Best things to do with kids in the Triangle area

The Durham County Library is a key resource for the community, offering access to books, media, and various programs. You can check out books, participate in storytimes, and use resources like meeting rooms and computer services. They provide services for all ages, from kids to adults, and host signature programs like humanities events and STEAM services. The library system includes several locations across Durham, with flexible access to programs, resources, and events, making it a hub for learning and community connection.

• 1048.7 mi away

• 3605 Shannon Rd, Durham, NC 27707

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Discover Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, a magnificent outdoor destination featuring seven access points across Chatham County. The park offers over 1,000 diverse campsites, excellent boating facilities, and pristine swimming areas. Home to a thriving bald eagle population, the park provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors enjoy comprehensive amenities including boat rentals, picnic shelters, and educational facilities. Seasonal entrance fees apply, with free off-peak access.

• 1048.8 mi away

• 280 State Park Road, Apex, NC, 27517

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The Duke Basketball Museum, located at Duke University in Durham, NC, is a must-see for basketball fans and visitors. It celebrates the rich history and success of Duke's basketball program, showcasing memorabilia, trophies, and highlights from legendary players and coaches. The museum offers a look at Duke's iconic moments, from championship wins to individual achievements. Visitors can explore the history of the Blue Devils, with interactive exhibits that highlight the team's legacy in college basketball.

• 1048.8 mi away

• 306 Towerview Rd Schwartz-Butters Athletic Center, Durham, NC 27710

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The Forest History Society, located in Durham, NC, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of forests, forestry, and forest management. Through its extensive research collections, the society offers valuable resources for understanding the role of forests in global environmental and cultural history. The society supports education, provides archival collections, and hosts events focused on forest conservation, management, and history. It also offers digital exhibits and publications to engage the public and scholars alike in the study of forests' impact on our world.

• 1049.2 mi away

• 2925 Academy Rd, Durham, NC 27705

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The Sarah P. Duke Gardens consist of approximately 55 acres of landscaped and wooded areas at Duke University. There are 5 miles of allées, walks, and pathways throughout the gardens. The gardens are divided into four areas, the Historic Core and Terraces, the H.L Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, the William Louis Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, and the Doris Duke Center Gardens (including the Page-Rollins White Garden). The gardens are a memorial to Sarah Pearson Duke, mother of Mary Duke Biddle and wife of Benjamin N. Duke, one of Duke University's benefactors. There is a small shop and cafe available. While admission is free, parking fees apply.

• 1049.3 mi away

• 420 Anderson St., Durham, NC, 27705

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Duke Homestead State Historic Site in Durham, NC, preserves the historic home, farm, and tobacco factory of Washington Duke and his family. The site showcases the early farming life and the beginnings of their tobacco manufacturing business. Visitors can explore historic structures, including a tobacco curing barn, pack house, and the Duke family's home. The museum features exhibits on the history of tobacco farming, manufacturing, and advertising. Guided tours are available, and the site also offers educational programs and field trips. Admission is free, with a small fee for guided tours.

• 1049.4 mi away

• 2828 Duke Homestead Rd, Durham, NC 27705

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The Woodcroft Club is a premier recreational facility in Durham, NC, offering a variety of programs and amenities for individuals and families. The club features multiple tennis courts, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and social events, all within a welcoming, family-friendly environment. With activities for all ages, including youth camps, tennis lessons, swim teams, and more, Woodcroft Club is a great place for both fitness and community engagement. Membership is available to residents and non-residents alike.

• 1049.5 mi away

• 1203 W. Woodcroft Pkwy. Durham, NC. 27713

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The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University is a premier cultural institution in Durham, NC, showcasing a rich collection of contemporary and historical art. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions, offering visitors a dynamic experience of visual arts across diverse media and themes. Current and upcoming exhibits include works by renowned artists like Cannupa Hanska Luger and a collection focused on climate and environmental topics. Admission is always free, and the museum provides a welcoming space for students, families, and art enthusiasts. In addition to its exhibitions, the museum offers educational programs, guided tours, and a café for a well-rounded visit.

• 1049.5 mi away

• 2001 Campus Dr, Durham, NC 27705

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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.

• 1049.6 mi away

• 5101 N Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27704

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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.

• 1049.7 mi away

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

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Sky Zone Raleigh is a trampoline park offering activities like open jump, SkySlam, fitness classes, and dodgeball. Create lasting memories at this family-friendly venue that’s perfect for thrilling birthday parties or an active day out.

