FAMILY VACATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA WITH CHILREN-WHAT TO DO IN NORTH CAROLINA (NC) WITH KIDS
FUN THINGS TO DO ON VACATION WITH KIDS - NORTH CAROLINA
Ideas for Family Summer Vacations in North Carolina - North Carolina is one of those states that you don’t ever really think about unless you’re given a reason to do so. FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA (For example - Asheville, NC - Boone, NC - Marion, NC)
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Western North Carolina Nature Center - Western North Carolina Nature Center is a living museum exhibiting and interpreting the plant and animal wildlife of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Location: 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28805 Tel: (828) 298-5600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pack Place Education, Arts & Science Center - Pack Place Education, Arts & Science Center is a unique cultural centerpiece in downtown Asheville housing five of Western North Carolina's premier attractions in one complex. The Asheville Art Museum, Colburn Gem & Mineral Museum, Diana Wortham Theatre, The Health Adventure, and Y.M.I. Cultural Center.
Location: 2 South Pack Square Asheville, NC 28801 Tel: 828.257.4500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mountain Heritage Center - The Mountain Heritage Center celebrates the natural and cultural heritage of the southern Appalachian region. Through exhibitions, publications, educational programs, and demonstrations, the Center promotes the rich traditions of the mountains. The Center's offerings give new meaning to life in the mountains. You will see the Appalachian region from new perspectives and come away with an enhanced understanding of its land, culture, and people.
Location: 150 H. F. Robinson Building Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC 28723 Tel: 828-227-7129 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Linville Caverns - The cavern was discovered in the 1800's by men intrigued by the mystery of fish swimming out of the mountain. Since then, extensive research has been done to acknowledge the history, folklore, geology and biology of Linville Caverns. One can only marvel at the endless information this underground wonder has to offer. The mystery is still alive.
Location: P O Box 567; Marion, NC 28752 Tel: 828 756-4171 or 800 419-0540 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jim Bob Tinsley Museum - The museum provides free public access to the lifelong collections of Jim Bob and Dottie Tinsley. Artifacts, paintings, drawings, sculptures, engravings, and research materials associated with the ten books Jim Bob Tinsley has had published are available for the viewing pleasure of guests.
Location: 20 West Jordan Street Brevard, North Carolina 28712 Tel: (828) 884-2347 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad - With the romance and mystique of an era gone by, guests on board the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will enjoy scenic train journeys across fertile valleys, through tunnels and across river gorges in a spectacular region called the Great Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is truly spectacular with 53 miles of track, two tunnels and 25 bridges.
Location: P O Box 1490 Bryson City NC 28713 Tel: 1 800 872 4681 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gold City Amusement Park - A day at Gold City is like stepping back in time. Visitors spend the day mining for such precious gems as Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald, Amethyst, Topaz, Citrine, Tourmaline and much more.
Location: 9410 Sylva Road Franklin, NC 28734 Tel: (800)713-7767, (828)369-3905 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gem Mountain Gemstone Mine - Come experience the wonder and excitement of prospecting for gemstones in a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere.
Location: Highway 226 Spruce Pine, NC 28777 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Beech Mountain - View from The Peak reveals ski slopes, gentle to extreme, golf and tennis, rivers and lakes to fish, trails to hike, bike and cross country ski, waterfalls and ancient forests, and everywhere, views from Eastern America's highest town, views from The Peak. Visit the recreation park above the waters of Buckeye Lake, take the family for a hike along Beech Mountain's 18 mile system of maintained trails that wind across the mountain and watch the abundant wildlife that enjoys their natural home.
Location: 403-A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC 28604 Tel: 1-800-468-5506 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tweetsie Railroad - Tweetsie is more than a train. It's an institution, a tradition and a legend. Mention the name "Tweetsie" throughout the South and it conjures up memories for all age groups. For children, it means a trip back into the Wild West, helping the US Marshal fight off howling renegades and would-be train robbers. It also means music and entertainment, exciting Country Fair rides and arcades, and lots of good things to eat.
