Looking for a fun, budget-friendly family outing that’s just a short drive from Winston-Salem, Greensboro, or Kernersville? A Burlington City Park day trip checks all the boxes for a memorable adventure with the kids. Whether you’re searching for an outing that includes amusement rides, open green space, and a dose of nostalgia—or simply need a break from your go-to playgrounds—this park offers an easy, refreshing change of pace.

We all know the struggle: the kids need to get out of the house, but you don’t want to break the bank or spend hours planning. As local parents juggling work, carpool, and trying to keep the peace at home, finding simple, tried-and-true places that both entertain and exhaust your kids is like hitting the jackpot. Fortunately, Burlington City Park delivers all that and more—without the fuss or long travel time.

Getting There: Easy Drive and Smart Timing

For Winston-Salem and Kernersville families, Burlington City Park is just about an hour away, located on South Church Street, one mile from downtown Burlington. From Greensboro? You’ll be there in half the time. On our trip, we aimed to arrive by lunchtime, explore the park for a few hours, and hit the road by early afternoon—perfect timing for nap schedules. This worked out beautifully and helped avoid the dreaded overtired toddler meltdown.

If you’re going on a Sunday, a heads-up: the amusement rides don’t open until 1 p.m. We arrived a little early and made a beeline for the playground area. It turned out to be a great way to let the kids burn some energy before the rides opened. Bring snacks or stop for an early lunch nearby—there are plenty of family-friendly spots in downtown Burlington.

All the Fun: Classic Rides and Hidden Gems

The centerpiece of the park is its historic Dentzel Carousel, fully restored and incredibly charming. It features 46 hand-carved animals with real horsehair tails, each one unique. There are only 14 of these carousels left in the world, and Burlington is lucky to have one. It’s magical to see up close, and kids of all ages are mesmerized.

The amusement area also includes a train ride, and small rides with planes, tractors, boats, and more. Our youngest was just 18 months at the time and could ride almost everything. The lines were short, and the ride tickets were super affordable.

Don’t miss the old-fashioned snack bar! Cotton candy, popcorn, and classic candies made for a nostalgic treat—and a good bribe to avoid a meltdown when it was time to leave.

Beyond the Rides: Plenty to Explore

Burlington City Park spans over 75 acres and is packed with amenities for every age. Highlights include:

Five athletic fields
12 lighted tennis courts
Walking track & greenway
Enclosed and open-air picnic shelters (call 336-222-5030 to reserve)
Year-round aquatic facility
Thataways Youth Center
Serene stream and shaded trails

It’s easy to fill a few hours or even a whole day without the amusement park. Pack a picnic, bring scooters or bikes, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Hours and Seasonal Info

During the summer, park hours are:

Monday: Closed
Tuesday–Friday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Be sure to check their official website for seasonal updates and ride hours.

Special Events to Watch For

Burlington City Park really comes to life during its events:

Burlington Carousel Festival (September): Live music, local food, crafts—more than 50,000 people attend!
July 3rd in the Park: Fireworks, food, and family fun
Spring & Summer: Easter egg hunts, summer concert series, sports tournaments

These events make the park extra special and are worth planning around if you want a little more excitement than your average weekend.

FAQs: Burlington City Park Day Trip

Is Burlington City Park good for toddlers?
Absolutely! Most of the rides accommodate young kids, and there are several shaded playgrounds, walking paths, and safe open areas to roam.

How much are ride tickets?
The amusement rides are very affordable. Tickets can be purchased individually or in books for a discount. Visit the city’s website for current pricing.

Can I bring food into the park?
Yes, you can bring snacks or a full picnic. Shelters and tables are available throughout the park, many of which have grills.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, strollers, refillable water bottles, picnic gear, and a change of clothes for little ones (because you never know).

Is the park stroller-friendly?
Yes! The paths are smooth and well-maintained, making it easy to get around with a stroller or wagon.

A Burlington City Park day trip is the kind of outing that feels easy, fun, and a little nostalgic—in the best way. Whether you’re chasing toddlers, meeting up with mom friends, or just looking to break out of your routine, this is a sweet spot worth checking out.

See more Day Trip ideas here!

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