• 1050.1 mi away

• 1720 Guess Rd, Ste 90, Durham NC 27701

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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.

• 1050.3 mi away

• 906 Carroll St, Durham, NC 27701

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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.

• 1050.5 mi away

• 159 Mini Lane, Cameron, NC, 28326

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This family-friendly farm offers educational experiences, summer camps, and a scenic venue for events.

• 1050.5 mi away

• 8913 NC Highway 751 South, Durham, NC, 27713

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Triangle Rock Club provides state-of-the-art facilities for indoor climbing, fitness, and yoga. With options like rope climbing, bouldering, and fitness classes, it’s a hub for active lifestyles. Programs for kids and adults alike make it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts. Explore locations in Morrisville and Raleigh for your next adventure.

• 1050.5 mi away

• 1010 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy Suite 400, Durham, NC 27713

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Discover Edison Johnson Sprayground, a vibrant water play area nestled between the Recreation and Aquatics Centers in Rock Quarry Park. This free facility features interactive water elements, complemented by a playground, picnic area with grills, and connecting trails to sports facilities. Perfect for family summer entertainment.

• 1050.6 mi away

• 600 W Murray Avenue, Durham, NC, 27701

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Forest Hills Park is a 45.86-acre park in East Central Durham, offering a variety of recreational amenities for all ages. The park features tennis courts, including one with pickleball lines, a playground for children, and a sprayground for cooling off in the summer. There are also picnic shelters, picnic tables, and swings for families to enjoy. The park is home to a seasonal outdoor pool and has access to greenways and trails. Additionally, Forest Hills Park is rich in history, originally developed in the 1920s as a prestigious neighborhood with a golf course and clubhouse, later evolving into a community park.

• 1050.7 mi away

• 1639 University Drive, Durham, NC, 27707

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The Museum of Life and Science in Durham, NC, features interactive science exhibits, a butterfly conservatory, live animal habitats, and attractions like the Dinosaur Trail and Ellerbe Creek Railway on its 84-acre campus.

• 1050.8 mi away

• 433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham, NC, 27704

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The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) in Durham, NC, is a renowned venue for live performances, offering a diverse range of events including Broadway shows, concerts, and special performances. DPAC is home to the Broadway at DPAC series, featuring top Broadway productions, and it hosts popular events year-round. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options and premium seating experiences, making it an ideal destination for entertainment in the region. With easy access to parking and accommodations, DPAC provides an unforgettable experience for all its guests.

• 1050.8 mi away

• 123 Vivian Street, Durham, NC 27701

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The Museum of Durham History offers a deep dive into the city's vibrant history. The museum features a range of exhibits that explore Durham's cultural, social, and economic past, with a special focus on local stories, prominent figures, and historic events. It provides a "Museum Without Walls" experience, where exhibits are displayed in various community spaces. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and on Sundays, offering free admission to visitors. It also hosts events and provides educational resources for students and teachers.

• 1050.9 mi away

• 500 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701

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Experience the American Tobacco Campus, Durham's premier destination for work and entertainment. This beautifully restored historic campus anchors downtown's renaissance, featuring creative office spaces, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues. From business meetings to baseball games, ATC offers something for everyone.

• 1051 mi away

• American Tobacco Campus, 300 Blackwell St #104, Durham, NC 27701

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Experience the heart of Durham's cultural scene at the Carolina Theatre, a historic landmark reimagined as the region's premier arts destination. This vibrant venue hosts an diverse array of live performances, film screenings, and educational programs, serving as a cultural hub for Durham and the greater Triangle area.

• 1051 mi away

• 309 West Morgan St, Durham, NC, 27701

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C.M. Herndon Park spans over 25 acres and offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors of all ages. The park features a soccer field, baseball/softball field, and batting cages, along with a playground for children aged 2-12. There are also picnic shelters with tables, grills, and a water fountain for relaxation. The park is equipped with restrooms and has access to greenways and trails for walking or biking. It’s an ideal location for family gatherings, sports, and community events. The Championship Soccer Field is available for rent, and athletic fields are open for community play.

• 1051 mi away

• 511 Scott King Rd, Durham, NC 27713

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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.

• 1051 mi away

• 2802 Bahama Road Bahama, NC 27503

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21c Museum Hotel Durham is a unique blend of contemporary art museum and boutique hotel, located in the heart of downtown Durham, NC. The museum offers over 10,500 square feet of exhibition space, showcasing rotating contemporary art exhibits that engage visitors with thought-provoking works. The hotel, housed in the historic Hill Building, combines luxurious accommodations with art, offering a distinctive experience for both guests and art lovers. Guests can also enjoy the Counting House restaurant and cultural programming.

• 1051.1 mi away

• 111 North Corcoran St, Durham, NC 27701

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Hillside Park Sprayground offers a refreshing splash experience during pool hours. Nestled within the pool area, the sprayground is perfect for children and families to cool off on a hot day. Admission fees apply and vary by residency.

• 1051.2 mi away

• 1221 Sawyer St., Durham, NC, 27707

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Two Sisters Adventure Co. is a woman-owned business offering inclusive outdoor adventures for all, including those historically underrepresented in outdoor recreation. They provide guided trips, adventure camps, and equipment deliveries throughout the Triangle area. Their mission is to create a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy the outdoors.

• 1051.2 mi away

• Durham, NC

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Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) offers a wide variety of recreational activities, programs, and services for the Durham community. From sports leagues and fitness classes to nature excursions and family-friendly events, DPR provides something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for after-school programs, summer camps, or outdoor adventures, DPR helps residents stay active, engaged, and connected. Their facilities include parks, community centers, and recreational spaces that support a healthy and vibrant community for all ages.

• 1051.3 mi away

• 400 Cleveland Street, Durham, NC 27701

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Piney Wood Park is a large, family-friendly park in Durham, offering a wide range of outdoor activities. It features athletic fields, a dog park, and a pickleball facility with 12 dedicated courts, making it the first of its kind in Durham. The park also has a playground for children, picnic shelters with tables, and grills for family gatherings. For sports enthusiasts, there are baseball/softball fields and field lights for evening play. Additionally, Piney Wood Park offers restrooms, swings, and a water fountain. It is an ideal destination for both recreational play and organized sports.

• 1051.3 mi away

• 400 E Woodcroft Pkwy, Durham, NC 27713

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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.

• 1051.5 mi away

• 1801 Fayetteville St, Durham, NC 27707

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Solite Park is a community park located along the American Tobacco Trail in Durham, North Carolina. The park offers a range of amenities, including a playground for children ages 5-12, a basketball court, a pump track for biking enthusiasts, and several picnic shelters equipped with grills for outdoor dining. Additional features include restrooms, swings (standard and toddler), and water fountains. The park also hosts a public art mural created by local artist Cornelio Campos. Solite Park is a great spot for outdoor activities, recreation, and enjoying nature, with easy access to local trails.

• 1051.6 mi away

• 4704 Fayetteville Rd, Durham, NC 27713

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Cool off at East End Park's refreshing sprayground, a seasonal water play area operating from Memorial Day through early fall. Located conveniently behind the facilities near the playground, this free attraction provides the perfect summer activity for families seeking outdoor recreation in Durham.

• 1051.8 mi away

• 1200 N Alston Avenue, Durham, NC, 27701

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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.

• 1052 mi away

• 7360 Jock Road, Bahama, NC, 27503

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The New Hope Valley Railway offers historic train rides through piney woods and over trestles. Visitors can enjoy outdoor tours of historic equipment and special train events. Train rides operate seasonally with free admission to explore the grounds.

• 1052.2 mi away

• 3900 Bonsal Rd., New Hill, NC, 27562

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Diavolo at New Hope is a premier 22-hole disc golf course in Cary, NC, designed by Jay Pontier, Capital Area Disc League President, and Mike Sink of PRCR Staff. Opened in October 2020, this course is ranked #7 on UDisc's World’s Best Disc Golf Courses list. The course spans 48 acres, featuring multiple tee options, including blue and white tees, and is complemented by three distinct loops: the Diavolo Front and Back Loops and the Little Devil Novice Loop. With three practice baskets, restroom facilities, a picnic shelter, and ample parking, it offers a comprehensive disc golf experience for all skill levels.

• 1052.4 mi away

• 2584 New Hope Church Rd., Cary, NC, 27519

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Parkwood Swim Club is a non-profit outdoor swimming facility open to the public through annual membership. The pool features a 4-lane lap pool, a deep end area, and a separate shaded baby pool with a safety fence. The club provides recreational swimming, adult swimming, and a swim team program. The pool is open from mid-May to Labor Day weekend, offering a relaxing environment with shaded picnic areas and cabanas for visitors to enjoy.

• 1052.5 mi away

• 1615 Clermont Rd, Durham, NC 27713

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