Location: Highway 321 Boone, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels Through Time Museum - A consummate collection of over 250 rare antique American Motorcycles and Automobiles. Equally as astounding is the memorabilia collection that unites the "art of the motorcycle" with the generation of Americans that enjoyed a lifestyle peculiar to the "American Mainstream."
Location: P.O. Box 790, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 Tel: 828-926-6266 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Flat Rock Playhouse - The Playhouse’s dual mission of producing the performing arts and providing education in the performing arts includes a ten-show professional series; a summer and fall college apprentice and intern program; performances and cabaret series by the YouTheatre; year-round classes and workshops for students from kindergarten through adults. Flat Rock Playhouse now hosts over 80,000 patrons annually and is a major contributor to the local economy and the Arts in North Carolina.
Location: P.O. Box 310 Flat Rock, NC 28731 Tel: 828-693-0731 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE) - A 390-acre nature education and recreation center nestled in the beautiful foothills of Tryon, North Carolina.
Location: 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon, NC 28782 Tel: 828-859-9021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appalachian Cultural Museum - The Appalachian Cultural Museum, part of Appalachian State University, was created to foster an understanding of the people of the Appalachian Mountains and to serve as a laboratory for new museum ideas. Through exhibits, publications, and special events, the Museum presents the rich traditions of the region. The Museum gives new meaning to life in western North Carolina in a manner that is authentic and non-stereotypical.
Location: University Hall Drive, off Appalachian State University campus, Boone NC 28608 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Historic Johnson Farm - Historic Johnson Farm was a gift to Henderson County Public Schools from two bachelor brothers, Vernon and Leander Johnson. During the first half of the 20th century, Johnson Farm was a summer boarding house and tourist retreat.
Location: 3346 Haywood Road Hendersonville, NC 28791 Tel: 828-891-6585 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Arboretum - The 426-acre site is nestled in one of the most beautiful natural settings in the United States. Mountain peaks bound the property's visual perimeters and 1.8 miles of the Bent Creek stream run through the center of the Arboretum.
Location: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way Asheville, North Carolina 28806 Tel: 828-665-2492 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scottish Tartans Museum & Heritage Center - A visit to the Scottish Tartans Museum and Gift Shop in the Smoky Mountains is a stroll through the history and culture of Scotland. Our 4800 square foot location on Main Street in downtown Franklin, NC, showcases a large Museum area as well as an expansive Gift Shop.
Location: 86 East Main St. Franklin NC 29734 Tel: (828)524-7472 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chimney Rock Park - Chimney Rock Park is the natural fulfillment of your trip to the mountains. Take a deep breath of refreshing mountain air, become invigorated by our hiking trails, and let your cares fade away in the cool mists of Hickory Nut Falls. This is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and spend time with family and friends. The Park, located 25 miles southeast of Asheville, North Carolina, offers the best of the mountains in one place-spectacular 75-mile views, hiking trails for all ages, a 404-foot waterfall, Nature Center, Native Plant Nursery, a variety of special events and much more.
Location: P.O. Box 39 Chimney Rock, NC 28720 Tel: 828-625-9281 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emerald Village - Emerald Village is one of North Carolina's most enjoyable attractions! If you like gem mining... you'll LOVE Emerald Village! See Authentic Equipment in a real mine! The indoor portion of the tour features uses of the minerals & gems found in these mines. A collection of mining lamps, dynamite plungers and other mining memorabilia are on display.
Location: Little Switzerland, North Carolina Tel: 828 765 0000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asheville Art Museum - The Asheville Art Museum offers a wide and exciting variety of programs and facilities for all ages to enjoy: Workshops, Lectures, The Achilles Art Resource, Library, Films, CP&L Cyber ArtSpace, Tours, Volunteer Opportunities, Travel Programs, Holden Community Gallery, Teacher Resource Center.
