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Five Fun Things to do in Atlanta This Summer

Summer Fun in Atlanta

By , About.com Guide

Looking for some fun in Atlanta? Sometimes you get stuck in a rut of the same old activities, and you just can't think of any new things to do in your own town. Well, don't worry - here are some ideas to get you started. Check out our top 5 things to do this summer in Atlanta.

Go Tubing on the Chattahoochee River

If you have never gone to "shoot the 'hooch" with a group of friends on a hot summer day, you are missing out on a classic Atlanta-area tradition! Whether you bring your own tube and jump in at one of the many drop off points, or you use a service and rent equipment - it's a low cost, fun day. Using a service is pretty convenient because they provide everything you need and they make sure you end up back at your car at the end (this is key!).

Check Out a Local Lake "Beach"

Ok, so the beach is a little far away for a day trip - but there are plenty of lakes in the Atlanta area, and some of them have built out nice beach areas. Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona, and Robin's Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens are great options for public lake beaches near Atlanta. There are also lots of smaller lakes where you can rent a house for the weekend and enjoy a mini getaway. Favorites include Lake Rabun, Lake Oconee, and Lake Burton.

Go to the Drive-In

Head to the Starlight Six Drive-In, Atlanta's only drive-in movie theater, for a night of old-fashioned fun that won't break the bank. Tickets are only $7 (kids get in for just $1!), and the theater allows you to bring in a picnic (including alcohol, but remember, you're driving!) - so you can have a tailgate before the movie. Did I mention that every show is a double feature? That's right, you get not one but TWO NEW RELEASES for only a couple of bucks!

Visit a Water Park or Splash Fountain

Every once and a while, no matter how old you are, it's fun to let loose at a water park or even run through the fountains at Centennial Park! Atlanta is home to White Water and a few other water parks where you can cool off this summer. There are also a whole bunch of splash fountains, most of which are free! Ok, they are meant for kids, but we won't tell if you want to have a go at it!

Shop the Outlets

Since you have to walk outside between stores, it still counts as getting outdoors, right?! Head over to one of the Atlanta area outlet centers for some bargain hunting. There are a few different options, all about an hour from Atlanta. Our pick for the best outlet mall in Atlanat is North Georgia Premium Outlets in Dawsonville. Don't forget, it's also a great spot for back to school shopping!

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