Ask Amy

Here are my straightforward answers to questions I have received for buying and selling homes in the NC Triangle area.

Family Friendly Experiences

Dear Amy,

My sister is coming to visit me next month and I am looking for activities that her kids will enjoy. Where should I take elementary and middle school aged kids here in the Raleigh Durham area?

Answer - Here’s a list of family-friendly experiences in the Triangle area:

Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches: Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches: During the fall, many local farms, such as Hill Ridge Farms and Smith’s Family Fun Farm, set up corn mazes and pumpkin patches. These seasonal attractions are perfect for family outings and offer additional activities like hayrides and petting zoos.

Duke Gardens (Durham): The Sarah P. Duke Gardens offers beautiful landscapes to explore, with walking trails, a fishpond, and themed gardens. It’s a peaceful place to take a stroll with young children.

Falls Lake State Recreation Area (Wake Forest): Falls Lake is a large reservoir that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. There are several access points with beaches and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family day trip.

Frankie’s Fun Park (Raleigh): This entertainment park has something for everyone, including mini-golf, go-karts, arcade games, and laser tag. It’s a hit with kids of all ages.

Fruit Picking at Local Farms: The Triangle area is home to several farms that offer seasonal fruit picking. Places like Page Farms in Raleigh and Lyon Farms in Creedmoor allow families to pick strawberries, blueberries, and other fruits. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that kids will love.

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area (Pittsboro): For outdoor fun, Jordan Lake offers swimming, fishing, boating, and picnic areas. It’s a great place for a family to enjoy nature together.

Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh): Marbles is designed specifically for children, with imaginative play areas, interactive exhibits, and an IMAX theater. It’s a place where kids can explore, learn, and have fun.

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center (Chapel Hill): Located on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, Morehead Planetarium offers educational star shows, science exhibits, and special programs. It’s a great place for learning about astronomy and space science.

Museum of Life and Science (Durham): This interactive science museum features exhibits on a wide range of topics, from weather and space to wildlife and nature. Highlights include a butterfly house, a dinosaur trail, and hands-on science experiments for younger visitors.

North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh): The NC Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient to contemporary works. The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and a beautiful outdoor park with large-scale sculptures.

Pullen Park (Raleigh): Pullen Park is one of the oldest amusement parks in the country and features a carousel, train rides, playgrounds, and paddle boats. It’s a perfect spot for a family day out.

Raleigh Little Theatre and Rose Garden (Raleigh): This venue offers family-friendly plays and performances, as well as a beautiful rose garden that’s perfect for a relaxing walk.

Triangle Greenways: The Triangle boasts an extensive network of greenways, including the American Tobacco Trail and the Neuse River Greenway. These trails are great for family bike rides, walks, and even stroller-friendly outings, offering scenic views and a chance to enjoy the outdoors.

Umstead State Park (Raleigh): William B. Umstead State Park provides numerous trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for wildlife watching. It’s an excellent spot for a family hike or picnic.

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