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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Portsmouth to Savannah?
The direct drive from Portsmouth to Savannah is 479 mi (771 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 32 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Portsmouth to Savannah, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Williamsburg, Raleigh, Durham, Beaufort, Fayetteville, and Yorktown, as well as top places to visit like Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, or the ever-popular Water Country USA.
The top cities between Portsmouth and Savannah are Williamsburg, Raleigh, Durham, Beaufort, Fayetteville, and Yorktown. Williamsburg is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Portsmouth and 8 hours from Savannah.
Yorktown is a designated place for census in Virginia, USA, and serves as the county seat of York County. This area has a rich history dating back to the colonial era when it was one of the eight original shires in Virginia. It boasts a small population of only 195 people according to the 2010 census, while York County has around 66,134 residents as per estimates from 2011.
10% as popular as Williamsburg
37 minutes off the main route, 9% of way to Savannah
Williamsburg, a city in Virginia, served as the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 and played an important role in the American Revolution. Together with Jamestown and Yorktown, it forms the "Historic Triangle." The heart of Williamsburg is Colonial Williamsburg, which is a living-history museum where actors dressed in period costumes depict daily Colonial life.
Most popular city on this route
34 minutes off the main route, 10% of way to Savannah
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Durham is located in the northern part of North Carolina and forms an integral part of the Research Triangle Region. The area is renowned for its technology firms and academic establishments. Duke University, situated within Durham, boasts two prominent attractions- the Duke Chapel, built-in neo-Gothic style, and the Nasher Museum of Art showcasing pieces by contemporary artists such as Christian Marclay and Ai Weiwei.
21% as popular as Williamsburg
30 minutes off the main route, 37% of way to Savannah
The city of Raleigh, located in North Carolina, is recognized for its educational institutions, such as North Carolina State University. The Research Triangle area surrounding Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Durham is renowned for its various technology and academic organizations. The North Carolina State Capitol is a historic building with Greek Revival architecture from the 1800s. Its rotunda features a statue of George Washington dressed in the attire of a Roman commander.
30% as popular as Williamsburg
16 minutes off the main route, 38% of way to Savannah
Fayetteville, located in North Carolina, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. The Airborne and Special Operations Museum offers an immersive experience into U.S. Army history with its motion simulator. Visitors can explore the diverse plant species at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, including a dedicated children's garden.
5% as popular as Williamsburg
5 minutes off the main route, 48% of way to Savannah
I'll never travel to Savannah without this trip planner again
Beaufort, located on Port Royal Island in South Carolina, is a charming city renowned for its collection of antebellum mansions, particularly in the downtown historic district. One of the most notable landmarks is the John Mark Verdier House Museum, an elegant Federal-style mansion from the early 1800s showcasing period furniture and exhibits detailing local history. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the Beaufort River and Woods Memorial Bridge from Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
13% as popular as Williamsburg
24 minutes off the main route, 87% of way to Savannah
Best stops along Portsmouth to Savannah drive
The top stops along the way from Portsmouth to Savannah (with short detours) are Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Other popular stops include Coligny Beach Park, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and Sarah P. Duke Gardens.
Water Country USA is an extensive aquatic amusement park that boasts a wide array of water slides and rides, including thrilling river rafting featuring tunnels and falls. Visitors can expect to have a fun-filled day at the park, but there have been some discrepancies with the website's accuracy regarding parking fees, rules on outdoor food consumption, and designated smoking areas. Despite these minor issues, Water Country USA remains an excellent destination to beat the heat on scorching days.
Fun outdoor water park with a nice variety of rides for kids of all ages. Had a few areas of play/pools for toddler aged kids. My 7 yr old loved the lazy river and wave pool. Great options in terms of cool water slides too... from the mild to the intense. Great place for entire family.
Allie G — Google review
My family and another family came to Virginia for vacation and made a visit to this waterpark. We’ve all agreed it’s easily the best waterpark we’ve been to. It was clean, there was plenty of shade and everyone was super nice and helpful. We came during the week and had no problems finding anywhere to sit at any of the pool areas or food areas and nearly no wait for food and drink items. If we are ever in the area we will be returning without hesitation.
Deserae Coy — Google review
So expensive! We paid $460 for 6 people to spend 3 hours there. Another $60 in parking for 2 cars. I probably won’t go back. Everything inside was crazy expensive too. $4.99 for a Diet Coke. $16 for a pretzel & churro. There is not a lot of shade. They don’t let you bring food or drinks in either. I wasn’t impressed.
