Family Summer Bucket List NC

Family Summer Bucket List NC

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This directory is sponsored by Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Campground Resort in Asheboro, NC. This family-focused campground is packed full of activities and camping fun-ness for your family to enjoy and create lasting memories, and is located less than 3 miles from the NC Zoo! Find out more by visiting the website here!

Wondering what to do this summer with your kids in the Triad and beyond? Our Summer Bucket List is packed with exciting ideas for every age—from babies to teens (and adults too!). Whether you’re planning a quick afternoon outing or a weekend getaway, you’ll find the best places to go in the summer right here. Explore waterparks, animal encounters, outdoor adventures, art activities, museums, and unique day trips—all organized for easy planning.

Each attraction includes its location so you can quickly decide if it’s perfect for a short trip or a full-day adventure. Make sure to double-check hours and availability before heading out! Don’t forget to use our Community Event Calendar and Directories Page for even more summer inspiration like parks, playgrounds, summer camps, and family events.

Looking for Places to Go in the Summer? This Summer Bucket List Has It All!

Click the Tab to go to that section:

Places to see Animals in NC

If you’re searching for places to go in the summer that blend fun with education, our Animal Adventures section is a must-visit! These family-friendly destinations offer unique experiences with creatures of all kinds—from cuddly farm animals and exotic wildlife to reptiles and underwater species. Whether you want to stroll through a butterfly farm, visit a drive-through safari, or explore a hands-on zoo, this list will guide you to the best animal-themed things to do this summer. Many of these spots also include extras like hayrides, nature trails, and educational tours that make them ideal for kids and adults alike. From the NC Zoo in Asheboro to Mrs. Cottontail & Friends in Winston-Salem, your summer is about to get wild—in the best way possible!

  1. Aloha Safari Zoo  – educational zoo & sanctuary, Cameron NC
  2. Buffalo Creek Farm and Creamery – farm, store, and small group tours, Germanton NC
  3. Carolina Raptor Center – environmental education center, Huntersville NC
  4. Conservators Center – animal conservancy, Burlington NC
  5. Divine Llama Vineyards – while at a winery plenty of families frequent here on the weekends for llamas & food trucks, East Bend, NC
  6. Duke Lemur Center – diverse collection of lemurs , Durham, NC
  7. Greensboro Science Center – aquarium, museum, zoo, Greensboro NC
  8. Hill Ridge Farms – farm, train rides, hay rides, Youngsville NC
  9. Homeland Creamery – farm, tours, ice cream, hayrides, Julian NC
  10. Lazy Five Ranch – animal park, petting zoo, Mooresville NC
  11. Mill Mountain Zoo –  regional park and zoo, which has other great tourist spots nearby, Roanoke VA
  12. Mrs. Cottontail & Friends – Bunny Burrow – Mrs. Cottontail & Friends provides live animal programs and parties promoting education, love and compassion with the help of rabbit friends
  13. NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher – aquatic wildlife, dive shows, animal encounters, outdoor adventures, Kure Beach NC
  14. NC Zoo – animals galore, Asheboro NC
  15. Piedmont Environmental Center – nature trails and small animal exhibits, High Point NC
  16. Providence Farm – story time on Saturdays & group field trips, McLeansville, NC
  17. Sea Life Aquarium –  indoor aquarium with interactive experiences, activity trail, and soft play area, Concord, NC
  18. The Farm at Walnut Creek (Elkin) – Amish-run farm with a safari ride option. Features exotic and domestic animals like camels, deer, and goats.
  19. Tiger World – animal conservation and educational center for exotic animals, Rockwell, NC
  20. Virginia Safari Park – drive-through zoo just a few hours north of the Triad, Natural Bridge VA
  21. Western North Carolina Nature Center – over 60 species of animals, Asheville NC
  22. Wild Horse Adventure Tours –  See the famous wild Spanish mustangs roaming the beach. Guided off-road tours available year-round.
  23. Winterpast Farm – farm and petting zoo, Wake Forest NC
  24. Wise Acres Farm – open year round with different U-pick options & animals, Indian Trail NC
  25. Zootastic Park – animal park, Troutman NC


