If you are looking for things to do this 2021 holiday season, The Atlanta Botanical Garden is an absolute MUST.
Atlanta is an amazing city with endless options for things to do, and this is especially true around the holidays. Whether you are a local or are just stopping through, there is something for everyone to get you into the holiday spirit!
When I lived in Atlanta before, a seasonal favorite of mine was always visiting the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Each year, they put on a fantastic light display called Garden Lights, Holiday Nights that wisps visitors into a dreamlike world with their display of nearly 2 billion light bulbs!
Although Atlanta has pretty mild winters, some nights walking through the garden can get chilly.
But have no fear. There is boozy hot cocoa and Fireball-infused hot cider that will keep you nice and toasty (inside and out) as you stroll through, and refreshment huts are available for refills along the way. (There are plenty of non-alcoholic options too!)
In my personal opinion, one of the best displays can be found along the Nature’s Wonders canopy walk.
Lights suspended in the treetops flicker to the rhythm of various musical pieces that we all know and love. The way the lights hang down creates the feeling of being completely immersed in the lights and music.
Songs play on a loop and can be viewed from any portion of the canopy walk.
Pro Tip: The best spot is at the landing in the middle of the canopy walk. Look Up. It’s pure magic.
We stood and watched the whole loop three times, lol.
On the other side of the park is the Orchestral Orbs, another music-coordinated exhibit located on a large lawn.
On that side, you’ll also find a really impressive model train display as well as the Radiant Rainforest building.
I absolutely loved the Rainforest! In the entrance corridor of the building, you’ll have fun trying to find the frogs in their dimly-lit, nocturnal aquariums.
Once inside the rainforest, it feels like you just stepped into the world of Avatar!
You will be completely surrounded by projector-created lights and the sounds of the forest. It is absolutely uh-mazing.
I could live in there, lol.
They also have a really impressive orchid display. I am always wowed by this one because, I don’t know about you, but I cannot keep a single orchid alive to save my life!
There is also a restaurant located inside the garden and reservations are available to botanical garden members.
On the way out, you’ll also want to stop by the garden gift shop. They have super cute stuff that I spent a silly amount of time looking at. Definitely something for everyone in there.
More Pro Tips:
Masks
While you’re walking around outside, you are allowed to be mask-free. However, once inside any of the garden’s buildings a mask is required.
If you need some festive masks for your visit, check out these Amazon finds:
Plan Ahead
The garden is also functioning at a limited capacity and selling tickets on a timed schedule.
Keep this in mind when you’re planning your trip. Two-thirds of the garden’s 2020 tickets sold out. So, plan your visit early so you don’t miss out!
There are various ticketing options. The garden really wants you to buy your tickets online ahead of time, but we bought ours at the entrance when we arrived.
Military Discount
They offer a $5 off military discount per ticket purchased (up to 4 tickets) that can only be applied at the box office.
The website doesn’t offer a discounted option. So just stop by the box office and they will reimburse you.
Ticket Types
General admission and premium ticket options are available.
General admission tickets and premium tickets CANNOT be transferred to another night in the event of inclement weather.
If you are buying your tickets far in advance, it might be smart to get a Premium+ ticket so that you can change the date if needed. Otherwise, your tickets are rain or shine.
Follow the link below for all options:
Complete Garden Lights Details Here
Parking
Also, parking is $10, or $5 if you have a group of 4 or more people. I wanted to mention this since this is sort of a hidden cost of the experience.
Tickets can be purchased here: Garden Lights Tickets
Go! Enjoy! Let me know what you think!
Dinner Ideas?
Need an idea for dinner before you go? Check out my review of Eight Sushi
Stay Tuned!
Stay tuned for more 2021 holiday season things to do to make the most of your off days!
Coming soon: Christkindl German Market & The Blind Elf Experience reviews!
Shop
Need to bundle up for your visit? Shop these warm options below!
[…] Need more holiday activity ideas? Check out my post on the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s display ‘Garden Lights, Holiday Nights’ here. […]