Carrie J — Google review
Great time for the kids. Great things to do. The queue to the different slides can be long, but they move fast. Big enough & clean. I got all-day dining tickets for my kids. I think they are no deal : too expensive for what you get, in my opinion.
Marie Pascaline Pascaline — Google review
The experience at the water park was good, but not excellent based on my 4 stars. For one there was a section of the park closed and second there was a big tube ride down. All the rides that were open were great, but I would prefer that the lazy river had tubes instead of floating down either by yourself or with a life vest. The food was also just ok. Lastly it would be great if there was a lane when entering parking that was a prepaid line only.
George Terplan — Google review
Very large waterpark, in the heart of a beautiful forested park. It gets busy and the lineups for some of the rides are long as a result, but there is a variety of thrill opportunities for all levels of comfort. A lazy river and wave pool are great for relaxing and no lineups for those! A wonderful and fun way to spend the day with family.
Earl Phillips — Google review
Wonderful day of play with my teens. We enjoyed the variety of water rides, food, and treats. Staff was friendly and helpful. Lockers weren't too expensive. Bring your waterproof phone cover and be prepared to drop your shoes at each ride and be soaked.
MIMI B — Google review
Bought the 2 park fun card and 1 annual pass for parking. We were in the area for a month and this is the best way to do theme parks for us.
We would go at open and leave when it got busy. The park is nice with shade throughout don’t know what others are talking about, I’ve been to parks without shade and this place has a lot. Could use a bit more water on the concrete in a few areas. Tons of great slides, no wait hardly for the first few hours.
We would pack food and eat at the picnic tables outside in the parking lot if we wanted to do a full day. Water bottles are allowed inside but no food. Bathrooms were fairly clean and well stocked.
Enjoy!
Ryan Svolto — Google review
My daughter and I enjoyed this getaway yesterday, being the first time to explore Water Country. A good day to be had BUT..
The website was a little confusing though. Parking is $25 when online I thought I read $10
Outdoor food is not permitted (but online says its okay)
Smoking (online says no smoking in the parks, but at site had a designated smoking spot behind the bathrooms)
That's the only few issues I've seen, needing information to be more accurate in person and online. But all in all, it's a great place to go to cool down on a hot day!
Amy Ashworth — Google review
It is a good waterpark for children to have fun, yes! It's a little expensive but the slides are very fun my 8 and 12 year old kids really enjoyed it .
I would say that the only bad thing is the long waiting lines to get on the slide, but they have a fast pass extra purchase if you are not a big fan of waiting for a long time, but this is definitely up to you, also food and drinks are not good and they are very expensive and they don't allow any outside food or drinks into the park.
I took my son to this water park for the first time as a birthday present for him and he really enjoy it! Outside of the food and the long waits, everything else was amazing! My son was very happy!.
josi gutierrez — Google review
I've been coming here since I was in diapers. The park is clean, beautiful, and well maintained. The staff are MOSTLY friendly and helpful. The rides are great and I appreciate that they have added more umbrellas and shading, especially in the lines and rest areas. That being said, they were severely understaffed when we visited this past Sunday... which made the lines even longer and not worth waiting for anymore. Many of the rides had closed off some of their tunnels and slides too, making it worse. Management should be more prepared and pay their staff better ages to ensure that there is proper staffing... otherwise, it isn't fair to the guests who have paid to visit and enjoy themselves. Food and drinks are outrageously expensive as always, but that's nothing new.
Heidi B. — Google review
Conveniently located off Interstate 64 between Richmond and Virginia Beach in Williamsburg is Water Country USA.
We visited on a Tuesday afternoon, 1 adult and two kids ages 10 and 12.
I highly recommend purchasing your tickets online a head of time as you receive a discount off the gate price.
Parking is 30 dollars per vehicle or you can opt for the upgrade to get a little closer for 55 dollars.
After parking we scanned our passes, entered through metal detectors and began our day at the park.
We found lockers available for rent of the three tiers available. 20 dollars for small. 30 for medium and 40 for large.
For reference, small locker was sufficient for my cell phone, keys, three large bath towels and street clothes for us.