Outdoor Adventures in NC

Ready to take summer to the next level? If you’re looking for thrilling places to go in the summer, our Outdoor Extreme Adventures section is packed with high-energy fun for teens and brave parents. Think zip lines, high ropes courses, ATV rides, and aerial parks that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. These are the perfect answers to what to do this summer when your crew wants something bold and unforgettable. Great for birthdays, weekend outings, or summer break bucket list goals!

  1. ACE Adventure Center – rafting, zip-lines, fishing, horseback riding, kayaks, Oak Hill WV
  2. Beanstalk Ziplines – zipline, rock climb, ropes course, disc golf, playgrounds, biking, Morganton NC. *Currently Closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene
  3. Carolina Ziplines – zipline tours for the whole family, Westfield NC
  4. Carowinds – amusement park and water park, Charlotte NC
  5. Deep Creek Tubing Center – in Bryson City NC offers a family friendly tubing experience. 
  6. Fairgrounds Skate Park – ramps, quarter pipes, grinding rails, & bank ramps for skateboarders, W-S NC
  7. Gorge Zipline – zipline canopy adventure, Saluda, NC
  8. Hawksnest Zipline – ziplining in the mountains, Seven Devils, NC
  9. High Gravity Adventures – aerial adventure course, Blowing Rock NC
  10. Kersey Valley – high ropes course, zip-lines, laser tag, axe throwing and more Archdale NC
  11. Navitat Adventures – zip-lining adventures and experiences in Asheville NC
  12. Paintball Central – paintball and airsoft, Sedalia NC
  13. Richland Creek Zip Line Canopy Tour – 14 station zipline with over a mile and a half of cable, Asheboro NC
  14. Sky Valley Zip Tours – zip lines, cliff jumping, swinging bridge, Blowing Rock NC
  15. Sky Wild – treetop adventure at Greensboro Science Center, Greensboro NC
  16. Surf Lessons or Sandboarding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park (Nags Head) – Largest natural sand dune system in the Eastern U.S. Ideal for beginner surf lessons or bringing your own sled for dune “sledding.”
  17. US National Whitewater Center – whitewater rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, zip lines, ropes course, Charlotte NC
  18. Wilderness Alpine Coaster – outdoor 5 – 7 minute coaster ride, Banner Elk NC
  19. TreeRunner Adventure Park – Family-friendly ropes course with zip lines and balance challenges. Different levels for kids (age 4+) to adults. 
  20. Triad ECO – Segway Tours/Excursions & PaddleBoarding (@ 3 lakes)
  21. PEDEGO – Electric Bike Rentals/Tours


Outdoor Activities in NC

Looking for family-friendly outdoor places to go in the summer? This list includes trails, lakes, nature preserves, and activities that everyone from toddlers to grandparents can enjoy. Whether it’s biking a greenway, feeding ducks at a pond, or exploring shaded nature trails, these outings are the perfect way to stay active while soaking up the sun. If you’re still wondering what to do this summer that’s both peaceful and fun, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here!

