New Experience Explores Atlanta’s Sports Legacy Through Hands-On Play and Interactive Exhibits Featuring the Atlanta Hawks, Falcons, Braves, Dream and Atlanta United
ATLANTA (May 19, 2026) – Atlanta History Center has drafted Atlanta’s professional sports teams for the new iteration of its popular exhibition, Goizueta Children’s Experience. Opening May 23, 2026, the re-imagined experience, with the theme Atlanta Sports, celebrates the Atlanta Hawks, Braves, Falcons, Dream and Atlanta United, their legacies, and the impact they have on the city, including its youngest sports fans. The new Goizueta Children’s Experience is one of six new exhibits that will launch in 2026 as Atlanta History Center celebrates its 100th anniversary.
The 5,000 square-foot gallery, which originally opened in January, 2025, features interactive exhibits and hands-on play designed just for kids. The newly revamped exhibit features games, activities and storytelling that emphasize teamwork, perseverance, and hometown pride. From dressing up as a player to trying out interactive challenges, kids will step onto the field to learn how sports have shaped Atlanta’s identity. All of the teams created training videos that break down how their players prepare to perform at their best.
The Goizueta Children's Experience was designed to introduce a new theme each year and has been Atlanta’s go-to destination for families since it opened. Its first theme, “Our Great Big City,” highlighted the local landmarks and iconic spots that make Atlanta a great place to live.
“Our re-imagined children’s experience is more than a play space—it’s a gateway to discovering Atlanta’s story through the teams and moments that unite our city,” said Sheffield Hale, President and CEO of Atlanta History Center. “This new sports theme invites families to connect, explore, and learn together, and reflects our commitment to a one-of-a-kind, ever-evolving exhibition that keeps families coming back.”
“The Goizueta Children’s Experience has been a big hit with families since it debuted last year because it makes every visit feel like an adventure,” said Pola Changnon, Chief Content Officer of Atlanta History Center. “We collaborated with Atlanta’s pro teams to bring the 2026 version to life in a way that celebrates Atlanta sports and gives kids and families a chance to explore that legacy together while discovering how teamwork, perseverance, and community shape both the game and the city we call home.”
“The Dream’s inclusion in this incredible exhibit highlights the importance of sports in our community,” said Aisha Greenlee, the Atlanta Dream’s director of community impact. “We are honored to represent women’s sports and empower girls. Our team’s name, chosen by Atlanta, is a reminder to young people that their dreams matter. We’re excited to partner with the Atlanta History Center.”
“Atlanta United is proud to be part of an experience that brings the energy of our club and the spirit of Atlanta sports to life for the next generation of fans,” said Mike Ridley, Atlanta United Vice President of Marketing. "The Goizueta Children’s Experience is a creative and meaningful way to connect kids and families to the values we share while celebrating the role sports play in shaping our city.”
Highlights of the 2026 Children’s Experience Include:
- The Immersive Projection Wall: animation and playful storytelling combine to celebrate Atlanta’s professional sports teams and the unique rituals that define them. From pre-game traditions to in-game hype moments, each touchpoint brings local fandom to life.
- Interactive Scent Station: This quirky station features scents from the Ernie Johnson broadcast booth at Truist Park, with a scenic view from the announcer’s perch overlooking the scoreboard and the field below.
- 1996 Olympics: Celebrate the legacy of the 1996 Olympics by curating your own digital collection with the Be a Collector experience.
- ATL All-Star Training Corner: two storage lockers, a picture wall with hidden athlete-related objects and a warm-up zone with videos showing real pro stretches and drills.
- Kids can see how they stack up against the pros and check their height, wingspan and hand size, while celebrating what makes their body strong. This station is a great photo op!
- Time Machine Climber: Embark on a journey through time on a colossal climber where kids can ascend to new heights, control a time dial for sensory surprises, and explore all-new history-themed games.
- Mini Fox Theatre: A dynamic stage where young imaginations take center stage. With ambient lighting and velvet drapery, the Mini Fox Theatre and Mighty Mo Organ create an intimate setting for storytelling and performance, encouraging kids to engage with new backdrops that include Truist Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and State Farm Arena.
- Tiny Toddler Town: Inspired by the Atlanta Dream, this cozy area is designed for little explorers (ages 1-3). Surrounded by plush, sports-inspired elements, including a basketball hoop, the space offers a safe environment for crawling, playing, and exploration.
- Creator Hub: A vibrant space with hands-on activities perfect for school groups, young learners, and their caregivers. It encourages creativity and collaboration in an environment designed for imaginative expression.
Designed for open-ended, imaginative play, the Goizueta Children’s Experience engages three main developmental groups: Crawlers and early walkers (1–3 years old), pre-K and kindergarten (4–5 years old), and first and second graders (6–8 years old). The bilingual approach ensures the experience is inclusive, catering to both English and Spanish-speaking guests.
In addition to the new Goizueta Children’s Experience, the Atlanta History Center offers a variety of engaging activities and spaces for families with children to enjoy throughout their visit. From exploring the historic Smith Farm and outdoor playhouses to climbing aboard the beloved locomotive, families can immerse themselves in hands-on history. Regular programs like Toddler Story Time, family holiday events, and interactive activities throughout the exhibits ensure that there’s always something new to discover.
About Atlanta History Center
Founded in 1926 by citizens determined to preserve their city’s past, Atlanta History Center is celebrating 100 years in 2026 as one of the nation’s premier history institutions. Located on a 33-acre campus, the all-inclusive destination features the award-winning Goizueta Children’s Experience, the immersive Cyclorama: The Big Picture, and three historic houses: the 1920s Swan House, the 1860s Smith Farm, and the 1830s Wood Family Cabin. The campus also includes nine curated gardens within Goizueta Gardens and the Kenan Research Center, home to the Cherokee Garden Library. Atlanta History Center also owns and operates Atlanta History Center Midtown, home to the Margaret Mitchell House, along with gallery space and event venues. Learn more at AtlantaHistoryCenter.com.