Location: P.O. Box 1717 Asheville, North Carolina 28802-1717 Tel: 828.253.3227 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cherokee Bear Zoo - Cherokee Bear Zoo welcomes you to the Great Smoky Mountains, home and natural habitat for the Black Bear. Although it is rare to see them in the wild, we offer a first hand observation of these beautiful creatures. Feed them and watch them do tricks for you. Also you will observe many other wild animals, that are native our area, such as Raccoons, Ground Hogs, and maybe even a Deer or two.
Location: 1204 Tsalagi Road Cherokee, NC 28719 Tel: 828 497 4525 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asheville Community Theatre - Asheville's premier theater has offered professional-quality productions since 1946. The theatre features comedies, musicals and dramas.
Location: 35 E. Walnut St Asheville, NC 28801 Tel: (828) 254-1320 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brevard Music Center - Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, the Brevard Music Center (BMC) has been providing young musicians with the opportunity to develop their talents for sixty-eight years. Each summer more than 400 students, ages 14 through post-college, join professional musicians to eat, breathe and sleep music for seven weeks. In addition to a rigorous schedule of instruction, students collaborate with faculty and guest artists in more than eighty public performances.
Location: P.O. Box 312 349 Andante Lane Brevard, NC 28712 Tel: 828-862-2105 or 888-384-8682 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - CENTRAL NORTH CAROLINA (For example - Greensboro, NC - Statesville, NC - Salem NC)
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North Carolina Pottery Center - The North Carolina Pottery Center includes permanent and changing exhibits on the history and ongoing tradition of North Carolina pottery, activities, and map and information services to the potteries of the Seagrove area and across the State. A display of representative works from the more than 90 area potteries is very helpful in planning your visit while in Seagrove
Location: Seagrove NC 705 Tel:(336) 873-8430 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Piedmont Environmental Center - Piedmont Environmental Center provides programs and a place for people to learn, conserve, and enjoy the natural world through hands-on experiences emphasizing the interrelated and fragile nature of life.
Location: 1220 Penny Road High Point NC 27265 Tel: 336-883-8531 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rankin Museum of American Heritage - The Rankin Museum of American and Natural History is recognized for its diverse and unique collections. Our emphasis is on the history and cultures of Early American life; beginning with the Native American occupation and continuing to the present.
Location: 131 W. Church Street Ellerbe, NC 28338 Tel: (910) 652-6378 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Museum of History - 4650 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-4650 Tel: 919-807-7900
Location: Since its founding in 1902, the North Carolina Museum of History has been an exciting place to explore North Carolina history. The museum encourages visitors to discover the past; to reflect on their own lives and their place in history; and to preserve state, regional, and local history for future generations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Iredell Museum of Arts and Heritage - The Iredell Museums envision becoming a regional center of creative exploration, teaching and inspiring a community of learners through interactive exhibits, collections, innovative programs and living history.
Location: PO Box 223 Statesville, NC 28687 Tel: (704) 872-7508 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airborne and Special Operations Museum - The main exhibit gallery moves the visitor through time, starting in 1940 with the conception of the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon and ending with today's airborne and special operations units. Much has changed in the world since the battles of World War II and the conflicts of the Cold War era, but the courage and dedication of the American soldier is a common bond that ties each generation together.
Location: PO Box 89 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0089 Tel:(910) 483-3003 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Broach Theatre - The Broach Theatre Company, Inc. is a professional Not-for-profit theatre company dedicated to challenging artists and audiences by presenting productions for children and adults, that are accessible, imaginative and stimulating; while remaining true to the integrity of the plays and the author.
Location: 520-C South Elm Street Greensboro, NC 27406 Tel: 336-378-9300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Morehead Planetarium - At Morehead Planetarium and Science Center you can experience dazzling multimedia star shows, varied exhibits, year-round programming for all ages and stellar shopping at the Infinity Gift Shop.
