Menu
Menu
North Carolina's charming towns and vibrant cities offer a plethora of kid-friendly activities, providing families with ample opportunities to create lasting memories together. Whether you find yourself in the historic streets of New Bern, the welcoming community of Goldsboro, or the bustling city of Fayetteville, you'll discover an array of exciting adventures perfectly suited for kids of all ages. From educational experiences to outdoor escapades, this blog post will guide you through the top kid-friendly things to do in these three North Carolina destinations, ensuring that your family's vacation is nothing short of unforgettable.
Step back in time with your little ones in New Bern, a town that offers a fascinating blend of history and entertainment. Begin your adventure at the North Carolina History Center, where interactive exhibits and hands-on activities provide a captivating glimpse into the state's rich past. Explore the Pepsi Family Center, a children's museum that sparks curiosity and creativity through engaging displays. Your kids can play pretend in a miniature general store or experience life as a sailor aboard a ship replica. Don't forget to take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque waterfront and treat your family to a scenic boat tour on the Neuse River.
Goldsboro, a family-friendly city, boasts an array of parks and recreational areas where your kids can unleash their energy and have endless fun. Herman Park is a popular choice with its large playground, perfect for kids to climb, slide, and swing to their heart's content. The nearby Mina Weil Park offers a delightful splash pad, where little ones can cool off and make new friends on warm days. For a more educational outing, visit the Wayne County Museum, where your children can learn about the region's history through fascinating exhibits and hands-on activities.
Fayetteville, known for its military history, also offers an exciting lineup of family-friendly attractions. Head to the Fascinate-U Children's Museum, an interactive play space that encourages learning through imaginative play. Whether your kids want to be firefighters, doctors, or scientists, this museum provides them with the tools to explore various careers in a fun and educational environment. For an outdoor adventure, visit the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, where your family can explore themed gardens, go on nature trails, and enjoy picnics amid beautiful scenery.
Located just a short drive from both Goldsboro and Fayetteville, the New Hope Valley Railway in Apex is a delightful destination for train-loving families. Climb aboard historic train cars and enjoy a scenic ride through the North Carolina countryside. This volunteer-operated railway offers themed train events throughout the year, including seasonal rides like the "Pumpkin Patch Express" in the fall and the "Santa Train" during the holiday season. Your kids' eyes will light up with excitement as they embark on a real train adventure.
Situated near both New Bern and Fayetteville, Fort Macon State Park is a fantastic destination for families seeking outdoor exploration. The well-preserved Civil War-era fort offers guided tours that reveal its historical significance, making it an engaging and educational experience for children. After exploring the fort's nooks and crannies, head to the sandy shores for beachcombing, building sandcastles, and splashing in the Atlantic Ocean. The park's nature trails also offer opportunities for leisurely walks or birdwatching, providing a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
For families visiting New Bern or Goldsboro, a trip to Raleigh to experience Marbles Kids Museum is worth the drive. This award-winning children's museum is filled with interactive exhibits that cater to kids of all ages, promoting learning through play and exploration. Whether your little ones want to become astronauts, artists, or veterinarians, Marbles Kids Museum has themed areas that will spark their curiosity and imagination. From water play and creativity zones to a life-sized pirate ship, your family will be immersed in a world of endless fun and discovery.
New Bern, Goldsboro, and Fayetteville, North Carolina, offer a plethora of family-friendly activities that guarantee smiles, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're exploring history in New Bern, playing in the parks of Goldsboro, or embarking on exciting adventures in Fayetteville, each destination has something special to offer for kids of all ages. From interactive museums and scenic train rides to outdoor exploration and beachcombing, these kid-friendly attractions provide an enriching experience that nurtures young minds and fosters family bonding. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey of fun and discovery in these delightful North Carolina destinations!
After getting accepted to ECU, I started looking for things to do in and around Greenville, NC. However, my searches kept taking me to places in South Carolina! There must be things to do around ECU, so I started asking other students. They kept telling me to graduate and move away! This inspired me to begin exploring eastern North Carolina and build this website as a showcase of the places to go, sights to see, and things to do all over eastern NC. I have fallen in love with this region and started taking up roots here. After graduating, I didn't move away - I bought a house here and continue to explore eastern North Carolina.
