25 Apr 2025
10 Fun Things to Do with Kids within 30 Minutes of Wake Forest
If you’re a parent in the Wake Forest area, you’re in for a treat! From exciting outdoor adventures to interactive museums, there are so many ways to entertain your little ones without venturing too far from home. Whether it’s a day of discovery, creativity, or fun in the sun, here are 10 fantastic activities that are all within 30 minutes of Wake Forest.
1. Hillridge Farms - A Farm-Tastic Day Out
Hillridge Farms is a must-visit if you’re looking for an authentic farm experience that’s equal parts educational and fun. This family-friendly spot offers everything from hayrides to a petting zoo, mini-golf, and even a corn maze! Seasonal activities like pumpkin picking in the fall or Christmas light displays make it the perfect place to visit all year round. It's a great way for your kids to get their hands dirty while exploring farm life.
2. Marbles Kids Museum - Creativity Galore
Just a short drive from Wake Forest, Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh is an indoor playground for the imagination. With hands-on exhibits focused on science, art, and technology, kids will have a blast learning through play. They can create their own art in the "Art Loft," explore the "Imagination Playground," or experiment in the interactive "Marbles Market." Perfect for rainy days, this museum is a surefire hit with the whole family!
3. Durham Museum of Life and Science - A Wild Adventure
Located in Durham, the Museum of Life and Science is a dream come true for curious kids! This interactive museum is home to amazing outdoor exhibits like the Dinosaur Trail and Butterfly House, as well as indoor science labs that are packed with fun learning activities. The museum also features a hands-on playscape, perfect for younger kids to explore. It’s an educational adventure that will keep your kids engaged and excited to learn.
4. Fantasy Lake Scuba Park - Splash Into Fun
If your kids love water and outdoor fun, Fantasy Lake Scuba Park in Rolesville is a fantastic option. This hidden gem features a huge lake with opportunities for paddleboarding, swimming, and even water obstacle courses. With plenty of space for picnicking and playing, it’s an awesome place to spend the day outdoors. It’s a bit of a “secret spot,” but once you visit, you’ll be hooked!
5. Pullen Park - A Classic Favorite
Looking for a timeless family outing? Pullen Park, located in Raleigh, has something for everyone. With a carousel, train rides, playgrounds, and paddleboats, this park is a great place to let your kids run wild. The large open spaces and shaded picnic areas make it perfect for family gatherings, and there's even an outdoor theater that hosts free performances during the summer months.
6. Lake Johnson Park - Nature Meets Adventure
Lake Johnson Park is another beautiful destination just a short drive from Wake Forest. It features over 5 miles of scenic trails that wind around the lake, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride with the family. The lake also offers a place to rent paddleboats and kayaks, making it a perfect place for a fun day outdoors. Whether you’re enjoying the view from the boardwalk or hanging out by the playground, Lake Johnson provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
7. Galaxy Fun Park - Laser Tag, Bowling, and More
Located in Raleigh, Galaxy Fun Park is a high-energy entertainment center that’s perfect for kids of all ages. With everything from laser tag and bowling to an arcade, bumper cars, and mini-golf, there’s never a dull moment here! Whether you want to compete in a game of laser tag, strike up some pins in the bowling alley, or enjoy some classic arcade games, Galaxy Fun Park offers tons of activities to keep your kids entertained for hours.
8. Historic Yates Mill County Park - A Little History and Nature
If you’re looking to combine nature with a touch of history, Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh offers just that. The park is home to a beautifully restored 18th-century gristmill that your kids can tour while learning about the history of milling and the area. Afterward, take a stroll through the park's nature trails or enjoy some birdwatching around the pond. It’s the perfect place to connect with nature and get a little history lesson in the process!
9. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences - Fun and Fascinating
This iconic museum in downtown Raleigh is the ultimate destination for kids who are interested in the natural world. From dinosaur skeletons to live animals, this museum offers tons of interactive exhibits that make science exciting. Your little explorers will love seeing the impressive displays of wildlife, while the live animal shows and hands-on activities are perfect for getting the kids involved.
10. Adventure Landing - Endless Fun and Games
Adventure Landing, located in Raleigh, is a family-friendly amusement park that offers something for everyone. From go-karts and mini-golf to arcade games and laser tag, Adventure Landing is all about fun and friendly competition. Your kids can enjoy the outdoor thrills, and parents can join in for some classic nostalgia! It’s the perfect spot for a day of family fun and making memories.
Conclusion
From farm adventures and outdoor fun to interactive museums and thrilling amusement parks, the Wake Forest area is full of exciting things to do with kids. Whether you’re spending the day at Hillridge Farms or exploring Galaxy Fun Park, there’s no shortage of activities that will keep your little ones entertained. So next time you’re wondering how to spend the day with the kids, just remember: the fun is just around the corner! Make a plan today to stay at one of the properties of Wake Forest Vacation Rentals while you explore around.