  • See our list of Strawberry Farms here and Day Trip Directory here! Scroll down for more outdoor fun!
  1. Adventure Landing – Putt Putt, Bumper Boats, arcade, W-S NC
  2. Bur-Mil Park Par 3 Golf Course – enjoy golf if you have kids who may not make it for 18 holes, Greensboro NC
  3. Carowinds – amusement park and water park, Charlotte NC
  4. Celebration Station – arcade, bumper boats, mini golf, batting cage, go-karts, Greensboro NC
  5. General Dan Tubing Co – tubing down the Dan River, Danbury NC
  6. Glamping Unplugged – immerse in nature and unplug, Deep Gap NC
  7. Grandfather Mountain – wildlife, swinging bridge, trails, nature museum, Linville NC
  8. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – train ride excursions through the smoky mountains, Bryson City, NC
  9. Hebron Rock Colony – Beautiful outdoor hiking spot, Boone/Blowing Rock NC
  10. Hill Ridge Farms – farm, train rides, hay rides, Youngsville NC
  11. Hillside Dan River Tubing – tube down the Dan River, Walnut Cove NC
  12. Ingram’s Farm – pick your own berries, High Point NC
  13. Linville Caverns – explore caverns, Marion NC
  14. Millstone Creek Orchards – pick your own fruit, apple barn, activities, Ramseur NC
  15. Patterson Farm – pick your own strawberries, Mount Ulla NC
  16. Recreation Acres – all-inclusive, one-of-a-kind playground, King NC
  17. Reed Gold Mine – underground tunnels with guided tours, visitor center, picnic area, gold panning, Midland NC
  18. Rudd Farm – pick your own berries, Greensboro NC
  19. Sliding Rock – natural mountain waterfall in Pisgah National Forest, Asheville NC
  20. Smiley’s Golf and Learning Center – driving range, miniature golf course, W-S NC
  21. Softgolf – full swing golf played with foam balls hit into twelve inch holes using three clubs, a driver, wedge and putter, W-S NC
  22. Summerfield Farms – visit the farm & market and check the website for fun summer events, Summerfield NC
  23. North Carolina Arboretum (Asheville) – Nature walks, gardens, bonsai trees, and family scavenger hunts. Seasonal butterfly exhibit is a kid favorite.
  24. The Speedpark – offers Go Kart Tracks, Mini Golf, Fun Slide, Bungee Jump, Spider Web, game room, and ice skating, Concord NC
  25. Triad ECO Adventures – segway tours, paddleboarding, trolley tours, electric-Bike rentals/tours, W-S NC
  26. Tweetsie Railroad – amusement park, train rides, Blowing Rock NC
  27. Virginia Creeper Trail – easy biking trail great for families, almost all downhill, Damascus, VA
  28. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park – family-friendly campground, pool, fishing ponds, activities for kids, Asheboro NC
  29. Zaloo’s Canoes – canoeing, kayaking, tubing, Jefferson NC


Outdoor Entertainment in NC

Sometimes the best summer memories are made when you’re sitting back and relaxing. This list of places to go in the summer includes outdoor concerts, live theater, drive-in movies, and seasonal festivals that offer entertainment while you chill. Perfect for a date night or a low-key family outing, these events bring summer fun to your lawn chair or picnic blanket. Wondering what to do this summer without breaking a sweat? This is your go-to section.

  • See our list of local wineries HERE!
  1. Blackmon Amphitheater – outdoor music and events all summer long, Mount Airy NC
  2.  Burlington Sock Puppets Baseball  – take the family out for a classic game at the ballfield, Burlington NC
  3. Childress Vineyards – winery, bistro, outdoor events, Lexington NC
  4. Eden Drive-In – drive-in movie theater, Eden NC
  5.  Greensboro Grasshoppers Baseball   – enjoy a baseball game with the family, Greensboro NC
  6. Grove Winery – winery, concerts, art classes, outdoor events, Gibsonville NC
  7. Hi Toms Baseball – enjoy an evening at the ballfield with the family, Thomasville NC
  8. High Point Rockers Baseball – take the family out for a classic game at the ballfield, High Point NC
  9. JOLO Winery – winery with plenty of events and entertainment, Pilot Mountain NC
  10. NC Symphony Summerfest (Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre) –  Picnic-style classical or pop concerts, often with family themes (Disney, movie soundtracks, etc.).
  11. Rayson Winery & Vineyards – winery with tasting room and acclaimed full-service restaurant. Mocksville, NC
  12. Winston-Salem Dash Baseball – take your family to a ball game and enjoy the kids play area with bounce houses, W-S NC


Water Activities in NC

Beat the heat with splash-worthy fun! Whether you’re looking for water parks near me, local splash pads, lazy rivers, or places to kayak and paddleboard, our Water Adventures section has you covered. These summer activities near me are ideal for cooling off with the kids or planning a water-filled day trip. If what to do this summer includes “stay cool and have fun,” this list should be at the top of your planning!

