Looking for the best family day trips near the Triad? Look no further than Dan Nicholas Park in Salisbury, NC! This park is so much more than your average park. With a carousel, paddle boats, miniature golf, train rides, playgrounds, zoo animals, and more, this park is a full-blown adventure perfect for all ages. It’s a great day trip from the Triad or even an easy meeting spot for friends from Charlotte and Greensboro. Just off I-85, it’s under an hour from most parts of the Triad—making it the ideal weekend outing with kids.

What to Expect

Dan Nicholas is a massive complex packed with budget-friendly family activities. Best of all, admission is free, and most attractions cost just a couple of dollars. From a mini zoo to nature trails, there’s something to excite every child. Pets are welcome in the park (just not on the rides), so feel free to bring your four-legged family members along.

Here are attraction the park offers:

Playgrounds for all ages
Rowan Wildlife Adventure Zoo
Nature Center
Barnyard petting zoo
Gem Mine
Mini Golf
Carousel
Train Ride – Currently under construction
Paddle Boats
Splash Pad
Aquarium

Park hours vary by season, so check their website for the latest updates. Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.

Dan Nicholas Park Map

If it’s your first visit to Dan Nicholas, using a map can help you make the most of your time. With so many attractions like the carousel, splash pad, gem mine, playgrounds, and wildlife adventures spread throughout the park, it’s easy to spend the whole day exploring. You can view the official Dan Nicholas Park Map to plan your visit and navigate the park with ease.

Rowan Wildlife Adventure

Our visit began with the Rowan Wildlife Adventure, an affordable mini-zoo experience at just $1 for adults and 50¢ for kids under 10. We also visited the Barnyard petting zoo, where kids can meet goats, sheep, pigs, and a donkey for a small fee. The layout is stroller-friendly and perfect for younger kids who love animals.

Don’t skip the Nature Center. The nature center is free to all visitors so in all honesty, I wasn’t expecting much. However, I was completely blown away when we walked inside! It is an immersive experience that gets you up close and personal with reptiles and marine life. The center is small, but the exhibits are beautifully done and staff is nearby to answer any questions you have while visiting! It’s one of the top free indoor activities for kids in Salisbury NC!

dan nicholas park gem mine

Try your luck at the gem mine in Dan Nicholas Park! With four flume lines and various bucket options, this is a hands-on experience that all ages can enjoy. Just grab a screen, wash your bucket of sand at the flume, and watch as colorful gemstones and treasures begin to appear! The excitement on kids’ faces as they find quartz, amethyst, and even shark teeth is priceless.

Once you’ve found your treasures, head over to the gem mine shack to get your stones identified by one of the park’s experienced rock hounds. They can even cut certain stones and turn them into custom jewelry on site. The shack also offers a selection of fun jewelry and geological novelties perfect for every age.

For groups of 10 or more, the Park offers free geology or “how-to” gem mining classes for children. These are held on weekdays only and must be scheduled in advance. Call ahead to book your group’s educational gem mining experience!

Gem mining Prices

Beginners Bucket – $11
Standard Bucket – $17
Family Bucket – $25
Special Bucket – $40 (Includes one pre-cut stone)
Prize Bucket – $57 (Includes one pre-cut stone)

Gem mining Hours at Dan Nicholas Park

Hours vary seasonally and are weather-dependent. It’s always best to call ahead, especially from November through March. For current hours, contact the park at 704-216-7810.

dan nicholas park trails & Waterfront

The park features paved walking trails perfect for scooters and strollers, plus a peaceful lakefront with paddle boats and fishing. Paddle boats are just $2 per person for a 30-minute ride, and kids under 3 ride free!

dan nicholas park carousel, Train & Other Amenities

In summer, cool off in the splash pad, enjoy the carousel for $1 per ride, or hop on the mini train at Hurley Station. The carousel is the fastest we have been on! There are three sections of playgrounds, each suited for different ages and abilities. It is open, spread out, and provides unique playing experiences.

dan nicholas park camping

Looking to extend your visit? Book one of the 70 campsites or family cabins and stay overnight. The park’s campground offers tent sites as well as spots with electricity and water. Nearby, the NC Transportation Museum is just a 12-minute drive and makes a great add-on to your day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dan Nicholas Park Location?

Address
6800 Bringle Ferry Road
Salisbury, NC 28146

How much does it cost to get in Dan Nicholas Park?

Admission is completely free! There is no fee to enter the park, and many of the attractions are either free or just a few dollars, making it a budget-friendly family outing.

How much is the carousel at Dan Nicholas Park?

The beautiful carousel at Dan Nicholas Park costs just $1 per ride. Children under 1 year old ride for free with a paying adult. It’s a fun and affordable way to add a little magic to your park visit.

Does Dan Nicholas Park sell food?

Yes! Dan Nicholas Park has a concession stand located by the lake that offers snacks, drinks, and permits for fishing. You can also find a small building near the mini golf course that sells Cheerwine slushies and other treats. However, you’re also welcome to pack your own lunch or picnic.

How much is the train at Dan Nicholas Park?

Train rides at Dan Nicholas Park depart from Hurley Station and cost $1 per person. Children under 1 year old ride for free with an adult. It’s a quick, scenic ride that younger children especially enjoy.

dan nicholas park hours

Note these are the gate hours. Be sure to check the website here for details on each attraction. Different attractions may not be available depending upon the time of year you visit.

January/February
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

March
9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

April/May
8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

June/July/August
8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

September
9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

October
9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

November/December
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Is Dan Nicholas Park Good for Older Kids?

While the park is mainly geared toward young children, older kids and teens can still have fun if they’re with younger siblings or cousins. The paddle boats, trails, and mini golf offer enough activity for a relaxing day outdoors.

Restaurants Near Dan Nicholas Park

If you’re planning a day at Dan Nicholas Park, you won’t have to go far to find something to eat! Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or sitting down for a meal, there are several convenient options nearby.

Concession Stand at Dan Nicholas Park

Located right inside the park, the concession stand is a great place to refuel without leaving the fun. Open during peak seasons and special events, the stand serves up family-friendly favorites like hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, chips, candy, and even cheerwine slushies. Picnic tables nearby make it easy to sit and snack before heading back to the playgrounds, zoo, or paddle boats. Call (704) 216-7803 to check hours and offerings.

Waters Edge Dock and Grill

Just a short drive from the park (about 5 minutes), Waters Edge Dock and Grill offers beautiful waterfront dining on High Rock Lake. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this relaxed spot serves burgers, seafood, salads, wings, and more. It’s a local favorite for families looking to enjoy a casual meal with a view after a day of adventure at the park. Visit their website for hours and menu.

Why You Should Visit

If you’re searching for fun parks near Greensboro, day trips from Winston-Salem, or things to do with kids in North Carolina, Dan Nicholas Park should be at the top of your list. It’s affordable, accessible, and packed with unique attractions.

Whether you’re planning a picnic, a playdate, or a full weekend getaway, Dan Nicholas Park delivers unforgettable family-friendly fun.

You can follow Dan Nicholas Park on Facebook for updates and information on attractions openings. Rowan Wild has their own Facebook Page where they post updates as well.

Want to see more blogs like this and also get notifications on local events and happenings? Subscribe to our free weekly newsletters.