Dana Shemesh

Latest posts by Dana Shemesh

Indulge Mom at These Atlanta Area Mother's Day Brunches

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Fri, 04/23/2021 - 2:30pm

Given the unique set of challenges us moms (and dads) have faced over the past 14 or so months, we might envision Mother's Day 2021 to involve the following: a full day at the spa with massage, facial, and hot stone healing treatments, an elegant gilded chariot to carry us to a limitless (but healthy) brunch complete with specialty cocktails, followed by a leisurely stroll around one of Atlanta's outdoor plazas for some more-than-just window shopping.

But hey, we will settle for brunch with bottomless mimosas. Especially if it's at one of these fine kid-friendly establishments, some of which offer a special acknowledgment and curated menu on Mother's Day.

Meet the Animals: Petting Zoos, Animal Farms, and Animal Sanctuaries Near Atlanta

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Sun, 04/18/2021 - 8:30pm

If the warm weather has your family yearning to get out and mingle with some friendly four-legged critters, there are plenty of options in and around metro Atlanta.

These animal sanctuaries and petting zoos beckon families with children to enjoy a day trip meeting barnyard animals such as pigs, horses, goats, ponies, rabbits, and even exotic animals such as giraffes, camels and in some cases, lions, tigers, and bears. Oh my!

12 Great Restaurants in Atlanta for Easter Brunch and Dinner with Kids

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Mon, 03/15/2021 - 12:00pm

Easter is a special time to get dressed up and enjoy family time. With the weather (hopefully) favorable in early April, it's also a great opportunity to dine al fresco at some of Atlanta's restaurants that serve up a festive Easter Sunday meal.

Families who prefer takeout have plenty of options, too. Either way, we can still gather around the table to dye Easter eggs or perhaps another holiday craft; enjoy an Easter egg hunt in the backyard, balconies, or living rooms; and dress in our Easter best to share a special brunch or dinner with our families.

7 Kid-Friendly Winter Hikes in the Atlanta Area

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Fri, 01/15/2021 - 1:27pm

Winter in the Atlanta area might be more conducive to nesting on the couch than braving the greyness and colder weather. Yet when the weather permits, why not get the family off the couch, bundle up in a layer or two, pack a picnic lunch, and get in a good hike?

Choosing a new destination each week can give your family something to look forward to while providing a great intrduction to Atlanta's outdoors. Some of these destinations offer access to playgrounds. And once the kids are all tuckered out from a long hike, parents might even be able to indulge in an uninterrupted Netflix/Hulu/Amazon Prime marathon, sans kids.

Read on for some of the best hikes for families in Atlanta and surrounding areas.

22 Things We Are Excited To Do in Atlanta with Kids This Winter

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Sun, 12/27/2020 - 11:50am

Even as we enjoy fairly mild winters in Atlanta, most of us Southerners tend to hibernate rather than brave the not-quite-freezing temperatures. But for those of us who get cabin fever, there are some outdoor activities this winter that are sure to keep kids active and engaged.

From snow tubing at Snow Island in Margaritaville to MLK Jr. events, outdoor entertainment, and light shows, even in these COVID times there is something for everyone this winter in Atlanta.

We've handpicked our favorite winter activities, so bundle up, gather your crew, and prepare for some wintertime fun.

Christmas Tree Farms Near Atlanta Where You Can Cut Your Own

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Mon, 12/07/2020 - 9:15am

There's nothing like the smell of a freshly cut pine tree and the ambiance it creates once its decorated for Christmas. It's no wonder this holiday season Atlanta families seem to favor live trees over their plastic counterparts to brighten their holiday tradition.

Most Atlanta-area tree farms offer an unforgettable experience for families, with knowledgable and helpful staffs who aid in cutting, prepping and hauling the trees. The atmosphere is not to be missed: A visit to a live tree farm offers the perfect photo opportunity for your newfound or recurring family holiday tradition.

We've rounded up eight cut-your-own Christmas tree farms a fairly close drive from the metro Atlanta area. So make a day of it and venture out to the farm to find the perfect holiday tree. Afterward, take a drive and glimspe some of these great holiday light shows.

Holiday Light Shows: Drive-Thru and Drive-By Christmas Displays in Atlanta for 2020

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Fri, 11/20/2020 - 10:11am

All this time at home might have some benefit after all: Just look outside at some of Atlanta's Christmas light displays. If they are not up already, Atlanta and the suburbs soon will be lit with holiday spirit and all the lights, colors, sights, and sounds that go with it.

Whether you are in metro Atlanta or live OTP (that's Outside the Perimeter for you newbies), these homes and shows are worth the trip.

We’ve done our research and compiled a list of some of the best neighborhoods to take in the illuminations of the season. We've also added some of Atlanta's best holiday light shows as well.

So put on your best ugly Christmas sweater, load up a small evening family picnic and head out for some old-fashioned holiday entertainment from the comfort of your own car. Some destinations even offer seasonal tunes to get you and yours into the spirit.

10 Amazing Playgrounds in the Atlanta Area for Kids and Families

Submitted by Dana Shemesh on Wed, 10/14/2020 - 12:42pm

There's nothing like a carefree stroll to your neighborhood playground, where you and your children know the lay of the land and the kids who visit there. But the combination of cooler weather and seemingly boundless acres of greenspace in metro Atlanta make for backpack-worthy adventures that can keep a family occupied for hours.

We've compiled a list of some of the best parks to visit, so pack that backpack and discover something new. And while you're at it, check out our roundup of Atlanta attractions that offer FREE admission for kids.

Dana Shemesh

Latest posts by Dana Shemesh

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