  • See our list of Watering Holes HERE and Splashpads HERE!
  1. Belews Lake – boating, fishing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, other water sports, Belews Lake, NC
  2. Bullhole (River Park at Cooleemee Falls) – swimming hole, Cooleemee, NC
  3. Carowinds Carolina Harbor WaterPark  – giant water slides and wave pools to large play structures and a three-acre kids’ area, Charlotte NC
  4. Carrigan Farms – swim, jump, and play in the quarry, Mooresville NC
  5. Great Wolf Lodge – indoor waterpark, MagiQuest, Concord NC
  6. Hanging Rock Lake  – 12 acre lake located in Hanging Rock State Park. 
  7. Lake Mackintosh Park & Marina – paddle boats, kayaks, fishing, playgrounds, sailing, row boats, Burlington NC
  8. Lake Norman – swimming, boating, kayaking, Lake Norman, NC
  9. Ray’s Splash Planet – indoor water park, Charlotte NC
  10. Salem Lake – Located minutes away from downtown Winston-Salem, Salem Lake offers a 365-acre lake with a 7-mile trail that offers a scenic view of the lake at all times.
  11. Saltshaker Marine – rent a pontoon boat for the family, Mooresville, NC
  12. Shacktown Falls – wading, swimming, waterfall –  Yadkinville, NC
  13. Splash Parks and Water Slides – click the link to find a great list of all Triad NC locations
  14. Peter S. Brunstetter Aquatic Center –  swimming pool, slides, lazy river, Clemmons NC
  15. US National Whitewater Center – whitewater rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, zip lines, ropes course, Charlotte NC
  16. Wet ‘n Wild – waterpark, Greensboro NC
  17. Winston Waterworks – pool, lazy river, sprayground, water slide & water playground, Winston-Salem, NC
  18. Zaloo’s Canoes – canoeing, kayaking, tubing, Jefferson NC

NC State parks (and surrounding areas)

There’s no shortage of outdoor places to go in the summer in the Triad. Discover beautiful botanical gardens, imaginative playgrounds, scenic state parks, and picnic-perfect green spaces. Whether you’re looking for a stroller-friendly park or a spot to toss a frisbee with older kids, these summer destinations offer fresh air and free or low-cost fun. Don’t forget to pack snacks and sunscreen!