After securing our belongings we went on just about every ride from the lazy river and wave pool to Colossal Curl. Life vests are available free of charge and are encouraged for children under 48 inches and those that are not strong swimmers.
We purchased the dining package which allows for an entree, side item, or dessert along with a beverage every 90 minutes. Caveat, bottled water, beer, bottles of soda are excluded along with certain ice cream stands and funnel cake are not included in the dining pass.
Fast passes are available for an additional fee to avoid lines if you so choose.
If you are looking for a fun place to take the family and spend some time outdoors, head over to Water Country USA for some sun and fun; you will be glad you did.
*something also to note is Water Country USA is completely cashless. They accept credit cards, Apple Pay and you can also load money onto a prepaid card for use within the park.
Shaya Moss — Google review
Great experience. Lots of fun and exciting rides for all ages. Lots of places to eat. They had a deal for food every 90 minutes. I did not go for that but that seemed like a brilliant idea for large families or groups. I look forward to going again
Gifty Davis — Google review
A Tuesday visit :
Lines were so long we couldn’t ride anything it took hours for three mediocre rides. For the cost there wasn’t much to do. The lazy lagoon was our favorite. We didn’t get to ride the big ride they have there because the line was 2 hour wait. The food with the dining plan was GOOD. Probably won’t return.
Shaquail Clark-Dance — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised with this water park. We had a party of six: 3 adults, 1 teen, 1 big kid, 1 toddler. It drizzled for the better part of the day. We opted to get a cabana for $220. Worth the expense to get a break from the drizzle. We received a free meal (X6) with the rental.
Come prepared to walk! Water shoes are a must, sandals barely worked out for me. The food was good for a theme park and prices. I saw people headed to their car for their food too. It's close enough to pull off.
The park closed 3hrs early because of inclement weather. We asked to receive passes to come back and we got all 6 passes back, expire within a year.
Great water slides/activities for toddlers, teens, and adults. No lines to get on rides. Highly recommend a visit.
Juan Villamar — Google review
The water slides were the best part. The wave pool and lazy river had so much leaves and debris it was not as relaxing as it should be. My biggest issue is that you can't get to the rides without walking over the hot sidewalk. Even if you wear your slides to the ride entrance the sidewalk in line should be misted or treaded. Somehow the other water park have this figured out.
Travis Maugle — Google review
Unfortunately, We purchased VIP parking online and got to the park and had to be refunded due to lack of spaces made accessible. We also purchases a Cabana because we had all ages and wanted to make certain everyone would be comfortable. ONLY to be there was no service for food, no ice for water service, not enough employees for food service. This was very disappointing.
RoRo Gingy — Google review
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176 Water Country Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a nature-themed amusement park based in Europe. It offers an array of entertainment options ranging from rides, coasters, and shows to dining, river and rail attractions. In addition to the theme park, there are other exciting activities like zip lining, kayaking and water parks nearby. To save money on tickets, it's recommended to purchase them at least one day prior to visiting as prices increase for same-day purchases.
The rides and animals made for a amazing day… buy tickets in advance they have dynamic pricing and raise the price from 69 to 89 dollars for a same day purchase. You will save at least 20 dollars per ticket by purchasing the day prior to coming to park. It was a absolutely a blast I would recommend it definitely and bring plenty of water… hours of walking… go for it you will not regret…
Jonathan Williams — Google review
I'm not a big fan of roller coasters, though I did ride a couple. Even without riding many rides this is a beautiful place and a great way to spend your day. Definitely an experience! Plenty of good food as well.
Journi — Google review
Great time to visit. No waiting in long lines to ride. Only downfall, it was too hot. Having water cups available was great! Had a medical situation. The Busch Gardens employees at The Magic Shop went above and beyond with the attention and concern that was shown. EMT Alex was very attentive and thorough. Transportation to parking was provided by EMT Supervisor Ralph. Every courtesy that was extended was greatly appreciated.
Laurie Garrison — Google review
We had a great time! It was very busy, however that was because of high schools bands having a competition. It was nice to see kids running around having a great time. I grew up going to Busch gardens in Florida, and this was my first visit to Williamsburg. We will definitely go again on our next visit.
Scruffy Woofy — Google review
They were having there St. Patrick Day celebration and all the rides were not opened, but had fun, if going all day during the summer to ride all the rides opening till closing would recommend to get the food pass for $30 more but you get a full meal every 90 minutes. Enjoyed everything even the dinner theater show while eating. Hope to come back soon!!
