Best things to do with kids in Cary

Embark on unforgettable adventures with Cape Fear River Adventures, your gateway to outdoor excitement near major NC cities. Choose from an extensive selection of water activities including kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and river tubing. From beginner-friendly excursions to challenging overnight expeditions, we offer specialized programs including whitewater kayaking, scenic rafting, and youth camps for ages 8-17.

• 26.7 mi away

• 100 South Main Street, Lillington, NC, 27546

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This 47-acre park features a comprehensive range of amenities, including a championship 18-hole disc golf course, picnic shelters, a tot lot, athletic fields, basketball courts, and walking trails. It provides a family-friendly environment, making it ideal for sports, relaxation, and outdoor activities.

• 26.7 mi away

• 401 S. Arendell Avenue, Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Two Dachshund Fiber and Lavender Farm, a 17-acre agricultural oasis in Franklin County, NC. Our unique agritourism destination offers guided educational tours showcasing our diverse family of fiber-producing animals including alpacas, sheep, llamas, Angora goats, and Angora rabbits. Meet our working farm animals from vigilant donkeys to free-range chickens and Guineas. Discover the art of fiber processing and lavender cultivation while browsing our well-curated farm store featuring local artisan crafts. Visit year-round by appointment to experience the magic of sustainable farming.

• 27.5 mi away

• 313 Cedar Creek Road, Franklinton, NC, 27525

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Your kids can enjoy a hands-on farm experience this summer! Caring for animals, tending to the garden, and taking part in themed weekly activities will create lasting memories. Camps are available for children ages 6-12, with flexible day or week-long options.

• 27.5 mi away

• 3620 Rosinburg Rd., Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Enjoy delicious BBQ specialties, sandwiches, and breakfast platters while overlooking the runway at the Johnston Regional Airport in Smithfield, NC, or in Lakeland, FL. Accessible by car or plane, this BBQ spot offers a scenic dining experience.

• 27.8 mi away

• 3149B Swift Creek Road, Smithfield, NC, 27577

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The Carolina Mudcats are a fun and family-friendly Minor League Baseball team based in Zebulon, NC! Perfect for a family outing, Mudcats games at Five County Stadium offer exciting baseball action, kid-themed nights, mascot appearances, delicious ballpark snacks, and fun between-inning games. As the Single-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, the Mudcats are a great way to introduce kids to the joy of baseball in a relaxed, affordable setting. Don’t miss themed events, fireworks, and more all season long!

• 28.7 mi away

• 1501 NC 39 Hwy PO Drawer 1218, Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Coble Water Ski School and Wakeboard Camp in Lillington, NC, offers a premier waterskiing experience for athletes of all levels. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the school provides personalized instruction for both beginners and advanced skiers, with expert coaching to help participants develop their skills on the water. With a focus on water skiing, wakeboarding, and other water sports, the school features private lessons, group training, and specialized camps. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique or simply enjoy a fun day on the water, Coble Ski School provides a supportive environment in a beautiful setting.

• 28.9 mi away

• 60 Coble Lakes Estate, Lillington, NC 27546

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Visit CATHIS Farm, a veteran-owned family enterprise offering sustainable farming and memorable events in Lillington. This working farm raises pastured meats while hosting seasonal celebrations including Spring's Sunflower Days, Fall's Pumpkin Hollow and Devils Playground, and Winter Lights. Enjoy farm-to-home delivery service across central North Carolina.

• 30 mi away

• 544 Falcon Road, Lillington, NC, 27546

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Take to the skies with our exhilarating aerial tours over Raleigh! Whether you're looking for the perfect gift or simply want to see the city from a new perspective, our helicopter and airplane tours offer spectacular views of the Raleigh skyline. Ideal for special occasions, our tours can accommodate small groups for a truly unforgettable experience.

• 30 mi away

• 450 Airport Rd, Ste 200, Louisburg, NC, 27549

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Tucker Lake is open in 2022 under the original Tucker Family Management. The Tucker Family built and opened Tucker Lake in 1990. Tucker Lake became the area's hot spot for summer fun and relaxation. Located just 30 minutes from Raleigh, Clayton, Fayetteville, Clinton, and Smithfield near the intersection of Interstates 40 and 95. Tucker Lake is a 30-acre lake fed by clear, spring water with white sand beaches. Whether you want to relax on the beach, float in the water, take a plunge from the 167 ft. waterslide, picnic/grilling, or play volleyball, Tucker Lake is the place to be for your summer entertainment. RV campground is now open adjacent to the lake with 109 full hookup sites. No tent camping is available.

• 32.1 mi away

• 3025 Allens Crossroads Rd., Benson, NC, 27504

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Journey through Aloha Safari Park, where rescue meets education. This 60-acre sanctuary, opened in 2010, houses up to 450 animals including tigers, zebras, monkeys, and lemurs. Under the dedicated care of Lee Crutchfield and family, this working zoo provides a peaceful refuge for exotic and native species alike.

