There are so many great things to do in the Cape Fear area. But, if your family is looking to hit the road for a little adventure, here are some of our picks for great family day trips nearby.
Exciting Family Day Trips to Consider
For families looking for fun, these trips from Wilmington, NC are perfect for creating lasting memories. These trips will not only entertain but also educate your kids about various attractions.
Raven Rock State Park is another fantastic option.
Kinston, NC
This little town is probably best known regionally for Vivian Howard’s restaurant, Chef & the Farmer, but there is much more here than you think. The minor league baseball team, Down East Wood Ducks, is the feeder team for the Texas Rangers – a perfect cap to a day trip! Games start in April. Then, follow up a game at Mother Earth Brewing and beer garden. (Have an interest in local breweries? Be sure to read our seven family-friendly brewery picks in the Wilmington, NC area!)
Moores Creek National Battlefield
Experience the history of our nation during visits to this battlefield.
Lake Waccamaw State Park
Your family will love exploring Lake Waccamaw during your Family Day Trips.
The Sea Turtle Hospital
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sea Turtle Hospital as part of your experience.’If your family loves to be outside, some of the best hiking around is at Raven Rock State Park. Located past Fayetteville, this park is a drive, but still a potential day trip – and one that is worth the travel! Read all of our tips on Raven Rock State Park in our article.
Bald Head Island is a beautiful destination.
Enjoy the unique experiences that Bald Head Island offers.
Plan your visits at the NC Aquarium for lots of fun!
The aquarium is a fantastic spot for learning.
These destinations are all perfect for your upcoming trips.
We wish your family many happy adventures on your trips!
Raleigh has a wonderful assortment of kids’ activities, from the North Carolina Museum of Art to the nearby Museum of Life and Science in Durham. There is so much to do in Raleigh, but the Marbles Kids Museum is a family favorite. With educational IMAX shows and so many exhibits, the museum will enthrall kids from toddler-aged to ten. (Marbles does have a café, but you can also walk to dozens of restaurants in downtown Raleigh.)
Moore’s Creek National Battlefield
One of the pivotal battles in the Revolutionary War took place in Currie, NC. And now Moore’s Creek National Battlefield is one of the closest National Parks to Wilmington, making it perfect for family day trips! Just 30 minutes outside of Wilmington, your family can experience the full scope of its history. Be sure to check in on special events and reenactments.
Just 38 miles outside of Wilmington, NC, this spot is very close for families. Due to its easy hiking and gorgeous views (as well as a lot of ecology!), Lake Waccamaw State Park is an easy way to get the family out and about.
Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital, one of our favorite family day trips, is a working place, small and busy with activity. Although the hospital closes to visitors during the winter, tours are available from April through the summer and into the fall. If your children have an affinity for these magnificent animals, it is worth the visit. Since it won’t be an all-day affair, try to catch a turtle release! (Releases are announced on the Facebook page.)
Bald Head Island is always a beautiful, unique place for a day trip. There is a maritime forest to hike through, large open beaches, and the ferry is back up and running. (The candy store will be reopening in March!) Because the two clubs with pools can be pricey and require membership, we suggest packing a lunch or hitting one of the several restaurants open to the public.
Finally, we love the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Because we go there so often, it is nice to drive to one of the other aquarium’s in the NC system: the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, near Atlantic Beach. This Aquarium has a river otters exhibit.
Because all of these trips involve less than three hours of family driving time, they are perfect for a family day trip. If your family wants to go further afield, consider the North Carolina Zoo, Charlotte and/or Greensboro.)
