9 best museums for families in Raleigh, Durham & Chapel Hill

433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham, NC, 27704

The Museum of Life and Science in Durham, NC, features interactive science exhibits, a butterfly conservatory, live animal habitats, and attractions like the Dinosaur Trail and Ellerbe Creek Railway on its 84-acre campus.

🚘 Distance: 351.6 miles away

400 Roberson Street, Carrboro NC 27510

The ArtsCenter is a vibrant cultural hub in Carrboro, NC, dedicated to fostering creativity and artistic expression in the community. Offering a wide variety of performances, classes, and workshops, it serves as a space for both established and emerging artists across all art forms, including music, theater, dance, and visual arts. The ArtsCenter brings together diverse voices and audiences, offering programs that inspire, educate, and engage individuals of all ages. Whether through intimate performances, hands-on arts education, or community events, The ArtsCenter is committed to enriching lives through the transformative power of the arts.

🚘 Distance: 352.4 miles away

250 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514

Located at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, the Morehead Planetarium offers a GSK Fulldome Theater, science exhibits, and programs for families, including shows, camps, and public viewings of astronomical events.

🚘 Distance: 352.8 miles away

1712 Willow Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Kidzu Children’s Museum is a dynamic, hands-on space for kids up to age ten. Its multi-sensory exhibits inspire creativity and collaboration, while programs foster community engagement. A future expansion promises even more room for young minds to explore and grow.

🚘 Distance: 352.8 miles away

500 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701

The Museum of Durham History offers a deep dive into the city's vibrant history. The museum features a range of exhibits that explore Durham's cultural, social, and economic past, with a special focus on local stories, prominent figures, and historic events. It provides a "Museum Without Walls" experience, where exhibits are displayed in various community spaces. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and on Sundays, offering free admission to visitors. It also hosts events and provides educational resources for students and teachers.

🚘 Distance: 353.1 miles away

2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC, 27607

The North Carolina Museum of Art redefines cultural education through innovative programs and immersive experiences. Our pioneering 'flipped museum' model combines digital engagement with in-person exploration, while our bilingual take-home activity kits bring artistic discovery directly to families. Through compelling exhibitions and collaborative learning opportunities, we're making art accessible to diverse communities across North Carolina, fostering creativity and cultural understanding for visitors of all ages.

🚘 Distance: 368.3 miles away

1903 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC, 27606

The Gregg Museum of Art & Design, part of a vibrant research-focused university, sparks creativity and innovation through art and design. It offers free access to a diverse collection, thought-provoking exhibitions, and engaging programs that promote lifelong learning and discovery.

🚘 Distance: 373.1 miles away

11 West Jones St., Raleigh, NC, 27601

Prairie Ridge offers a nature-rich environment, featuring a native plant garden, an arboretum, ponds, and trails through both prairie and forest areas. The park also hosts a Nature PlaySpace for children, where nature-based activities like Nature Stories and PlayDays take place. With opportunities for citizen science participation, Prairie Ridge is a hub for learning and outdoor discovery. Visitors can also explore the Planet Walk, a scaled model of the solar system along the park’s trails.

🚘 Distance: 374.0 miles away

201 E. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC, 27601

Marbles Kids Museum offers a variety of exhibits, programs, and events for children 10 and under, including themed displays, summer camps, IMAX films, and more. We focus on play as a key element of academic and emotional growth, fostering stronger families and communities. Our exhibits align with educational standards and encourage curiosity and learning. Field trips to Marbles are affordable, easy to plan, and packed with fun and learning opportunities. Field Trips: Marbles offers engaging field trips that inspire creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. We provide museum and IMAX field trips tailored to different grade levels.

🚘 Distance: 374.3 miles away