Best things to do with kids Near me

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is a historically rich institution committed to empowering students through academic excellence, research, and community service. With state-of-the-art facilities, including two research institutes and strong ties with the Research Triangle Park, NCCU prepares students for success in diverse fields, from business to education. The university offers a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering social and academic growth. With a range of student development programs and 15 Division I sports teams, NCCU continues to make a positive impact on both its students and the surrounding community in Durham, NC.

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• 1801 Fayetteville St, Durham, NC 27707

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The Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice, located in Durham, NC, honors the life and legacy of Pauli Murray, a groundbreaking figure in civil rights, law, feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights. The center is housed in Murray's childhood home, a National Historic Landmark, and offers programs that promote justice, equity, and activism through history, arts, and community engagement. The center's educational efforts focus on Pauli Murray's significant contributions to desegregation, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ equality. Visitors can explore exhibits, participate in community dialogues, and attend workshops that connect Murray's work to contemporary social justice issues.

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• 906 Carroll St, Durham, NC 27701

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Meredith College offers a wide range of summer programs designed for students of all ages and interests. These camps provide opportunities in areas such as sports, arts, STEM, writing, and music, with a focus on both fun and skill development. Some of the highlighted camps include basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, and various creative arts programs like dance, theater, and visual arts. There are also specialized camps for STEM education, including the Growing Engineers, Mathematicians & Scientists (GEM) program and the Meredith College S.T.E.A.M. camp. With expert instructors and engaging activities, these programs create a vibrant, enriching environment for campers to explore their passions.

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• 3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC

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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.

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• 60 Coble Lakes Estate, Lillington, NC 27546

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Trolley Pub Raleigh offers a unique, fun, and social way to explore the city with friends, family, or colleagues on a pedal-powered party bike. Guests can enjoy a two-hour private or public tour, visiting local pubs and attractions while enjoying beverages and music. The experience includes a Bluetooth sound system, motor assist, and a party captain to ensure everyone has a great time. The Trolley Pub is perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and team-building events. Whether for a relaxed ride or an energetic pub crawl, Trolley Pub offers a memorable adventure in Raleigh.

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• 323 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601

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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.

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

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Bull City Escape is an escape room experience located in Durham, NC. It offers private bookings for friends, families, corporate teams, and visitors looking for an exciting adventure. Participants can solve puzzles, crack codes, and work together to escape themed rooms within a set time. The facility is known for its unique and challenging puzzles, as well as its engaging and friendly staff. It's a great option for team-building, family outings, or a fun activity for tourists in the area.

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• 2020 W Main St Suite 300, Durham, NC 27705

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The Durham County Wildlife Club (DCWC), established in the 1970s, promotes outdoor activities like trap and skeet shooting, archery, and fishing. The club offers well-maintained facilities, including shooting ranges, an archery range, and a stocked lake. With a 96-acre property, it provides a clubhouse, picnic areas, and ample space for recreation. DCWC also focuses on youth involvement, offering programs that help young members develop outdoor skills and appreciate wildlife conservation. Youth can participate in shooting, archery, and fishing, learning responsibility and discipline in a safe environment.

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• 3616 Hopson Rd, Morrisville, NC 27560

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The North Carolina Forest Service operates six Educational State Forests (ESFs) that aim to educate the public, especially schoolchildren, about forest environments. Each forest features self-guided trails, tree identification signs, a forest education center, and a “Talking Tree” trail. Educational forest rangers offer classes aligned with North Carolina’s science curriculum, enhancing learning for school and youth groups. The forests include Clemmons, Holmes, Jordan Lake, Mountain Island, Turnbull Creek, and Tuttle, all providing hands-on educational experiences about forestry and conservation.