• 37.7 mi away

• 159 Mini Lane, Cameron, NC, 28326

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Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre is one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in North Carolina, offering a nostalgic movie-watching experience.

• 40.2 mi away

• 3336 Raleigh Rd., Henderson, NC, 27537

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Discover the Animal Park at the Conservators Center, where wildlife education comes alive. Journey along a three-quarter-mile guided path to meet over 20 species of animals. Offering public tours, private experiences, and educational programs, this wild retreat provides intimate wildlife encounters through knowledgeable guides and seasonal events.

• 43.7 mi away

• 676 E. Hughes Mill Road, Burlington, NC, 27217

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Visit this orchard for fruit-picking opportunities, famous apple cider slushies, and donuts. It features a playground, a fishing pond, and Granny's Kitchen with a gift shop. Seasonal events occur throughout the year.

• 45.3 mi away

• 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd., Ramseur, NC, 27316

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Experience the cosmos like never before at our planetarium, home to the world's highest pixel density dome. Enjoy live shows hosted by expert astronomers, where you can explore the stars and ask your biggest questions about the universe. Tickets are affordable, making it an accessible adventure for all ages.

• 50.1 mi away

• Lyons Science Building, 1200 Murchison Road, Fayetteville, NC, 28301

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Experience the natural beauty of Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, spanning two counties along the Virginia border. This 50,000-acre reservoir paradise features eight access areas with multiple boat ramps and hundreds of campsites. Enjoy premium fishing in one of the East Coast's top lakes, along with modern amenities including community buildings and beach access. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with fees from $15 to $145 nightly.

• 50.5 mi away

• 6254 Satterwhite Point Road, Henderson, NC, 27537

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Richland Creek Zipline Canopy Tour is one of the first ziplines in NC, has provided thrills, laughs, and unforgettable memories to locals and tourists alike since 2008. Experience the thrill of a lifetime on the Richland Creek Zip Line Canopy Tour. Soar through the scenic foothills of the Uwharrie Mountains on our 14 station zipline that consists of over a mile and a half of cable! Our course is built and operated to exceed the standards set forth by The Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT), Universal Zipline Technology (UZT), and The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and caters to all ages to ensure a great experience for the entire family. Some of the highlights of our tour is a stop at beautiful Mendenhall Falls along Richland Creek, three sky-bridges obstacles, and our longest line that is over 1400ft long! Our friendly staff will accompany your group and guide you through our exhilarating one and a half hour tour. Located less than 3 miles from the North Carolina Zoo, explore some of Randolph County's most scenic wilderness areas. We promise a unique outdoor experience you will never forget!

• 54.7 mi away

• 2728 Fairview Farm Rd., Asheboro, NC, 27205

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The North Carolina Zoo spans 500 acres and features natural habitat enclosures for animals like zebras, giraffes, and more. Located in Asheboro, it is one of the largest zoos of its kind in the United States.

• 56.3 mi away

• 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC, 27205

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Formerly Greensboro Children's Museum, this venue provides hands-on learning experiences for children and families, focusing on play, creation, outdoor exploration, and STEM activities.

• 59.6 mi away

• 220 North Church Street, Greensboro, NC, 27401

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Wet 'N Wild Emerald Pointe is the Carolina's favorite waterpark. One of the largest water parks in NC, the waterpark features over 36 water rides and family attractions. With over 3 million gallons of waterpark fun, Wet'n Wild Greensboro has been rated one of the Top 10 Water Parks in America. Sprawling across 41 acres, our park offers family-friendly fun, relaxation, great special events throughout the year, and a wide variety of family dining options for delicious foods and beverages. Join us for a whole summer of fun at Wet'n Wild water park near Greensboro, NC.

• 61 mi away

• 3910 South Holden Road, Greensboro, NC, 27406

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It’s A Zoo Life in Macclesfield, NC, offers a hands-on experience with exotic animals like zebras, lemurs, and kangaroos. Perfect for families, this unique destination allows visitors to interact with animals in their habitats, creating unforgettable memories while learning about wildlife.

• 62.1 mi away

• 4313 NC Hwy 42 West, Macclesfield, NC, 27852

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The Greensboro Science Center offers an engaging blend of an aquarium, museum, and zoo, where visitors can interact with zookeepers, watch live performances, and attend educational programs. From animal encounters to immersive exhibits, it’s a place where science and fun collide.

• 63.4 mi away

• 4301 Lawndale Drive, Greensboro, NC, 27455

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The Qubein Children’s Museum in High Point features 75,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits, an Outdoor Adventure Zone, and engaging educational programs for families.

• 69.9 mi away

• 200 Qubein Avenue, High Point, NC, 27262

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Lion’s Water Adventure in eastern NC is a thrilling destination for water fun. Highlights include three exciting slides, the state’s longest lazy river, and a kiddie splash zone. Perfect for families, it’s the ultimate spot for a day of adventure.

