Best things to do with kids in Cary

This two-acre wooded park, located behind Wake Forest Town Hall, offers picnic tables and paved trails for visitors to enjoy a peaceful day in nature.

• 20 mi away

• 401 Elm Ave., Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Cool off at our newly renovated aquatic facility featuring a modern splash pad operating daily throughout summer. Enjoy our expanded amenities including a basketball court, multi-sport court, updated playground equipment, and the Caterpillar Stage. Three picnic shelters provide perfect spaces for family gatherings, with continuing improvements enhancing visitor experience.

• 20.1 mi away

• 325 McCullers Drive, Clayton, NC, 27520

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The Makery is a creative space for artists of all skill levels, offering a collaborative studio environment, art classes, workshops, and a curated gallery. The Makery provides resources for individuals to work on their art in a supportive community, with access to various equipment and tools. They offer a range of classes, including pottery, painting, fibers, printmaking, and more, for both adults and children. Additionally, the space hosts exhibitions and events, allowing artists to showcase their work. Membership options are available for those interested in joining the community and utilizing the studio space for their creative projects.

• 20.1 mi away

• 317 E Roosevelt Ave. , Wake Forest, NC, United States, North Carolina

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Main Street Park, located in the center of Rolesville, offers a range of outdoor amenities including four rentable shelters, a charming gazebo, an open play field, two playgrounds, and over a mile of scenic greenway trails. Shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless reserved in advance.

• 20.2 mi away

• 200 South Main Street, Rolesville, NC, 27571

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The new museum, located behind the historic Calvin Jones House, combines modern architecture with a nod to the past. The space is designed to resemble a nineteenth-century barn and features high windows, exposed beams, and climate-controlled areas to protect the museum’s valuable exhibits. The museum includes an auditorium, exhibit hall, library, and the Edwin G. Wilson Reception Gallery, named in honor of Wake Forest University Provost Emeritus, Edwin G. Wilson.

• 20.4 mi away

• 414 N. Main Street, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Explore the beauty of Forest Ridge Park, spanning 587 acres along Falls Lake. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, fishing, nature programs, and scenic picnic areas. Don’t miss the seasonal paddle tours and loaner equipment like binoculars and fishing gear. A perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts!

• 20.4 mi away

• 2100 Old NC Hwy 98, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Located in the Town of Wake Forest, this one-and-a-half-acre park features the Alston-Massenburg Center, a playground with swings, sandbox with excavators, X-Wave, and a spiral slide. There’s also a picnic shelter, tables, and grills. The park’s sprayground opens in late April and closes at the end of September, with specific hours for public enjoyment.

• 20.5 mi away

• 416 N. Taylor Street, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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The Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography is located at West Point on the Eno, a 404-acre park in Durham, NC. The museum showcases the historic photography of Hugh Mangum, a Durham photographer active in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore Mangum's portraits, which capture the lives of people in the rural South. The museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from mid-January to mid-December, with free admission. It is a part of the park's historical offerings, alongside the West Point Mill and other preserved sites.

• 20.5 mi away

• 5101 N Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27704

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Experience the rich history and natural beauty of Wake Forest at E. Carroll Joyner Park. This scenic 117-acre park features restored farm buildings, a pecan grove, and a 1,000-seat amphitheater for the Six Sundays in Spring concert series. Visitors can explore tranquil spaces like the Walker Garden and Performance Garden, along with three miles of walking trails and a stunning 2,000-foot stone ribbon wall. The state-of-the-art Joyner Park Community Center blends seamlessly with its surroundings, offering a modern gym, walking track, dance studio, and versatile activity rooms, while preserving the park’s rustic charm.

• 20.6 mi away

• 701 Harris Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587

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Discover the historic Robertson’s Mill Site & Dam, a centerpiece of the Eagle Rock community since the 1820s. Once a bustling hub of economic activity, the site now offers recreational opportunities around its serene mill pond. The area also holds archaeological significance, providing a fascinating glimpse into early construction and milling techniques. A must-visit for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

• 20.6 mi away

• 6307 Robertson Pond Road, Wendell, NC, 27591

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Located in the heart of Wake Forest, this park features baseball fields, basketball courts, a playground, picnic tables, and charcoal grills, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

• 20.7 mi away

• 800 E. Juniper Ave., Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Robertson Millpond Preserve offers an 85-acre retreat for paddling, fishing, and exploring nature. Enjoy the historic landmark, geocaching, and Junior Park Explorer activities. A hidden gem in Wake County!

