Fernbank Forest
Explore a 65-acre old-growth forest and natural history museum with dinosaurs and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Fernbank Forest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 65-acre old-growth forest and natural history museum with dinosaurs and interactive exhibits.
"A special old growth forest with its own Wikipedia places, extremely walkable due to asphalt paths."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance purchase is recommended, especially for special events. Online tickets include a small fee.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are asphalt, but good walking shoes are essential for exploring the forest.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Hardwood Forest
Fernbank Forest
Wander through 65 acres of old-growth forest with towering trees and natural beauty.
Dinosaur Skeletons
Fernbank Museum
Marvel at impressive dinosaur fossils and skeletons that bring prehistoric life to the present.
Interactive Exhibits
Fernbank Museum
Engage with hands-on displays like 'Fantastic Forces' and the 'NatureQuest' children's area.
Wildwood Aglow
Fernbank Forest (Seasonal Event)
Experience a magical winter light show with music synchronized to dazzling illuminations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fernbank Forest
Beyond the Trails: Museum & More
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance purchase is recommended, especially for special events. Online tickets include a small fee.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are asphalt, but good walking shoes are essential for exploring the forest.
🐾 Pet Safety Advisory
Be aware of wildlife like coyotes, especially near dusk. Keep pets indoors.
💡 Visit After Dark for Lights
For 'Wildwood Aglow,' aim for after 7:30 PM for the best illuminated experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance purchase is recommended, especially for special events. Online tickets include a small fee.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are asphalt, but good walking shoes are essential for exploring the forest.
🐾 Pet Safety Advisory
Be aware of wildlife like coyotes, especially near dusk. Keep pets indoors.
💡 Visit After Dark for Lights
For 'Wildwood Aglow,' aim for after 7:30 PM for the best illuminated experience.
🌳 Explore Champion Trees
Look for the largest trees of their kind in the forest; they're marked with informative signs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fernbank for its beautiful old-growth forest and engaging museum exhibits, particularly the dinosaur displays and interactive zones. The 'Wildwood Aglow' event is a seasonal highlight. Some reviewers wished for more animatronic animals and found certain museum displays too dark.
"We had such a wonderful time. The nature trail was surprisingly good. I do wish they had more dino stuff and real thingsa maybe some animtronic animals . Also some of the displays were vary dark and vary hard to view . But all in all my family had a good time here."
Heather Bohanan
"Very special old growth forest with its own Wikipedia places. Extremely walkable due to asphalt paths in most places, everything from a pond to "ruins", and champion trees (largest of their breed). They also allow you to volunteer with invasive plant removal on some Saturdays through the Fernbank Museum."
jayinatlanta
"As a member of fernbank museum of natural history, I can say that it's a very nice place and we go there often. It has dinosaurs, a wide variety of animals, playgrounds both inside and out, a movie theater which has some 45 minute movies about different things in earths history. It also has a place called "fantastic forces" which is a place where kids and adults alike can toy around and experiment with different things like earthquakes, quicksand, magnets, electricity, and more. Indoor playground and outdoor, amazing forest trails and more. I highly recommend going to this place on weekends and week days with kids."
Angelina Angel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fernbank Forest is located at 767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, within the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. It's easily accessible by car, and public transportation options are available in Atlanta.
Yes, the Fernbank Museum offers parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check their website for current parking fees and availability.
Fernbank Forest is part of the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, which requires admission. While the nearby Fernbank Science Center is free, the museum and its forest trails have an entry fee.
Typically, access to Fernbank Forest is included with your Fernbank Museum admission. It's best to check the Fernbank Museum's official website for the most current ticketing policies.
From downtown Atlanta, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public transport (MARTA bus routes) to reach the Fernbank Museum. Driving is also a convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and online purchases may include a small fee. It's recommended to check the Fernbank Museum's official website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Advance ticket purchase is recommended, especially for popular times or special events like 'Wildwood Aglow,' to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Fernbank Museum often offers various discounts, including for seniors, children, and sometimes for members. Check their website for details on any available promotions or membership benefits.
