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Top 7 Free Things to Do in Raleigh, NC (Family-Friendly & Fun!)

February 23, 2026

Looking for fun things to do in Raleigh, NC without spending a dime? Whether you’re a local family, a visitor, or just exploring the Triangle on a budget, Raleigh offers plenty of free, high-value activities that deliver culture, nature, history, and pure fun.

Here are the Top 7 Free Things to Do in Raleigh — all easy to visit and perfect for a day out.

1. Explore the NC Museum of Natural Sciences — Raleigh

📍 https://naturalsciences.org

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is one of the best free museums in the entire Southeast. Its multi-story exhibits feature dinosaurs, dioramas, live conservatory spaces, and rotating exhibits that appeal to both kids and adults.

Why it’s great:

Four floors of science exhibits Live animals in the Nature Research Center Frequent special exhibits and events Completely free to enter

Perfect for a rainy afternoon or a whole weekend outing.

2. Wander the North Carolina Museum of Art Park

📍 https://ncartmuseum.org

The North Carolina Museum of Art offers a beautiful campus that blends art, nature, and outdoor installations — all free to explore.

Highlights include:

Sculpture trails that wind through forests and fields Outdoor art installations Quiet lawns and shaded benches Seasonal outdoor programming

The museum’s indoor galleries are also free — making this a must-visit for art lovers.

3. Hike or Picnic at Umstead State Park

📍 https://www.ncparks.gov/umstead-state-park

William B. Umstead State Park is a local treasure for nature lovers. With miles of trails, lakes, and creek crossings, it’s perfect for a free day in the woods.

Family-friendly tips:

Bike, hike, or birdwatch on scenic paths Picnic at one of the shaded shelters Bring water shoes for creek play in summer

This park feels like a forest getaway without leaving the city.

4. Visit the RDU Flight Deck Playground

📍 https://rdu.com/terminal/flight-deck

Located inside Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), the Flight Deck Playground is a free indoor favorite for families. It features interactive aviation themed play stations and blow-up runway slides — perfect for kids to burn off energy waiting for flights or just passing through.

This creative space makes travel easier and more fun for families with little ones.

5. Stroll Historic Fayetteville Street & Moore Square

📍 https://downtownraleigh.org

Raleigh’s downtown core offers plenty of free exploration, architecture, and people-watching.

Don’t miss:

Fayetteville Street pedestrian walk Moore Square — often home to free concerts and community events Public art murals and installations Nearby dining and farmer’s markets

This vibrant downtown walk is ideal for photo ops and casual exploration.

6. Chill at Pullen Park (Free Entry + Budget Play)

📍 https://pullenpark.org

One of America’s oldest amusement parks, Pullen Park is free to enter and explore — though some rides cost a small fee. The grounds and playground areas, however, are 100% free.

Best for:

Picnics and shaded walks Playgrounds and pedal boats (optional paid activities) Splash grounds in summer Scenic lake views

A classic Raleigh favorite for generations.

7. Explore the JC Raulston Arboretum

📍 https://jcra.ncsu.edu

Operated by NC State University, the JC Raulston Arboretum is a botanical garden open to the public without charge. Explore themed gardens, seasonal blooms, lily ponds, and winding paths — all free.

Why it’s worth it:

Perfect for nature lovers and photographers Seasonal plant displays Educational signage throughout the grounds

It’s peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for a slow-paced afternoon.

✨ Bonus Free Ideas Worth Exploring

If you’ve got more time, consider adding these free experiences too:

Free public concerts on Fayetteville Street (seasonal) Raleigh Little Theatre outdoor events CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum) offers free admission days Local farmer’s markets and holiday markets (free entry)

📌 Final Tips for Visiting Raleigh For Free

Check seasonal hours — some free sites have limited winter schedules. Pack water, snacks, and layers for outdoor stops like Umstead and Pullen. Combine multiple free activities into a full budget-friendly day itinerary. Follow local events calendars for free concerts, festivals, and art walks.
Top 5 Day Trips From Raleigh (All Within 2 Hours!)

February 16, 2026

1. Greensboro (≈ 1 Hour 15 Minutes)

Greensboro is one of the easiest and most versatile day trips from Raleigh. It blends history, parks, family attractions, and a walkable downtown — perfect for all ages.

Official Site:

👉 https://www.visitgreensboronc.com

What to Do:

Visit the Greensboro Science Center Explore downtown Elm Street Walk through Country Park Tour the International Civil Rights Center & Museum

Why It’s Great:

Short drive, big-city energy, and tons of indoor and outdoor options year-round.

