5 Reasons Oakland Cemetery is a Perfect Place for Kids and Families to Learn
Atlanta’s Oakland Cemetery, located in Grant Park, is more than just a historic site—it’s also an outdoor classroom and learning lab filled with stories, nature, and opportunities for discovery. Whether your family is interested in exploring Atlanta’s past, learning about diverse cultures, connecting with nature, or simply enjoying the beauty of the gardens, Oakland offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Here’s why it’s the perfect place for kids and families to learn.
1. Explore Stories and History Lessons at Every Turn
Every path through Oakland tells a story. From acclaimed writers and influential politicians to soldiers, activists, and inventors, the cemetery is home to some of Atlanta’s most fascinating figures. Older children can appreciate learning about the Civil War, the lives and accomplishments of outstanding and ordinary African Americans who fought to overcome the effects of slavery and discrimination, and the trailblazers and innovators who shaped the city of Atlanta. With daily Oakland tours, weekend special topic tours, groups tours and field trips, there are a number of tour options for you and your family to learn more at Oakland.
2. A Place for Discovery and Understanding
Oakland is the final resting place for over 70,000 individuals from all walks of life. Tycoons and laborers, Christians and Jews, Black and white, soldiers and civilians—all rest here together. Learning about the lived experiences of people from diverse backgrounds helps children develop empathy and a deeper understanding of human connection, both throughout history and in the modern day. Oakland’s monthly Homeschool Day programs offers students the chance to learn about the diverse cultures and traditions of Atlanta.
3. A Living Garden Full of Plants, Flowers, Critters, and More!
Oakland is a public park, greenspace, and is home to wildlife, rare plants, and over 1,600 trees! Maintained by skilled horticulturists and dedicated volunteers, the cemetery’s gardens are filled with flowers, towering trees, and plant species native to Georgia and from around the world. Our youth camps provide elementary-aged children the opportunity to experience the natural wonder of Oakland, through hands-on engagement and experiential education.
4. Visiting the Cemetery Can Make Death a Little Less Scary
For many children, the concept of death can be difficult and even frightening. Oakland provides a peaceful, respectful setting for discussing these concepts in a way that emphasizes remembrance and love. Walking through the cemetery and appreciating its beauty, peace, and connection to nature offers a chance to reflect on how lives are honored and stories can live on long after we’re gone. When it’s talked about in the right setting, death becomes less of an intimidating idea, and more of a natural part of life.
5. A Cultural Site, Full of Opportunities
Oakland Cemetery welcomes visitors every day, and as a City of Atlanta Park, admission is always free. While special family programs such as Homeschool Days, guided tours, and field trips may have a fee to register, families are also welcome to explore at their own pace. Oakland also hosts free community events like the Spring to Life Family Festival, Summer Juneteenth Family Festival, Fall Pumpkin Patch, and Winter Holiday Spirit. Each visit offers something new to discover!
From history and culture to nature and storytelling, Oakland Cemetery is a place where visitors of all ages can learn, explore, and connect with Atlanta’s culture and history. Guided tours, hands-on learning, or simply strolling the cemetery at your leisure all offer new ways to learn and engage with this outdoor museum and green space.
Plan your visit today or learn more about Oakland’s educational opportunities and youth programs:
