Free Guided Tour of the North Carolina State Capitol

Experience the magic of literature and the great outdoors this May with the StoryWalk series hosted across various beautiful Wake County Park locations. This unique initiative invites families and book lovers to enjoy nature walks while reading beloved children stories displayed along the park paths. It is a fantastic way to encourage early literacy while keeping children active and engaged with the natural world. Each participating park will feature a distinct title, offering fresh stories and varied scenery for your visits throughout the entire month. From the brand new installations at Beech Bluff and Crowder to the picturesque walkways at Oak View and Yates Mill, there is an adventure waiting for everyone. Whether you are exploring Harris Lake or the trails at Sandy Pines, you will find delightful tales that celebrate nature and creativity. These self-guided tours are perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon escape into the woods. We invite you to grab your walking shoes, gather your family, and head out to explore these wonderful outdoor stories. Please check your local park hours and plan your visit today to enjoy these inspiring literary journeys.

Total Tot Time offers a fantastic opportunity for children ages zero to five and their caregivers to engage in active, unstructured play within a supportive environment. Held at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center in Durham, this recurring program encourages socialization and physical development through a variety of fun activities. From jumping rope and bowling to exploring tunnels and playing with colorful parachutes, young children will have the space to move, grow, and build meaningful connections with peers. This program is thoughtfully designed to foster parent and child bonding while providing a safe space for little ones to socialize. Because no reservation is required, families can easily drop in and participate on their own schedule every Monday and Wednesday morning. Durham Parks and Recreation is proud to host this welcoming community initiative, ensuring that early childhood development remains accessible and fun for everyone in the area. Whether you are looking for a way to burn off energy or a simple method to meet other local parents, Total Tot Time is the perfect mid-week destination. Join us at the gymnasium to experience the joy of play today.

Find the missing piece of your day by joining our vibrant drop-in puzzle program held at the beautiful Downtown Cary Park. This engaging event features a lively swap meet designed for puzzle enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a casual hobbyist or a dedicated master of complex jigsaws, this gathering offers the perfect setting for collaborative problem solving and genuine camaraderie in a relaxed outdoor environment. It is a fantastic opportunity to discover new challenges, share your favorite pastime, and connect with fellow community members who enjoy the tactile satisfaction of assembling a great puzzle. To participate in our puzzle exchange, please bring along your own high-quality puzzles that are in good condition and fully complete with all pieces secured in their original boxes. We invite you to trade, socialize, and enjoy a productive afternoon dedicated to shared passions. Puzzles are exchanged completely free of charge, though we encourage you to bring a puzzle to share to ensure a continuous flow of fun for everyone. Come be a part of this growing local tradition and help us piece together a memorable day.

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University invites individuals living with dementia and their care partners to participate in our Monthly Reflections Tour. This inclusive program offers a supportive and engaging environment where guests can explore the beauty of art together. Each ninety-minute session is thoughtfully curated to provide an accessible experience, featuring themes that change monthly alongside interactive activities designed specifically to accommodate various physical and cognitive needs. We are proud to offer this enriching experience completely free of charge to our community. Beyond the physical tour held on the second Tuesday of each month, we also provide a virtual alternative via Zoom on the second Friday for those who prefer to engage from the comfort of their own homes. These sessions encourage meaningful conversation and creative expression in a welcoming space. To secure your spot for an upcoming tour, please reach out to our team at reflections at duke dot edu to complete your registration. We look forward to welcoming you to the museum for this wonderful opportunity to connect through art and shared reflection.

Ignite your passion for discovery at the Teen Science Cafe, hosted by the Museum of Life and Science in Durham. This exclusive event is tailored specifically for teenagers who are eager to explore the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It serves as an excellent platform for students to connect directly with STEM professionals, providing a unique window into exciting career paths and real world applications of their work. Each session features a lively mix of professional insight, engaging hands-on activities, and casual conversation. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and enjoy complimentary snacks while interacting with like minded peers in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This is the perfect setting to broaden your horizons and satisfy your curiosity about how the world functions. Admission to this event is completely free, making it an accessible way to spend an evening learning something new. Space is limited, so please ensure you visit our website to complete your registration today. Bring your friends and prepare for an unforgettable evening of exploration and connection.

Experience an inclusive and welcoming environment at Marbles Kids Museum during our upcoming Sensory Friendly Playtime and movie events. Designed specifically for children with special needs and their families, these sessions provide a calmer, quieter atmosphere that allows every child to explore and enjoy the museum exhibits at their own pace. Admission is completely free, ensuring accessibility for all members of our local community to engage in meaningful play. In addition to museum exploration, guests are invited to attend our special Lights Up Sounds Down movie presentation in the IMAX theater. This feature is tailored to be comfortable and engaging for all participants. We are also excited to host various partner organizations in our lobby who are available to offer support and resources. Please note that while the event is free, pre-registration is required to secure your spot. Join us on our upcoming dates to enjoy this supportive experience with your loved ones. Visit our website today to complete your registration and prepare for an unforgettable visit filled with learning and fun.