2. Winston-Salem (≈ 1 Hour 30 Minutes)

Winston-Salem offers a charming mix of history, arts, and Southern culture. It’s especially great if you enjoy slower-paced exploring with meaningful stops.

Official Site:

👉 https://www.visitwinstonsalem.com

What to Do:

Explore Old Salem Museums & Gardens Walk through Reynolda Village Visit local art galleries Enjoy downtown coffee shops

Why It’s Great:

Feels like a mini getaway without the long drive.

3. Hanging Rock State Park (≈ 2 Hours)

If you want mountain scenery without driving all the way to western North Carolina, Hanging Rock is one of the best nature escapes near the Triangle.

Official Site:

👉 https://www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/hanging-rock-state-park

What to Do:

Hike to Hanging Rock overlook Swim at the lake (seasonal) Explore waterfalls Picnic with mountain views

Why It’s Great:

Big views, fresh air, and real adventure — all within reach for a day trip.

4. Pilot Mountain State Park (≈ 2 Hours)

Pilot Mountain’s iconic peak makes it one of North Carolina’s most recognizable landmarks — and it’s surprisingly close to Raleigh.

Official Site:

👉 https://www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/pilot-mountain-state-park

What to Do:

Hike around the Big Pinnacle Enjoy panoramic overlooks Take family-friendly nature trails Photography and sunset viewing

Why It’s Great:

A true “mountain experience” without mountain-drive fatigue.

5. Washington, North Carolina (≈ 2 Hours)

Known as “Little Washington,” this riverside town sits along the Pamlico River and delivers coastal charm without coastal crowds.

Official Site:

👉 https://www.washingtonnc.org

What to Do:

Walk the waterfront boardwalk Take a boat tour Browse downtown shops Eat fresh seafood

Why It’s Great:

Relaxed coastal vibes, beautiful sunsets, and classic small-town charm
🎄 Top Holiday Activities in the Triangle, NC — 2025 Edition

December 11, 2025
Looking for festive fun around Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill? Here are five can’t-miss holiday activities in the Triangle, including glowing art walks, farm lights, ice skating, and more — perfect for families, date nights, or anyone who loves seasonal magic.

1. Phillips Farms of Cary – Country Christmas Light Walk & Tree Lot

Location: Cary
🌐 https://www.phillipsfarmsofcary.com/

If you want a wholesome, classic holiday outing, Phillips Farms is a must-visit. Their Country Christmas Walk-Through Light Show opens the day after Thanksgiving and includes:
- Thousands of lights
- Walk-through displays
- Hot cocoa and s’mores
- A charming Christmas Village
- Holiday photo ops
- Christmas tree lot and seasonal treats
It’s family-friendly, stroller-friendly, and one of the most popular holiday events in the Triangle.

2. Illuminate Art Walk – Downtown Raleigh

Location: Downtown Raleigh
🌐 https://downtownraleigh.org/holiday/illuminate

The Illuminate Art Walk turns downtown Raleigh into a glowing outdoor gallery filled with stunning light installations created by local and international artists. It usually runs through early January and is completely free.

Highlights include:
- Large-scale LED sculptures
- Interactive light pieces
- Walkable routes through Fayetteville Street, Moore Square, and City Plaza
- Lots of nearby food + drink options
This is a great evening activity for families or date nights, and it pairs perfectly with a stop for hot chocolate downtown.

3. Nights of Lights at Dorothea Dix Park

Location: Raleigh
🌐 https://raleighnc.gov/dixpark

One of the Triangle’s most beloved traditions, Nights of Lights transforms Dix Park into a drive-through wonderland filled with glowing tunnels, animated displays, and festive music. It’s a crowd favorite, and tickets typically sell out fast.

Tips:
- Visit on a weeknight to avoid long waits
- Buy tickets early
- Bring snacks for the car and dress cozy
4. Durham Holiday Parade & Fun Fest

Location: Downtown Durham
🌐 https://www.dprplaymore.org/308/Parades

Durham does holidays right. Their annual Holiday Parade & Fun Fest features:
- Local bands and performers
- Giant balloons
- Dance groups
- Food trucks
- Photos with Santa
- Kids’ activity zones
The parade is free and typically held the first weekend of December.

