Labor Day weekend is the perfect time for a quick family getaway. It offers the last taste of summer before the school year gets into full swing. For millennial parents in the Metro Atlanta area, planning a road trip that keeps the little ones entertained and creates lasting memories is a top priority. Whether you’re looking for historical exploration, beach relaxation, or mountain adventures, these seven destinations provide something for everyone. Ideal for families with children aged 3-10, these road trips are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
1. Savannah, Georgia: A Blend of History and Fun
Just under four hours from Atlanta, Savannah is a city steeped in history and Southern charm. This picturesque destination offers a variety of family-friendly activities. These activities will keep the kids entertained. They will also give parents a dose of culture and relaxation. A Savannah family road trip is one that everyone should take into consideration. Beaches are near, great party scene and a lot of history and tours to take. Plus if you wanted to take a drive to Myrtle Beach, or Jekyll Island its right around the corner. If you want to go off the beaten path, take a drive down to Darien, Georgia. Going to the Sapelo Island is an AMAZING experience as well. But last but not least, THE FOOD! Amazing southern style cuisines a.k.a. Soul Food that is sure to have your stomach fully and mouth watering.
Places To Checkout While In Savannah:
- Forsyth Park: Start your trip with a visit to Forsyth Park, where kids can run around in the open spaces, enjoy the playground, and marvel at the iconic fountain. The park’s shaded paths are perfect for a leisurely family stroll.
- Savannah Children’s Museum: Located in the historic district, the Savannah Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits and outdoor play spaces that are perfect for young children. The museum’s hands-on activities make learning fun and engaging.
- River Street: For a unique experience, take a walk along River Street, where you can explore shops, watch ships sail by, and even take a riverboat cruise. Kids will love the sight of the massive cargo ships passing by and the chance to sample some of Savannah’s famous pralines.
2. Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Hospitality and Coastal Beauty
A five-hour drive from Atlanta, Charleston offers a perfect mix of history, beach fun, and family-friendly attractions. Known for its well-preserved architecture and coastal charm, Charleston is an ideal destination for families looking to explore a bit of everything. Charleston is one of those places that you will love for different reason. From the southern charm of the city. To even the history tours that it has to offer, because it’s A LOT of history there. This is one city that many things that your heart will desire. Other than history tours like when we went to the Boone Hall Plantation. Charleston has plenty of fascinating things to visit. We also explored the Gullah Geechee Culture Tours. One of our favorites was going to see the Angel Oak Tree. This tree is over 400 years old and is one of the largest trees east of the Mississippi River.
Even with all the non-sugarcoated history there, our favorite thing about Charleston is the FOOD! OMG! This gave us our introduction to a place called Maple Street Biscuit Company. This place is amazing for break and have a taste of a hearty Chicken Biscuit. 2 of our favorites spots that we ate while in Charleston was Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and Bar. Which delivers “Soul Food”, or southern style cuisines with a blend of Gullah Geechee dishes. If its anything I tell you to do. Make sure to get their Geechee Wings. TRUST ME! The other place that we loved while here as well was Rodney Scott’s BBQ. If you are looking for BBQ this is the place to be. Rodney Scott’s BBQ would be a carnivores Heaven. So if you’re looking for history, with a blend of beaches and good food. A Charleston SC family vacation might be exactly what you need to enjoy.
Places To Checkout While In Charleston:
- Charleston Waterfront Park: Begin your trip at the Charleston Waterfront Park, where kids can splash in the famous Pineapple Fountain, enjoy the swings overlooking the harbor, and take a leisurely walk along the pier.
- South Carolina Aquarium: Located on the Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium is a hit with kids, featuring interactive exhibits, a touch tank, and a variety of marine life native to the area. Don’t miss the sea turtle hospital, where you can learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these amazing creatures.
- Folly Beach: Just a short drive from downtown, Folly Beach is the perfect spot for a day of sun and sand. The calm waters are ideal for young children, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and shops nearby.
- Fort Sumter National Monument: Start your visit with a ferry ride to Fort Sumter, where kids can learn about the history of the Civil War in an interactive and engaging way. The ferry ride itself offers great views of Charleston Harbor.
- Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry: This hands-on museum is designed for younger children, offering exhibits on everything from art to science. Kids can dress up in costumes, build with blocks, and explore the museum’s pirate ship.
- Isle of Palms Beach: End your trip with a relaxing day at Isle of Palms Beach. The calm waters and wide sandy beach make it a perfect spot for families to enjoy the sun and surf. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants for a convenient lunch or dinner.
