Centennial Olympic Park in Downtown Atlanta holds numerous celebrations and events during the holiday season. "Holiday in Lights" is an annual tradition celebrating its fourteenth year this fall. Starting in late November and running through the first week of January, the park is illuminated with thousands of lights that make an enchanting display. Families, friends and couples stroll through the 21-acre park enjoying holiday specials at gift shops, restaurants, and other attractions that spill into the Georgia Dome, the Georgia World Congress Center and the Lucky Marietta District. The park opens at 7 a.m. and closes at 11 p.m., and there is no charge for admission.
Centennial Olympic Park
265 Luckie Street Northwest
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 223-4636
Ice skating is another option in Atlanta's only outdoor skating rink, in Centennial Olympic Park. It offers student and group discounts. Although Atlanta weather is usually warm during the holiday season, the rink offers a stirring contrast. Skate to holiday tunes or just hang back and observe theatrical lighting and decorations. Admission is $7 per person; skate rental is $2. Lockers rent for $1. Hours vary, but the rink is open daily from Nov. 14 to Jan. 31.
Outdoor Skating Rink@ Centennial Olympic Park
265 Luckie Street Northwest
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 223-4636
centennialpark.com
Stone Mountain Park is on historic Stone Mountain, minutes from downtown, It is Atlanta's most popular attraction and a sure bet for family getaways. The famous Stone Mountain Laser Show is a spectacular light show that projects laser-generated images accompanied by music onto the side of the 825 foot tall rock. The Skyride is a cable car that slowly climbs to the summit, revealing panoramic views of the park and the city. The Riverboat offers a scenic cruise around the mountain's 363 acre lake. Other attractions include a scenic railroad, numerous trails, camping sites, golf, fishing, and daily concerts and exhibits, plus restaurants and concession stands. There's an activity area for children with 65 interactive games,slides, trampolines and more. It also has a couple of hotels. Passes in 2010 are $27 plus tax for adults, $21 plus tax for children and the park is open year-round.
Stone Mountain Park
1000 Robert E. Lee Boulevard
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
(770) 498-5600
stonemountainpark.com