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• 2256 Old U.S. Hwy 70, Clayton, NC 27520

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Cub House Playspace is an indoor play center located in Clayton, NC, designed for children aged 6 and under. It offers a variety of activities, including soft play areas, a dedicated infant zone for children under 2, and seasonal toy rotations. The space is perfect for parents who want a safe and fun environment for their little ones to explore and socialize. In addition to open play, Cub House offers party packages, drop-off care, and special programs like the Curious Cubs Discovery Club, which focuses on S.T.E.A.M. activities. It also hosts Parent’s Night Out events, giving parents a chance to enjoy some time to themselves. The facility is comfortable year-round with temperature control, ensuring fun no matter the weather.

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• 1621 NC-42, Clayton, NC 27520

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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.​

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

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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.

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• 1 Battleship Rd, Wilmington, NC

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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.

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• 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28214

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Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is a premier outdoor destination in western North Carolina, located approximately 25 miles southeast of Asheville. The park's centerpiece is the iconic 315-foot granite monolith known as Chimney Rock, which offers visitors panoramic 75-mile views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Accessible via a 26-story elevator or the Outcroppings Trail featuring over 500 steps, the summit provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition to the Chimney Rock itself, the park boasts a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, including paths leading to the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls—one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The park's diverse ecosystems support over 90 rare plant species and offer opportunities for wildlife viewing.

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• 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720

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The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, located in Flat Rock, North Carolina, preserves the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and writer Carl Sandburg. Known as Connemara, this 264-acre estate was Sandburg's residence from 1945 until his death in 1967. During his time here, he produced over a third of his published works.​ Visitors can explore the historic home, which remains furnished as it was during the Sandburg family's occupancy, including Sandburg's extensive collection of approximately 12,000 books. The site also features a working dairy goat farm, reflecting the interests of Sandburg's wife, Lilian, who raised champion goats. Additionally, the property offers five miles of hiking trails, scenic pastures, woodlands, and gardens.​

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• 1800 Little River Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731

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Sliding Rock is a popular natural water slide located in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina. This 60-foot sloping boulder allows visitors to slide down into an 8-foot deep pool of chilly mountain water, typically ranging between 50-60°F. It's a favorite spot for families and adventure seekers during the warmer months. Key Information: Seasonal Operation: Open year-round, but lifeguards are on duty, and restrooms/changing facilities are available daily from 10 AM to 6 PM between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Admission Fee: $5 per person during staffed hours; children 3 and under are free. Outside these hours, access is free, but facilities are closed. Safety Guidelines: Children under 7 must slide with an adult. Only life jackets and children's puddle jumpers are permitted as flotation devices. Sliding is allowed in a sitting position only. Amenities: Observation decks for non-sliders, restrooms, and changing rooms available during staffed hours. Tips: The area can become crowded between noon and 4 PM; arriving early is recommended. Water shoes and durable swimwear are advised due to the rocky surface.

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• US-276, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

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Discovery Place Science in Uptown Charlotte is an immersive science and technology museum designed to spark curiosity and inspire learning for visitors of all ages. The museum features interactive exhibits, including vibrant aquariums, high-tech lab spaces for hands-on experimentation, and a living rainforest that immerses guests in tropical sights and sounds. Families can explore three levels of science fun, participate in live science shows, and enjoy educational programs that make science engaging and accessible. With its diverse offerings, Discovery Place Science is a must-visit destination for those seeking an educational and entertaining experience in Charlotte.

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• 301 N Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202

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The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR), located in Bryson City, North Carolina, offers scenic train excursions through the picturesque landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains. Established in 1988 and operated by American Heritage Railways since 1999, GSMR provides heritage and freight rail services along the historic Murphy Branch line, attracting approximately 200,000 passengers annually. Passengers can choose from various excursions, including the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, a 4½-hour roundtrip journey covering 44 miles with a one-hour layover at the gorge . The Tuckasegee River Excursion offers a relaxing ride through the scenic river valley . Special event trains, such as THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, provide themed experiences for families and children . In addition to train rides, GSMR hosts events like Railfest, a three-day celebration of railroading heritage featuring live entertainment, local vendors, and activities for all ages . The railroad also offers combination packages like Raft & Rail and Rail & Trail, allowing guests to extend their adventure with outdoor activities .

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• 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713

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