  • Visit our list of Favorite Local Playgrounds, Parks & Walking Trails HERE! Visit our Hiking Trails Directory HERE. 
  1. Bailey Park & Long Branch Trail – grassy lawn (pet friendly) with outdoor events, and an urban greenway that runs along WF Innovation Quarter, W-S NC
  2. Bog Garden at Benjamin Park – walkways, greenery, Greensboro NC
  3. Burlington City Park – amusement area, walking trails, aquatics facility, greenway, Burlington NC
  4. Cascades Preserve – hiking trails and creek, Kernersville, NC
  5. Chimney Rock State Park – hiking and attractions, Chimney Rock NC –  *Currently closed from Hurricane Helene. 
  6. City Lake Park  – playground, carousel, mini golf, train rides, pool, water slides, Jamestown NC
  7. Crowders Mountain State Park – fishing, canoeing, camping, rock climbing, bouldering, museum-quality exhibits, Kings Mountain NC
  8. Dan Nicholas Park – water play, playground, mini golf, carousel, gem mining, aquarium, mini train, Salisbury NC
  9. Davie County Community Park – largest splash pad in NC, football stadium, playground, ninja course, walking trails, baseball/softball fields, Mocksville, NC
  10. Fort Macon State Park – Restored Civil War-era fort + beach access.
    History, cannon displays, swimming, and tide pool exploring. 
  11. Hanging Rock State Park – swimming, hiking, canoes, Danbury NC
  12. Hebron Rock Colony – hiking and park, Blowing Rock NC
  13. Horizons Park – dog park, disc golf course, shelters, playground, trails, Rural Hall NC
  14. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Large lake with swimming, boating, and fishing. Playgrounds, sandy beaches, and tons of space for running around. 
  15. Keeley Park – splash pad, playgrounds, trails, Greensboro NC
  16. Lake Mackintosh Park & Marina – paddle boats, kayaks, fishing, playgrounds, sailing, row boats, Burlington NC
  17. Lake Norman State Park – bike trails, camping, beach & bath house, Troutman NC
  18. LeBauer Park and Center City Park – music, exercise, playground, food trucks, events, Greensboro NC
  19. Muddy Creek Greenway/Jamison Park – family friendly trail to walk, ride bikes, roller skate, W-S NC
  20. Natural Bridge State Park – caverns, trails, natural bridge, Rockbridge Center, water activities, Natural Bridge VA
  21. Old Salem – museums and gardens, W-S NC
  22. Pilot Mountain State Park – trails, camping, climbing, canoe trail, camping, rock climbing and rappelling, Pinnacle NC
  23. Pisgah National Forest – hiking, waterfalls camping, Asheville, NC
  24. Pullen Park – kiddie rides, train, pedal boats, aquatic center, art center, Raleigh NC
  25. Quarry at the Grant Park – open fields to run & play, beautiful quarry overlook, W-S NC
  26. Raven Rock State Park (Lillington) – Short hikes to scenic rock formations and riverside views. The Lantern Trail is perfect for small legs! 
  27. Recreation Acres – all-inclusive, one-of-a-kind playground, King NC
  28. Rendezvous Mountain State Park – hiking, forestry center, talking tree trail, Purlear, NC
  29. Salem Lake – walking trails, boats, fishing, W-S NC
  30. Sliding Rock – natural water slide with plenty of waterfalls nearby, Pisgah National Forest by Asheville NC
  31. Southside Recreation Center – playground, picnic, splashpad, High Point NC
  32. Stone Mountain State Park – camping, hiking, climbing, fishing, picnicking, horseback riding, Roaring Gap NC
  33. Tanglewood Park –  swimming pool, golf, soft golf, playgrounds, picnic, gardens, tennis, Clemmons NC
  34. Triad Park – disc golf, shelters, picnic areas, playgrounds, trails, rock climbing playground, Kernersville NC
  35. Village Park – splash park, train rides, carousel, playgrounds, Kannapolis NC
  36. Virginia Creeper Trail – easy biking trail great for families, almost all downhill, Damascus, VA
  37. William B. Umstead State Park (Raleigh) – Flat trails, creeks to splash in, and shaded picnic areas. 
  38. W Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir – camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, bird watching, Wilkesboro NC
  39. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park – family-friendly campground, pool, fishing ponds, activities for kids, Asheboro NC

Children’s Museums in NC

For hands-on learning and air-conditioned fun, check out our list of Children’s and Historical Museums. These indoor places to go in the summer are perfect for rainy days or when you need a break from the heat. Discover science exhibits, creative play zones, and history brought to life through interactive displays. Wondering what to do this summer that’s both educational and fun? These museums make learning an adventure!

