Last Updated on July 7, 2025 by Kimberly Stroh
Atlantans don’t have to go far for family fun because unique attractions are closer than you think. Just northeast of Atlanta, Gwinnett County is packed with surprises that make it the perfect getaway close to home. From interactive museums and scenic parks to treetop thrills, Gwinnett offers a treasure trove of activities kids will love. Whether you’re exploring for the weekend or just escaping the city for the day, you’ll find plenty of reasons to say, “Who knew this was in Gwinnett?!”
Where To Stay Overnight in Gwinnett County
1. Explore & Play in Downtown Duluth
Downtown Duluth blends charm, history and art in a a beautiful walkable area that’s perfect for families. It’s a vibrant community that’s been flying under-the-radar and it’s one of the best-kept metro Atlanta secrets.
With inviting green spaces like Parsons Alley and the Town Green, and regular community events, there’s always something fun happening. Families can enjoy outdoor concerts, food truck Fridays, seasonal festivals, and interactive fountains for kids.
Local shops and eateries offer plenty of options for dining and browsing, while the nearby playground and splash pad provide perfect spots for children to play. Don’t miss Rocket Fizz, if the kids have a sweet tooth and Maple Street Biscuit Co serves warm biscuits and freshly squeezed OJ.
Don’t miss the “The Dream Keepers” memorial, which is a 9/11 tribute created by local artists Kathy Fincher and sculptor Martin Dawe. The installation includes eight children piecing together a segmented American flag on a brick wall—symbolizing unity, hope, and the nation’s recovery. It’s behind the playground, on the Town Green, and caught my children’s attention enough to stop and read about it.
Downtown Duluth offers a very welcoming atmosphere for families and the various free parking options makes it even better. It’s a multi-generational destination that offers something for every age.
2. Take a Ride At The Southeastern Railway Museum
Growing up in Atlanta, and now raising my own kids in the area, I thought I knew every family-friendly attraction. It turns out, Duluth is home to the Southeastern Railway Museum and it’s news to me. Located a few miles from downtown Duluth, it’s a fantastic destination for families with young children, offering a fun and educational experience across 35 acres.
Find plenty of trains, buses, and transportation history. Plus, there are two train rides for families. Kids will love climbing aboard real locomotives and exploring vintage cabooses. The museum features more than 90 historic vehicles, including steam engines, Pullman passenger cars, MARTA buses, and even a presidential railcar. The entire museum is operated by passionate volunteers who make little train dreams come true.
Young train lovers can enjoy interactive events like “Caboose Days,” “Train-or-Treat” for Halloween, and “Santa Arrives by Train” during the holidays. It’s the perfect outing for families looking to combine adventure with a bit of history.
3. Get Active at the Suwannee green spaces
The people of Suwannee take their recreation seriously, and the green spaces in the city of Suwannee are beautiful. Nature, recreation and play time come together at Town Center Park. The 10-acre mega green space includes 3 interlinked walking trails, an outdoor ampitheater and “Big Splash” which is a giant water fountain that majestically welcomes visitors.
For little ones, the biggest draw is PlayTown Suwanee. It’s nearly an acre large playground full of swings, slides, sandboxes, and imaginative play areas, all connected to Town Center on Main via paved trails. For family bike rides or stroller walks, pick between Suwanee Creek Greenway or Ivy Creek Greenway, which offers paved trails winding through woods.
4. Watch The Gwinnett County Stripers Play Ball
During the summer, head to the Coolray Field to catch a Gwinnett Stripers baseball game. They’re a Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves and minor league baseball games are always budget-friendly fun for families.
With ticket prices starting as low as $9 for lawn seats and affordable family promotions like “Sunday Funday” where kids can run the bases, it’s truly an experience where the kids can be active. Look for special themed nights like Wet Nose Wednesdays (where guests can bring their dog), Marvel superhero night or Fireworks Fridays.
Parents appreciate the well‑designed kid play areas, interactive zones, and themed events, plus easy on-site parking ($10‑12) makes it a win-win.
5. Swing Tree to Tree at Treetop Quest
My kid’s top pick for Gwinnett County fun is Treetop Quest in Suwannee. I struggled to get them off the Treetop Quest aerial adventure courses, which is perfectly designed for a kid’s first zip-lining experience. Carve out at least two hours to explore everything Treetop has to offer.
The park features seven self‑guided courses which different levels for varying ages. Start with the Chickpea trail for ages 4–6, which is supervised safely from the ground. Next, conquer up to five thrilling levels (with zip‑lines, monkey bridges, Tarzan swings, and heights up to 60 ft) for kids over the age of 6. I love that Treetop Quest prides themselves on providing a “challenge by choice” experience that grows with your children’s confidence.
My oldest was the most apprehensive and the trained employees helped him feel comfortable. Before long, he was swinging tree to tree with a big smile on his face. Quite the contrary, my youngest was ready to zip on the Chickpea course without fear.
The park is open spring through fall on weekends and weekdays during summer. Reserve your time online. Parents are emailed digital waivers to sign. Wear closed‑toe shoes (no Crocs), bring water and bug spray. Portable bathrooms are available onsite.
From treetop adventures in Suwanee to splash fountains in downtown Duluth and thrilling ballgames at the baseball field, Gwinnett County is full of hidden gems for families. A day out in Gwinnett is a refreshing alternative to crowded, downtown outings. We’ll be heading north for fun again. Gwinnett County proves that some of the best memories are made just a short drive from home.