Downtown Cary

Family-Friendly Destinations and Events in The Triangle This Summer

Cary, NC – Spring is well underway, and summer is just around the corner in the Triangle, which means it’s time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors and start planning your family getaway to North Carolina.

Whether you’re a resident of The Triangle or are planning on visiting the area, it’s the perfect place to get your summer started and have fun with your family. Check out some of our top “must do and see” events for the summer months.

Live in the District

Start out your summer by attending live music every Thursday night at the Stone Theatre-Park West 14.  Live in the District has been going strong since April, the weekly event runs until mid-June. Dance or relax while the kids play and enjoy one of your favorite North Carolina craft beers and support your local Triangle music scene.

Bond Park

Family Friendly Festivals and Outdoor Activities

There’s nothing like a festival to kick off the summer season. Whether you head to the annual Pollinator Festival at Lake Crabtree or the annual Blackberry Festival in Raleigh, there are plenty of festivals every week all summer long.

Enjoy the great outdoors with National Go Fishing Day Fun or the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson to appreciate the beauty of living or visiting North Carolina in the summertime.

Animals, Nature, Science & Learning

Who says that your kids should take a break from learning after school lets out for summer? If you have animal or science lovers in your family, there are many attractions in The Triangle that will delight everyone.

The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is a top-rated family-friendly attraction. The science center not only has outdoor activities, but it’s also home to bears and lemurs. While you’re there, check out the butterfly conservatory.

Want to get up close and personal with animals? Hux Family Farm in Durham, Celebrity Dairy in Siler City, and Animals Edventures in Coats are all family-friendly opportunities to interact with a variety of animals.

For The Thrill Seekers

Are you looking for a family experience that’s fast and loud or do you have some sports fans in the house? Rush Hour Karting in Garner, Grand Slam U.S.A. in Raleigh, and the Orange County Speedway in Rougemont will satisfy the thrill seekers of all ages in your family.

Downtown Cary

Some Travel Tips to Consider

The Triangle is jam-packed with activities that are family-friendly and ideal for summer. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend excursion, there are a few tips to consider while traveling to make the most of your trip and keep your family safer.

While North Carolina weather is some of the best around, always check the forecast before you hit the road and plan or pack accordingly. Before you travel, make sure that you’ve mapped out your destinations so that you don’t have to increase your distractions by reading your GPS or listening to directions.

Don’t forget to reduce your risk of an accident by eliminating any distractions while you drive and if you plan to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver.


Story by Brittany Cotton. Photos by Jessica Patrick and Hal Goodtree.