‘Tis the season! 7 picture-perfect places for family holiday photos in metro Atlanta
As the holidays quickly approach, it’s time to capture some unforgettable family memories. Fortunately, metro Atlanta has many fantastic events and celebrations that provide festive backdrops for those special moments.
Gather the entire family (maybe even your pet!) and check out the list below for seven of the best places to take your picture-perfect holiday photos.
Stone Mountain Christmas
The entire family will enjoy the holiday extravaganza at Stone Mountain’s Christmas celebrations with a spectacular light show, Santa flying overhead in his sleigh, the Christmas parade and much more, so be prepared to capture plenty of photos. The holiday spirit comes in full force in the evening with festive holiday music, millions of sparkling lights, magnificent shows and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Location: Stone Mountain - 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd.; Dates: Nov. 11, 2023 - Jan. 2, 2024; Admission: Children ages 3 and under: Free, Children ages 4+: $34.95, Adults ages 12+: $39.99; Website: stonemountainpark.com/christmas; Contact: 770-498-5690
Atlanta Botanical Garden - ‘Garden Lights, Holiday Nights’
Visit Atlanta Botanical Garden’s 13th annual “Garden Lights, Holiday Lights” display. It features illuminated sculptures, hanging tree lights, a rainbow tunnel of lights and orchestral orbs dancing to Christmas music, all powered by nearly 2 billion lights. Additional highlights include miniature model trains, carolers and the Ice Goddess. Bring the whole family and be sure to get some great photos with the incredible lights.
Location: Midtown - 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE; Dates: Nov. 18, 2023 - Jan. 14, 2024; Admission: Children under 2: Free, Children 12 and under: $44.95 - $69.95, Adults: $47.95 - $72.95 (Prices vary by date/time); Website: atlantabg.org; Contact: 404-876-5859
Santa at Rhodes Hall
If you want to introduce your kids to the magic of Santa while avoiding the hectic holiday rush at the malls, check out the 26th anniversary of Santa at Rhodes Hall. On weekends from Nov. 18 through Dec. 16, see the “castle on Peachtree” become a winter wonderland. You can reserve a family visit with Santa for $55. It includes a photo session and a personalized Santa portrait. You can bring your own camera for an additional $20 (payable at the event). Plus, each child will receive a Christmas goodie bag to take home.
Location: Midtown - 1516 Peachtree Rd. NW; Dates: Nov. 18 - Dec. 16 (weekends only); Admission: $55 for Santa photo session; Website: georgiatrust.org; Contact: 404-885-7800
Six Flags Over Georgia - ‘Holiday in the Park’
Six Flags Over Georgia’s “Holiday in the Park” will surely have something for everyone with its various performances, activities and rides. Sing along with the Six Flags carolers, meet some of your favorite Looney Tunes characters, ride the Holiday Express and even visit the North Pole to see Santa’s workshop. Overall, this is a fantastic place to take tons of family holiday pictures.
Location: Austell - 275 Riverside Pkwy.; Dates: Nov. 18, 2023 - Jan. 3, 2024; Admission: $46 (Single-day ticket); Website: sixflags.com/holiday-in-the-park; Contact: 770-739-3400
Yule Forest Tree Farm
To start a new family tradition and get everyone in the holiday spirit, visit the Yule Forest Tree Farm in Stockbridge. Nothing compares to the scent of a freshly cut Christmas tree, and this place will help you create lasting memories as you get to cut your own tree, go on a hayride, sip some apple cider and visit with Santa. For your next holiday card, visit this spot to snap a sweet family photo in front of all the stunning Christmas trees.
Location: Stockbridge - 3565 GA-155 N.; Dates: Opens on Nov. 18; Admission: Free; Website: facebook.com; Contact: 770-954-9356
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center - ‘Winter House 2023′
There are many fun-filled things to do during the “Winter House” event at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, including holiday workshops, decorations, music and pictures with Santa. A few of the daily activities involve mug and ornament clay glazing, making s’mores, going on historical tours and writing letters to Santa. Buy your $25 tickets in advance to join Santa for a beautiful family portrait. From Nov. 26 to Nov. 28, you can also bring your pet for a photo with Santa!
Location: Druid Hills - 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE; Dates: Nov. 25 - Dec. 10; Admission: Free ($29 tickets for photo with Santa); Website: callanwolde.org; Contact: 404-872-5338
Alpharetta Town Green - ‘Season of Celebration’
Festivities for the “Season of Celebration” take place in downtown Alpharetta on Saturday, Nov. 18, Dec. 2 and Dec. 16. There will be several activities available, such as singing Christmas carols, taking pictures with Santa and enjoying snow flurries every half-hour. With so many family-friendly activities, this is a wonderful spot to take your holiday photos.
Location: Alpharetta - 40 S Main St.; Dates: Nov. 18, Dec. 2, and 16; Admission: Free; Website: alpharetta.ga.us; Contact: 678-297-2811