Rachel Patterson — Google review
This park was beautiful!! The rides have a nice array of thrill to chill that I love the variety. The food here was amazing! I recommend you get the all day meal plan , it is so worth the money! The shows we saw were top notch! The themes for the countries seemed very authentic and custom to the region you were in. If you are going to watch the fireworks we recommend using the bridge for the best view. But while everyone is watching those the ride lines open up a bit. The only issue we incurred while there was that they didn't have many shirts in large size, because they had sold out. I would definitely come back and bring my family!!
Stephanie Bean — Google review
My family and I went yesterday 7/4/23, our tickets were discounted for military appreciation and we got 10% off for purchases made in the park. My family had a ball. There was plenty to do for all ages of my family. My husband and I have a 3,8,and 9 year old my mother also attended with us.The food was great. We can’t wait to go back
Anisha Jones — Google review
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is my favorite theme park. Emphasis on theme because this park nails the theme in each of the areas. Every area focuses on a specific area of Europe. The rides are a lot of fun, many of them are kid friendly. The thrill rides are also great, providing different levels of excitement for everyone. Employees are friendly and helpful, making sure the experience is special for every guest.
We also participated in the steam engine train tour. This was really special. Recommend for any train enthusiast. They take you into the train depot and show you the engine and teach you about how it works. The tour guide who led us on the tour was very friendly and even gave us a quick queue on a ride while waiting for the train.
Nicolas Natale — Google review
Absolutely one of the most beautiful amusement parks. Lots of trees and lots of shade to avoid the heat if needed. Lots and very fun roller coasters to enjoy. Has a lot of children rides to offer as well. Great entertainment and fantastic seasonal activities all year long. Highly recommend!
Michael — Google review
It was the last weekend of Howl-o-scream so it was busy for sure. We got there around 11 with a plan to stay through the 6pm change over from the amusement park to scream fest. It was the best choice. This allowed us to get on a lot of rides with little to no wait. As the day progressed the lines got longer and longer but we didn't care as we had already done the rides. We were off to enjoy food and shows. Speaking of shows, don't miss the Skeletones....they were great! By the time we had eaten, played games, and caught a few shows; it was 15 minutes before the spooky started so we headed right for the witch in the woods and Nevermore. We were able to do both with no wait but by the time we came out of the second one, the lines were huge. The park continued to fill up even as we left at 9 and there were cars lined up as far as the highway trying to get in at 9pm! Overall, it was a fantastic day, great food, great shows, and great actors for the Howl-O-Scream. We will be making this an annual trip for this event!
Kevin Kinsey — Google review
We love BG! We live locally so we visit often. The most recent visit was with a 5yo and 3yo. Plenty of rides and activities for each of their ages. It's quite a bit of hilly walking so definitely bring a wagon/stroller for little ones. Bring your own water bottle(s) and pack snacks if you don't want to spend your life savings on food.
Annie Hogge — Google review
Always a great place to take the whole family to. They have many ways to get around the park to include a train. They also shuttle to and from the Germany, Italy, and Ireland parking lots
If you’re a single rider like my self the have a lane for that for most of the roller coasters.
Food and drinks are also affordable, but I’d recommend buying a food pass.
Keith Kuyper — Google review
I used to work in Busch Gardens Williamsburg for 5 months, and I had a chance to ride every single roller coaster again and again :)
Best time is to come at opening and you start with every country to explore the entire park. Spend the entire day if you want to have the most fun and experience the park. Buy yourself the express pass, because the lines are long long long. Save money on food or gifts if you, need to... but buy the pass.
I have been here few to visit the park after, because it is definitely the best amusement park in the US. I also visited the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay which very fun, but this park is better.
Dragan Ange — Google review
One of my all time favorite parks! There's a reason it's been rated the WORLD'S most beautiful theme park for 33 YEARS straight! Great rides, great food and atmosphere. I could live in the park if they'd let me!
Brian Hall — Google review
Busch Gardens is one of the most beautiful amusement parks I have been to. You can go on roller coasters and rides; some of my favorites are Finnegan’s Flyer & Invader. You can enjoy shows with spectacular actors and singers. And they have food corresponding to the different European countries the areas the park is based off of. I recommend purchasing the all day dining pass so that you can have the option to eat every 90 minutes. You must go here if you are visiting or local!
