Top 10 for Summer Fun with Kids
Get going this summer to these fun family attractions.
1. Dan Nicholas Park
Salisbury
This place has everything: a carousel, a waterpark to cool off on summer days, a barn with farm animals and equipment, and an aquarium with snakes, lizards and alligators. You can also mine for gems, play mini-golf and rent a paddleboat for more summer fun. dannicholas.net
2. The Green
Uptown Charlotte
This little pocket park is a great green space right in the middle of uptown. On South Tryon Street, the park has fountains to play in, gorgeous art and beautiful views of the skyline. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Hop off the LYNX at Charlotte Convention Center and walk to the park, then jump back on and ride the LYNX to explore other uptown stops. parkandrec.com
3. U.S. National Whitewater Center
Mount Holly
Jam-packed with fun family activities, the U.S. National Whitewater Center suits adventurous types with zip-lining, rock climbing and rafting. There are also beautiful hiking, biking and running trails, plus geocaching to enjoy. $5 to park; additional fees based on activities. usnwc.com
4. POPS in the Park
Charlotte
The summer weather blended with the beautiful sounds of the Charlotte Symphony just can’t be beat! Bring your picnic blanket and the family for an evening of fun and music. The Charlotte Symphony POPS Summer series happens at Symphony Park each Sunday in June and on July 3. $10 per adult; kids get in free. Come early and have a picnic dinner before the show starts. charlottesymphony.org
5. Ray’s Splash Planet
Charlotte
For summer fun in the water without having to apply sunscreen, visit Ray's Splash Planet. This indoor water park has slides, water basketball and a lazy river. The venue also includes a fitness area with weights and equipment. rayssplashplanet.com
6. Carolinas Aviation Museum and Charlotte/Douglas International Airport Overlook Park
Airplanes are a fascinating spectacle for kids and kids at heart. The Carolinas Aviation Museum has a hangar full of aircraft for visitors to explore. When you’re done checking out the museum, take a short drive to Charlotte/Douglas International Airport Overlook to watch the planes take off and land. carolinasaviation.org
7. Crowder’s Mountain
Gaston County
For a free day of scenic views, fun and exercise, hike to the summit of Crowder’s Mountain. With various trails and ranges of difficulty to choose from, anyone can find a suitable path to the top. Once you make it, take in the views that stretch for more than 25 miles. On a clear day you can see the Charlotte skyline. ncparks.gov
8. Zootastic Park
Troutman
If you have a young animal lover on your hands, stop by Zootastic Park this summer. Meet all kinds of animals in the barns and see more unique creatures in the exotic animal facilities. If one day there isn’t enough, Zootastic Park also has camps for junior zookeepers. zootasticpark.com
9. Village Park
Kannapolis
All aboard to a great summer destination. Ride the Rotary Express Train or splash around on the splash pad at this summer hot spot. The park is also the host to summer events including concerts, other live arts and movies. The Gem Theatre, a longtime local favorite, is just down the street with $3 tickets before 6 p.m. cityofkannapolis.com
10. Knight’s Game
Fort Mill, S.C.
Enjoy America’s favorite pastime with your family at the stadium in Fort Mill before the team moves to its new home in uptown Charlotte next year. Games feature various promotions throughout the season, including fireworks on Saturdays and Family Fun Days when kids can run the bases, plus there’s a Rookie Play Zone with inflatables and more. charlotteknights.com