5. Ice Skating at Fenton – Cary

Location: Cary
🌐 https://thefenton.com/events/

For a festive winter vibe without the cold-weather travel, head to Fenton. Their seasonal outdoor ice rink is beautifully decorated and surrounded by:
- Holiday shops
- Dining
- Hot cocoa stands
- Weekend events + themed skate nights
It’s walkable, sparkly, and perfect for families.

🎯 Tips for Making the Most of Holiday Outings
- Go early or midweek — Big events like Phillips Farms or Illuminate get crowded on weekends. Early visits or weekday evenings tend to be quieter.
- Dress in layers & bring warm gear — Evenings get chilly, especially during a light walk or ice skating.
- Check event websites for tickets or updates — Some events require tickets (like Phillips Farms or Lantern Festival). Others are free but may change dates or hours.
- Parking & transit awareness — Downtown art walks + lighting events can fill up fast; consider arriving early or using public transit/ride-share where available.
- Have a backup plan — NC winter weather can be unpredictable. Have an indoor backup or flexible plan if something gets rescheduled.
- Follow my wife on Instagram to see more Holiday content and stunning drone footage of lights 😉 https://www.instagram.com/ncmomadventures/
🍂 Top Fall Activities in the Triangle, NC

September 4, 2025
Autumn in the Triangle is a magical time—pumpkin patches, haunted trails, corn mazes, farm play parks, and more. Looking for family-friendly day trips or cozy fall fun? Here’s your go-to guide for the best Harvest-fever destinations around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and beyond.

1. Phillips Farms of Cary

This family-owned gem is a top fall destination. Expect a seasonal corn maze, cow train, sunflower field, toddler play zone, candy cannon, mini golf, and more. For spooky fun, check out the haunted farm attractions after dark. Tickets generally start around $20/person, and season kicks off in mid-September. See details & operating hours on their official calendar.

2. Page Farms Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

Located in Raleigh, Page Farms offers hayrides, a five-acre corn maze, cow train, barnyard play area, farm animals, and pumpkin picking. Tickets are usually between $12–$18 depending on the day. A perfect classic fall outing!

3. Naylor Family Farm & Giant Corn Maze (Fuquay-Varina)

Just south of Raleigh, Naylor’s yearly fall lineup includes a sprawling corn maze, hay rides, barrel train, animals, and a pirate ship play area. Tickets run around $20–$25. Bonus: new 2025 additions include Treehouse Barn Adventure and live barnyard shows!

4. Crossroads Corn Maze & Fall Fun (Wendell)

Touted as an all-inclusive fall adventure, this spot features corny classics like a giant maze, hayrides, hay pyramids, pumpkin patch, food trucks, and even beer for adults. Admission is typically around $14–$17 per person.

5. Triangle on the Cheap Fall Roundup

Not a single location, but a treasure trove of seasonal ideas across the region—including DJ’s Berry Patch in Apex, Holder Hill Farm in Durham, and Tom’s Tunnel at Crossroads Corn Maze. Great for planning multiple outings in one read.

6. McKee Cornfield Maze (Rougemont)

A 12-acre maze with hayrides, play areas, farm animals, and pumpkin fields—McKee has everything needed for a perfect fall morning or afternoon. Tickets typically cost around $16, with younger kids free.

7. Fred G. Bond Metro Park (Cary)

For a more peaceful fall outing, head to Bond Park. With its walking trails, paddle boats, rope course, picnic shelters, and playground, it’s a beautiful place for crisp-air adventures without the crowds. Free and always refreshing.

🍁 Quick Tips for Visiting:
- Double-check dates & hours before heading out—it’s peak season for temporary closures and special events.
- Weekday mid-mornings tend to be less crowded and more relaxed.
- Bring cash for small farms or food trucks that may not accept cards.
- Dress in layers—mornings are cool, afternoons can feel summery!
For autumn adventures and real-time updates, follow @NCMomAdventures and stay tuned to OverTheMap.com for hidden fall gems in the Triangle and beyond.
Raleigh’s New Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park — Family Guide & What to Expect

August 19, 2025
Raleigh just got a major upgrade for families and kids of all ages — the Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park is officially open! This one-of-a-kind space is part of the transformation of Dix Park into what’s being called “America’s most exciting new urban park.” Whether you’re local to the Triangle or planning a day trip, this is one destination you’ll want to add to your list.

What Makes the Gipson Play Plaza Special

The Play Plaza isn’t your average playground — it’s a thoughtfully designed, inclusive space that brings together play, water, art, and nature all in one place. Every corner feels like it was designed with both kids and parents in mind.

