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2026 Kid Friendly Activities Guide

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

Explore Hatteras Island at its natural best with a visit to the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Covering 13 miles of Cape Hatteras National Seashore land, this attraction is hard to miss, although there aren't many giant signs, hotels or...

Sunset Beach Park

Sunset Beach Park is a peaceful public space that captures the essence of coastal relaxation and small-town charm. Tucked along the Intracoastal Waterway just before the bridge to Sunset island, this scenic park provides visitors with a tranquil...

Isle of Palms County Park

Isle of Palms County Park is a welcoming and well-maintained coastal destination that offers everything visitors need for a perfect day at the beach. Managed by Charleston County Parks and Recreation, this popular beachfront park combines natural...

Broadway at the Beach

It's perfectly possible for a Myrtle Beach visitor to spend their entire vacation at the renowned Broadway at the Beach complex and never run out of things to do, attractions to see, and fantastic shops to explore. The sprawling 350 acre shopping...

James Island County Park

The expansive James Island County Park has a unique distinction as being one of the most entertaining and diverse destination in the Lowcountry. Able to accommodate a world of interests, from camping and fishing to splashing around in a seasonal...

Union Point Park

Visitors to New Bern's historic downtown are advised to take a break from the shopping, antiquing and dining, and enjoy a comfortable seat and a great view at the scenic and newly revitalized, Union Point Park.

Sandy Run Park

Sandy Run Park leads its visitors through the heart of Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve, one of the largest maritime forests remaining in North Carolina. Completed in two phases, the park now encompasses 1600 acres of marshland, waterways and...

East Bay Park

East Bay Park is located on the upper portion of a small peninsula that jets out into Sampit River and Winyah Bay, and as a result, visitors will admire distant water views from virtually any part of the park.

Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve

The Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve is a quiet and scenic refuge that offers a front-row seat to one of the most captivating natural environments along the Grand Strand. Situated beside the Cherry Grove Marsh, this small park provides a peaceful...

Fun Plaza

The Fun Plaza on Ocean Blvd. lives up to its name as one of the most entertaining North Myrtle Beach attractions inside and out. Located just steps away from the oceanfront, and easy to get to for both area resort guests and beach goers, the classic...

Port Discover

Kids of all ages can instantly become scientists, gardeners, doctors, and pilots, all just by walking through the unimposing downtown doors of Elizabeth City's Port Discover. This cool destination provides hours of fun for local and visiting little...

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Mitchelville Freedom Park is a deeply meaningful and historically rich destination that offers both a scenic natural setting and a powerful connection to America’s past. Located on the northern end of the island near Port Royal Sound, this...

Mount Pleasant Pier and Waterfront Park offer a stunning and serene escape that blends Lowcountry beauty with inviting public space and panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor. Located beneath the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, this picturesque...

Happy Days scenic tours allows you to view everything the Beaufort waterfront has to offer! This includes everything from fishing vessels, historic landmarks, local shops, salt marshes and a variety of wildlife - including the famous wild horses!

Climb Aboard the Crystal Dawn Head Boat and Enjoy an Awesome Day of Head Boat Fishing or an Amazing Sunset Cruise! Bring the Whole Family! Fish for a variety of species, including spot, croaker, flounder, grey trout, speckled trout...

Corolla Adventure Golf is Corolla’s newest attraction! The 27-hole Corolla-themed mni-golf course offers challenging play for all ages. The Bumper Cars put a smile on everyone’s face whether you are watching from the side lines or...

Located on the southern end of Emerald Isle, and easy to reach for visitors staying throughout the Crystal Coast, Mac Daddy’s is the destination of choice for countless fun-seeking vacationers of all ages who want a big dose of entertainment...

Walk, Run, Just Have Fun! From Corolla to Avon, family-friendly, weekly 5k racing on the Outer Banks. Everyone gets a t-shirt, medal, light snacks and refreshments at our post race party. A veteran owned business, The OBX Running Company brings...

Apache Pier is one of the most iconic and well-loved fishing piers on the Grand Strand. Known for being the longest wooden pier on the East Coast, it stretches far out over the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors a classic coastal experience steeped...

Thomson Park is a peaceful, historically significant waterfront space that offers visitors a quiet place to relax while reflecting on the island’s rich past. Tucked away near the western end of the island, this small but meaningful park sits...

Join us on an entertaining, 90-minute action packed adventure through one of America's largest living film sets! See 100’s of actual film locations, props and set pieces, & hear behind the scenes stories from hits like: One Tree Hill ...

Destination Fun continues to be a high‑energy favorite for indoor entertainment in Kill Devil Hills, offering a lively break from the beach that appeals to all ages. Located along South Croatan Highway, the longtime Outer Banks attraction has...

Game on Escape Rooms offers physical adventure games in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints and strategy to complete the objectives at hand. These experiences are great for ages 10 and up. Two different escape...

Located just South of Salvo proper, the Salvo Day Use Area provides a peaceful haven for families, beachgoers, and watersports lovers. This park offers the perfect backdrop for taking in the Outer Banks' rich history and natural beauty. Everyone may...

