Warm weather. Sunny days. Sunglasses always within arm’s reach. That’s summertime. The official first day of summer this year is Wednesday, June 21, but let’s be honest, it’s already felt like summer for a while now. Now with traditional-calendared schools out for summer, there is even more time for kids and families to make plans and make memories. There is so much to do and see in the Triangle area. So get out your calendar and start planning!
Visit a museum. In downtown Raleigh, you’ll find multiple museums. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences offers a fun and educational outing for people of all ages, and general admission is free. Definitely be sure to check out the Living Conservatory upstairs on the fourth floor. You’ll see butterflies, turtles, a sloth and even more up close. Located directly across from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the North Carolina Museum of History. Make a day out of it and visit both museums. There is a restaurant inside each, so you have options for lunch. Other great museums in the Triangle area are Marbles, geared toward kids, the Museum of Life and Science in Durham and the North Carolina Museum of Art.
Strike one. Strike two. Strike three. You’re out! The Triangle area is home to some great baseball. There are the Durham Bulls and the Carolina Mudcats located at Five County Stadium in Zebulon. Take the entire family out, go with a group of friends or make it a date night. However you decide to go, you’re sure to have an absolute ball!
What better way to enjoy a beautiful summer day than at the park. Fortunately, there are many great parks in the area. Pullen Park offers an array of activities for people of all ages. Children can ride the carousel, play on the playground, and the whole family can hop on the train that takes you around the park. There are pedal boats available to ride on Lake Howell and the kiddie boats are more geared toward younger children. There is a large grassy area that is wide open for kids to let some energy out. If you’re looking to spend some time relaxing, bring a blanket, some reading material and enjoy the outdoors. Laurel Hills Park features the Sassafras children’s playground. It is fairly new and features swings, slides, a basketball court, zip lines and more.
For those super-hot days or on a rainy summer day with thunderstorms popping up, make your way to the movie theater. Several theaters in the Raleigh area offer discounted prices or even free movies. So if you’re stuck at home inside trying to stay dry or even on days where you want to do something different, check out a movie. While you’re there, get a drink and popcorn and you’re all set!