  1. Asheville Museum of Science – experiential science learning and exploration, toddler area, Asheville NC
  2. Sullenberger Aviation Museum  – exhibitions and the actual plane from “The Miracle on the Hudson,” Charlotte NC
  3. Charlotte Museum of Nature – Opening in 2026. discover animals, plants and more, Charlotte NC
  4. Children’s Museum of Alamance County – interactive children’s museum, Graham NC
  5. Denton Farmpark – historical park, general store, grist mill, full-size steam train, events,  Denton NC
  6. Discovery Place – interactive children’s museum, Charlotte NC
  7. Discovery Place Kids – interactive children’s museum, Huntersville NC
  8. Fascinate You – children’s hands on museum for all ages, Fayetteville NC
  9. Greensboro History Museum – historic buildings, museum, gardens & cemetery Greensboro NC
  10. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park – visitor’s center, live action theatre, trails, Greensboro NC
  11. Hands On – Children’s Museum with interactive exhibits (currently closed for renovations), Hendersonville NC
  12. High Point Museum – historical park, exhibits, High Point NC
  13. Imagination Station Science & History Museum (Wilson) – STEM exhibits, reptiles, and fossils. Combines science learning with regional history. 
  14. International Civil Rights Center & Museum – museum and teaching facility devoted to the struggle for civil and human rights, Greensboro NC
  15. Kaleideum – interactive children’s museum, W-S NC
  16. KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum – numerous exhibits, discovery garden, and more, Rutherfordton NC
  17. Korner’s Folly – museum, home tours, Kernersville NC
  18. Marbles Kids Museum – interactive children’s museum, Raleigh NC
  19. Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum – interactive children’s museum, edible schoolyard, Greensboro NC
  20. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center – interactive museum and planetarium, Chapel Hill NC
  21. Moses Cone Memorial Park & Manor – manor house, walking trails, horseback riding, Bass Lake, Blowing Rock NC
  22. Museum of Anthropology – dedicated to the study of global cultures, W-S NC
  23. Museum of Life and Science – interactive science museum, exhibits, live animals, Durham NC
  24. NASCAR Hall of Fame – interactive attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR, Charlotte, NC
  25. NC Museum of History – museum, exhibits, Raleigh NC – * Temporarily closed for renovations
  26. NC Museum of Natural Sciences – exhibits, programs, and field experiences, Raleigh NC
  27. NC Transportation Museum – exhibits, train rides, Spencer NC
  28. Nido & Mariana Qubein Children’s Museum – hands-on exhibits, climbing, water play, outdoor adventure zone – High Point NC
  29. Old Salem – museums and gardens, W-S NC
  30. Reynolda House Museum of American Art – museum, home tours, gardens, W-S NC
  31. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington (Wilmington) – Pirate ship, toddler area, STEM lab, and art studio. 
  32. The Children’s Playhouse (Boone) – Cozy, creative indoor space with art, pretend play, and building blocks. Ideal for Preschoolers and younger kids. 
  33. North Carolina Museum of Art – museum, WS-NC

Indoor Adventures in NC

Need a high-energy outlet on a hot or rainy day? From bounce houses and ninja gyms to go-kart tracks and laser tag arenas, this section is full of fun indoor places to go in the summer. Ideal for birthday parties or spontaneous afternoons, these spots offer excitement for all ages. When your family asks what to do this summer indoors, you’ll have a go-to list right here.