The 2nd Avenue Pier is a historic and beloved oceanfront landmark that offers a quintessential slice of coastal life right in the heart of the city. Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean from the south end of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, this...

Come check out Battle Works for a fun and entertaining experiences including axe throwing, laser tag, and nerf wars!

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island has become a beloved attraction for Outer Banks vacationers and an annual outing for seasoned visitors who are young and young at heart. The 68,000-square-foot complex covers all aspects of Outer Banks...

Pier 14 is a beloved oceanfront destination that blends the classic charm of a fishing pier with the vibrant energy of the Grand Strand. Stretching gracefully over the Atlantic Ocean just off North Ocean Boulevard, this scenic pier offers a variety...

  HWY 12 Amusements in Rodanthe offers family‑friendly fun beyond the beach, with laser tag, a full arcade, bowling, and a striking outdoor climbing wall. Conveniently located on NC Highway 12, it’s a go‑to spot for rainy days...

Located on the edge of the Bulkhead Channel which leads to the Back Sound, the Radio Island Beach Access is a unique and wonderfully convenient beach destination for both Morehead City and Beaufort visitors.

One of Kure Beach’s newest pubic parks is already becoming one of its most popular, thanks to a prime location along the oceanfront, and a host of concerts, shows, and special events that have all been held within its borders. The Kure Beach...

Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head offers fishing and fun for the entire family! Go fishing, take a family fishing class or simply walk out to the end of this 1,000-foot-long, concrete ocean pier.

Foliage fans and gardening enthusiasts from all over the country will love a day trip to the Elizabethan Gardens. Tucked away in Manteo within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, this 10 acre Roanoke soundfront locale is home to hundreds of...

The North Carolina History Center, which is part of the extensive Tryon Palace, is a new 65 million dollar complex which transports visitors back in time to explore New Bern’s more than 300 years of local history.

Just across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, the town of Belville has quietly cultivated one of the region's finest hidden gems for nature lovers and community gatherings. Situated directly opposite the western banks of Eagles Island on the...

Adventure Scoops is a delightful gem nestled in the charming community of Corolla, North Carolina. This cheerful ice cream shop is the perfect stop for families, friends, and anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat after a day spent exploring the...

An Italian and American restaurant with a huge recreation room including pool tables. 

AR Workshop Kill Devil Hills is a delightful spot where creativity flourishes and hands-on experiences await. Nestled in the heart of the Outer Banks, this charming workshop invites locals and visitors alike to dive into the world of DIY projects...

Arrowhead Park is a fun destination for Wilmington locals and visitors alike to take a break from the waves, and dive into a little outdoor entertainment outside the waterfront realm. Located just south of the heart of the Wilmington, and easy to...

Atlantic Dance has been teaching kids dance on the Outer Banks since 1995. Atlantic Dance offers classes in tap, jazz, hip hop and lyrical with a primary concentration in classical ballet. At Atlantic Dance, little girls learn grace and achieve...

Avalon Fishing Pier offers everything you need for a long, enjoyable day (or night!) of fishing. First built in 1958, Avalon Fishing Pier is about 700 feet long, stretching out to the Atlantic Ocean over 12 to 15 feet of water.  Located at...

Avalon Pier is a cherished spot in the heart of Kill Devil Hills, offering locals and visitors alike a wonderful escape to the picturesque shores of the Outer Banks. Renowned for its stunning ocean views and vibrant atmosphere, this iconic pier...

Aviation Park in Kill Devil Hills offers a fun, active retreat from the beach for everyone in the family. The town park offers a playground, ball field, frog pond, fitness trail, roller hockey rink and the very popular Aviation Skatepark.

Commune with nature and take photos of the pristine Outer Banks!

The Bald Head Island Club is an elite introduction to all the finer things that this small island community has to offer. Comprising of a championship 18-hole golf course, fine dining options, tennis and fitness facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere...

There's a reason why the wild terrain of Bald Head Island and its surrounding islands remains distinctively wild, and the primary responsibility of retaining this native nature is in the hands of the local Bald Head Island Conservancy. Overseeing a...

There's a reason why Beaufort earned the title of the "Coolest Small Town in the USA" by national publication Budget Travel Magazine, and one of the driving forces behind this honor is Beaufort's dedicated preservation of its history, orchestrated...

Blue Life Charters stands out as your premier provider of private boat tours in Charleston, SC, blending family ownership with expert operation. We take immense pride in delivering a luxury yacht experience without the accompanying luxury price tag.

Quaint and quiet with a lovely outdoor feel to it, Kathy and Anna feel they have accomplished what they set out to do, create a place where people can Sip, Relax and Enjoy Life for A While. Come visit us at The Calabash Garden Tea Room & Gift...

Fish or go a pirating on board the Cap'N Clam

Cape Fearless Extreme is a family-friendly aerial adventure course set on 25 acres of forest just 20 miles west of Wilmington, North Carolina. The courses contain a mixture of obstacles and challenges ranging from ziplines, Tarzan swings, hanging...

