A couple weekends ago we took the kids to explore Chattahoochee Nature Center. We got free admission tickets from our friends. But I think I would have paid to go there ourselves even if we didn’t have tickets. The center is located in the Roswell area not too far from GA400 at Exit 6.
We planned to start off the day early but as usual we were running late. We got there around noon and the parking lot was full so we had to park in the staff parking area. It was not a bad deal because we got to walk a short distance to test out the hiking trail to the center.
We headed to the Discovery Center and started to explore the area. Inside the center, kids got to check out various interactive centers and learn about nature. It is a wonderful educational approach. The kids were totally engaged, and learned a lot while having fun. Once we headed downstairs, we checked out the Nature Exchange center. It is such a cool concept. Kids can collect nature items ranging from bird feather, shell, twig or leaf (from anywhere but inside the center) and then bring it back to earn points. The more detail or information kids can give about certain item the more points they will receive. Then they can trade their points for the various items available at the center.
Afterward, we headed to the Watershed area which is another great interactive exhibit with multiple galleries teaching kids all about water and watershed habitats. By this time, we were so hungry… We headed to the Lakeside Pavillion to enjoy our quick snack (we forgot to pack lunch).
Next to the pavillion is the Bald Eagle Aviary and various raptor aviaries. Kids were so excited to see those creatures. We stopped by to say hi to lovely set of turtles at the Kingfisher Pond. By this time, our energy were running low. So we decided to do shortest hiking trail and headed home. We picked the Stone Cabin Trail because it was the shortest trail based on our map and also the closest to our parking spot.
The trail was perfect for family with small kids. The path was very easy to navigate and shaded throughout. The trail was very short at 0.23 miles even for the whiniest kid can conquer. It took us less than 15 minutes to walk through the trail. Kids enjoyed a quick stop to enjoy the view of the Beaver Pond. Overall, it was a great day for us, non-outdoor family to enjoy the outdoor adventures in Atlanta. We love it so much that we plan to go back there again to check out their Family Canoe Day.
Family Favorites:
- Discovery Center: The best part of the center apart from a fun interactive place full of great information for kids about nature is the AC part. For the Hotanta as we are, the heat is the main thing – I think – that makes me think twice about planning any outdoor activities with my kids. The center is great for a quick escape from the heat to regroup and get ready for the next fun adventures.
- The Hiking Trails: There are 6 hiking trails all around the Chattahoochee Nature Center with various lenght but mostly less than 0.5 mils. So it’s perfect for family with kids. We have only done one trail so we plan to go back and check out other trails in the near future.
- Family Programs: There are so many family oriented programs available through out the year at the center that I don’t think we will be able to attend every one of them. We would love to try out the Family Canoe Day and the Guided Hike.
Address: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, GA 30075
Fee: Adult $8, Children (3-12) $5, Children (2 and under) Free