Yes, Fernbank Museum is a cashless facility, meaning they primarily accept credit cards and other forms of electronic payment.
Fernbank Forest generally follows the operating hours of the Fernbank Museum, which are typically 10 AM to 5 PM daily, though hours can vary for special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Fernbank Forest offers nature trails for walking and hiking, opportunities to see native wildlife, and to explore ancient hardwood trees. It's a great place for a peaceful outdoor escape. 
Many of the trails in Fernbank Forest are asphalted and considered extremely walkable, making them accessible for most visitors, including those with strollers or mobility aids.
Visitors might spot native wildlife, and it's important to be aware of animals like coyotes, especially around dusk.
Yes, Fernbank Forest is great for kids, especially when combined with the museum's 'NatureQuest' exhibit and outdoor play areas. The forest trails offer a chance for them to explore nature.
Champion trees are the largest known specimens of their species. Fernbank Forest features several of these impressive trees, marked with interpretive signs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Fernbank Museum typically has a cafe or dining area where visitors can purchase snacks, drinks, and light meals.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to check Fernbank's guidelines regarding outside food and beverages, especially if you plan to picnic within the forest area.
The cafe usually offers a selection of grab-and-go items, sandwiches, salads, and beverages. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in Fernbank Forest for personal use. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits.
The ancient trees, winding trails, and seasonal light displays like 'Wildwood Aglow' offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with Fernbank Museum staff or their website for specific rules regarding tripods, especially during busy periods.
Yes, drone usage is typically restricted or prohibited within Fernbank Forest and the museum grounds for safety and privacy reasons.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography in the forest, creating a softer, more atmospheric look.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. The accessible trails in the forest are great for strollers, and the interactive displays in the museum cater to various age groups. Pack snacks or plan to visit the museum cafe for a convenient meal option.
🌳 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Beyond the forest, the museum provides context on the region's natural history. Consider volunteering for invasive species removal to actively contribute to the forest's preservation. The cooler months are ideal for a comfortable hiking experience.
👫 Couples & Date Nights
During the day, a visit to the museum followed by a peaceful walk through the forest can be a charming and engaging outing. Enjoy a coffee or snack at the cafe while taking in the surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Hardwood Forest
+2This ancient forest is not just a beautiful natural space but also an educational one. Interpretive notes and signs throughout the trails provide insights into the local flora and fauna, highlighting unique features like 'champion trees' – the largest of their species. The forest also plays a role in conservation efforts, with opportunities for volunteers to participate in invasive plant removal, demonstrating a commitment to preserving this unique ecosystem.
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Fernbank Forest provides a serene setting for reflection and exploration. Whether you're interested in the ecological significance of old-growth forests, the beauty of native plant life, or simply a quiet walk surrounded by nature, the forest offers a rewarding experience for all ages.
The Fernbank Museum Experience
Beyond dinosaurs, the museum features a variety of engaging displays. 'Fantastic Forces' allows visitors to interact with scientific principles like earthquakes and magnets, while 'NatureQuest' is an indoor nature-themed playground designed for younger children. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and a 3D theater showing educational films, offering a comprehensive learning experience.
Special events, such as the popular 'Wildwood Aglow' during the winter months, transform the forest into a magical wonderland with synchronized lights and music. These events create unique opportunities for families, friends, and couples to enjoy the grounds in a different light, often including a cafe for refreshments.
Community Involvement and Conservation
The museum also highlights the importance of wildlife conservation, celebrating National Wildlife Day with posts showcasing the diverse creatures that inhabit the forest and surrounding areas. This emphasis on local wildlife encourages visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world around them.
By offering both educational exhibits and opportunities for direct involvement, Fernbank demonstrates a commitment to environmental education and conservation. This approach not only enriches the visitor experience but also cultivates a community dedicated to preserving natural spaces for future generations.
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