October 23rd-25th is Emory’s Family Weekend, and boy am I excited! I’m sure many of us feel like it’s been forever since we’ve seen our parents and siblings (and, more importantly, eaten real food—sorry DUC). But, as family weekend approaches, I am faced with the same dilemma every year: where can I take my parents that’s not the World of Coke or the Georgia Aquarium? (If you haven’t been to either of those places though, I highly recommend them.) If you have younger siblings, where do you schlep them so that they are still in high spirits? Luckily, as an Atlanta native, I can give you the inside scoop to fill up your empty planner!
1. Check out a Fall Festival
Stop by Piedmont Park and walk around the Atlanta Arts Festival. It takes place October 24th-25th and features fine art, entertainment, and festival food. Entrance is free! Find more information on their website here.
You could also bring your family to the Hot Air Balloon Festival (also called Owl-O-Ween). The festival is a short drive northwest from campus at Kennesaw State University and has trick-or-treating, food, vendors, and entertainers. It also has hot air balloon rides with glowing balloons. This is the perfect activity for younger siblings! Find more information on the Facebook event here.
2. Wine and Dine like a Local
Buttermilk Kitchen in Buckhead:
If you or your family has never experienced southern brunch, I would highly recommend this gem of a restaurant. It is a small, dainty place, but it features quality local food with something for everyone—even picky eaters. Try the Banana Oatmeal, Chicken Biscuit, or Pimento Omelet!
Atlanta’s other best food group is BBQ, and the best place in town is definitely Fox Bros. You can never go wrong with the ribs or the wings and their giant portions.
3. Spend time in the Great Outdoors
One great way to get outside is to walk, bike, or run on the Atlanta Beltline. The Beltline is a fairly new development in Atlanta and it’s a fun place to visit with your family. It consists of trails and green spaces that feature various works of modern art and sculptures as you continue along the path. You can enter the Beltline in many places, but I would suggest getting on near Krog Street Market.
Climbing Stone Mountain is another fun outside activity for the entire family. Stone Mountain is a classic, historical Atlanta attraction, known for it’s landmark carving into the mountain. Get outside and hike to catch the sunrise or sunset, or plan on seeing the Laser Show on October 24th!
So there you have it! With these tips from a local, you’ll be prepared to have a busy, fun-filled Family Weekend. Enjoy!