Frugal Fun for Families in Georgia
If you are on a budget, you can still have a lot of fun and experience many of the hidden treasures of the great state of Georgia. All of the ideas that are included in this article are free to experience. However, there will be times where you may want to upgrade your visit or contribute a donation so that these venues will be available to many other families for years to come. These instances are noted in each of the special considerations. Enjoy!
1) Georgia Museum of Art
What You Need to Know About the Georgia Museum of Art
Location: 90 Carlton Street, Athens, GA 30602
Phone: (706) 542-4662
Hours:
- Mon Closed
- Tue 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wed 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thu 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Fri - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sun 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Thoughts About The Georgia Museum of Art
When I first visited this museum, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth and breadth of the collection of art work. It includes works that were created before Columbus sailed to the Americas all the way to the current, contemporary works of students within the University of Georgia's fine Arts program. While this museum would be a wonderful place to take a date, the staff also offers many programs for young families. Even if you give yourself plenty of time to peruse the exhibits, you'll surely want to come back.
2) Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and Memorial
What You Need to Know About the Martin Luther King Jr. Center
Location: 449 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Phone: 404-526-8900
Hours:
- 9 AM - 5 PM Every Day;
- Summer Hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day are 9 AM-6 PM;
- Ranger led tours of MLK Jr.'s birth home are conducted daily from 9 AM - 4 PM
- Fire Station Number 6 is staffed by volunteers from 9 AM - 5 PM
Thoughts About The King Center and National Historic Site
Every time I visit the MLK, Jr. Center, I am impressed with the level of care and detail that has gone into preserving the memory of this Civil Rights leader. The birth home has been meticulously restored and maintained and the tours truly are a treat for ages six and up. However, even younger children can enjoy the exhibits in Freedom Hall, the Visitor Center and Fire Station Number 6. Additionally, there are films viewings that will transport you back in time to the days of Martin Luther King Jr. and his co-laborers for justice.
3) State Botanical Garden of Georgia
What You Need to Know About the State Botanical Garden of GA
Location: 2450 S. Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30601
Phone: (706) 542-1244
Hours:
- The Visitor Center: Tuesday - Saturday 9 AM- 4:30 PM; Sunday 11:30 AM- 4:30 PM
- The Grounds: 8 AM- 8 PM Daily
Thoughts on the State Botanical Gardens of GA
Breathing beauty will surround you and your family as you stroll through the gardens. They are extensive enough to truly appreciate the variety of North Georgia flora. Staff is friendly and informative. The only draw back is the Georgia heat. Make sure to visit well before noon if you want to peruse the visitor's center and get the full benefit of your experience. Or if you don't mind skipping the visitor center, an evening stroll may be just for you since the grounds stay open until eight.
4) Free Savannah Tours
What You Need to Know About These Savannah Walking Tours
Location: Savannah, GA (Tours Begin from Johnson Square)
Phone: (912) 429-2975
Hours:
- 10:30am Monday-Saturday
- 1:30pm Everyday
- 5:00pm Friday-Monday
Thoughts on Savannah
I love this city. Romantic, historic, artistic-- it's no wonder General Sherman couldn't bear to burn it down; so the legend says. Savannah has an enduring spirit about it. From the excellent heritage to great seafood, to River street and the birthplace of the Girl Scouts. I just wish I had started my visit with a free walking tour to learn more about the city before diving in. But you don't have to make the same mistake! Check these guys out!
Contact the Free Savannah Tour Company
To schedule your free tour visit the Free Savannah Tours website or call 912-429-2975.
5) David J Sencer Center For Disease Control Museum
What You Need to Know About The CDC Museum
Location: 1600 Clifton Road NE; Atlanta, GA 30329
Phone: 404-639-0830
Hours:
- Monday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday Closed
Thoughts on the CDC Museum
What a great opportunity to learn more about the Center for Disease Control, infectious diseases and how they are contained. The CDC, in an effort to reach out to the community at large has opened its door to us. If you have a budding scientist (age ten and up), you won't want to miss this opportunity. It's truly a valuable edutainment experience.
6) National Infantry Museum
What You Need to Know About the National Infantry Museum
Location: 1775 Legacy Way #220, Columbus, GA 31903
Phone: (706) 653-9234
Hours:
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Special Considerations: While admission to the museum is free, a $5 donation is requested.
Thoughts About the National Infantry Museum
This museum is a dignified memorial to many brave soldiers who dedicated their lives to keeping our country free. You won't want to miss the clever use of multimedia and memorabilia to tell an interesting story. A must see for ages six and up!
7) The Fernbank Science Center
What You Need to Know About the Fernbank Science Center
Location: 156 Heaton Park Dr, Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (678) 874-7102
Hours:
- Monday 12:00 – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday12:00 – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday12:00 – 5:00 pm
- Thursday 12:00 – 9:00 pm
- Friday 12:00 – 9:00 pm
- Saturday 12:00 – 5:00 pm
- Sunday Closed
- During the summer the center opens at 10 am and closes at the same times listed above
Special Considerations:
If you want to enjoy the planetarium, there is an admission charge of $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.
Thoughts About Fernbank
Not to be confused with the also excellent natural history museum which bears the same name, this science and nature center is a great way for kids and adults to get a hands on learning opportunity free of charge. From space capsules to fossils, there are enough exhibits to keep you occupied for a few hours.
If you do choose to experience the planetarium, you will not be disappointed. It's a truly educational and enjoyable experience.
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