• 20.8 mi away

• 6333 Robertson Pond Road, Wendell, NC, 27591

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The Wake Forest Reservoir invites visitors to explore soft trails, paddle on the lake, or fish in designated areas. Featuring a historic water plant site and trails created by local volunteers, it’s a peaceful spot for outdoor adventures.

• 21 mi away

• Wake Forest Reservoir, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Enjoy a relaxing self-guided float down one of North Carolina's scenic waterways, perfect for family outings or romantic trips. Encounter wildlife and serene landscapes during your 2-5 hour adventure.

• 21.3 mi away

• 2975 Covered Bridge Rd., Clayton, NC, 27527

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J.B. Flaherty Park in Wake Forest features 100 acres of recreational space. Enjoy lighted sports fields, playgrounds, ponds, and tennis courts, alongside a picnic shelter and community center. A perfect spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.

• 21.5 mi away

• 1100 N White St, Wake Forest, NC 27587

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Fantasy Lake Adventure Park in Wake Forest, North Carolina, offers a 65-acre crystal-clear lake with activities like scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and an inflatable water park. The park features online ticketing to ensure availability and hosts food trucks on most weekends, making it a popular spot for outdoor fun in a beautiful natural setting.

• 21.6 mi away

• 3601 Quarry Rd., Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Wendell Country Club combines affordability with quality on its fun, fast, and friendly course. Featuring water on 12 holes and par 3s that test your skills, the layout suits golfers of all abilities. Enjoy great food at Divots Grill, shop the pro shop, or cool off in the pool. Wendell offers something for everyone.

• 22.1 mi away

• 180 Jake May Drive, Wendell, NC, 27591

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Create unforgettable memories at Naylor Family Farm, where children can experience the joy of interacting with friendly farm animals up close. Our personally-tended menagerie includes gentle goats, sociable pigs, and playful calves, all eager to meet and be fed by visitors. Our experienced staff provides fascinating insights about each animal, creating an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Animal feed is available for just $1.00, making this an affordable and enriching outdoor adventure.

• 22.2 mi away

• 6016 US 401 North, Fuquay-Varina, NC, 27526

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We are the Crihfield Family, Andrew, Lori, Cullen Ceiran, Chase, and our dogs Lucy, Baxter, and Olive. We have owned Spring Haven Farm since 2002. Lori was the horseback riding instructor for UNC lesson programs, and in addition to that, we did 150 private lessons a week. We started the agritourism festivals, Goat Yoga, and our other events in the fall of 2016. We have loved sharing our farm with the community and everyone who comes and visits! We plan on doing this for a very long time!

• 22.4 mi away

• 5306 Homer Ruffin Rd., Chapel Hill, NC, 27516

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Welcome to the Wendell Community Center, an expansive 18,000-square-foot venue perfect for life's celebrations. Since 2000, this versatile space has featured multiple room configurations and a professional 40-foot stage, ideal for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.

• 22.5 mi away

• 601 W. Third Street, Wendell, NC, 27591

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Beautiful Together Animal Sanctuary is a nonprofit dedicated not only to rescuing animals but also to creating enriching, healing experiences for children. Their youth programs are rooted in the belief that connecting with animals and nature fosters empathy, confidence, and emotional well-being. Children can participate in hands-on activities at the sanctuary, such as caring for rescued animals, helping with feeding and grooming, and learning about animal welfare. The sanctuary also offers nature-based literacy and enrichment programs that blend education with the therapeutic benefits of time spent outdoors and with animals. These programs are designed to empower kids while nurturing kindness and compassion through meaningful animal interactions.

• 22.5 mi away

• 161 Sanctuary Ln, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

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The Spa at Bell House, located in historic Pittsboro, NC, offers a range of luxurious services designed to help you relax, restore, and unwind. With exceptional care and Southern hospitality, the spa provides services like skincare treatments, bodywork, massage, and salon treatments. As a proud partner of Eminence Organic Skincare, the spa also offers premium skincare products. The tranquil atmosphere and personalized services aim to enhance overall well-being, providing a rejuvenating experience for each guest.

• 22.7 mi away

• 74 E Salisbury St, Pittsboro, NC 27312

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Historic Stagville, located in Durham, NC, preserves the history of one of North Carolina’s largest plantations in the 19th century, where over 900 enslaved individuals lived and worked. The site includes the Bennehan family house, built in 1799, the Horton Grove slave quarters from 1851, and a barn from 1860. Spanning 165 acres, Stagville offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of slavery in the region through research, preservation, and descendant engagement. The site is free for outdoor self-guided tours, with guided tours available for a small fee.