• 74.8 mi away

• 2602 W Vernon Ave., Kinston, NC, 28504

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Experience Elevated Wake Park, North Carolina's premier cable wakeboarding destination in Lexington. Features include the state's only full-size cable system, exciting aqua-park, professional lessons, and comprehensive rental equipment. Perfect for family adventures, birthday celebrations, and water sports enthusiasts, with flexible pricing options for every schedule.

• 76 mi away

• 220 Bryant Rd., Lexington, NC, 27292

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Kaleideum is an innovative museum combining arts, science, and exploration, created by merging two beloved institutions. With interactive exhibits and cultural programming, it’s a place where creativity and curiosity flourish for learners of all ages.

• 88.1 mi away

• 120 W 3rd St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

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Explore Dan Nicholas Park, a 330-acre recreational haven established in 1968. This family-friendly destination offers diverse attractions including a scenic campground, peaceful lake, classic carousel, train rides, gem mining, nature center with aquarium, and animal habitats. Enjoy free admission to many park features, making it perfect for memorable family outings.

• 89 mi away

• 6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC, 28146

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Hanging Rock State Park, just north of Winston-Salem, boasts picturesque trails leading to waterfalls, mountain views, and even caves. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and paddling, or relax at the lake. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a full range of activities.

• 92.8 mi away

• 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC, 27016

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Explore the historic Spencer Shops at the North Carolina Transportation Museum, which offers train rides, scenic excursions, and educational exhibits, including a historic roundhouse and themed events.

• 93 mi away

• 1 Samuel Spencer Dr., Spencer, NC, 28159

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Tiger World Endangered Wildlife Preserve promotes conservation through education. Tiger World, a nonprofit animal conservation and educational center, is committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and preservation of exotic animals. Our mission extends beyond safeguarding these creatures to fostering a profound dedication to the conservation and education of all threatened and endangered species. We are open to the public for educational guided tours and walkabout self-guided tours in Rockwell, NC. Our educational tours personally guide visitors throughout the preserve, learning about each animal and providing an individual hands-on experience. You will see the animals in a natural setting and have the opportunity to observe them running, playing, swimming, eating, sleeping, and interacting with their handlers.

• 97.7 mi away

• 4400 Cook Road, Rockwell, NC, 28138

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The Lazy 5 Ranch offers a safari-style adventure featuring over 750 animals from six continents. Visitors can tour by wagon or car, enjoying up-close encounters with exotic species. The ranch also hosts seasonal events and supports conservation efforts for endangered animals.

• 109.4 mi away

• 15100 Mooresville Rd., Mooresville, NC, 28115

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The Battleship North Carolina, moored on the Cape Fear River in Wilmington, NC, stands as a powerful tribute to World War II naval history. Commissioned in 1941, this fast battleship earned 15 battle stars for her service in the Pacific and was the most decorated U.S. battleship of the war. After decommissioning in 1947, she was saved from scrapping by a statewide campaign and opened to the public in 1962 as a memorial to the 11,000 North Carolinians who died in WWII. ​ Visitors can explore nine levels of the ship on self-guided tours, including crew quarters, engine rooms, gun turrets, and the bridge. Interactive exhibits and restored spaces offer an immersive experience into life aboard a WWII battleship. ​ The Battleship North Carolina is open daily and is a must-see for history enthusiasts and families alike.

• 117.3 mi away

• 1 Battleship Rd, Wilmington, NC

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Explore the Children's Museum of Wilmington, where imagination meets education for children ages 0-10. This downtown destination features four levels of interactive exhibits, engaging daily programs, and specialized camps led by qualified educators. Our nonprofit organization provides a safe, creative environment for hands-on learning and discovery.

• 117.6 mi away

• 116 Orange St., Wilmington, NC, 28401

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The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Uptown Charlotte, NC, is an interactive museum celebrating the history and heritage of NASCAR. Spanning 86,000 square feet, the Hall offers a blend of classic and present-day cars, immersive exhibits, and over 50 interactive experiences. Visitors can engage in activities like the Pit Crew Challenge, explore the banked Glory Road, and experience racing simulators. The venue also features a 278-seat High Octane Theater, the Hall of Honor, and rotating exhibits such as the "Hendrick 40 Years" display. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the NASCAR Hall of Fame provides an engaging experience for all ages.​

• 122.5 mi away

• 400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202

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The U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC, is a premier outdoor recreation facility spanning over 1,300 acres along the Catawba River. It offers a diverse range of activities for all ages and skill levels, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, zip-lining, mountain biking, and trail running. The Center also features seasonal activities like ice skating and hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as Tuck Fest and River Jam. With its commitment to promoting active lifestyles and environmental stewardship, the Whitewater Center provides an engaging and adventurous experience for visitors.

• 130.3 mi away

• 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28214

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Celebrate 50 years of family fun at Carowinds, the Carolinas' ultimate entertainment destination. Experience over 60 world-class rides, the region's finest waterpark, and Camp Snoopy. Enjoy authentic Carolina cuisine, live entertainment, and seasonal events throughout the year. Extended stays available at our premium hotel and scenic campground.

• 130.7 mi away

• 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte, NC, 28273

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