Francisco Coronel — Google review
Lovely park. Nowhere near the world's most attractive, despite the awards, but it's in the top of 20. Despite the blistering heat, the staff were mostly happy to help and the restrooms very clean and fresh. There's free water at every soda fountain location and snacks, etc. The ride queues are woefully inaccurate (both ways) and the fast track very expensive. It's possibly my favourite Busch park.
Lee Minett — Google review
Lots of fun. The coasters are all amazing. Went for Halloween on a Thursday and there were only a couple of rides with long(ish) wait times. It is hard to navigate at night with all the lights off. We kept going in circles and probably missed half the park
Jeremy — Google review
The Christmas town was great. The concept of different countries was exciting.The rides were amazing. It's a good place to have fun during the holidays with kids especially. They will enjoy it thoroughly.
Avanthika B — Google review
I have always loved this theme park. I took my 4 kids (12, 9, 7 and 5) for Christmas town and it was a blast with huge variety of entertainment and rides open. They constantly update rides and have managed the lines really well. The only reason why I left it at 4 stars is because the bathrooms need more attention for cleanliness, the little kids rides need more people to help put them on and take them off (the wait time to get them in and out was far longer than the rode itself). Again it was still a great time and I highly recommend visiting!
Michael Hinson — Google review
Returning to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for the Christmas season was a revelation. Having visited in the past, I thought I knew what to expect, but the park's transformation for the holidays was nothing short of magical. The moment I stepped through the gates, I was greeted by a dazzling display of Christmas lights, stretching as far as the eye could see. It was like walking into a winter wonderland, with every tree, building, and pathway adorned with twinkling lights that brought the festive spirit to life.
The atmosphere was perfect for a family night out. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and Christmas carols, and the scent of seasonal treats wafted through the air, creating a sense of warmth and joy. Despite the park being quite busy, the crowd did not detract from the experience. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits, and the staff did an excellent job of managing the flow of visitors, ensuring that the magic of the season was not lost in the hustle and bustle.
Christmas Town, the park's seasonal event, was the highlight of the visit. Each section of the park was themed to different Christmas traditions from around the world, offering a unique and educational experience. The shows were heartwarming and entertaining, with talented performers bringing holiday stories to life. The rides, too, had a special touch, with festive music and decorations making even familiar thrills feel new again.
In conclusion, Busch Gardens Williamsburg during Christmas is an experience I would highly recommend. It's a place where the joy of the season is palpable, and the memories made are sure to be cherished. Whether you're revisiting or experiencing it for the first time, the park's festive transformation is guaranteed to fill you with holiday cheer.
Bruno Minardi — Google review
A really beautiful park!! We really enjoyed walking through the different countries as they are well decorated. We also were pleasantly surprised that we had no wait times on any of the rides. The service was really hit or miss… several people were super kind and nice and others were clearly not thrilled to be there. But overall, a very positive experience!! Looking forward to coming back
Emily MacArthur — Google review
We bought the combined Williamsburg Busch Garden pass. When driving in stay all the way to the LEFT when crowded because 4 extra lanes open up. Excellent park to please everyone. Lots of wild roller coasters and plenty of other exhibits to see like the wolves, owls, Clydesdales, Border collies, horned sheep. Plus several shows to see. Loved the Celtic dancing. Great restaurants and large quantities at reasonable prices. If you are there for the whole day I recommend the $50 all you can eat. 90 minute wait after ordering. Get entry, side or dessert and drink each time. If you just eat twice you more than cover the cost and quantities are enough to share especially if you are eating every 90 minutes. The Smoke House sampler plate was the best. And the cake in the German Fest hall was huge. We really enjoyed the Clyde’s and collies tour that was extra but kids really enjoyed petting the horses and feeding the sheep. Linh was a very knowledgeable tour guide. Best time to visit is when it rains in the morning. Our second day there were no cars in line and they sent us to preferred parking because they didn’t want to run the tram with no customers. No wait to get in the park. It was empty so the best time to ride when the rain stopped.
James Simon — Google review
They have become cashless since the last time I went about 10 years ago. Some waits are longer than others. I felt safe on the roller-coasters. They make sure everyone is the correct size and that everything latches. I have only 2 real complaints: the lines should be supervised because there are multiple rides where teens were skipping in line. Seriously skipping the line, like 20-50 people at a time when the lines curved back into themselves, and no one stopped them. The bathrooms could be cleaner.