Location: UNC-CH CB #3480 Chapel Hill, NC 27599 Tel: (919) 962-1236 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Carolina Raptor Center - Carolina Raptor Center is dedicated to environmental education and the conservation of birds of prey through public education, the rehabilitation of injured, and orphaned raptors and research.
Location: 6000 Sample Road Huntersville, NC 28078 Tel: 704-875-6521 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Blue Heaven Basketball Museum - The Blue Heaven Basketball Museum is an international shrine that preserves the legacy of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, one of collegiate athletics’ most successful programs, and showcases the rich history and great tradition that has entertained so many.
Location: Chapel Hill, NC 27514 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Discovery Place - From the frontiers of space to the depths of the sea, Discovery Place is an ever-changing ever-growing, cutting edge science center. Discovery Halls and The Charlotte Observer IMAX® Dome Theatre offer something fun and educational for everyone in the family!
Location: 301 N. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202 Tel: 704-372-6261 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The North Carolina Transportation Museum - The North Carolina Transportation Museum is located on the site of what was once Southern Railway Company's largest steam locomotive repair facility. Begun in 1896 at a point halfway between Washington and Atlanta, Spencer Shops and the town of Spencer, N.C. were both named for Samuel Spencer, the first President of Southern Railway. The site contains an authentic train depot, antique automobiles, and a 37 stall roundhouse that includes 25 locomotives and other exhibit areas. The museum offers seasonal train rides, guided tours, and special events scheduled throughout the year.
Location: P. O. Box 165, Spencer, NC 28159 Tel: (704) - 636 - 2889 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Triangle Metro Zoo - Local to North Carolina's Triangle (Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill), explore over 33 acres of magnificent exotic animal exhibits. Walk winding trails to view these animals in their specially and artfully designed habitats that make them feel at home. Look into the eyes of the most beautiful creatures in the world, including many endangered and threatened species.
Location: PO Box 1106 Wake Forest, NC 27588 Tel: 919/562-8899 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SciWorks - At SciWorks, it's fun to learn about science. Travel through the solar system under the dome of our state-of-the-art planetarium. Come face-to-face with river otters and other animals indigenous to North Carolina in our 15-acre Environmental Park. Enjoy interactive, hands-on special exhibits and programs in spacious exhibit halls.
Location: 400 West Hanes Mill Road, Winston Salem NC 27105 Tel: 336 767 6730 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Museum of Life and Science - Packed with highly interactive exhibits, the Museum of Life and Science showcases aerospace, weather, geology, Carolina wildlife, farmyard, train rides, traveling exhibits, gift shops, café and more culminating with the tropical Magic Wings Butterfly House and Bayer CropScience Insectarium.
Location: 433 Murray Avenue Durham NC 27704 Tel: 919 220 5429 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden - Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a 450-acre garden located on Lake Wylie. The garden features four prominent gardens highlighting plants with four-season interest, eye-catching color schemes, natives, tropicals, ornamental grasses, bulbs, trees and cottage plantings, a Visitor Pavilion, a dozen sparkling fountains, a half-mile Woodland Trail and newly expanded Gift and Garden Shop.
Location: 6500 South New Hope Road Belmont, NC 28012 Tel: (704) 825-4490 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cape Fear Botanical Garden - From the sculpture-like starkness of the winter forest to the colorful masses of summer flowers, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden is beautiful year round. Located on 85 acres where Cross Creek meets the Cape Fear River the CFBG features a large urban forest with nature trails, a natural amphitheater, steep ravines sheltering unusual plants, and a variety of terrain from open pine forest to lush riverbank.
Location: 536 N. Eastern Boulevard Fayetteville, NC 28301 Tel: (910) 486-0221 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paramount's Carowinds - Paramount's Carowinds is one of the most popular family entertainment attractions in the Carolinas. The 105-acre theme and water park straddles the North Carolina-South Carolina state line and is located just 15 minutes from uptown Charlotte and 12 miles north of Rock Hill, SC. The park features more than 50 state-of-the-art rides, shows and movie-themed experiences for all ages.
