Traveling with the family to a new place can be a double-edged sword; on the one hand, the time you’re able to spend together discovering new things is precious, but you’ll also sometimes be hard pressed to find good places just to unwind and let the kids be. Well, we know how that feels, and we want to help you a little on your next visit to Gwinnett County, GA so that you’ll be able to find the best parks, playgrounds, and natural open spaces for the whole family to stretch their legs and take in their surroundings.
We tried to strike a balance between natural outdoor environments and publicly owned spaces, but the common theme is that you’ll be able to have a lovely time regardless of which entry you choose to visit. We’ll also link you to each of these places official websites (if available) so that you can get up-to-date information on them if you’re visiting us a little later after this article is published. Let’s check them out!
Tribble Mill Park
There’s no better deal than being able to enjoy nature for free while spending some time with your family, right? Well, Gwinnett’s Tribble Mill Park is the place you’ll want to visit for that, with its more than 718 acres of lake and land ready for a fishing or camping trip, a BBQ, or just a lovely afternoon hike. The kids will enjoy the playgrounds, and bikers are welcome to its soft surface trail around the lake. If you visit during the summer, you might even be able to catch a live music performance in Ozora Meadows, a large venue that can accommodate up to 3,500 people for outdoor events.
APEX Museum
The APEX name stands for African-American Panoramic Museum Experience, and it showcases history from a pure African-American perspective through many artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations, amongst other exhibits. You won’t be alone, however, since the museum has many knowledgeable docents who will guide you around and explain each part of the experience to you; in a way, it’s as if every day was part of Black History Month, which visitors will surely appreciate. Remember to visit the Trolley Theater once you’re there!
Coolray Field
If you’re a sports fan, you can enjoy over 65 games of great baseball a year in Gwinnett without ever having to leave for the big city. The Gwinnett Stripers play in Coolray Field and believe us, there’s not one bad seat in the whole stadium, and since the team is a triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, you know you’re in for a quality display each time. The night brings a different flavor in the field, of course, and you’ll be able to enjoy the many promotions and firework shows that are held after the sun sets.
Exhibit A(le)
Love craft beer? Gwinnett has you covered with Exhibit A(le) in Lawrenceville, where you’ll be met with over 30 beers on tap at any time. This growler shop is owned by Jesse Hachat, a practicing lawyer who knew there had to be more to life than combing through an endless parade of legal documents and testimonies (at least after hours). But wait, what is a “growler” we hear you ask? Well, if you’ve ever wanted to take home a half gallon of frothy, delicious draft beer, this reusable jug is the thing you need, which will allow you to carry 32 oz or 64 oz of your favorite brew from Exhibit A(le). It’s good for refills, too, just bring it with you next time you’re around!
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
A cultural, artistic and spiritual highlight not only in Gwinnett but in the whole Metro-Atlanta area, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is the largest Hindu temple (Mandir = temple) in the whole US. This Mandir is open to visitors of any religious denomination and showcases a vast wealth of rich Indian design in its architecture and the many mosaics and carvings that adorn the place. You’ll be able to lose yourself on the beauty and peace exuded from this place, Remember that although the place is open for visits, there is a dress code in place; no shorts or skirts above the knee and no tank tops or sleeveless tops are allowed inside. Also, photography is permitted only from outside the Mandir, but not inside the Mandir itself.
As you can see, there is plenty to see and do around Gwinnett County, GA if you know where to look. It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting family, stopping as part of a road trip, or just on business, because you’ll never get bored here. Also, if the whole family is with you on an outing, why not make the best of that time and have some of your chores get taken care of back home? It takes a lot of stress off your shoulders if you know the place is getting cleaned while you relax!
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