North Carolina’s Favorite Family Attractions
North Carolina has long been a favoite family destination with historical, natural and amusement attractions from the mountains to the sea. Below are some of the favorite family attractions in the state.
Carowinds
Fun theme park located on the NC/SC state line in Charlotte, NC. Fury 325 was voted top steel coaster in the world and with 57 thrill rides, family rides and roller coasters, Carowinds is fun for the whole family. Also explore Carolina Harbor, the largest Water Park in the Carolinas, featuring extreme water slides, wave pools, cabanas and a two-acre children’s area!
North Carolina Zoo
Explore over 500 acres of exhibits from Africa’s grasslands to North America’s Arctic coast at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, NC. From African elephants and lions to bobcats, gorillas and flamingos, the NC Zoo offers a great glimpse at animals of the world.
Grandfather Mountain
Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain is home of the famous “Mile High Swinging Bridge”, indigenous habitats including black bears, cougars and deer, nature museum, trails and so much more. It’s a must-see in the mountains.
NC Aquariums
With four locations, the NC Aquariums offer a beautiful peek into the underwater world. Touch a stingray, explore shipwrecks, learn about sea turtles and more. Locations in Pine Knoll Shores, Roanoke Island, Fort Fisher and Nag’s Head.
Battleship North Carolina
Explore nine decks, crew’s quarters, gun turrets and much more on the most decorated US battleship of WWII. Fun for all ages, and open year-round.
Mystery Hill
Visit North Carolina’s Natural Gravitational Anomaly where gravity doesn’t quite obey the laws of physics. Watch a ball roll up hill, water flow up hill, and just try to stand up straight! Other attractions at Mystery Hill include Prospector Hill Gem Mining, Tomahawk Hill axe throwing, the Bull Riding Challenge, Appalachian History Museum, Native American Artifacts Museum, Bubblerama, hands-on science at the Hall of Mystery, Professor Finnegan’s Old Time photos and more!
Linville Caverns
Explore the inside of a mountain at Linville Caverns. Discover stalactites, stalagmites and learn about the history of these age-old mountains. Located about 45 minutes from Boone and well worth the short drive.
Tweetsie Railroad
Explore this Wild West Theme Park located between Boone and Blowing Rock in North Carolina. Ride a train around the park, meet the cowboys, take in a show, visit the Deer Park Zoo, ride the super fun amusement rides and be sure to get some ice cream! Fun for all ages.
The Blowing Rock
North Carolina’s Oldest Attraction, The Blowing Rock, offers staggering views. Learn about the legend of The Blowing Rock, and visit the museum to discover more about the geology and history of The Blowing Rock.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Discover the region in which the Wright Brothers took the first flight in Kitty Hawk, NC. Exhibits, flights and kite flying on site. Great for history buffs, kids and anyone who loves the coast of NC.