater’s School Break Play Days offer creative, one-day camps designed specifically for school breaks. Available for students in grades K–8 at both their Midtown and Marietta locations. Each Play Day features a unique theme led by expert teaching artists, giving kids the chance to explore theater, storytelling, and creative expression in a fun, hands-on environment.

Parent tip: Check event calendars ahead of time to sign up for camps and get show tickets!

Make the Most of Winter Break in Atlanta

Student winter break is a valuable chance for families to spend quality time together — and Atlanta offers plenty of ways to do just that. Whether you’re exploring museums or learning about marine life at Georgia Aquarium, these shared experiences often become the memories kids talk about long after school is back in session.

If you’re looking for a place to start, Georgia Aquarium sets the tone for an unforgettable winter break adventure — and with options like the Aqua Pass, the memories don’t have to end when the semester starts back up.