Location: P. O. Box 410289 Charlotte, NC 28241 Tel: (704) 588-2600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences - The new North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences opened its doors to the public Friday, April 7, 2000. Four floors of exhibits include four great whales, the world's only Acrocanthosaurus and Willo, the dinosaur with a heart!
Location: 11 W. Jones St. Raleigh, NC 27601-1029 Tel: (919) 733-7450 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Green Hill Center for North Carolina Art - Green Hill Center for North Carolina Art is a non-profit, visual arts center presenting exhibitions and educational programs focusing primarily on contemporary North Carolina art. With Over 7,000 feet of exhibiting gallery space, Green Hill presents ongoing exhibitions, averaging 12 each year, along with educational opportunities for children and adults, and outreach programs. Green Hill hosts symposia, panel discussions, lectures and tours, and has served as a community and statewide resource for over 25 years.
Location: 200 North Davie Street Greensboro, North Carolina 27401 Tel: 336.333.7460 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Greensboro Children's Museum - Experience an exciting, colorful place brimming with hands-on exhibits and activities. Fly a plane, dig for buried treasure, wrap yourself up in a gigantic bubble, and take a stroll through ""Our Town"" complete with a grocery store and bank.
Location: 220 North Church Street Greensboro, NC 27401 Tel: 336.574.2898 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Greensboro Cultural Center at Festival Park - The Greensboro Cultural Center provides four levels of galleries, studios, classrooms and rehearsal halls to stimulate the mind and excite the senses. Festival Park, the two block area surrounding the Center, is the hub of Greensboro's downtown cultural activities. The Price Bryan Performance Place provides a visually stimulating environment for a variety of outdoor festivals, concerts and theatrical performances. The contemporary structure of the facility lends itself to accommodate exceptional receptions, dinners, and musical events in a social and corporate setting.
Location: 200 North Davie Street Greensboro NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Imagination Station Science Museum - Slither and slide, hop and bop, run and jump, explore and discover Imagination Station where Science rocks and kids rule! We still have all the things our visitors have enjoyed during their visits to Imagination Station. Race The Wild and other Fun Factory exhibits are here, along with Curiosity Corner and our collection of exotic animals, plus we're always adding new, exciting and fun exhibits and programs! Imagination Station offers daily science and outreach programs as well as special workshops.
Location: 224 East Nash Street Wilson, NC 27894 Tel: 252.291.5113 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mint Museum of Art - It has a rich and diverse resource with noted collections of American art, pre-Columbian art, American and European ceramics, American decorative arts, historic costumes and accessories, African art, Asian art, historic maps, contemporary art and photography. The Mint Museum of Art’s collection numbers over 27,000 items and is a rich asset for the museum’s audience as it establishes its place among its peers in the region and within the nation.
Location: 2730 Randolph Road Charlotte NC 28207 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Museum of Anthropology - Founded in 1963, the Museum was established by the faculty of the Department of Anthropology to broaden the learning opportunities for their students. Since its inception, the Museum's educational role has expanded greatly into the Winston-Salem and Triad communities. In its present location on campus since 1986, the Museum's collections, exhibits, and programs have grown extensively.
Location: PO Box 7267 Winston-Salem, NC 27109-7267 Tel: 336.758.5282 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Carolina Theatre - The historic Carolina Theatre is located on 310 South Greene Street in downtown Greensboro, NC. In 1927, Calvin Coolidge was president, Babe Ruth led the Yankees to the World Series, and the Carolina Theatre was introduced to Greensboro, NC as "The Showplace of the Carolinas." Today, the Carolina Theatre still serves the community as a performing arts center owned and operated by the United Arts Council of Greensboro.
