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.

Before each lesson or scuba diving adventure, Carolina Dive Center owners Captain Jim Sedore and Paul Winders outfit each of their certified divers with the necessities to fit in with undersea fashion experts. After donning wetsuits and underwater breathing apparatuses, guests follow the experts in classes, tours, and spearfishing adventures. Students may also log hours during courses as they work toward their own diving certifications.

Kidz-N-Play's indoor-play facility enthralls youngsters with its plethora of educational and recreational toys, structures, and activities. The masterminds behind the playground flank their moon bounce with two slides and a spacious jumping area, and crowd a large table with a wooden-train set. Their lego table gives kids a chance to practice building skills or explore a policy of aggressive economic expansion. A dance area equipped with Just Dance Kids for Xbox Kinect eliminates calories during lengthy boogying sessions, and a toddler play area sets tots on a foam-cushioned floor awash in age-appropriate toys. When designing the indoor playground, the owners didn't forget about parent and guardian visitors and equipped a seating area overlooking the playrooms with free WiFi and televisions.