• 22.7 mi away

• 5828 Old Oxford, Highway, Durham, NC 27712

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Wendell Parks and Recreation offers track-out, spring break, and summer camps designed to provide a well-rounded experience for children in grades K-5. With activities including sports, arts, crafts, educational enrichment, and field trips, our camps offer something for everyone. We provide a fun and educational environment, ensuring that every child has a memorable and enjoyable time. Field trips are scheduled throughout the camp session, and parents will receive detailed information prior to each trip.

• 23.2 mi away

• 15 E. Fourth Street, Wendell, NC, 27591

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Discover the charm of the Wendell Public Library, serving the community with diverse offerings and resources.

• 23.4 mi away

• 207 S. Hollybrook Road, Wendell, NC, 27591

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Eno River State Park, located just 10 miles from downtown Durham, offers a serene escape with its scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife-rich environment. Perfect for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, the park features camping options and serves as a gateway to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Admission is free for day visits, with fees for camping and reserved facilities.

• 23.5 mi away

• 6101 Cole Mill Rd., Durham, NC, 27705

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Located in Harnett County 40 miles southwest of Raleigh, Raven Rock State Park boasts the namesake 150-foot crystalline structure that overlooks the Cape Fear River. The trails along the bluffs that lead to the rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel. Alternate hikes towards the river reward visitors with landmarks like Lanier Falls Rapids, Fish Traps Rapids, and the remains of the Northington Lock and Dam. Other accesses offer bridle trails, bike trails, and a campground with RV camping and camper cabins.

• 24.1 mi away

• 3009 Raven Rock Road, Lillington, NC, 27546

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Embark on a global wildlife journey through hands-on encounters with rescued animal ambassadors from Australia to Africa. This unique facility brings the world's habitats to life through educational presentations and interactive experiences. Visit rain or shine to create lasting memories, with admission starting at $10-15.

• 24.2 mi away

• 1489 Live Oak Rd., Coats, NC, 27521

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Little River Park in Zebulon is a nature lover’s haven with a flowing river, sandy beaches, and peaceful fishing spots. Perfect for relaxing by the water or enjoying the sounds of nature.

• 24.2 mi away

• 1800 W. Gannon Ave., Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Visit our PlayLand for an exciting day of fun, including a splash pad and various outdoor activities. Enjoy educational field trips that offer an interactive, hands-on experience for students, or celebrate birthdays in one of our picnic areas. Open daily, with extended hours on weekends, our farm is a great place for families and school groups to connect with nature.

• 24.6 mi away

• 703 Tarboro Road, Youngsville, NC, 27596

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Horton Grove Nature Preserve is a sprawling 708-acre haven with over eight miles of trails, including a family-friendly interpretive path. The preserve highlights the history of Black families once enslaved on this land, combining natural beauty with a powerful narrative of resilience and freedom.

• 25 mi away

• 7360 Jock Road, Bahama, NC, 27503

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Eno River Farm is a family-friendly destination committed to enriching the community through integrity, hard work, and exceptional service. Known for its fresh, locally grown produce like strawberries, blueberries, and pumpkins, the farm also offers homemade ice cream crafted daily with its own berries. Seasonal highlights include garden flowers, pecans, Christmas trees, and more.

• 25.9 mi away

• 2127 Saint Marys Rd., Hillsborough, NC, 27278

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Whitley Park, located on four acres at 601 N. Wakefield Street, includes two picnic shelters, a playground, two tennis courts, restrooms, and a concert pavilion, making it a versatile space for recreation and events.

• 26 mi away

• 601 N. Wakefield Street, Zebulon, NC, 27597

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The Zebulon Wake County Library offers a welcoming space for discovery and lifelong learning.

• 26.1 mi away

• 1000 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Gill Street Park offers a range of facilities, including an outdoor basketball court, two playgrounds, and picnic tables, making it a great spot for family outings and casual recreation.

• 26.6 mi away

• 600 N. Privette St., Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Lake Michie Boathouse is located within Lake Michie Park and Marina in Bahama, NC, offering a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy largemouth bass fishing and rent motorboats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the scenic lake. The facility features ADA-accessible amenities, such as a boathouse, dock, and canoe/kayak launch. The lake is open seasonally from mid-March to early November and provides a peaceful environment for outdoor recreation. Additionally, campsites are available in the nearby Spruce Pine Lodge and Holly Grove areas for those seeking a more immersive nature experience.

• 26.6 mi away

• 2802 Bahama Road Bahama, NC 27503

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