Things to Do in Morrisville

Drum guru Kevin Rader-Rhodenbaugh began teaching to transfer his love of music to others, helping students tap into the world’s natural rhythms through exploration of the drums’ beat-making capabilities. Preaching patience, discipline, and dedication, Kevin tailors lessons to individual students, teaching music notation and body control. Learning unfolds in RimShot Drum Studios, where two drum sets, a professional-grade sound system, and in-house electric guitars help students hone rapid-fire rolls or break Buddy Rich’s world record for longest solo without a bathroom break.

Part of the North Carolina Railway Museum, the New Hope Valley Railway shepherds passengers through pine forest aboard vintage diesel and steam-engine trains. Covered cars protect riders from the elements, while a historic open-air caboose allows them to recline in locomotive fashion as they enjoy the shade of the woods, the breeze of the wind, and the harmonious serenade of local wildlife choirs. Trains depart from and return to Bonsal Depot, where a gift shop awaits filled with keepsake merchandise and a display track showcases vintage railroad equipment.

Free to the public, the North Carolina Railway Museum houses historic railway artifacts including vintage trains from builders such as Vulcan Iron Works and General Electric. On select Saturdays and Sundays, the Railway lets passengers take control of diesel-electric or steam-engine trains to experience firsthand life as a conductor.

Though they come from different walks of life, the instructors at Happymess Art Studio find common ground in their passion for artistic expression. They harness their diversity and devotion in the studio, which offers an eclectic assortment of art classes week after week. Its schedule features watercolor classes, drawing classes, and a "Paint Like" series, where you can absorb the ideas of iconic artists by studying their stylistic approaches and grocery receipts.

Outside the studio, the Happymess instructors work their magic in the community aboard the Happymessenger art bus, a mobile art experience that partners with local art groups, schools, and organizations.