From interactive museums and exciting outdoor adventures to charming parks and cultural landmarks, Raleigh, North Carolina, guarantees endless fun for families. To help you get the best from your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best family-friendly activities on offer in the City of Oaks.
Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a tourist exploring the area for the first time, these activities are bound to keep all the crew happy.
Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
This captivating museum features fascinating exhibitions, interactive displays, and hands-on activities. Kids will love the dinosaur exhibits, getting up close to creepy crawlies in the Anthropod Zoo, and discovering the secrets of the ocean.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences runs educational programs and special events, so there’s always something new to see.
Enjoy a Day of Laughter and Learning at Marbles Kids Museum
Designed to spark creativity and curiosity, this fun museum has lots of displays and activities for children from toddlers to teens.
Little ones can learn how people live and work in the Around Town mini-city, or indulge in all sorts of water play in Splash. And with the IMAX theater, Power 2 Play area, and so much more, they won’t want to leave.
Relax at Pullen Park
Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, Pullen Park boasts beautiful green spaces, a picturesque lake, and lots of family-friendly activities.
Kids will love the carousel, taking out a boat, or going for a train ride. There’s also a theater and aquatic center on-site. With its traditional picnic areas and playgrounds, Pullen Park is the perfect spot for a family day out.
Explore the Museum of Life and Science
Thirty minutes outside Raleigh, in nearby Durham, you’ll find the Museum of Life and Science. It’s well worth the trip for its inspiring blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Meet farmyard animals—and even bears and wolves; experiment in the Sound Garden; and go exploring in Hideaway Woods. Don’t miss the Magic Wings Butterfly House and the Dinosaur Trail.
Have a Picnic at the Raleigh Rose Garden
Located behind the Raleigh Little Theatre, this serene garden is home to 60 rose beds, with several varieties on show. Stroll among the flowers, find a cozy spot for a picnic or take some stunning photos. The Raleigh Rose Garden is a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city.
Indulge Your Inner Artist at the North Carolina Museum of Art
This impressive museum houses a vast collection of artworks spanning various periods and genres. Explore the galleries together, take a family-friendly tour, and even pick up a paintbrush yourself!
The museum’s beautiful outdoor park has captivating sculptures, walking trails, and a terraced pond, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature.
Have Fun With the Kids at Adventure Landing
For some action-packed fun, head to Adventure Landing—a family entertainment center with a range of exciting activities, including go-karts, laser tag, mini-golf, and an arcade with 75 games.
Baseball fans can get some practice in at the batting cages. With hardball and softball options, and the opportunity to set your preferred speed, the facility caters to all levels.
Bike Along the Neuse River Trail
This scenic trail stretches over 34 miles, winding along the Neuse River. Perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, the trail offers breathtaking views of nature, including lush forests and tranquil waterways.
Pack some snacks and take a break at one of the many designated picnic areas along the trail, allowing your family to reconnect with nature and enjoy some quality time together.
Step Back in Time at the North Carolina Museum of History
This museum celebrates the state’s vibrant past through a range of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Explore the history of Native Americans, learn about the Civil War, and discover legendary figures in the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.
The museum offers plenty of activities and programs for children, making history come alive in a fun and accessible way.
Race Go-Karts at Frankie’s Fun Park
For a day full of thrills, visit Frankie’s Fun Park. From go-karts and bumper boats to laser tag and mini-golf, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Kids will love the interactive 3D movie, as well as Hyperdeck, a virtual reality game.
The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in Raleigh in Summary
From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, Raleigh offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. Let the kids run wild at the Marbles Kids Museum, or escape to the tranquility of the Raleigh Rose Garden.
Connect with nature along the Neuse River Trail, or treat your little thrill-seekers to a day out at Adventure Landing. Wherever you decide to hang out, you’re guaranteed lots of laughter and unforgettable moments in Raleigh.
