Albany Ga. | Five Things to Do with Kids

Photo by Liz Gray

This past spring break, we opted for a vacation close to home and took a tour of west Georgia. We had the opportunity to visit some wonderful places in our home state that have been on our list for a while. What we found was there is a whole lot to do in the state of Georgia with kids. Here are five things to do in the southwestern city of Albany. Click the title to see video.

1. Flint RiverQuarium: Steps away from the Flint River, is the Flint RiverQuarium where guests can get an in-depth view of the wildlife living in and around the river. In addition to the animals, there is also a very interactive area that helps kids (and adults) learn about water conservation and how streams form. In the aviary we were interested to learn that female quail lay their eggs in the same nest then take turns sitting on them. We actually saw the quail and the eggs! In May, June and July on the third Thursday of the month, admission is $5 for all ages from 5- 8 pm. The price includes admission to the RiverQuarium and a movie in the large-format theater.
2. RiverFront Park: Along the Flint River, and across the street from the RiverQuarium is RiverFront Park. Still in development, the park includes three miles of trails. Eventually it will connect downtown to The Parks at Chehaw. The trailhead is already completed and includes Turtle Grove Play Park, which is a great playground for the kids and Ray Charles Plaza featuring a life-sized sculpture of the singer. Visitor’s can sit on a piano key and listen to Ray play. There are also fountains for kids to run through, so bring a bathing suit or at least a towel.
3. The Parks at Chehaw: This park was started by Jim Fowler of Wild Kingdom fame. I found the Muckalee Swamp exhibit in the zoo portion to be quite relaxing. The boys really liked the Chehaw Playground. The space is huge and unlike most playgrounds today. Built in 1998, the playspace is in good shape, but is getting an overhaul before the summer, so it will be even better soon. There is a great BMX track, so if you can, bring a bike; and a Frisbee golf course.
4. Thronateeska Heritage Center + Weatherbee Planetarium: Unfortunately we ran out of time before we could see this attraction. We’ll have to check it out next time, because it came highly recommend by the locals. The Weatherbee Planetarium has a high-definition projection system that is the first of its kind in the world and allows you to see the Universe like never before.
5. Jimmies Hot Dogs: This iconic dog joint has been in operation at the same location (across from the bus station) since 1925. It’s off the beaten path a bit, but well worth it. The prices will make your wallet smile too!

Where to Stay: We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn, which is right across the street from RiverFront Park (and Turtle Grove Play Park) and within walking distance of the RiverQuarium and Thronateeska Heritage Center. The hotel has a full restaurant and bar and an outdoor swimming pool. It’s the perfect location to base a visit to Albany.