Top 10 Family Attractions in Triangle Area, NC

The Triangle area — Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC — is packed with family-friendly attractions that blend fun, education, and adventure. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, here’s our curated list of the top 10 attractions perfect for families with kids of all ages.

1. Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh)

Marbles Kids Museum is a vibrant, hands-on museum designed for kids up to age 10. With exhibits like the STEMosphere for science experiments and the Art Loft for creative play, it sparks curiosity and imagination. The IMAX theater offers family-friendly films, and the outdoor play area is great for burning energy.

Location: 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Ages: Best for ages 1–10
Highlights: Interactive exhibits, IMAX movies, and a toddler-friendly play area
Website: Marbles Kids Museum
Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid lines

2. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh)

This free museum is a hit with families, featuring dinosaur skeletons, a living conservatory with butterflies, and interactive exhibits like the Discovery Room for young kids. The Nature Exploration Center and Nature Research Center offer hands-on learning for all ages.

Location: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Ages: All ages
Highlights: Free admission, dinosaur exhibits, and live animal encounters
Website: NC Museum of Natural Sciences
Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and check for special programs like storytime for younger kids.

3. Pullen Park (Raleigh)

Pullen Park is a historic gem with a carousel, train rides, and pedal boats that delight kids and adults alike. The playgrounds and open green spaces are perfect for picnics and playtime. Affordable ticket prices make it a budget-friendly outing.

Location: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606
Ages: All ages
Highlights: 1911 carousel, train rides, and expansive playgrounds
Website: Pullen Park
Tip: Pack a picnic and arrive early to secure parking.

4. Museum of Life and Science (Durham)

This 84-acre museum is a family favorite, with indoor exhibits like the Magic Wings Butterfly House and outdoor attractions like the Dinosaur Trail and Farmyard. The treehouse playground and train ride keep kids entertained for hours.

Location: 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704
Ages: All ages
Highlights: Butterfly house, dinosaur trail, and hands-on science exhibits
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 a cozy, interactive museum for younger kids, with exhibits like the Maker Space and Forest Theater encouraging creativity and role-play. Its smaller size makes it ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, and parents appreciate the clean, safe environment.

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: Best for ages 0–8
Highlights: Hands-on maker activities and toddler-friendly zones
Website: The North Carolina Children's Museum
Tip: Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience.

6. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area (Apex)

For families who love the outdoors, Jordan Lake offers swimming, boating, and hiking trails with stunning views. The bald eagle observation areas are a hit with kids, and the picnic shelters are great for family gatherings.

Location: 280 State Park Rd, Apex, NC 27523
Ages: All ages
Highlights: Swimming beaches, eagle watching, and family-friendly hiking
Website: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Tip: Bring sunscreen and bug spray, and check for ranger-led programs.

7. Frankie's of Raleigh (Raleigh)

Frankie’s is a family entertainment center with go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, and bumper boats. The arcade and snack bar keep the fun going, making it a great spot for kids and teens to burn off energy.

Location: 11190 Fun Park Dr, Raleigh, NC 27617
Ages: Best for ages 4–16
Highlights: Go-karts, laser tag, and a large arcade
Website: Frankie's of Raleigh
Tip: Purchase a fun pass for multiple activities to save money.

8. Durham Bulls Athletic Park (Durham)

Catch a minor league baseball game at this family-friendly ballpark. Kids love the mascot, Wool E. Bull, and the playground area behind the outfield. Affordable tickets and regular promotions like fireworks nights make it a summer staple.

Location: 409 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701
Ages: All ages
Highlights: Kid-friendly baseball games, playground, and fireworks
Website: Durham Bulls Athletic Park
Tip: Check the schedule for family-friendly theme nights and arrive early for seats.

9. JC Raulston Arboretum (Raleigh)

This free botanical garden is a peaceful spot for families to explore nature. Kids love the colorful flower gardens and the Geopath for interactive scavenger hunts. The arboretum hosts family-friendly events like garden storytime.

Location: 4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606
Ages: All ages
Highlights: Free admission, kid-friendly scavenger hunts, and seasonal blooms
Website: JC Raulston Arboretum
Tip: Bring a stroller for younger kids.

10. Adventure Landing (Raleigh)

Adventure Landing offers mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, and an arcade, making it a one-stop shop for family fun. The batting cages are great for older kids, and the snack bar keeps everyone fueled.

Location: 3311 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604
Ages: Best for ages 4–16
Highlights: Mini-golf, go-karts, and a large arcade
Website: Adventure Landing
Tip: Visit on weekdays for shorter lines, and check for group discounts.

Tips for a Great Family Outing

Plan Ahead: Check attraction websites for hours, ticket prices, and special events.
Pack Smart: Bring water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
Consider Ages: Choose attractions that suit your kids’ ages and interests for maximum fun.
Look for Discounts: Many attractions offer family passes or weekday specials.
Capture Memories: Take photos to remember your family’s Triangle adventures!