Things To Do With Kids in

Explore Raleigh with the kiddos today, think museums, trampolines, zoos, and hands-on fun the whole family will love!
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Explore the Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Raleigh with Kids

Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a wide variety of fun and educational activities perfect for families looking to enjoy a day out together. Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or looking for something to do during a school break, there are plenty of things to do in Raleigh with kids that are both entertaining and enriching. From hands-on museums to scenic parks, the city has something for every age and interest.

Museums and Indoor Adventures

When it comes to indoor fun, Raleigh doesn't disappoint. The city is home to several interactive museums that are perfect for curious kids and their parents alike.

  • Marbles Kids Museum: A favorite for families, this downtown destination features hands-on exhibits that spark creativity and encourage exploration through play.
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Ideal for animal-lovers and budding scientists, this museum offers a deep dive into the natural world with dinosaur exhibits, live animals, and interactive learning areas.
  • Indoor trampoline parks and play centers: Popular spots like Defy Raleigh and Rainbow Play Systems provide active fun for energetic kids, rain or shine.

Outdoor Fun in Raleigh's Parks, Trails, and Zoos

For families looking to enjoy the fresh air, there are plenty of family activities in Raleigh that make the most of the city's green spaces and natural attractions.

  • Pullen Park: One of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S., it features a carousel, pedal boats, playgrounds, and scenic walking trails.
  • JC Raulston Arboretum: A relaxing place for a stroller walk or nature-themed scavenger hunt, with beautifully maintained gardens and shaded paths.
  • Tour the North Carolina Zoo: Located a short drive from Raleigh in Asheboro, it's one of the largest walk-through zoos in the world and perfect for a day trip.
  • Local walking and biking trails: Places like William B. Umstead State Park and the Neuse River Greenway Trail are well-maintained and suitable for all ages.

If you're planning a weekend or school holiday outing, there are countless family things to do in Raleigh today that are educational, active, and most importantly—fun. From the hands-on exhibits at local museums to exploring lush parks and wildlife settings, Raleigh provides a rich mix of opportunities for kids to learn and play.

Make lasting memories with your children right in your city. Whether you're exploring a museum, spending a sunny afternoon in a park, or enjoying an interactive science exhibit, you'll find that things to do in Raleigh with kids are all about sharing quality time while discovering something new together.

What others are saying

NEKO
22, May
Five-Attraction Pass for Two
Cool 😎 we definitely enjoyed ourselves
Up to 50% Off Five-Attraction Pass at Adventure Landing
Harriet
18, May
Admission for 4 people
Great place! Love the camel and feeding the animals. The sloths were cute and such a great variety of birds!
Admission for 2, 3 or 4 People to Animal Edventures Sanctuary
Valorie
23, May
Silver Combo Pass (Adventure Zone, Bumper Cars, and Arcade) for 4 Children
The children really enjoyed themselves. We will be going back
Up to 33% Off Unforgettable Family Fun: Angel Island's Fun Park
Matt
25, May
$61 for 4 people to bowl 2 hours + includes free shoe rental
This was our first time there and it was awesome! This is a great entertainment spot for kids and adults!
Up to 73% Off Bowling with Shoe Rental Included at Bowlero
KewaHowe
17, Apr
Online Skype Guitar Lessons with Jeffrey Thomas 4 Thirty Minute Lesson
Jeffery was really great! He explained everything very well and I went from knowing nothing to being able to play 4 simple pieces + tablature + get a good foundation in reading sheet music. He sends worksheets, and audio for working with during the week and we used the Hal Leonard "Guitar Method" book for extra practice. I'd also recommend his website (https://jeffrey-thomas.com/) for learning more songs as he explains them nicely. I was a complete novice before taking lessons with him, and now, I feel much more comfortable with a guitar and am excited to keep learning.
Unleash Your Inner Rockstar: Master Bass with Fun Online Lessons!
Ashley
22, Apr
2 Hour Jump Pass for 1 Person valid Monday to Friday
This was such a great facility. Super clean. Super spacious. 10/10.
High-Flying Thrills: 90-Minute Jump Pass or Cosmic Nights Admission