Location: 310 S. Greene Street Greensboro, NC 27401 Tel: (336) 333-2605 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NC Blumenthal Performing Arts Center - The Center is home to the seasons of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Opera Carolina, North Carolina Dance Theatre, Carolina Voices, the Charlotte Philharmonic Orchestra, Moving Poets Theater of Dance and the Carolinas Concert Association.
Location: PO Box 37322 Charlotte, NC 28237 Tel: 704.372.1000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame - The North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame features over 35 cars on display, the Goodyear Mini-Theater, and displays showcasing racing's past and present. The Art Gallery features many of motorsports' top artists including Garry Hill, Sam Bass and Jeanne Barnes and many others.
Location: 119 Knob Hill Road Lakeside Park Mooresville, NC 28117 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Museum of Art - The North Carolina Museum of Art houses the art collections of the State of North Carolina. The paintings and sculpture in the state's art collection represent more than 5,000 years of artistic heritage, from ancient Egypt to the present.
Location: 2110 Blue Ridge Road Raleigh, NC Tel: (919) 839-6262 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Lazy 5 Ranch - The Lazy 5 Ranch is a privately owned exotic animal drive thru park that offers a 3.5 mile safari through the gently sloping pasturelands of Piedmont, North Carolina. While visiting at the Lazy 5 Ranch you will have the opportunity to view over 750 animals from six different continents. Location: The Lazy 5 Ranch, 15100 Hwy 150 East, Mooresville, NC 28115 (704) 663-5100
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North Carolina Zoo - Located about 75 miles west of Raleigh in Asheboro, N.C. Zoo is nationally recognized as one of the nation’s finest zoos. It was the first American zoo designed from its inception around the "natural habitat" philosophy--presenting animals and plants in exhibits that closely resemble the habitats in which they would be found in the wild. Among the most popular exhibits are those that display polar bears, sea lions, river otters, alligators, elephants, gorillas, baboons, rhinoceros, giraffes, and zebras. The 37-acre African Plains exhibit alone is as large a many entire zoos.
Location: 401 Zoo Parkway Asheboro, North Carolina 27205 Tel: 1.800.488.0444 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emerald Pointe Water Park - The largest water park in both the Carolinas is the place to cool off, get sun and have fun. With over 34 rides and attractions, there's something for everyone…from mild to wild…from tots to seniors. It's family friendly and the young kids (and mom and dad, too) will have a great time in Splash Island and Happy Harbor, our two large children's areas. When you're ready to kick back and relax after enjoying the over 3 million gallons of water fun, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe offers an abundance of lounge chairs and shaded areas.
Location: Greensboro, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Afro-American Cultural Center - Through comprehensive programs and presentations in the visual arts, performing arts and through innovative educational programs, the Afro-American Cultural Center (AACC) preserves, promotes, and presents African-American art, history, and culture to all citizens of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, the surrounding counties and the nation.
Location: 401 North Myers Street Charlotte, NC 28202 Tel: 704-374-1565 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Botanical Garden - Developer of 15 collections and display gardens (7,000 accessions; 2,200 species). A pioneer of the Natural Habitat Garden (Mountains, Coastal Plain, Sandhills). Holder of an acclaimed collection of carnivorous plants, a distinctive specialty of the Southeast. Protector of 30 endangered plants. Curator of the Mercer Reeves Hubbard Herb Garden, which includes a Culinary Garden, Economic Garden, Medicinal Garden, Native American Garden, Poison Garden. Holder of the largest and most thoroughly documented site of the National Rosemary Collection of the Herb Society of America. Curator of a Garden of Flowering Plant Families, Native Perennial Borders and Horticultural Therapy Demonstration Gardens.
Location: CB 3375, Totten Center Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3375 Tel: 919-962-0522 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) - SECCA fosters creative excellence through temporary exhibitions and projects of significant regional and national scope. Through innovative outreach and education programs, SECCA serves as a vital community resource by bringing artists, their work, and the public together in meaningful experiences of sharing and learning on the common ground of art.
