From its early days, Piedmont Park has been a popular destination for parents and kids in search of playful fun. While the park's Phoenix Wheel (an early Ferris wheel), Shoot the Chutes (a water slide for boats), and Thompson's Scenic Railway (an early roller coaster) from the 1895 Cotton States and International Exposition midway are long gone, its two playgrounds continue to attract families and children year-round.

The Piedmont Exposition held its large expositions in Piedmont Park.