North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

One of the most amazing museums in the country, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences features four floors of exhibits, some of which include live animals. It’s North Carolina’s most-visited museum, as well as local favorite for families to visit over and over. You have the option to explore the entire museum yourself, eat at two cafes, shop at the gift shops, or take a trip to the WRAL 3D Theater, which shows all kinds of educational films. One of the more popular exhibits is the Prehistoric North Carolina on the third floor, where you’ll come face-to-face with life-size dinosaurs. But if nature is more your speed, you can always head to the tropical dry forest Living Conservatory, inhabited by butterflies, turtles, fish, and even a two-toed sloth.

Pullen Park

Pullen Park was the very first public park in North Carolina, and it’s still a favorite among families, mainly for all the unique experiences it has to offer. Not to mention, the beautiful and lush atmosphere. The park spans 66.33 acres and sits just west of Downtown Raleigh, so it’s easy to grab lunch or dinner afterwards. There’s a mini-train for the kids that wraps all the way around the park, giving riders a fantastic tour of the scenery. Kids also enjoy the boat ride, indoor carousel, paddle boats (available seasonally), and multiple play areas. Keep in mind, though, that Pullen Park gets very busy on holidays, like Fourth of July and Memorial Day, so plan accordingly.

William B. Umstead State Park

Situated 10 miles from Downtown Raleigh, William B. Umstead State Park offers a multitude of hiking and multi-use trails. And for those who love the water, there are three lakes, all perfect for fishing. To be exact, there’s 34.5 miles of hiking trails and 13 miles for both biking and horseback riding. There’s also chances for camping, with primitive cabins, tent sites, firewood, and the Maple Hill Lodge. Residents and visitors enjoy boat rentals, depending on the season, an amphitheater, picnic shelters, and more. It’s a great destination on those beautiful North Carolina spring and summer days.

Marbles Kids Museum

Marbles Kids Museum opened its doors in 2007. And ever since, it’s been one of the top destinations for families in the Raleigh area. The museum has two floors bursting with activities for the kids, all designed to get their brains working while having fun. There’s a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) area, an underwater adventure where kids can explore the oceans, and a Moneypalooza, which opens kids to the concept of money and how to handle it responsibly. But if that wasn’t enough, there’s also North Carolina’s only 3D-capable IMAX theater, featuring a 70-foot-wide screen. It plays everything from an educational documentary to more popular films you’d typically see in a traditional movie theater. If your kid gets hungry, there’s Bean Sprouts Café on site. And, of course, a store where you can purchase games and toys designed to stimulate your child’s mind.

State Farmer’s Market

The State Farmer’s Market in Raleigh is a very popular family experience. In fact, it’s considered one of the best modern markets in the country. It’s comprised of 75 acres of shops, both indoors and outdoors, with crafts, bakery items, custom picture framing, wines, and more. And that’s not even mentioning the delicious restaurants and a garden center with fruits, vegetables, and meats. Even better, all throughout the year, there are different themed events held at the State Farmer’s Market, which keeps the event fresh and exciting. Located off of Lake Wheeler Road, it’s open seven days a week, 365 days a year, and admission is entirely free.