Are you looking for some fun and educational activities to do with your kids in Alpharetta, GA? Do you want to explore the amazing diversity of wildlife that lives in your backyard? If so, you’re in luck! Alpharetta is home to many local wildlife attractions that are open to the public and within a short drive from the city. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to some of the best places to see and learn about the animals that share our environment. Whether you’re interested in birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, or insects, there’s something for everyone in Alpharetta’s wild side!

Chattahoochee Nature Center

One of the most popular destinations for wildlife lovers in Alpharetta is the Chattahoochee Nature Center. This 127-acre site features hiking trails, gardens, exhibits, and a wildlife rehabilitation clinic. You can see over 50 species of native animals, including bald eagles, owls, hawks, beavers, otters, turtles, snakes, and frogs. The center also offers educational programs, camps, and events for all ages. You can learn about the ecology and history of the Chattahoochee River and its watershed, as well as how to protect and conserve it.

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

Another great place to enjoy nature in Alpharetta is the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. This 46-acre park preserves a historic mill site and a natural forest along Big Creek. You can walk along 2 miles of trails and boardwalks, visit the Heritage Village with restored buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries, and explore the Visitor Center with live animals and interactive exhibits. You can see deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, woodpeckers, songbirds, butterflies, dragonflies, and more. The preserve also hosts guided tours, classes, and special events throughout the year.

Wills Park Equestrian Center

If you love horses, you’ll want to check out the Wills Park Equestrian Center. This facility offers riding lessons, camps, shows, and clinics for riders of all levels and ages. You can learn the basics of horsemanship, improve your skills, or compete in various disciplines. You can also admire the beautiful horses that live at the center, including Arabians, Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, and Ponies. The center is open to the public daily from 8 am to 8 pm.

Big Trees Forest Preserve

For a peaceful and scenic escape from the city, head to the Big Trees Forest Preserve. This 30-acre park protects a remnant of old-growth forest that once covered much of Georgia. You can stroll along 1.5 miles of trails and admire the towering trees that are over 100 years old. Some of the species you’ll find here are white oaks, tulip poplars, black walnuts, red maples, dogwoods, and magnolias. You can also spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, coyotes, hawks, owls, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and more. The preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Cogburn Road Park

If you’re looking for a family-friendly park with plenty of amenities and activities, look no further than Cogburn Road Park. This 26-acre park features a playground, a picnic pavilion, a basketball court, a disc golf course, and a walking trail. You can also enjoy the arboretum with over 60 species of trees and shrubs labeled with their common and scientific names. You can learn about the different types of plants that grow in Georgia and how they provide food and shelter for wildlife. You can see squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, cardinals, blue jays, robins, and more.

Alpharetta Wildlife

As you can see, Alpharetta is a great place to discover and appreciate the local wildlife that surrounds us. You can have fun, learn new things, and create lasting memories with your kids. And if you’re looking for a preschool that shares your passion for nature and education, you’ll love Crème de la Crème. 

Crème de la Crème  is a premier early learning center that offers a curriculum that fosters creativity, curiosity, and confidence in children. We have spacious classrooms, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated teachers who care about each child’s individual needs. Your kids will love learning and playing at Crème de la Crème! Visit our website or schedule a tour today!

Photo by Gary Meulemans on Unsplash