Chattahoochee Nature Center
About
Chattahoochee Nature Center offers families an immersive wildlife experience on 127 acres of natural beauty in Roswell. Kids can get up close with rescued animals including birds of prey, explore scenic river boardwalks, hike wooded trails, and participate in hands-on nature discovery programs that make learning about Georgia's ecosystems exciting and memorable.
Highlights
- ✓Up-close encounters with rescued birds of prey including owls, hawks, and eagles
- ✓Scenic boardwalk over the Chattahoochee River with opportunities to spot turtles and fish
- ✓Hands-on Discovery Center with nature exhibits, touch tanks, and interactive learning stations
- ✓Multiple hiking trails through woodlands ranging from easy to moderate difficulty
- ✓Live animal ambassadors including reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when they open at 10:00 AM to beat the heat and see animals at their most active before afternoon naps
- 2.Bring bug spray and wear closed-toe shoes for the trails, especially if exploring the river boardwalk areas
- 3.Check their website before visiting for scheduled animal encounters and feeding times to maximize your experience
- 4.Pack a picnic to enjoy in their designated areas since food options are limited on-site
- 5.Don't miss the Discovery Den indoor area,it's perfect for younger children and offers a cool break on hot Georgia days
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) for smaller crowds and the best wildlife viewing. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and the most active wildlife. Sundays open later at noon, making early Saturday mornings ideal for families wanting the trails to themselves.
What to Know
Admission fees apply (check website for current pricing and membership options). Free parking is available on-site. No food is sold at the center, so bring snacks and water. Stroller-accessible paths are available, though some trails are unpaved and better suited for hiking.
Seasonal Notes
Spring brings wildflowers and baby animals, making it especially magical for young children. Summer can be hot and humid, so morning visits are recommended. Fall offers beautiful foliage along the trails. The center hosts seasonal events including summer camps, Halloween nature walks, and holiday programs,check their calendar for special family programming.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Roswell historic district (5 minutes away) for family favorites like Table & Main (Southern comfort food with a kids menu) or Osteria Mattone (casual Italian with pizza that kids love). For a quick bite, Salt Factory Pub offers burgers and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for post-hike appetites.
More Activities Near Roswell
Vickery Creek Trail
Vickery Creek Trail offers families an accessible introduction to hiking with rewarding destinations like cascading waterfalls and fascinating Civil War-era mill ruins. The moderate 3.4-mile loop follows a scenic creek through shaded forest, making it comfortable even on warm days, while shorter out-and-back options work perfectly for younger hikers.
Big Creek Greenway
Big Creek Greenway offers eight miles of smooth, paved trails winding through beautiful wooded areas along Big Creek, making it ideal for families who want to bike, walk, or jog together. With multiple playground access points along the route and gentle terrain perfect for young riders, this scenic trail lets families choose their own adventure,whether that's a quick mile loop or a longer expedition exploring the creek views.
Historic Roswell Mill Covered Bridge
This scenic riverside trail combines natural beauty with fascinating history, making it perfect for families who want an easy outdoor adventure with an educational twist. Kids love exploring the picturesque covered bridges and discovering the atmospheric mill ruins along the Chattahoochee River, while parents appreciate the well-maintained trails and engaging historical signage that brings 19th-century Roswell to life.
Roswell Area Park
Roswell Area Park is a sprawling community hub that offers something for every member of the family. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, scenic walking trails perfect for stroller pushing or family bike rides, and wide open green spaces ideal for kite flying or impromptu soccer games, this highly-rated park is a local favorite that keeps kids entertained for hours.