Family-Friendly Attractions in Athens, Georgia

Athens, Georgia, is best known as the home of the University of Georgia, but it's also a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy art, animals, and outdoor adventures.

From exploring world-class art collections and meeting rescued animals, here are some of the best attractions to visit during your stay near Athens.

Bear Hollow Zoo

Tucked inside Memorial Park, Bear Hollow Zoo offers an up-close look at Georgia’s native wildlife in a wooded, natural setting. This small rescue zoo is home to animals that cannot be released back into the wild, making each visit both educational and meaningful. 

Families can walk shaded paths while observing black bears, bobcats, coyotes, and birds of prey in thoughtfully designed habitats.

Visitor Tips

• Visit during the morning when many animals are more active.
• Bring your camera to capture photos of the bears and other native animals.
• Combine your visit with nearby Memorial Park for a longer family outing.



Things to Know

• The zoo is open 9 am - 5 pm daily.
• Admission is free.
• No pets are allowed. Service animals are welcome.
• The zoo focuses on animals native to the state of Georgia.

Georgia Museum of Art

Continue your journey with a stop at the Georgia Museum of Art, located on the University of Georgia campus. As the official state art museum, it offers a calm, thoughtful space where visitors can experience everything from historic American paintings to contemporary works.

Inside, rotating exhibitions highlight both national and regional artists, with a strong focus on Southern cultural identity. Outside, sculpture gardens and shaded walkways extend the experience into a peaceful outdoor setting.

Visitor Tips

• Plan to spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the galleries.
• Check the museum's calendar for family activities and special exhibitions.
• Free digital guides are available for download
• Visit the gift shop for locally inspired souvenirs and educational toys.

Things to Know

• Admission is free.
• The museum is open late on Thursdays.
• Strollers are welcome throughout most of the museum.
• Paid parking is available Monday - Friday, but spaces fill quickly.

Half Moon Petting Zoo

For a more interactive animal experience, Half Moon Petting Zoo brings a lighthearted, hands-on stop to your Athens-area itinerary. This family-friendly attraction lets visitors connect directly with friendly barnyard animals in an open, relaxed environment. 

From feeding goats to meeting sheep and other small farm animals, the petting zoo is the highlight of many young travelers’ time in Athens.

Visitor Tips

• Purchase animal feed if available for an even more engaging visit.
• Wear clothes and shoes that can get a little dirty.
• Bring hand sanitizer, although handwashing stations are typically available.
• Keep a close eye on smaller children, as the animals roam.

Things to Know

• Family-owned zoo!
• In addition to barnyard animals, the zoo also includes lemurs, camels, and exotic birds.
• Hours vary, so check beforehand.
• Relaxed, open-air farm setting.

Oconee Forest Park

For a quiet escape into nature, Oconee Forest Park offers 60 acres of protected woodland just minutes from Athens. Tucked behind university research forests, it feels surprisingly secluded despite its convenient location. 

The park features walking trails, historic ruins, wetlands, and shaded forest paths that are perfect for casual hikes, birdwatching, or a peaceful morning walk.

Visitor Tips

• Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
• Pack water, especially during warmer months.
• Visit during spring or fall for comfortable hiking weather.

Things to Know

• Dogs are allowed.
• Picnic areas are available.
• Well-marked walking and hiking trails.
• Ideal for quiet, low-traffic nature walks.

Sandy Creek Park

Sandy Creek Park offers one of the most versatile outdoor experiences near Athens. Centered around the scenic Lake Chapman, the park features wide-open space, wooded trails, and shoreline access. 

Park visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, kayaking, picnicking, and more—all in one expansive natural setting.

Visitor Tips

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water.
• Bring fishing gear or rent a kayak for extra adventure.
• Arrive early on weekends, especially during the summer.



Things to Know

• A small entrance fee is required.
• Dogs are welcome.
• Horses are permitted on Buckeye Trail.
• Swimming is not permitted in Lake Chapman.
• Swimming is permitted in the Beach Swimming Area only.
• Large picnic areas for groups and families.

Stay at Rosewood Reserve RV Park

After a full day of exploring the Athens area, Rosewood Reserve RV Park provides a peaceful and convenient home base surrounded by natural beauty. 

At Rosewood Reserve, guests can expect spacious sites, modern amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere that makes it easy to recharge between adventures. With an on-site dog park, pickleball court, and playground, our park is tailored for families looking for adventure. 

See where relaxation and good times collide when you stay at Rosewood Reserve RV Park. Book Now!