3. Chattanooga, Tennessee: Adventure and Education Combined
Just a two-hour drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a top destination for families looking for a mix of adventure and education in a kid-friendly setting. Nestled along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga offers a variety of attractions that will keep young minds engaged and entertained. If it’s one place that my wife and I will go back to with our daughter and is a quick getaway from Atlanta. Chattanooga would EASILY be one of the TOP 3 locations on that list. Great food, fun, safe, A LOT of things to do as a family. You can stay in the downtown area. You can also go a little outside the city and still have a lot of fun.
I feel like Chattanooga can be over looked because it’s surround by well talked about cities. With Atlanta to the south, Nashville to the north, Memphis to the west and Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to the east, Chattanooga is most times a great place to go. You can miss crowds but still have a lot of amenities. Plus one thing I truly loved about this big city with a small town feel is that there is so much to do outdoors. From enjoy a day at Coolidge Park, or taking a splash, or a walk down the Passage walkway. Or take a 20 minute drive out and go enjoy some time at the Little Debbie Park.
Places To Checkout While In Chattanooga:
- Tennessee Aquarium: Begin your adventure with a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, where kids can explore the wonders of the ocean and river environments. From playful otters to majestic sharks, the aquarium’s exhibits are designed to captivate visitors of all ages.
- Creative Discovery Museum: For hands-on learning, head to the Creative Discovery Museum. This museum offers interactive exhibits on art, science, and music, making it a perfect place for children to explore their creativity. This place is a must if you have little kids.
- Rock City Gardens: A short drive from downtown Chattanooga, Rock City Gardens offers stunning views and enchanting trails that lead to the famous “See Seven States” viewpoint. The Enchanted Trail, complete with gnome village and fairyland caverns, is perfect for little adventurers.
4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains
A little over three hours from Atlanta, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for families seeking outdoor adventure and breathtaking natural beauty. Situated at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg offers a variety of activities that cater to children and adults alike. Plus with Gatlinburg you can visit 2 cities for the price of one. If you want to drive a little further, you can make it 3 as Sevierville (home to now the 2nd largest Buc-ee’s) is about 20 minutes away, but Pigeon Forge is a quick 5 minute drive. This area has great amenities for kids and adults. Where you can find a wine, or whiskey distillery with no problem. All while being able to hike some of the most beautiful hikes in the Smoky Mountains. Or jump on a rollercoaster, or go-kart for a fun filled day. Gatlinburg is small and can get congested, but on the bright side. It has enough to do that if you want to avoid people, you can choose to.
Places To Checkout While In Gatlinburg:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Start your visit with a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where families can enjoy easy hikes, spot wildlife, and take in the stunning mountain views. The park offers several kid-friendly trails, such as the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail, which is both short and stroller-accessible. Another great one I would recommend for Gatlinburg hiking with kids is Laurel Falls. It’s about a 1-mile trek with an amazing waterfall at the end.
- Ripley’s Aquarium Gatlinburg: Located in downtown Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-see for families. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, a penguin playhouse, and an underwater tunnel where you can walk beneath swimming sharks. But Ripley’s honestly a theme park within the cities. From having an Odditorium, Go-Cart tracks and so much more.
- Ober Gatlinburg: For a fun-filled day, head to Ober Gatlinburg, where families can enjoy activities like alpine slides, a wildlife encounter, and a scenic chairlift ride with incredible views of the Smoky Mountains.
5. Dahlonega and Helen, Georgia: Mountain Magic
For a charming mountain getaway, head to the North Georgia mountains. Dahlonega, known as the “Gold Capital of Georgia,” offers a historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and wineries. Explore the Dahlonega Gold Museum or visit the Dahlonega Square for a taste of small-town life. Nearby Helen, a Bavarian-themed village, is a popular destination for families with its charming shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Chattahoochee National Forest, take a dip in the river, or visit the Helen Tubing Company for a fun-filled adventure. But for you parent’s who may need to take home some relaxation. This area is AMAZING for wine. If you love wine, this is a family trip you must take, simply to load up for those nights when a wine night cap is needed.
Things To Checkout While In Dahlonega and Helen:
- Explore the Dahlonega Gold Museum
- Visit the charming shops and restaurants in Dahlonega and Helen
- Enjoy a scenic drive along the Chattahoochee National Forest
- Take a dip in the Chattahoochee River
- Go tubing at the Helen Tubing Company
6. Panama City Beach, Florida: Beach Bum Bliss
Labor Day weekend beckons with the promise of sunshine, family fun, and a chance to create lasting memories. Craving a getaway filled with sugary-white sands, turquoise waters, and endless activities for the little ones? Look no further than Panama City Beach, Florida!
Located just a 400-mile drive from Atlanta, Panama City Beach offers a hassle-free road trip destination teeming with family-friendly options. Let’s dive into everything that makes this vibrant beach town the perfect Labor Day escape for your crew!
