Kids’ Play Options at Atlanta’s Airport: What Families Need to Know

Parents flying through Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) often wonder: “Does Atlanta airport have a children’s play area?” The short answer is there is no large, dedicated playground like you might see at some other major airports, but there are a few kid-friendly spaces, plus several practical ways to keep children comfortable and entertained during your time at ATL.

This guide focuses on what families can realistically expect right now in Atlanta’s airport, and how to make the most of it if you’re traveling with babies, toddlers, or older kids.

Does Atlanta Airport Have a Children’s Play Area?

ATL does not currently offer a big, centralized children’s play zone with slides and climbing structures that many parents picture when they think “airport playground.”

Instead, families will find:

• Scattered kid-friendly features (art, exhibits, and seating areas)
• Plenty of open waiting space where small kids can move around with supervision
• Quiet spots in certain concourses that work as informal play areas

Because amenities can change, it’s always wise to check with ATL’s information desks inside the terminal for the most current details about family facilities on the day you travel.

Where Can Kids Move and Explore Inside ATL?

Even without a formal playground, there are several places in the airport where kids can safely burn a little energy or stay engaged.

1. Concourse Walkways and Seating Areas

Most concourses at ATL (T, A, B, C, D, E, and F) have:

• Wide hallways where kids can stretch their legs (with close supervision)
• Flexible seating areas where families can set up a small “base” near their gate
• Window-facing rows of seats where kids can watch planes, ground vehicles, and activity on the tarmac

Plane-watching can be surprisingly entertaining for preschoolers and school-age kids, especially if you sit near large windows at the end of a concourse where traffic is easy to see.

2. Art Installations and Exhibits

Hartsfield–Jackson has invested in art and exhibits that can double as entertainment for kids:

• Walkways between concourses sometimes feature art pieces and displays that children enjoy looking at.
• Between some concourses, the underground pedestrian corridors offer changing light displays or exhibits that can be fun for kids to walk through if you have time and energy to skip the Plane Train for one leg.

Ask an airport information desk for any current family-friendly art or exhibit highlights on the day you travel.

3. International Terminal (Concourse F) – Quieter Spaces

If your travel takes you through Concourse F (International Terminal):

• You’ll often find slightly quieter corners and less crowded seating than the central domestic concourses.
• This can be a good place to let kids spread out on seats, color, or play with small toys while you wait.

Keep in mind: access to certain concourses depends on your ticket, gate, and security restrictions, so you can’t always roam the whole airport freely.

Family Essentials: Nursing Rooms, Restrooms, and Changing Tables

Even without a playground, comfort facilities matter a lot when you’re traveling with kids.

Lactation and Nursing Rooms

ATL has designated lactation or nursing rooms in several areas after security where parents can:

• Breastfeed or pump in private
• Use a quieter, more controlled environment with an infant

You can usually ask:

• Any airport information desk inside security, or
• Gate agents near your departure gate

for the nearest nursing room in your concourse.

Family and Companion Restrooms

The airport includes family/companion restrooms in multiple concourses, which are especially useful if:

• You’re helping more than one child at once
• You have a stroller and carry-ons
• An older child needs help and you prefer more privacy

Look for restroom signs that indicate a family or companion option, often located near standard restrooms and drinking fountains.

Changing Tables

Most major restrooms at Hartsfield–Jackson offer changing tables, but the size and layout can vary. A practical approach:

• When you arrive at your first gate of the day, do a quick walk to find:
  • The nearest restroom with a changing table
  • The nearest family restroom
• Note their positions so you’re not scrambling right before boarding.

Ways to Keep Kids Occupied at Atlanta Airport

Without a traditional children’s play area, planning a few activity backups can make your time at ATL much easier.

1. Use the Plane Train Wisely

The Plane Train (the underground tram that connects concourses) can feel like a mini attraction for younger kids:

• Short, predictable rides
• Clear “stops” that make sense to children
• Safe, enclosed environment when you hold hands and stand clear of doors

You don’t want to ride endlessly, but one or two trips between concourses can break up a long wait.

2. Build a “Station” Near Windows

Pick a gate area with:

• Large windows
• Nearby restrooms
• Access to snacks or water

Then set up a simple “play zone” with:

• Coloring books or activity pads
• A few small, quiet toys
• Downloaded shows or games on a tablet (with headphones)

This can feel more like a temporary kids’ lounge without needing a formal playground.

3. Combine Walking Laps with Sightseeing

If your child has energy to spare:

• Walk short “laps” up and down your concourse
• Count different airline tail designs, aircraft types, or ground vehicles
• Stop occasionally at art or display areas

This gives a sense of purposeful movement instead of just “killing time.”

Quick Reference: Family-Friendly Features at ATL

Tips for Atlanta Families Departing from ATL

If you live in metro Atlanta and use ATL as your home airport, a little preparation goes a long way:

• Arrive with snacks and water bottles
  Airport vendors are convenient but can be busy and expensive, and kids often want something familiar.

• Pack a compact “airport activities bag”
  Include items like:

  • Sticker books or reusable activity pads
  • Small cars, figures, or dolls
  • Headphones and a fully charged device with downloaded content

• Let kids run off energy before security when possible
  Many families give children a chance to move a bit in the drop-off area or parking walkway (safely and away from traffic) before heading into the check-in and security lines.

• Plan bathroom and diaper breaks before boarding begins
  ATL boarding areas can get crowded. Try to:

  • Use the restroom 20–30 minutes before boarding time starts
  • Finish diaper changes and outfit adjustments while the gate area is still calmer

Tips for Visitors Connecting Through Atlanta

If you’re connecting through ATL with children:

• Know your connection time

  • For tight connections (under 45 minutes): Head straight to your next gate; you may only have time for a quick restroom stop.
  • For longer layovers (1.5–3 hours): Plan for:
    • A meal break
    • A short walk between concourses or along the length of your concourse
    • A bit of window-side “plane watching time”

• Don’t rely on finding a playground
  Bring your own entertainment assuming there is no structured play space, and then treat any art exhibits, walkways, or quieter corners as a bonus.

• Ask for help if you’re overwhelmed
  ATL staff at information desks or nearby gates can:

  • Help you find elevators for strollers
  • Point you to the closest family restroom or nursing room
  • Confirm walking time to your next gate with kids in tow

Who to Ask for Up-to-Date Information Inside ATL

Amenities can change, and sometimes temporary kid-friendly areas or new facilities may be added.

While in the airport, you can get current guidance by checking:

• Airport Information Desks inside the main terminal and concourses
• Gate agents at your departure gate
• Digital directory boards showing services and amenities by concourse

For general airport information before you travel, you can contact:

Ask specifically about:

• Family amenities
• Lactation rooms
• Any current children’s play or activity spaces, if available

In summary, Atlanta’s airport does not currently have a large, dedicated children’s play area, but families can still manage layovers and preflight time using:

• Kid-friendly corridors and window seating
• Nursing rooms and family restrooms
• Simple, portable activities brought from home

With a bit of planning and realistic expectations, traveling through Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport with kids can be manageable—even without a formal playground.