Itinerary/hotel help

Question

We will be in town for 3-5 days starting 8/8.

The group: two boys (12 and 14), myself, grandma in her 70s who recently had surgery, and maybe another relative in her 60s. World of Coke and a civil rights tour are on the list. Would love other ideas that are engaging for the kids but relatively low key for the elders. A hotel with a great pool would probably help.

Kids are into video games, anime, science, DnD, and soccer.

Answer

It sounds like you have a diverse group with a mix of interests, so I'll suggest some activities and accommodations that balance fun for the kids with relaxation for the elders. Given the ages and preferences of the group, here’s an itinerary and some hotel recommendations for a memorable trip to Atlanta.

### Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Once you arrive, a great way to start the trip is by relaxing and getting settled into a hotel with a good pool and easy access to attractions. Consider staying in a central location like the downtown area, which will give you quick access to many attractions. Some options include:

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta: Known for its luxurious amenities and great pool, this is an excellent choice for families. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore attractions while providing a relaxing space for everyone.
The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta: A highly rated hotel with a beautiful pool and excellent service. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience in downtown.
Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta: This hotel offers a good combination of affordability and amenities, including a pool. It’s located near Piedmont Park, which is great for relaxing and close to many family-friendly activities.

### Day 2: World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium

Start the day by visiting the World of Coca-Cola. It’s a fun and interactive experience for kids (and adults) with a chance to learn about the history of Coca-Cola, enjoy tasting different sodas from around the world, and engage in multimedia exhibits. The tour is not too physically demanding, so it’s suitable for grandma and other elderly guests.

Afterward, head over to the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. It offers a variety of exhibits, including interactive touch tanks and opportunities to see marine life up close. The aquarium has plenty of seating, so it’s comfortable for the older adults, and the kids will love exploring the tanks.

### Day 3: Civil Rights Tour and Piedmont Park

The Civil Rights Tour is a must-see in Atlanta, especially at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The exhibits are deeply moving, and the tour provides a good opportunity to learn about Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. The tour is relatively low-impact, but it’s emotionally intense, so it’s good to know that the experience might be heavy for younger kids—though it is a fantastic educational opportunity.

In the afternoon, head to Piedmont Park, which is great for a relaxing stroll, enjoying the outdoors, and perhaps even renting bikes or taking a paddle boat on the lake. It's also a wonderful place for kids to run around and unwind, while the adults can relax and enjoy the park's beauty.

### Day 4: Interactive Fun and Shopping

For a bit more fun that engages the kids, consider visiting the Atlanta Science Center. It has interactive exhibits on space, physics, and more. The kids will love the hands-on experiences, and there are usually activities geared toward younger audiences. For the grandparents, there’s a planetarium where they can sit back and enjoy a show while the kids explore.

If the kids are into video games, Arcade Midtown offers retro and modern gaming options, which is great for a fun break. Another option is Dragon Con (depending on your dates), which is an anime, sci-fi, and gaming convention. Even if you're not attending the whole event, there are usually pop-up experiences around town.

For a more low-key experience, you might consider heading to Lenox Square Mall for some shopping, where there are also great dining options. It’s an easy and relaxing way to spend the afternoon.

### Day 5: Soccer Game or Park Visit

If your group is interested in sports, check if there’s a Atlanta United soccer match happening at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The stadium offers a fun and exciting atmosphere for the kids, while the adults can enjoy the game from comfortable seating. If not, consider visiting Grant Park for a more peaceful day, where the family can enjoy the Atlanta Zoo or simply stroll around the park.

### Final Tips

If you're interested in arts and culture, you could also check out the Atlanta Botanical Garden or the High Museum of Art. These are excellent options for a more relaxed, visually beautiful experience that everyone can enjoy.
For the pool, make sure to check with the hotel in advance about any family-friendly amenities such as kid’s programs or kid-safe pool areas to keep everyone entertained.
Since your group includes a wide range of ages and interests, try to balance active days with more relaxed afternoons to avoid exhaustion.

With this mix of fun, educational, and relaxing activities, you’ll be able to cater to the interests of both the kids and the elders in your group while making the most of your time in Atlanta. Enjoy your trip!

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