W Newcomb — Google review
Me and my family do trips here at least three times a year and we do our boys trip here for two days out of the year! We have been here for howl scream and all and have to say this is one of the best parks to come too and cleanest. I rather come to this park than any other parks around! Everyone here that works here always has a smile on there faces and will always give great advice and directions if you get lost. And definitely the best ride to ride first. Best part to bring your family, friends, spouse kids.
Jonathan Hosford — Google review
As awesome as it was since the first time I went there 35 years ago. It’s gotten consistently better as the years have gone on. The countries as well as the roller coasters have been added to over the years. The food offerings continue to be updated. I always enjoy my visits
Luke Beavers — Google review
I hate to say it, but Christmas Town just isn't as nice as it used to be. I'm glad we got tickets on sale and not at full price. Parking is $30 just for the general lot. In fairness, if you have the full season pass, your general parking costs are included & there is no additional charge for Christmas Town visits.
Having been to Christmas Town before, I was expecting so much more than what was presented. There weren't as many displays as previous times and many lights were either broken or simply not turned on. The shops also didn't have much Christmas merchandise with the exception of one store in Germany. It just seemed very lackluster overall. Also, my husband and another gentleman behind him both almost fell in the bathroom due to wet toilet paper being all over the floor. The women's restroom was quite clean. The hot chocolate was pretty good, I did buy a cute Christmas decor item and the light show on Escape from Pompeii was awesome!
Honestly, I just don't think it was worth the cost this year.
C J — Google review
My family visited on December 30, 2023 to experience Christmas Town 🎄 ✨️ ❤️. Busch Gardens has always been a family favorite since I was a small child and continues to be as I am now a mother of teen children.
The only reason for 4/5 stars is the expense. Like all theme parks, prices are much higher for food, tickets, and shops. Other than that, this park is well maintained and gorgeous anytime of the year. Several coasters are available for thrill seekers as well as mellow rides for those who just want to sit back. The park offers several options for small children. Throughout the park, there are places for resting and areas for shopping. Take 👟 good walking shoes as the park is NOT flat. Hills are throughout the park. If visiting during the summer, you'll also want to bring water friendly shoes too such as flip flops. Lockers are available to store items if you don't want them to get wet or to carry them around the park.
Strollers are available to rent for the day.
Bags 🎒 are permitted, but are subject to a search upon entry.
Brittany Lucci — Google review
Amazing experience, a place of fun for all ages. All the staff who work there are very friendly. you can get all kinds of food and a lot of variety. : Italian, German, Dutch, American.
Francisco C — Google review
Enjoyed going to Christmas Town. The last time I went was 2009! Didn’t have to wait very long for rides. Saw some of the animals. Family members enjoyed shopping in the boutiques. Some fun shows around the park. We did the Santa experience and the fireside feast. The Santa experience was short and not a lot of value for the price. The fireside feast was a bit better though manage your expectations on the food. Thought it was a bit rude how people left right after eating and didn’t even wait for Santa to say goodbye. We loved the way Santa read the Christmas story.
The Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center is a living history museum that accurately recreates life in 18th century America. The attraction contains 88 original buildings, as well as hundreds of faithful reproductions, and employs actors in period costumes to immerse guests in the experience. Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about colonial life in America.
Informative and very fun! Don’t hit everything, just what you’re interested in. Expensive and not as immersive as I’d hoped, but still recommend. I wish their roads weren’t asphalt, but cobblestone or something more realistic.
Jaden Larson — Google review
It is completely our fault for realizing not a lot is open this time of year and NOTHING is open after 5pm. Fortunately, we had not yet bought tickets. So we bought the self-guided audio walking tour from Action Tour Guide. I loved it. The 12 year old was bored and the 16 year was nostalgic from when she came with grandparents when she was younger. Not a criticism, just a heads-up.
Deborah Monaco — Google review
Colonial Williamsburg exceeded expectations by far. I thought it was just going to be a tourist trap, but it wasn’t. Even the service at the ticket counter was super nice. The tickets are expensive but worth it if you spend the entire day. We walked over on the path from the welcome center, but there is also a shuttle. Our first stop was the governors palace. We attended a talk by Patrick Henry, and then we did a tour of the governors palace. Christine did a fantastic job. Everyone was extremely knowledgeable and nice to my kids. There are places to eat right offsite or in “town.” You can find the open exhibits because they have a flag outside. You cannot do everything in one day, so prioritize what you want to see.
