by Hayley Markowitz
The Georgia Aquarium
Where to find it: The Georgia Aquarium
Program: Toddler Time
When to go: Check website for upcoming dates.
Why it’s special: Children will meet and learn about animals during an introduction to marine life; costumed characters, story time, craft activities and a small snack. Ages 0-3.
Cost: $16 for one adult/child pair, plus admission. Advance registration required. georgiaaquarium.org
Where to find it: Atlanta Botanical Garden
Program: Stroller Struts
When to go: Fridays in March-September at 10:30 a.m.
Why it’s special: Take a sensory exploration of the changing seasons, colors and textures of the Garden with an interactive walking tour. Ages 1-2.
Cost: Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Registration not required. atlantabotanicalgarden.org
Where to find it: The High Museum of Art
Program: Toddler Thursday
When to go: Every Thursday at 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Why it’s Special: Toddlers and parents can explore the permanent collection through letters, colors, numbers and shapes. Each week there is a different theme to this education program.
Cost: Free with museum admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. high.org
Where to find it: Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Program: Mommy & Me Mondays
When to go: Every Monday through March 30.
Why it’s special: Explore the children’s exhibit, Fernbank NatureQuest, that turns kids into explorers. They discover the many wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities, live animal displays and engaging encounters. Fernbank has downloadable activities to enhance the toddler experience during your visit. Ages 2-4.
Cost: One adult and up to two children ages 5 and younger, $20. Includes museum admission. fernbankmuseum.org
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Where to find it: The Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Program: Cooking with Colors
When to go: Mondays at 10:30 a.m. through March 30.
Why it’s special: As a part of its Eat a Georgia Rainbow program, children and parents learn how to whip up colorful and healthy culinary creations. Open to all ages but geared toward toddlers.
Cost: Free with Admission. $12.75 per person, younger than 1, free. Reservations required. childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Where to find it: Southeastern Railroad Museum
Program: Preschool Program
When to go: Second Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m.-noon.
Why it’s special: A vehicle-themed class with five components, 15 minutes each, including games, storys and songs, activity, crafts and when available, the actual “vehicle of the month” for children to see and experience. Ages 2-4.
Cost: $7 per participating child. One adult is free per family. srmduluth.org
Where to find it: Alliance Theatre
Program: Theatre for the Very Young
When to go: Each season has a new set of shows; check website
Why it’s special: Offers an interactive and engaging theater experience. All children are encouraged to call out answers, explore, follow directions and pretend play. Ages 18 months to 5 years.
Cost: $10 per person. alliancetheatre.org
Where to find it: Zoo Atlanta
Program: Stroller Cubs
When to go: The last Wednesday and Saturday of the month from 10-11 a.m.
Why it’s special: Each month features a different area of the zoo and a different animal ambassador. Ages 0-2.
Program: Adventure Cubs
When to go: First Wednesday and Saturday of the month at 11 a.m.
Why it’s special: Hands-on education that allows kids to explore different age-appropriate concepts about animals. Ages 3-4.
Cost: $24 for one adult/child pair includes Zoo admission. Advance registration is required. zooatlanta.org
Where to find it: Atlanta History Center
Program: Magic Mondays
When to go: Second Monday of each month at 10 a.m.
Why it’s special: A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including arts and crafts projects, music and storytime. Ages 18 months to 5 years.
Cost: $6.50 adults, $5.50 children plus AHC admission. atlantahistorycenter.com