Nickelodeon Parents' Pick for Best Local Blog in AtlantaWhat: Fernbank Science Center (NOT Fernbank Museum of Natural History)
Where: 156 Heaton Park Dr. NE
Cost: Admission is FREE, Planetarium Shows are $4 Adults, $3 Students and Seniors
The Fernbank Science Center (not the Fernbank Museum of Natural History) is a wonderful and free place to visit. Among the permanent exhibits in the exhibit hall are portrayals of the natural environment and vanishing habitats of Georgia, featuring mounted taxidermy specimens. Astronomy displays include Fernbank’s meteorite collection and an authentic Apollo spacecraft. The Fernbank Observatory houses the largest telescope in the southeastern United States. Free public observations are offered every Thursday and Friday evening from 9 pm (or dark) until 10:30 pm (weather permitting). There is an astromer available as well to position the telescope and answer questions.
Outside guests can walk through the Fernbank Forest, a 65-acre old-growth forest representing one of the last remaining enclaves of the original Piedmont forest in the Southeast. The protected forest is home to many animal and plant species, including some species that cannot be found anywhere else in the metro Atlanta area. There are bird walks scheduled on Saturdays during peak Spring and Fall migration.
In addition, there is a rose garden, a home composting demonstration site, rock and mineral walk and live chickens. The planetarium shows vary with the seasons. There is a children’s program and programs geared toward those older than 10 years of age.
This attraction definitely isn’t as flashy as the better known Fernbank Museum of Natural History, but there’s a lot to learn, the price is right, parking is free and it’s a relaxing afternoon adventure away from the crowds.