Location: 750 Marguerite Drive Winston-Salem, NC 27106-5800 Tel: 336.725.1904 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ackland Art Museum - The Ackland Art Museum exists to bring people and works of art together. The Museum acquires, preserves, exhibits and interprets works of art as an academic unit of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to fulfill the University's mission to provide teaching, research and public service for the citizens of North Carolina. As part of UNC-Chapel Hill the Ackland advances the University’s global reach through artistic and scholarly collaborations with national and international partners.
Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Campus Box 3400 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3400 Tel: 919.966.5736 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Greensboro Coliseum Complex - The Greensboro Coliseum Complex was conceived as, and continues to be a multi-building facility to serve the Citizens of Greensboro and the surrounding area through a broad range of activities, including athletic events, cultural arts, concerts, theater, and other entertainment, educational activities, fairs, exhibits, and public and private events of all kinds.
Location: 1921 West Lee Street Greensboro, NC 27403 Tel: (336)-373-7400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Furniture Discovery Center - Located in downtown High Point, the Furniture Discovery Center is the nation's only museum of furniture design and manufacturing. With more than 8,000 square feet of exhibit space, visitors can explore the worlds of furniture design, styling, marketing, construction and production, history and numerous special exhibits.
Location: 101 West Green Drive High Point, North Carolina 27260 Tel: (336) 887-3876 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
African American Cultural Complex - The African American Cultural Complex is a unique collection of artifacts, documents and displays of outstanding contributions made by African Americans and are housed in several buildings along a picturesque nature trail.
Location: 119 Sunnybrook Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27610-1827 Tel:919-250-9336 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raleigh City Museum - The museum is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of Raleigh, North Carolina's capital city.
Location: 220 Fayetteville Street Mall Raleigh NC 27601 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Korner's Folly - This historic and eccentric structure offers 22 rooms spread out over three floors and seven levels, with ceiling heights ranging from six feet to 25 feet. It was a work-in-progress from the beginning: when Jule married Polly Alice Masten in 1886, portions were enclosed and the stables moved across the street; a top-level room was significantly converted in 1897; Körner died in 1924, feeling that the "work" was still incomplete.
Location: 413 South Main Street Kernersville, N.C. 27284 Tel: (336) 996-7922 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FUN & ENTERTAINMENT VACATIONS - EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA (For example - Wilmington, NC - Raleigh, NC - New Bern, NC)
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Battleship USS North Carolina - The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is a proud reminder of American efforts to protect the free world. Come aboard and experience first-hand the patriotic pride that carried her brave crew to victory. This section will assist you in planning your visit to the Battleship, Wilmington and the southeastern coast of North Carolina, or our South Carolina neighbors in Myrtle Beach.
Location: Eagles Island PO Box 480 Wilmington, NC 28402-0480 Tel: 910.251.5797 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aurora Fossil Museum - Discover prehistoric man, ocean life fifteen million years ago and geological formations. The museum boasts a large collection of fossils from the nearby PCS Phosphate mine and allows visitors to see fossilized bones, teeth, shells and coral. Following their tour, visitors may search for fossils or visit the gift shop.
Location: 400 Main St. Aurora, NC 27806-0352 Tel: (252) 322-4238 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Core Sound Waterfowl Museum - The Institute of Museum and Library Services, an independent Federal grant-making agency dedicated to creating and sustaining a nation of learners by helping libraries and museums serve their communities, supports the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center.
Location: 1785 Island Road P.O. Box 556 Harkers Island, NC 28531 Tel: 252-728-1500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Maritime Museum - The Museum has an active boatbuilding program, and offers many environmental education programs, including the Cape Lookout Studies Program, which operates from a remote facility on North Carolina's Outer Banks. A visit to the museum will enhance your appreciation of the natural beauty, precious resources, and rich cultural heritage of coastal North Carolina.
