Tag: Centennial Olympic Park

family adventures, Georgia, history, travel

Exploring Atlanta with Kids: Our Visit to Centennial Olympic Park 

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On our trip to Atlanta, we spent some time exploring downtown and one place we were especially excited to visit was Centennial Olympic Park.

There was something really special about walking into a space that once welcomed the entire world. This isn’t just a park, it’s a place where history, community, and everyday life beautifully intersect.

A Park Rooted in Olympic History

Centennial Olympic Park was built as a central gathering space for the 1996 Summer Olympics, transforming what was once an underdeveloped area of the city into a vibrant destination. During the Games, it served as a hub for visitors from around the world, a place to celebrate, connect, and experience the spirit of the Olympics.

Today, so many elements from that time are still present, and you can truly feel the history as you walk through.

One of the most iconic features is the Fountain of Rings, designed in the shape of the Olympic rings. If you time it right, you can catch the choreographed water shows set to music, something that kids (and honestly, adults too) absolutely love.

As we explored, a few features really stood out, not just visually, but for the stories they tell.

Meaningful Details You Don’t Want to Miss

The Olympic Torch Cauldron

One of the most recognizable pieces still standing in the park is the original Olympic torch cauldron from the 1996 Summer Olympics. This is the very cauldron that was lit during the Opening Ceremony by boxing legend Muhammad Ali in one of the most powerful and emotional Olympic moments in history.

While the cauldron has since been relocated within the park from its original stadium setting, seeing it up close is still incredibly meaningful. It stands as a symbol of unity, perseverance, and the coming together of nations.

The “Man Walking Up the Stairs” Sculpture

One piece that quietly caught our attention was the “Man Walking Up the Stairs” sculpture.

It’s simple, but powerful, a figure moving upward, step by step. It felt like a reflection of the Olympic spirit itself: perseverance, growth, and continuing forward even when the climb isn’t easy.

The Engraved Bricks

As you walk through the park, you’ll notice the pathways are made up of engraved bricks filled with names and messages.

These were part of a fundraising effort leading up to the Olympics, allowing individuals and families to leave a lasting mark. Now, they form a beautiful reminder that this park isn’t just about a global event, it’s about people, stories, and connection.

We found ourselves looking down often, reading names and wondering about the stories behind them.

A Place of Joy and Remembrance

While the park is full of life today, it also holds space for reflection.

During the 1996 Summer Olympics, this was the site of the tragic Centennial Olympic Park bombing.

There is a quiet memorial plaque within Centennial Olympic Park honoring those affected, including Alice Hawthorne and Melih Uzunyol.

Things to Do at Centennial Olympic Park with Kids

If you’re visiting with kids, this park is such a great stop:

  • Splash and play at the Fountain of Rings
  • Run and relax in the open green spaces
  • Take photos with the Olympic rings and skyline
  • Walk to nearby attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola

It’s very walkable and easy to add into your downtown plans.

Tips for Visiting

  • Go early or later in the day to avoid heat and crowds
  • Bring towels or a change of clothes if your kids want to play in the fountain
  • Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to explore all the details
  • Plan nearby stops to make the most of your time downtown ( check out a few of the stops we did below)

What makes Centennial Olympic Park so special isn’t just what you see, it’s what each piece represents.

From the torch that once lit up the world stage, to symbols of perseverance, to the names etched into the ground… it all comes together to tell a story of unity, resilience, and legacy.

Continue Exploring Atlanta

Planning more adventures in Atlanta? Here are a few other family-friendly spots we enjoyed during our trip: