Day & Weekend Trips in

The Piedmont Wildlife Center in Durham features outdoor raptor exhibits and offers educational programs focused on wildlife conservation in its natural park setting.

• 276.4 mi away

• 364 Leigh Farm Rd., Durham, NC, 27707

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Step back in time at Bennett Place, the historic Durham site of the Civil War's largest Confederate surrender in 1865. This meticulously reconstructed farmstead features James Bennett's original home, kitchen, and smokehouse, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Civil War-era Southern farm life. As part of the Civil War Trails and NC Historic Sites, this landmark preserves the pivotal meeting place of Generals Johnston and Sherman.

• 276.5 mi away

• 4409 Bennett Memorial Rd., Durham, NC, 27705

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Visit the world-renowned Duke Lemur Center, established in 1966 as a global leader in lemur research and conservation. Home to over 200 animals representing 14 species, this Durham facility maintains the largest lemur population outside Madagascar. Seasonal tours offer unique opportunities to observe these fascinating primates in a specialized environment.

• 277.3 mi away

• 3705 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27705

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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.

• 278.4 mi away

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

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

• 278.5 mi away

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

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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.

• 279 mi away

• 420 Anderson St., Durham, NC, 27705

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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.

• 280.5 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.

• 280.6 mi away

• 309 West Morgan 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.

• 280.6 mi away

• 1221 Sawyer St., 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.

• 280.8 mi away

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

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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.

• 282.8 mi away

• 544 Falcon Road, Lillington, NC, 27546

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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.

• 283.6 mi away

• 7360 Jock Road, Bahama, NC, 27503

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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.

• 283.8 mi away

• 3009 Raven Rock Road, Lillington, NC, 27546

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Xtreme Park Adventures offers a 50-acre field located in the heart of Durham. Attractions include paintball, airsoft, lasertag, educational and recreational zipline courses, haunted houses, escape rooms, ropes courses, gem mining, and more. We provide summer camps, corporate team-building, and a range of thrilling activities for all ages.

• 289.9 mi away

• 7460 Wake Forest Rd., Durham, NC, 27703

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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.

• 290 mi away

• 100 South Main Street, Lillington, NC, 27546

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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.

• 290.7 mi away

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

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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.

• 298.8 mi away

• 1489 Live Oak Rd., Coats, NC, 27521

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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.

• 306.2 mi away

• 313 Cedar Creek Road, Franklinton, NC, 27525

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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.

• 306.9 mi away

• 325 McCullers Drive, Clayton, NC, 27520

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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.

• 307.3 mi away

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

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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.

• 308.1 mi away

• 3336 Raleigh Rd., Henderson, NC, 27537

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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.

• 308.7 mi away

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

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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.

• 312 mi away

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

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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.

• 350.1 mi away

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

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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.

• 358 mi away

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

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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.

• 359.8 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.

• 360.2 mi away

• 116 Orange St., Wilmington, NC, 28401

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The North Carolina Aquariums include four unique coastal attractions: Pine Knoll Shores, Roanoke Island, Fort Fisher, and Jennette’s Pier. Each location offers hands-on exhibits, marine life encounters, and educational programs highlighting the state’s aquatic environments. From sea turtles and sharks to river otters and stingrays, families can explore North Carolina’s underwater world through interactive and conservation-focused experiences. Jennette’s Pier also serves as a coastal education center and ocean pier for fishing and programs.

• 368.7 mi away

• 900 Loggerhead Rd. Kure Beach, NC 28449

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The N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is situated in the Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area, which is mostly maritime forest. Descendants of President Theodore Roosevelt donated 298 acres of maritime forest to the state in 1971. They stipulated the acreage be maintained as a nature preserve and used for nature and wildlife education and estuarine studies. Acres surrounding the aquarium dedicated as natural area commemorate Presidents Roosevelt’s commitment to conservation.

• 410.4 mi away

• 1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512

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The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located in Manteo, NC, nine miles from the Atlantic coastline in Nags Head. The 61,000 square-foot facility is sited on 16 acres overlooking the Croatan Sound and houses over 2,200 animals. More than 280,000 guests visit the aquarium each year to see a large array of sharks, learn about sea turtle conservation, participate in a variety of programs, enjoy the beauty of the area, and learn why North Carolina's waterways are so special. As an educational attraction, we are focused on “inspiring appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments.”

• 459.5 mi away

• 374 Airport Road, Manteo, NC 27954

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The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, NC, commemorates the historic achievement of Wilbur and Orville Wright, who made the first successful powered flight on December 17, 1903. This site preserves the location where their courageous experimentation in aviation began, changing the world forever. Visitors can explore the memorial, learn about the Wright brothers’ journey, and view exhibits on the history of flight. The park also offers educational programs and events, including a celebration of the First Flight each December.

• 461 mi away

• 1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

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Ever since 1939, families have made lifetime memories while visiting Jennette's Pier in Nags Head. Even though wind, waves and water have knocked down previous versions of this ocean fishing pier, today's 1,000-foot-long, concrete platform offers a delightful place to fish, stroll, socialize and soak in the salt air. Bring your family by to see why folks refer to Jennette's Pier as a family fun spot (Banner photo by Bodhi Darden, boy with fish and dolphins by Susan Dotterer Dixon).

• 465.6 mi away

• 7223 South Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, N.C. 27959

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