  1. Bouncin’ Around – indoor inflatables and arcade room, Burlington NC
  2. Bowlero Winston Salem  – bowling in W-S & Greensboro NC
  3. Boxcar Bar + Arcade – arcade games, pet friendly, bar area, children welcome when accompanied by a parent before 9pm, Greensboro NC
  4. Bumper Jumpers – indoor playground, Greensboro NC
  5. Camel City BBQ Factory – fun restaurant with an attached game/arcade room, W-S NC
  6. Chuck E Cheese’s – indoor arcade, Concord, Winston-Salem & Greensboro NC
  7. Cliff Hangers – indoor climbing facility with speed climbing, intro classes, yoga, fitness, Café, kid’s climbing area, Mooresville NC
  8. Code Ninjas – kids learn to code and build video games, High Point NC
  9. Dave & Buster’s – Family-friendly chain offering a sports-bar-style setting for American food & arcade games, W-S NC
  10. First Hand Climbing – indoor rock climbing for all ages, Winston-Salem NC
  11. Galaxy Fun Park – go karts, trampoline park, ropes course, soft play, laser tag, Raleigh NC
  12. Get Air – trampoline park and ninja course, High Point NC
  13. Greensboro Ice House – indoor ice skating, Greensboro NC
  14. iFLY Indoor Skydiving – indoor skydiving, Charlotte, NC
  15. Laser X Burlington – “The Family Zone” with laser tag fun for all ages, Burlington NC
  16. Level Up – ninja warrior obstacles, indoor rock climbing, obstacle courses, Thomasville, NC
  17. Mad Splatter – pottery and canvas design, splatter zone and more, Greensboro NC
  18. Notasium– Indoor play area where kids get to bounce, slide and play large kid-friendly musical instruments, Durham NC
  19. Q’s Corner – Indoor Play Gym for all ability levels including mental and physical challenges, High Point NC
  20. Reboot Arcade Bar – authentic 1980’s arcade, featuring over 60 classic arcades and pinball, W-S NC
  21. Safari Nation (Greensboro, High Point, & Winston-Salem) – Huge indoor inflatable playland with zip lines, bounce houses, arcade games, and toddler zones. Parent Bonus: Drop-and-play options for older kids.
  22. Airbound Trampoline Park– indoor trampolines & multiple attractions, W-S & Greensboro NC
  23. Round 1 Bowling & Amusement –  bowling, billiards, darts, karaoke, arcade, kid zone, Greensboro NC
  24. Skateland USA – Roller skating, Greensboro, Winston-Salem & Clemmons NC
  25. Sky Wild – challenge ropes course, part of Greensboro Science Center, Greensboro NC
  26. Sky Zone – trampoline park, Greensboro NC
  27. Spare Time – bowling, arcade, laser tag, Greensboro NC
  28. Surge Trampoline Park –  Main Court, Battlebeam, Ninja Course, Laser Maze, Climbing wall, W-S NC
  29. The Pit – go-karting, laser tag, rock climbing, arcade, bumper cars, mini golf, Mooresville NC
  30. TopGolf – climate-controlled hitting bays, restaurant & bars, rooftop terrace with fire pit, over 200 HDTVs, Charlotte NC
  31. Velocity 360 Fun Zone – trampolines, obstacle course, playgrounds, Greensboro NC
  32. We Rock The Spectrum – kids indoor gym, open play and parties – Kernersville NC

Escape Rooms in NC

If your family loves puzzles and teamwork, Escape Rooms are a great answer to what to do this summer. These themed adventures challenge you to solve clues and beat the clock—perfect for older kids, teens, and adults. Whether you’re a first-timer or an escape room pro, these local spots offer engaging indoor fun that’s far from ordinary. It’s one of the best indoor activities near me for those who love a challenge.

  1. All in Adventures – Raleigh, NC
  2. Breakout – Greensboro NC
  3. Kersey Valley Escape Room – Archdale NC
  4. Mind Head Escapes – Greensboro NC
  5. Total Escape – Winston-Salem NC

Specialty Cinemas and Book Shops in NC

Looking for more laid-back indoor fun? This list of places to go in the summer includes indie theaters, discount cinemas, and cozy bookshops with kid-friendly events and storytimes. It’s a relaxing option when you’re wondering what to do this summer that keeps kids engaged without overstimulation. Bonus: many bookstores also host free or low-cost programs perfect for preschoolers and elementary-aged kids. Check out our directories for Summer Movie Programs and Bookstores.

