by Jill Bassett

Created on: October 24, 2008   Last Updated: February 27, 2010

Who would ever imagine that a big, gray, rock, uh I mean mountain, could provide so much fun? Having lived in Atlanta for quite a while now as we've watched our four babies grow into adolescents, there is one place we will forever associate with great family times. A fabulous tourist draw for Atlanta since its opening, we just like to call it good ole' Stone Mountain Park.

Pick any time of year and there is always something for kids to enjoy. The Scenic Railroad ride around the mountain is best in spring when you feel warmth on your face in the open-air cars and dogwood flowers greet you in the woods. The Antebellum Plantation garden wakes up, and baby goats arrive for petting in the animal farmyard.

In the summer, we take the kids with blankets and a picnic and head for the grand lawn to watch the Laser Light Show Spectacular as the mountain is turned into a huge outdoor screen. Fireworks take on a whole new meaning when the colors and sounds bounce off the mountain back at you!

In the fall we visit the beautiful trails, stopping for an outdoor supper on the picnic tables near the old Gristmill. The kids love to explore around the mill and over the bridge and nearby rocks (bring a change of clothes in case someone sorta accidentally on purpose misses a stepping stone!).

In the winter, enter the Crossroads village area near the mountain base and take in all the sights the glassblower and blacksmith, story time with Mrs. Claus, and a chance to give your wish list to Santa. Watch them make peanut brittle in the candy shop, and pick from a mind-boggling assortment of penny candy. Head outside to see the lovely Snow Angel conjure real snowflakes in our sunny south. We will certainly take advantage of this year's "Snow Mountain" and try a turn at tubing down what promises to be three football fields of snow!

You can pay a basic parking pass and take advantage of many of the park's outdoor activities for free including a large playground that is well-maintained. You can also purchase a one day Adventure pass, or if you live in the area, a Mountain Membership to access the many new and changing attractions in the park. The biggest thrill of all however, will always be climbing the mountain itself. The only thing better than the bragging rights that you made it to the top is the beautiful view of all of Atlanta from the summit of our beloved old rock.

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