Looking for exciting and educational things to do with your family in Raleigh? You’re in for a treat! Raleigh is a city filled with energy, learning opportunities, and family fun all year round. Whether you live nearby or are planning a visit, there’s always something to explore — from hands-on museums to innovative tech workshops for kids.
In this blog, we’re highlighting family-friendly activities and upcoming events that happen year-round or regularly, so you can plan anytime — not just for a one-time festival.
1. Marbles Kids Museum
If you’ve got curious little ones who love to explore, Marbles Kids Museum should be at the top of your list. Located in downtown Raleigh, this interactive museum is all about learning through play. With hands-on exhibits on science, health, art, and everyday life, it’s a place where kids can touch, climb, and experiment freely.
Bonus: They also have an IMAX theatre that shows both educational and fun movies — perfect for a family day out.
📍Location: https://www.marbleskidsmuseum.org/
2. Pullen Park
Pullen Park is one of those classic places that never gets old. It’s a perfect family getaway spot for all ages. Kids can enjoy paddle boats, the playground, or the historic carousel, while adults can relax by the lake or have a picnic.
They also offer seasonal arts and crafts, mini train rides, and even an indoor aquatic center — so there’s something fun to do in every season.
📍Location: https://raleighnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/places/pullen-park
3. Moonpreneur’s In-Person Robotics Event
✅ Hands-on learning
✅ Kids build and program mini robots
✅ Develops critical thinking and creativity
✅ Totally beginner-friendly
Here’s something special for parents looking to spark their child’s interest in STEM and robotics. Moonpreneur, a leading edtech company, is offering free in-person robotics workshops in Raleigh for children aged 7 to 14 years. Kids will explore the world of math, coding, robotics, and hands-on innovation through real activities, not just screen time. The sessions are 75–90 minutes long and designed to introduce kids to futuristic skills in a super engaging way.
📍Location: Homewood Suites by Hilton, 5400 Homewood Banks Dr, Raleigh, NC 27612
🔗 Registration Link: https://moonhub.moonpreneur.com/mh/book-a-free-trial/in-person-raleigh/robotics?page_id=1656&utm_source=27_jul_raleigh_nc_inperson_v1&utm_medium=blog
4. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Want your kids to learn while having fun? Take them to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. It’s one of the largest science museums in the Southeast, and best of all — admission is free!
From life-size dinosaur skeletons to real labs where scientists work, this museum is packed with interactive displays. Families can walk through rainforest exhibits, explore deep-sea creatures, and even get a peek at live animal habitats.
📍Location: https://naturalsciences.org
5. North Carolina Museum of Art & Ann and Jim Goodnight Park
Yes, art museums can be family-friendly too! The North Carolina Museum of Art is not only a place to admire beautiful paintings and sculptures — it’s also surrounded by one of the largest museum parks in the U.S.
The outdoor park has walking trails, art installations, gardens, and spaces for kids to roam and explore. It’s a wonderful way to mix art, nature, and movement — all in one trip.
📍Location: https://ncartmuseum.org/visit/museum-park/
6. Museum of Life and Science (Durham – Short Drive from Raleigh)
A quick 30–40 minute drive from Raleigh takes you to the Museum of Life and Science in Durham — another gem that’s worth the visit. It combines the best of both worlds: indoor exhibits on space and technology, and outdoor play zones, treehouses, and animal habitats.
Your kids can walk with butterflies, explore STEM-based activities, and even see bears and lemurs. It’s perfect for weekend outings and active learning.
📍Location: https://www.lifeandscience.org/
7. Kid-Friendly Creativity at the Cary Arts Center
The Cary Arts Center, located just outside Raleigh, offers ongoing workshops and seasonal classes in pottery, painting, theater, and more — specifically tailored for kids and families.
You can check their calendar and register for ongoing art programs that run throughout the year. It’s a great way to introduce your child to the creative arts without needing a long-term commitment.
📍Location: https://www.carync.gov/recreation-enjoyment/facilities/cary-arts-center
8. Winter Fun at The RINK (Seasonal: Nov–Jan)
While this one’s seasonal, it’s recurring every winter, making it worth including for holiday planning. From November to January, downtown Raleigh transforms into a Winter Wonderland with The RINK, an outdoor ice skating experience that’s perfect for family fun.
The area also offers cozy fire pits, hot drinks, and lights all around — it feels like stepping into a festive movie scene.
📚 Bonus: Library Programs and Storytimes
Raleigh’s public libraries are a hidden gem for families. They host weekly storytimes, craft activities, reading challenges, and STEM-focused events all year round — and they’re usually free!
These libraries are more than just quiet places to read. They’re lively, welcoming, and filled with programs for different age groups.
📍Location: https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/libraries
Conclusion
Raleigh isn’t just a city — it’s a playground for curious kids and engaged families. Whether your child is into science, tech, art, or simply enjoying the outdoors, there’s always something happening.
And if you’re looking for that perfect starting point to introduce your child to future-ready skills like robotics, don’t forget to sign them up for Moonpreneur’s Free Robotics Workshop — it could be the beginning of something amazing!
Moonpreneur is on a mission to disrupt traditional education and future-proof the next generation with holistic learning solutions. Its Innovator Program is building tomorrow’s workforce by training students in AI/ML, Robotics, Coding, IoT, and Apps, enabling entrepreneurship through experiential learning.