Here’s what you’ll find:
- Giant Play Structures – Climbing towers, swings, and slides big enough to thrill older kids while still offering safe options for toddlers.
- Water Play Area – A splash zone perfect for cooling off in Raleigh’s hot summers.
- Sensory-Friendly Spaces – Quiet areas and interactive features designed with inclusivity at the forefront.
- Public Art Installations – Large-scale art woven into the play environment, making it feel creative and inspiring.
- Nature Elements – Shady spots, natural play materials, and areas to explore beyond the equipment.
Tips for Visiting with Your Family

If you’re planning your first trip to the Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park, here are a few helpful things to know:
- Parking: Free parking is available on-site, but weekends may get busy — arrive early for the best spots.
- Restrooms: Family-friendly restroom facilities are located near the play area.
- Picnic Spots: Pack a lunch or snacks — there are plenty of grassy areas and tables for a picnic.
- Best Times to Visit: Mornings and evenings are less crowded (and cooler during summer).
- Accessibility: The Play Plaza was designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring children of all abilities can enjoy the space.
Why Families Love It

The Gipson Play Plaza is more than a playground — it’s a destination. Families can spend hours here without getting bored. The mix of active play, water fun, and art exploration makes it engaging for kids of all ages, while parents appreciate the thoughtful layout and shaded areas.

It also connects seamlessly to the larger Dix Park, giving families the option to enjoy walking trails, wide-open fields, and the city skyline views.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: Dix Park — Gipson Play Plaza
📅 Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
💲 Cost: Free
The Magic of St Paul Virginia

August 11, 2025

When I started this page, I promised to write about places that speak to the soul, or pluck the proverbial “heart strings”. It’s time to talk about St. Paul Virginia. This place is special. Of course I captured some aerial views that you can find on my YouTube Channel here.

We checked into the Western Front Hotel on a Thursday afternoon, and immediately noticed the charm of the hotel and town. It’s clear there are people that care deeply about making St. Paul a vibrant recreation destination, while continuing to honor it’s past. Every so often we spotted a Polaris ATV cruising down main street with a smiling driver and passengers. This is because ATVs and side by sides are legal to drive within St. Paul town limits, but more on that later.

The Western Front Hotel was renovated and revitalized, and many of the staff there (who were born and raised in St Paul. seemed very proud of the history, explaining how the space has been everything from a video store, a liquor store, apartments and more. We walked through town and found “The Coffee Station” which appeared to be a renovated bank, complete with vault and more.

To take a quick aside- I love seeing any kind of revitalized main street in our country. We drive through a lot of downtown areas, and it’s sad to see when they are bail bonds or “We buy gold” locations. So seeing this space expertly turned into a hotel honoring the history of the town speaks to America loving heart.

Back to the Western front for a moment, and their connected restaurant “Puerto Nuevo”. The pricing was fair and the food & service were good. I cannot remember the last time I was able to have a $6 dollar margarita or a $4 draft beer, but Puerto Nuevo offered both. In addition, on this Thursday night, there was “Music Bingo”, which had our whole family listening to 80’s music hits, attempting to win free appetizers. As I’ve mentioned before, I love when a restaurant is fun for the whole family while having engaging activities that keep the kids at the table.

On Saturday morning we walked to a small farmers market in town, with locals selling hand made crafts, sprouting vegetables, locally grown produce and more. Imagine the children’s excitement when one of the local reps gave them each a $5 dollar voucher to spend, as a part of a program the town was running. With their combined $10, my kids purchased pepper plants, snacks, hand made fudge, and at least 10 pounds of potatoes! They were overjoyed. We made sure to buy some hand crocheted bags and towel holders, and spent time talking to the locals. Everyone was incredibly nice, specifically to the children.

The highlight of the trip for me was the ATV ride. As a suburbanite, my neck has never been very red, so I haven’t spent a lot of time “muddin” or 4 wheeling. Western Front had a 4 seater ATV dropped off at the hotel for us, and we were on our way up the mountain and Spearhead trails. To see some of that footage and more, check out this post from my wife (NCMomAdventures).

The stay in St. Paul provided quiet, charming lodging, walkability, and adventures. The peace of the surrounding area provided time to slow down and connect with the family. It’s an experience that will stay with us, and I had to write about it. Thanks again for reading!
🔬 Best Science & Children’s Museums in the Triangle, NC

August 7, 2025

Looking for fun, educational adventures in the Triangle? Whether you’re local or just visiting, the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area is packed with hands-on science centers and interactive museums that bring learning to life. Here are some of the top spots to explore, learn, and play!

