Best Museums for Families in Raleigh

October 13, 2025 • 6 min read
Family exploring interactive museum exhibits in Raleigh

The Triangle area — Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill — offers an amazing variety of museums that make learning fun for kids and parents alike. Whether your child loves science, art, or hands-on play, these family-friendly museums invite exploration, creativity, and curiosity for visitors of all ages.

1. Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh)

Marbles Kids Museum is the ultimate hands-on destination for families with young children. Kids can explore creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving through interactive exhibits like the “StepNotes” music wall and “Kid Grid” energy play zone. The adjoining IMAX theater features family-friendly films, making it a full-day outing.

  • Location: 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
  • Ages: 1–10
  • Highlights: Interactive exhibits, art workshops, and STEM activities
  • Website: Marbles Kids Museum
  • Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for shorter lines.

2. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh)

As one of the largest natural history museums in the Southeast, this free museum brings science to life through dinosaur fossils, a living conservatory filled with butterflies, and live animal encounters. Families can enjoy the Discovery Room and attend storytime or lab demos designed just for kids.

  • Location: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601
  • Ages: All ages
  • Highlights: Free admission, dinosaur exhibits, butterfly house
  • Website: NC Museum of Natural Sciences
  • Tip: Don’t miss the Skywalk bridge connecting both wings of the museum — kids love it!

3. North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh)

This art museum is surprisingly kid-friendly, featuring a large outdoor park with sculptures, trails, and space for picnics. Indoors, families can explore colorful galleries and attend creative family workshops. The museum regularly hosts art-making sessions for families.

  • Location: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
  • Ages: All ages
  • Highlights: Free galleries, art park, and hands-on family programs
  • Website: NC Museum of Art
  • Tip: Bring a stroller for exploring the 164-acre art park with young kids.

4. Museum of Life and Science (Durham)

This sprawling indoor-outdoor museum is a Triangle favorite. Kids can visit the Butterfly House, climb treehouses, and dig for fossils on the Dinosaur Trail. With animal habitats, a mini train, and interactive exhibits, it’s a perfect mix of fun and education.

  • Location: 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704
  • Ages: All ages
  • Highlights: Butterfly House, train rides, and science experiments
  • Website: Museum of Life and Science
  • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for outdoor areas, and check the schedule for animal feedings.

5. The North Carolina Children's Museum (formerly Kidzu Children's Museum)

Kidzu is designed for younger explorers, offering a safe and creative environment where kids can build, craft, and role-play. Exhibits like the “Gravitron” and “Forest Theater” encourage hands-on discovery.

  • Location at THE NEST: 1712 Willow Drive Chapel Hill, NC 27514
  • Location at THE MAKERY: 900 Park Offices Drive Suite 155, Durham, NC 27709
  • Ages: 0–8
  • Highlights: Maker space, pretend play exhibits, and art workshops
  • Website: The North Carolina Children's Museum
  • Tip: Pair your visit with lunch at University Place Mall for an easy family day out.

6. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center (Chapel Hill)

Located on UNC’s campus, Morehead Planetarium offers stunning star shows and interactive science exhibits that captivate both kids and adults. From learning about space exploration to seeing constellations come alive, this museum makes STEM education exciting.

  • Location: 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
  • Ages: 4+
  • Highlights: Planetarium dome shows and hands-on science exhibits
  • Website: Morehead Planetarium
  • Tip: Book your planetarium show online — tickets often sell out on weekends.

7. Gregg Museum of Art & Design (Raleigh)

This small but vibrant museum on NC State’s campus introduces families to art and design through textiles, furniture, and folk art. The museum’s peaceful sculpture garden offers a quiet break, and admission is always free.

  • Location: 1903 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
  • Ages: All ages
  • Highlights: Free admission, design exhibits, sculpture garden
  • Website: Gregg Museum of Art & Design
  • Tip: Combine your visit with a walk through NC State’s campus for a relaxed family outing.

8. Museum of Durham History (Durham)

This charming downtown museum offers a kid-accessible look at Durham’s past through multimedia exhibits and storytelling. It’s a short, engaging stop for families exploring downtown Durham or visiting nearby restaurants and parks.

  • Location: 500 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701
  • Ages: 5+
  • Highlights: Interactive exhibits about Durham’s people and culture
  • Website: Museum of Durham History
  • Tip: Visit on a weekend and pair it with a walk through the nearby Durham Farmers’ Market.

9. The ArtsCenter (Carrboro)

While technically not a museum, The ArtsCenter offers rotating exhibits, children’s theater, and art workshops that are ideal for families. It’s a great way to introduce kids to visual and performing arts in a relaxed, local setting.

  • Location: 400 Roberson St, Carrboro, NC 27510
  • Ages: All ages
  • Highlights: Family art classes, live performances, and community exhibits
  • Website: The ArtsCenter
  • Tip: Check their calendar for family-friendly performances and art camps.

Tips for Visiting Museums with Kids

  • Plan Ahead: Check hours and reserve tickets online where possible.
  • Pack Smart: Bring snacks, water, and a stroller for younger children.
  • Engage: Ask your kids questions and let them lead the exploration!
  • Check for Free Days: Many Triangle museums offer free admission or special family events.
  • Rotate Visits: Try one new museum a month — it keeps things exciting and educational.