Here are some of the best family-friendly winter outings in the Carolinas to survive winter with your sanity intact—and maybe even enjoy it.
Winter in the Carolinas doesn’t have to mean endless cries of “I’m bored!” echoing through your house. Sure, it’s tempting to hibernate under a blanket and flip on the television when the kids start bouncing off the walls, but why not make some fun family memories instead? Whether you’re looking for an educational outing, a bit of fresh air, or just a place to let the kids burn off some energy, there are plenty of destinations and activities throughout the Carolinas to keep everyone entertained.
Enjoy an Educational Outing to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Cold weather is the perfect excuse to explore this incredible museum in Raleigh, NC. Exhibits include things like dinosaur fossils, gems, minerals, and live animals that will leave kids awestruck. The Discovery Room is the perfect place for interactive learning. Get up close and personal with fossils, feathers, and more. Kids can try on costumes and play with puppets, or search for critters in the Dead Tree Hotel. Best of all, admission is free, so it’s an easy win for families looking for an affordable day out.
Hands on exhibits will fascinate the entire family
Get Wild at Tiger World
Looking for a way to combine fresh air, education, and a bit of adventure? Tiger World in Rockwell, NC, is a must-visit destination for families. This wildlife preserve is home to tigers, lions, wolves, and other exotic animals, offering an up-close look at some of nature’s most majestic creatures. Kids will love spotting their favorite animals, and learning fun facts from the educational displays. Plus, the facility’s mission to rescue and care for endangered species makes the visit even more meaningful. It’s the perfect outing for little animal lovers and curious minds.
Enjoy an up-close look at some of nature’s most majestic creatures
Enjoy a Magical Puppet Show
For a dose of magic and creativity, take the kids to see Snow White at the Columbia Marionette Theatre in Columbia, SC. This beloved classic is brought to life with beautifully crafted marionettes, captivating storytelling, and a touch of humor that will delight audiences of all ages. Perfect for sparking imaginations and introducing children to the arts, this charming production is an unforgettable way to spend quality time together—and it’s sure to leave everyone smiling long after the curtain closes! Snow White runs from January 4 through April 19, 2025.
Puppet shows are the perfect kid-friendly introduction to live theater!
Dive into Adventure at the South Carolina Aquarium
Located on the beautiful Charleston Harbor, this interactive destination is perfect for kids of all ages. From the towering two-story Great Ocean Tank filled with sharks and sea turtles to the hands-on Touch Tank where little ones can meet stingrays and starfish, there’s something to fascinate every member of the family. Don’t miss the daily animal encounters! It’s a perfect way to spend the day while inspiring a love for marine life.
Explore, Learn, and Play at Discovery Place Science
This dynamic science museum in Charlotte, NC offers something for everyone with interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and live demonstrations that wow kids and adults alike. Little ones will love exploring the kid-friendly learning labs, while older kids can dive into fascinating topics like robotics, biology, and physics. Don’t forget to check out what’s playing at the state-of-the-art IMAX theater.
Get Creative at the North Carolina Museum of Art
The North Carolina Art Museum in Raleigh, NC is the perfect place to spark creativity and allow your little ones to explore their artistic talents. The museum offers a variety of family-friendly activities that make exploring art fun and engaging. Don’t miss the Family Studio sessions, where little artists can create their own masterpieces, or join an Artful Story Time for enchanting tales paired with art-inspired crafts. The Family-Friendly Tour is a great way to explore the galleries together, with kid-friendly insights and activities to keep everyone entertained.