- Endless Beach Bliss: The star of the show, Panama City Beach boasts 27 miles of pristine coastline. Imagine building sandcastles with your little ones, splashing in the gentle waves, or searching for seashells along the shore. Don’t forget those sandcastle-building essentials – buckets, shovels, and plenty of creativity! Want to take it up a notch? Rent paddleboards, kayaks, or even jet skis for a thrilling adventure on the Gulf of Mexico.
- Beyond the Beach: While the beach takes center stage, Panama City Beach offers a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. For a marine life encounter, head to Gulf World Marine Park. Witness playful dolphins, majestic sea lions, and learn about incredible underwater creatures. Kids will be mesmerized by the live shows and educational opportunities.
Looking for a dose of nature? St. Andrews State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike or bike along scenic trails, have a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery, or rent a kayak to explore the crystal-clear waters. The park even offers a shell museum, perfect for budding marine biologists. - Kid-Friendly Fun: Panama City Beach caters to little adventurers with a range of fun-filled attractions. Coconut Creek Family Fun Park boasts mini-golf courses, laser tag arenas, and go-kart tracks, guaranteeing family-friendly competition. Shipwreck Island Waterpark delivers thrills and spills with its water slides, lazy river, and wave pool.
- Foodie Delights: Fueling your beach adventures requires delicious food options! Savor fresh seafood at Captain Anderson’s Restaurant, a Panama City Beach institution for over 60 years. Craving something casual? Schooners Restaurant & Tavern offers a relaxed atmosphere with live music and a menu featuring juicy burgers and fresh seafood. For a taste of the tropics, head to Pineapple Willy’s, a beachfront bar and grill with an island vibe and kid-friendly dishes.
7. Orlando, Florida: Theme Park Thrills
Labor Day weekend is a time to create lasting memories with your family, and what better way to do that than whisking them away to a world of thrilling rides, captivating characters, and unforgettable experiences? Orlando, Florida, beckons with the promise of just that – a world of pure, unadulterated fun!
Just a 500-mile drive from Atlanta, Orlando isn’t just a destination, it’s a portal to endless excitement. This article will explore why Orlando should be your top choice for a magical Labor Day weekend getaway with your little ones.
The World of Theme Parks:
Let’s be honest, Orlando is synonymous with theme parks, and for a good reason! Here, your family will find themselves transported into fantastical worlds filled with iconic characters, heart-stopping rides, and dazzling shows.
- Walt Disney World: Where dreams come true! Immerse yourselves in the magic of iconic Disney storytelling. Meet beloved characters from Mickey and Minnie to Elsa and Anna, explore thrilling rides like Space Mountain and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and experience captivating shows like the Festival of Fantasy Parade.
- Universal Studios: Buckle up for a thrilling adventure! Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can soar through the skies on a broomstick at Hogwarts™ Castle, face off against mischievous Minions in Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™, and get your adrenaline pumping on the Incredible Hulk Coaster™.
- SeaWorld: Dive into a world of wonder! Witness awe-inspiring orcas, playful dolphins, and captivating marine life shows. Enjoy thrilling roller coasters like Kraken Unleashed and Manta, and get up close with majestic beluga whales at the Explorer’s Outpost.
Beyond the Theme Parks:
While the theme parks are undoubtedly the main draw, Orlando offers a plethora of other activities to keep your family entertained. Here are a few ideas:
- Discovery Cove: Embark on an unforgettable animal encounter. Swim with playful dolphins, snorkel with vibrant fish, and have a touch encounter with majestic rays.
- Kennedy Space Center: Blast off on a journey through space exploration! Explore interactive exhibits, witness awe-inspiring rockets, and relive the historic moon landing.
- Gatorland: Get up close with Florida’s iconic reptiles! Witness thrilling alligator shows, learn about these fascinating creatures, and participate in a thrilling zipline adventure through the park.
Foodie Delights:
Fueling your Orlando adventures requires delicious food options! Here are a few suggestions:
- The Cheesecake Factory: Indulge in a decadent treat! This popular restaurant offers a massive menu featuring everything from savory pastas and pizzas to mouthwatering cheesecakes.
- Be Our Guest Restaurant: Enjoy a charming dining experience at Disney’s Beauty and the Beast-themed restaurant. Be greeted by enchanted characters and savor delightful French-inspired cuisine.
- Hard Rock Cafe: Crank up the rock ‘n’ roll vibes! Enjoy classic American fare with a rockstar twist, surrounded by memorabilia from your favorite bands.
Road Trips may take a little time, but the ride can be a great way for family bonding that can make for a joyous occasion.