Summer Fun, Georgia Style: Inclusive Activities for Adults with I/DD

Summer in Georgia means longer days, warmer weather, and more chances to get outside, get active, and get connected. For adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), the season is full of possibilities, but having the right resources makes all the difference.

Here’s a fresh list of summer activities that are fun, accessible, and supported by local Georgia programs.

1. Dig In: Accessible Gardening

Gardening is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy the season. It offers structure, sensory engagement, and a clear sense of accomplishment, plus it’s easy to adapt to all ability levels.

Where to Try It in Georgia:

  • Callanwolde Fine Arts Center (Decatur): Wheelchair-accessible Ability Garden.

  • Access Grows (Metro Atlanta): Adaptive raised-bed gardens for adults with disabilities.

  • Fulton County Community Gardens: Affordable garden plots in various neighborhoods.

Pro tip: Start a garden journal to track progress and plant growth. It adds routine and reflection to the experience.

2. Walk, Roll, or Stroll

Group walks are simple to plan and great for both physical and mental health. Whether it’s a guided nature walk or a casual morning loop, it’s a low-barrier way to get moving and connect socially.

Where to Walk:

  • Arabia Mountain PATH: Smooth, paved, and scenic - great for walkers and wheelchair users alike.

  • Chattahoochee River Trails: Multiple ADA-accessible trailheads with shaded picnic areas.

Idea: Create a “Trail Passport” and stamp each walk to make it a fun summer goal

3. Outdoor Art Days

Art isn’t just for studios. Take the supplies outside and let nature inspire the creativity. Paint, draw, sculpt, or build - no experience needed.

Georgia-Based Art Resources:

  • Studio 23 Atlanta: Art programs designed for neurodiverse adults.

  • ScrappyShak (Sautee Nacoochee): Summer art classes tailored for adults with disabilities.

  • Art for Life (Buford): Mixed media and painting sessions for all levels.

Bonus activity: Use leaves, twigs, and flowers for nature collages.

4. Sounds of Summer: Music Events

Music brings people together - no stage required. A simple speaker and a good playlist can create an instant vibe. Add instruments like tambourines or maracas for a participatory experience.

Where to Listen in Georgia:

  • Woodlands Garden (Decatur): Live summer performances in a peaceful setting.

  • Local community centers and libraries often host free summer music days.

Tip: Curate a shared “Summer Jam” playlist and let each participant choose a favorite song.

5. Cool Down with Water Play

Not everyone wants to swim, but water-based activities like sponge relays, mist tents, or splash zones are inclusive and low-pressure.

Accessible Outdoor Spots:

  • Vogel State Park: Lake access, paddle boats, and gentle shoreline areas.

  • Cloudland Canyon: Shaded areas and streams for easy splash breaks.

Safety tip: Always have towels, non-slip shoes, and drinking water on hand.

6. Grow It, Cook It

Connect gardening and cooking by preparing simple meals or snacks using fresh herbs and veggies. This reinforces independence, builds practical life skills, and it tastes great.

InCommunity’s Art & Food Program (Marietta): Gardening and culinary activities built into programming.

Try things like:

  • Cucumber water

  • Garden salsa

  • Herb butter

All quick, low-cook, and perfect for warm weather.

7. Volunteer with Purpose

Giving back boosts confidence, creates structure, and makes people feel part of something bigger. Many organizations in Georgia welcome volunteers of all abilities.

Fun shouldn’t be an afterthought. With the right planning and the right partners, summer can be a season of growth, laughter, and community for adults with I/DD. Georgia offers the space, the support, and the sunshine to make it all happen.

Sherane Heron