Location: 315 Front Street Beaufort, NC 28516-2125 Tel: (252) 728-7317 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airlie Gardens - Airlie Gardens encompasses 67 acres of quintessential Southern gardens with 10 acres of freshwater lakes. Features include azaleas, camellias, statuary and the historic Airlie Oak. This once privately owned garden was purchased for the public by New Hanover County in January, 1999. The gardens are located near Wrightsville Beach on Airlie Road.
Location: 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington, NC 28403 Tel: 910.798.7700 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cowan Museum - A collection of the rare, the unique and the unusual can be discovered at Cowan Museum. A multitude of artifacts fill the restored 1848 Kelly-Farrior home depicting the early rural heritage of North Carolina and Duplin County. Scores of woodworking tools, early farm implements, household utensils from the 18th and 19th century, and many other long-forgotten and intriguing items are displayed in the two-story historic dwelling.
Location: 411 S. Main Street P.O. Box 950, Kenansville, NC 28349 Tel: 910-296-2149 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Orton Plantation Gardens - A gem in the wild. The Orton Plantation near the southeastern NC coast offers an impressive set of formal and informal gardens on 20 acres. Wildlife and birdlife abound on the former rice plantation that prides itself on its enormous live oaks and overall landscaping. It's a fine, history rich garden of the South and the midAtlantic region.
Location: 9149 Orton Rd., S.E. Winnabow, NC 28479 Tel: (910) 371-6851 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher - The Aquariums were established in 1976 to promote an awareness, understanding, appreciation, and conservation of the diverse natural and cultural resources associated with North Carolina's ocean, estuaries, rivers, streams, and other aquatic environments.
Location: 417 North Blount Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27601 Tel: 1-800-832-FISH (3474) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Louise Wells Cameron Art Museum - The Louise Wells Cameron Art Museum is a collection of American art, architecture and decorative arts, housed in a 45,000 square foot building designed by architect Charles Gwathmey. The museum’s permanent collection includes American work from the 19th century to the present, and features a special in-depth collection of works by North Carolina artists and artisans spanning two centuries.
Location: 3201 South 17th Street Wilmington, NC 28412 Tel: 910.395.5999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts - THCPA has been in continuous use since it opened in 1858. Forming the east wing of Wilmington's magnificent City Hall, the facility hosts over 250 performance events annually. The complex houses three performance venues, the Main Stage, the Grand Ballroom, and the Studio Theatre.
Location: 310 Chestnut Street Historic Downtown Wilmington, North Carolina Tel: 910-343-3664 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens - Explore Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens and you’ll discover a world of people, places and objects from the past waiting to serve, challenge and entertain you. Historic homes are as varied as were their inhabitants. Each offers intriguing glimpses into changing lifestyles from the last days of colonialism through the early decades of our nation. Our gardens offer lots of variety, as well, and include contemporary, as well as historic plants and interpretations.
Location: 610 Pollock Street, P.O. Box 1007 New Bern, NC 28563 Tel: 800/767-1560 or 252/514-4900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Frisco Native American Museum - Located on Hatteras Island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, the Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center is a non-profit educational foundation created for the purpose of preserving Native American artifacts, art, and culture.
Location: P.O. Box 399, Frisco, NC 27936 Tel: (252) 995-4440 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Day At The Farm - Day At The Farm is the site of a 150 year old Craven County farm. The farm offers picnic areas, nature trail, animal feeding, an ice cream parlor, maze, guided tours and more
Location: 183 Woodrow McCoy Road P.O. Box 446 Cove City, NC 28523 Tel: (252) 514 - 9494 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buckner Hill Plantation - One of the largest antebellum plantation houses in North Carolina, recently restored Buckner Hill House (1855), still surrounded by hundreds of acres of cotton corn tobacco and cattle, provides a rare view of original, mostly undisturbed Greek Revival plantation architecture. Built by highly skilled African-American labor for the Hill family on the site of their previous plantation house (c.1700s), Buckner Hill House also has Italianate features and an unusual cruciform floor plan with wide halls on both floors crossing in the center of the house.
Location: North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .