Being all grown up doesn't mean you can’t enjoy Atlanta's family-friendly icons, like the Georgia Aquarium or LEGOLAND. But in recent years several classic Atlanta venues have started activities that are aimed at adults only — you could call them 21-and-up takeovers. Some involve fundraising, others wine. And some of the 21-and-up events are just geared toward having fun without worrying about kids in the crowd.
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Here's when and where adults can have these spots to themselves for a few hours:
Non-members, $100.95
Periodically, the aquarium offers its very popular sleepovers for adults-only, meaning minimum age 21. The event includes a behind-the-scenes tour of backstage areas, along with gallery access and falling asleep next to marine life in the water.
The aquarium is at 225 Baker St. NW, 404-581-4000.
7 p.m.-9 p.m., third Thursday of each month, $29.95 at the door
Themed activities and the fun LEGOLAND is known for make this a must-see. Plus, no one under age 18 is allowed. One of the more notable experiences include the LEGO® Factory Tour and Kingdom Quest laser ride.
The tribute to our favorite DIY toy takes place at 3500 Peachtree Road NE, 404-848-9252.
18 and up after 9 p.m., pay as you go
You may tell yourself you're only riding go-karts and playing laser games for the kids, but the adults-only hours at Andretti make that lie obvious. Enjoy your special time with beers, sports viewing and lots of racing and games. If you're a savvy spender, you'll want to try Turbo Tuesdays, when full-price races are half off until closing time.
The Marietta location is at 1255 Roswell Road, phone 678-496-9530; find the Roswell venue at 11000 Alpharetta Hwy, 770-992-5688.
Second and fourth Tuesdays, June to September
Included with general admission, which starts at $10 daily for adults
Kids aren't banished, but only adults can enjoy the cash bar at this event. Live music and the chance to bring your own gourmet picnic definitely put this in the adult entertainment category.
The center is located at 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, 770-992-2055.
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Free for members; individual memberships begin at $75, with discounts for students and seniors and group rates for families
Periodically the High Museum hosts an adults-only tour for Museum members only. It's billed as a "date night" and gives insider info on new galleries, the permanent collection and other favorite (and often overlooked) spots in the museum. Speaking of date night, be sure to return for Friday Jazz the third Friday of each month.
The High is at 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, 404-733-4444.
It may not be as well-known as LEGOLAND, but Joystick calls out to the teenage nerd with old-school pinball and cabinet games like "Street Fighter II." But adults who like those games (and the 25 cent price tag) need only bide their time for the 21-and-up takeover. It occurs nightly at 8 p.m.
Joystick is located at 427 Edgewood Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-525-3002.
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