Situated along the scenic route of the Outer Banks, the Cape Hatteras Welcome Sign serves as a warm and inviting marker for visitors arriving in this charming coastal region. As one approaches, the colorful sign, adorned with iconic beach imagery...

The Children's Museum of Wilmington, located in historic Downtown Wilmington on Orange Street, is an ideal destination for adventurous kids who want a day full of imagination exploring the world of art, science, and even pirates! Designed...

Chilly Hank's Ice Cream is a delightful haven for ice cream lovers visiting Frisco. This charming shop beckons with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas wafting from the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that instantly lifts spirits...

Club Hatteras is available free to all guests who vacation with Hatteras Realty. The Club has the largest swimming pool on the island, along with a 6-hole putting green, a kids’ playground and two regulation tennis courts.It offers early...

Coastal Creamery OBX sells a wide variety of frozen treats: hard scooped ice cream, soft serve frozen yogurts, sorbet, and custard, and our dairy free selection of Italian Ices. They serve in cones or cups with all of the toppings available and...

Founded in 2008, Coastal Explorations is a veteran-owned and operated outdoor touring company proudly run by former U.S. Coast Guard members. We bring adventure, education, and entertainment to life using the natural resources in our own backyard...

Corolla Adventure Park is a thrilling destination nestled in the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina. This exciting park offers an array of activities that are perfect for families, friends, and adventure-seekers alike. With its beautiful...

Have fun golfing and enjoying a host of watersports!

Corolla Seafood Buffet is a delightful dining destination where seafood lovers can indulge in an array of fresh and flavorful dishes. Nestled in the beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina, this charming buffet offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect...

A fll service surf shop offering lessons, new equipment, clothing and rentals. 

Corolla Water Sports is the original, most comprehensive, and best water sports location on the Northern Outer Banks. We have been providing a first class facility for many years, and have had thousands of happy customers over this time. We are...

Creekside Park is the largest park in the town of New Bern, and it’s situated close to the local airport, just off of US Highway 70. The park extends for 11 acres and since opening in 1997, is one of the most popular destinations for a myriad...

Fun, family-oriented and professional fishing and maritime trips. 

Dare County Family Recreation Park, or Rec Park, serves as the county’s focal point for youth and adult activities. The park features tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields and a playground. Swings, slides, a climbing wall and a covered...

Dare County Parks and Recreation RIMD is a true gem in the heart of Manteo, offering an array of outdoor activities and facilities for everyone to enjoy. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this beautiful park features a wide range of amenities, including...

Located in one of the Outer Banks most beautiful wooded areas, the David Paul Pruitt, Jr. Park is a small recreation area just off the Bypass near the entrance of Kitty Hawk Woods. It’s a family-oriented neighborhood playground that has play...

Dowdy Park is a delightful gem nestled in the lovely seaside town of Nags Head, where families and nature lovers can revel in the beauty of the outdoors. This expansive park features a spacious playground, perfect for children to run free and let...

Nestled in the charming town of Duck, North Carolina, Duck Town Park Boardwalk invites visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. This scenic boardwalk winds gracefully through lush landscapes and stands as a perfect spot for a...

As everyone can see just walking past this store, many of the mild-weather recreational activities that can be done outdoors are covered here. Racks in front of the store are filled with fat tire beach cruisers, kayaks and surfboards. Inside, surf...

The Town of Duck held it’s first Yuletide Celebration in 2011, and its popularity established it as an annual event.Taking place on the first Friday and Saturday in December, the Celebration begins with local merchants keeping their doors open...

Dune Street Rawbar & Grill is a delightful destination for seafood lovers and casual diners alike, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Nags Head. This restaurant perfectly captures the relaxed atmosphere of beach life, where the salty air and...

Visitors who take advantage of the exceptional fishing along the Albemarle Sound or Edenton Bay, or who notice the abundance of maritime wildlife along the local creeks and rivers of the Inner Banks, can send their thanks for this ecological...

Epic Excursions specializes in captained boat tours, sunset cruises, paddleboarding, island dining experiences & more in Wrightsville Beach, NC! All adventures are customized for one-of-a-kind experiences, and our team is dedicated to...

Shelling, Snorkeling, Paddle Boarding, Eco Tours & Light Fishing. Guided family adventure trips on Hatteras Island, NC. We take your group to multiple tidal islands along the Cape Hatteras seaside. These islands are constantly changing and...

Night climbing starts in June of 2019! FFAP is an Aerial Adventure Park overlooking the beautiful Albemarle Sound. Platforms range from 12 feet to 50 feet high. Climbers take the action into their own hands by choosing to go on the easiest of the...

Discover the Thrill of Fishing with Murrells Inlet’s best fishing charter experience! Nestled in the heart of the Myrtle Beach Areas quaint fishing community of Murrells Inlet, SC, our fishing charter service stands as one of the...

Experience unmatchable sportfishing on the Outer Banks! The Outer Banks, also referred as ‘the Billfish Capital of the World’, offers some of the world’s finest OBX sportfishing and the most preferred game fish. Treat yourself...

Located just east of the heart of the downtown region, Fort Totten Park is a small public park in a primarily residential area that has a healthy helping of things to do for visitors of all varieties.