🧬 Museum of Life and Science – Durham

This 84-acre campus in Durham is a must-see. With outdoor treehouses, a butterfly house, train rides, and hands-on science exhibits inside, there’s something here for all ages. Don’t miss the Earth Moves exhibit or the wild animal habitats! Check out a @NCMomAdventures’ visit for a closer look.

🔭 NC Museum of Natural Sciences – Raleigh

One of the largest natural history museums in the Southeast, this downtown Raleigh gem offers four floors of exhibits—including dinosaurs, dioramas, and a working research lab. Admission is free, and it’s a favorite spot for both residents and visitors. Be sure to explore the adjacent Nature Research Center for even more hands-on fun.

🌌 Morehead Planetarium and Science Center – Chapel Hill

Located on UNC’s campus, the Morehead Planetarium has been inspiring stargazers for decades. Catch a show under the dome or explore interactive exhibits about space, light, and more. This is a fantastic destination for aspiring astronomers of all ages.

💡 Imagination Station Science & History Museum – Wilson

Just a short drive from Raleigh, this museum blends science and history in one family-friendly spot. Learn about animals, weather, and technology through rotating exhibits and special programs. It’s smaller than others on the list, but packed with charm and curiosity.

🧪 Bonus: NC Science Festival (Statewide)

Each spring, the NC Science Festival brings hundreds of events to the Triangle and beyond—including museum programs, lab tours, outdoor science hikes, and more. It’s a great way to experience STEM across North Carolina.

🎥 Want to see more real-world adventures across North Carolina? Check out travel videos and tips from @NCMomAdventures on Instagram, where we highlight hands-on fun for the whole family.

📌 Save this list and start exploring the Triangle’s best science and discovery destinations!
The Magic of Downtown Elkin, NC

July 31, 2025

A short while back, my wife (@NCMomAdventures) was invited to highlight the Carolina Experience property “Three Trails”, in downtown Elkin North Carolina. We had a short list of activities to do in this town that rests along the Yadkin river. I recently wrote a post here, if you are looking for something to do in Elkin.

I was unprepared for the different ways the town would pluck the strings connected to my heart.

Instead of writing this in chronological order, I’m going to cover some highlights:

Angry Troll Brewing: On our first night in Elkin, we strolled downtown, and decide on Angry Troll for dinner. First of all, what a name. Second of all dang this beer was good. The restaurant is named after the mythical bridge troll, and is in close proximity to the bridge. There is also a venue connected to the brewery, and a pool hall with another bar, games and more downstairs. It’s a massive, charming place, and one of the first special moments we had in the area.

Then next morning we walked around more, stopping for coffee. While sipping on coffee, we saw a crowd gathering in a town square, and heard music. Of course we had to go check it out. When we walked over we saw a small famers market, which was charming on it’s own, but the magic continued when I realized the music we heard was from a 9 piece string band, sitting in a circle playing violins, a cello and more. I’ve not had this kind of experience very often. It’s like something out of a hallmark movie, or Stardew Valley.

We continued to walk around towards the river, and stumbling upon the Chamber of Commerce which was.. open on a Saturday? We walked in to find friendly staff t-shirts and … information on wine tours. They explained how there are numerous vineyards in the area, and transport tours to go sample wines. We weren’t prepared for a tour on this trip, but next time we will be ready.

We walked along train tracks, stared at the river for a bit, and let the kids play at a nearby playground. We had a short hike on Carters Falls Trail. We stopped in Fruition to have a cocktail before dinner.

The “what” we did is so much less important than the “how” it made us feel. We travel a lot, and there are only so many times we can step into a town and just settle down and enjoy it, and not have to worry about driving all over creation.

Elkin continues to stick with me, and we have only scratched the surface. I posted some drone footage here on Youtube, and of course NCMomAdventures made a fantastic reel highlighting the area.

Thanks again for reading! I’ve needed to get this out of my system since our visit. If you are looking for a walkable good time, or some amazing vineyard tours, be sure to check out Elkin!
🏃‍♂️ Top Indoor Play Places in the Triangle for Kids of All Ages

July 30, 2025
It’s hot out! Luckily the Triangle is packed with exciting indoor play options for families. From ninja courses to immersive playgrounds and trampoline parks, there’s something here for every age — even teens! Here are some of our favorite tried-and-tested indoor spots for energetic kids (and grateful parents).