  1. a/perture cinema – Unique movie theater, W-S NC
  2. Bookmarks – independent bookstore in downtown which hosts many community events, Winston-Salem NC
  3. Byrdhouse Books – Woman owned bookstore in Kernersville offering local selections as well as events. 
  4. Carolina Theatre – concerts, plays, and classic movies on the big screen, Greensboro NC
  5. Eden Drive-In – drive in movie theater, Eden NC
  6. Historic Earle Theatre – Movies, Concerts, Presentations, Mount Airy NC
  7. Lexington Cinema 8 – movies and drive-in, Lexington NC
  8. McKay’s – buy & sell used books, video games, electronics, music, Mebane & W-S NC
  9. Scuppernong Books – bookstore featuring fiction and poetry along with a children’s section, cafe, and many events, Greensboro NC

Places to do Arts & Crafts in NC

From pottery painting and DIY studios to kids’ art classes and open creative play, this section is bursting with creative summer activities. Whether your child loves to paint, build, or glue, these art-focused places to go in the summer offer an engaging way to nurture imagination. Great for rainy days or when your little artist needs an outlet, these spots also make great birthday party venues!

  1. AR Workshops – DIY workshop studio, Winston-Salem and Greensboro, NC
  2. ArtQuest Studios at Greenhill Center – create art, Greensboro NC
  3. Creative Greensboro – Greensboro Cultural Center – Family art workshops, cultural events, and festivals throughout the year. Tip: Check their website for free events, kids’ art days, and community programs. 
  4. Distractions Art Studio – a guided do-it-yourself art experience, High Point, NC
  5. GreenHill Studios – all ages can paint, draw, and create, Greensboro NC
  6. Hammer & Stain – DIY Studio, Dobson NC
  7. Little Blank Canvas – children’s art studio, High Point NC
  8. Painted Grape – craft & paint studio for kids and adults, Burlington NC
  9. Mad Splatter – pottery and canvas design, splatter zone and more, Greensboro NC
  10. Sawtooth School for Visual Art (Winston-Salem) – Family art workshops, kids’ pottery, painting, jewelry, fiber arts, and seasonal camps. Ideal For Families with kids ages 5+ and up, especially older kids and teens. 
  11. Sew Happy Studios – private and group classes for kids and adults, High Point NC
  12. Uncorked Masterpiece – private and group classes for kids and adults, Winston-Salem, NC
  13. Wine and Design/Art Buzz Kids – kids painting parties, Greensboro, W-S & Jamestown NC

Tourist Attractions in nC

  1. Biltmore – estate, winery, tours, shops, Asheville NC
  2. Bowman Gray Stadium – NASCAR short track racing, W-S NC
  3. Camp North End – dining, nightlife, shopping, Charlotte NC
  4. Concord Mills Mall – shopping, dining, movie theater, Concord, NC
  5. Friendly Center – shopping & dining, Greensboro, NC
  6. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park – Revolutionary War battlefield and museum, Greensboro NC
  7. Hanes Mall – shopping, dining, & indoor playground, Winston-Salem, NC
  8. IKEA – Fun shopping day for kids of all ages, but if yours are too little, they will love the child drop off play area, Charlotte NC
  9. Mast General Store – do some fun shopping while your kids peruse the candy barrels and classic toys, W-S NC
  10. Musten & Crutchfield – food market with glass bottled soda, old-fashioned candies, local meats and produce, Kernersville, NC
  11. Mystery Hill – fun and educational tour of optical illusions, Blowing Rock NC
  12. Priddy’s General Store – a general store where time stands still, Danbury NC
  13. Reynolda Village – shops & restaurants, Winston-Salem, NC
  14. Shallowford Farms Popcorn – gift shop, processing plant, tours, Yadkinville NC
  15. Thruway Center – shopping & dining, Winston-Salem, NC
  16. Toys & Co – toy store with play items set up, events as well, Greensboro NC

Be sure to bookmark this page, or click on the “Directories” icon on the homepage of our website to find this list when you need it.

Related Links:
Triad Area Hiking Trails
Local Watering Holes
Triad Area Strawberry Farms
Splash Pads & Water Slides
99 Ways to Reply to I’m Bored
Summer Camps in the Triad
Favorite Parks, Playgrounds & Walking Trails
Event Calendar
Day Trips
What to do with your Preschooler this Summer

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This list was compiled through research and/or reader referrals, but please note that Triad Moms on Main does not necessarily endorse the persons or businesses represented in our directory.

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