1. HyperKidz – Durham

If your kids need a place to run wild, HyperKidz Durham is a must. It’s bright, safe, and massive — with zones for toddlers and big kids alike. Think slides, ball pits, climbing walls, and sensory activities all in one space. @NCMomAdventures visited recently and gave it two thumbs up!

📍 1040 International Dr, Durham, NC 27703

2. Urban Air Adventure Park – Raleigh

This isn’t just a trampoline park — it’s a full-scale indoor adventure. Attractions include warrior obstacle courses, climbing walls, a ropes course, and a virtual reality section. It’s especially great for school-aged kids and tweens. Check out @NCMomAdventures’ video tour on Instagram to see the action in full swing.

📍 7810 Poyner Pond Cir, Raleigh, NC 27616

3. Museum of Life + Science – Durham

While most people know this museum for its incredible outdoor dinosaur walk and treehouse village, its indoor science center is just as engaging. Perfect for younger kids and curious older ones alike — it includes hands-on exhibits, sensory-friendly zones, and interactive experiments.

📍 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704

4. Rainbow Play of NC – Raleigh

This indoor play area doubles as a working showroom for outdoor playsets, but during weekday hours (10 AM–2 PM), they open the Rainbow Party Room to kids. For just around $7 per child, you get access to a vibrant indoor playroom with swings, slides, and soft surfaces. Adults and children under 2 enter free.

🌈 It’s perfect for preschoolers needing active play in a clean, quiet environment — and easy to include in a random weekday outing.

📍 8820 Westgate Park Dr, Raleigh, NC 27617

Bonus Picks:
- Sky Zone Trampoline Park (multiple locations) – Great for older kids and tweens.
- Defy Gravity (Durham) – Perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh) – Always a hit, especially for ages 1–10.
📌 Final Tip:

Follow @NCMomAdventures on Instagram to discover more amazing family spots across North Carolina — including videos from many of the places above!
💦 5 Best Splash Pads in Raleigh NC to Beat the Heat with Kids

July 24, 2025
Next week looks like more record breaking temperatures for Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, Cary, and Morrisville. Looking for a fun and affordable way to cool off with your kids in Raleigh this summer? These splash pads are perfect for family outings—free, fun, and full of energy-burning water play! We’ve rounded up the best splash pads in Raleigh, NC, from brand-new favorites to tucked-away gems. Bonus: These parks also feature playgrounds, green space, and even nearby food trucks.

1. Chavis Park Splash Pad – A Local Favorite

📍 505 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Raleigh, NC

The splash pad at John Chavis Memorial Park is a Raleigh classic. It features timed water jets, misting arches, and interactive fountains. The adjacent modern playground and shaded picnic areas make this a full-day experience.

🎥 @NCMomAdventures video visit here

2. Dix Park – Gipson Play Plaza Water Feature

📍 2105 Umstead Dr, Raleigh, NC

This brand-new water play area at Gipson Play Plaza is a showstopper. With shallow channels, fountains, and sculptural splash features, it’s beautifully designed for imaginative play and cooling off. Right nearby: climbing structures, nature play areas, and skyline views. NCMomAdventures video with my drone footage is here.

3. Jack Smith Park – Sculptures + Splashing

📍 9725 Penny Rd, Raleigh, NC

Jack Smith Park offers a colorful splash pad with public art sculptures that kids love to explore. With shaded seating and an epic dino-themed playground, it’s a local favorite for good reason.

4. Knightdale Station Park Splash Pad

📍 810 N First Ave, Knightdale, NC

This destination-worthy splash pad features sprays, water rings, and fun fountains. Plus, Oak City Brewing and food trucks are right next door—great for parents!

5. Laurel Hills Park – Shady and Secluded

📍 3808 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC

Known for its inclusive Sassafras Playground, this park also offers a cozy splash pad great for smaller kids. Lots of shade, soft surfaces, and peaceful surroundings.

💧 Honorable Mentions
- Lake Benson Park (Garner) – Seasonal spray area with trails and playgrounds.
- Fuquay-Varina Splash Pad – Small-town charm with plenty of splash!
🧼 Parent Tips Before You Go:
- Most splash pads are open seasonally from May–September.
- Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and a towel.
- Early mornings or weekdays are the least crowded.
📸 Follow Along

For more Triangle-area family fun, follow my wife, @NCMomAdventures on Instagram and subscribe to OverTheMap.com for family guides, weekend itineraries, and hidden gems across North Carolina!