Shannon Bedo — Google review
Amazing and beautiful! Our family loves Williamsburg. An awesome opportunity to teach your littles a piece of history or maybe learn a little more yourself! You don’t need to purchase tickets to walk around but if you want to tour the insides or certain buildings you will need to purchase tickets online or at the visitor center. You can walk to the colonial town from the merchant square or if you start at the visitor center you walk over the bridge and start from there. There are shuttles as well that can take you to and from the historic area. Definitely worth the visit if you enjoy history!
Samantha S — Google review
Efficient handling of visitors with friendly, cheerful staff. Wonderful treatment of Veterans, including annual pass for the price of a single visit (one multi-day pass).
Bright and comfortable environment.
Rita Thomas Photographer — Google review
Peaceful atmosphere, great customer service, amazing food. I love the colonial houses with the wreath's and Christmas decorations. Photos taken Dec. 31, 2021. (Blue light started appearing in my pictures when I started taking pictures at the beautiful church)
Julie Stawowy — Google review
Informative and fun place to visit. Be sure to get at least the one day pass in order to get the full effect of the many docents and role players throughout the site. You can park and walk for free, but you need a pass to enter most of the historic buildings. See artisans at work: printers, blacksmiths, carpenters, bakers, homeowners, etc etc. You also get to ride the shuttle buses with a paid ticket. You can expect to do a lot of walking. NOTE: MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS are the days off for all of the main restaurants and some of the historic homes. You can take the shuttle or walk to the market area which is technically outside the historic district, and find some restaurants open. Also, if you are active, retired or a military vet, you will get discounts on admission and in any of the merchant stores. There's also a USO style building with free coffee and drinks. If you have a challenge coin, bring it and they will trade it for one of theirs. There's a wall full of ones that vets have brought in. All of this will be explained by the friendly ticket agents at the welcome center. You can avoid waiting in line by buying tickets online, but we had a lot more information from the live folks. All of the period costumed staff throughout the site are more than willing to assist with any questions you might have.
Dennis s — Google review
I went with my husband to see if I would enjoy it for a second time 25 years later. It did not disappoint. If you want to go on any tours such as a carriage ride or night ghost tour you need to book them in advance, they were sold out when we got there for the day. We did the guided tours watched Thomas Jefferson on the stage and enjoyed walking the town. We didn't pay attention to time and missed the taverns open hours so we picked up a few snacks from the bakery.
Linda Kingston — Google review
4.6
(8541)
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4.5
(12811)
101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that recreates the European settlement of 1607, featuring three ships and a Powhatan village. Visitors can take guided tours of the outdoor exhibits, which are led by knowledgeable and personable guides while interpreters provide an entertaining experience. The highlight of the museum includes the ships and Fort. The indoor exhibits are also well curated and maintained. Suitable for all ages, it is recommended to visit in winter on a weekday to avoid peak season crowds.
Awesome piece of history. Enjoyed every moment of being here - from the introduction video played, to the galleries, to the settlement, native village, and ships. The folks working here were very knowledgeable and friendly as well. Definitely recommend taking the time
to check this place out. I added a few pics below to show what’s available outside, but I’ll leave the indoor galleries for the visitor to see !
Andr? Thibodeaux — Google review
Very nice museum both inside and out! We ended up skipping the videos, spent about 3 hours walking around looking at the exhibits. There are quite a bit of interactive displays inside; and the people dressed in role player costumes are extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and present with sincere enthusiasm.
B.D. Olsen — Google review
This was a great place to bring kids and learn important historical info about the first American settlement. They did a great job with all the recreations and all the actors that were dressed up were very informative and stayed in character. The indoor museum and gift shop were also very well laid out and interesting. Highly recommend!
Travis and Kristina Rhodes — Google review
Nice museum! There are two fun movies to watch, interesting things inside and outside. There's a restaurant near the entrance with nice food. We had a fun time! A few hours was more than enough
Kirsten vdM — Google review
Very interesting place to visit if you want to understand the history of the settlers in the United States. It was fascinating seeing how people built and lived in a community before modern technology. This is a nice place to stroll leisurely through history. I highly recommend visiting this historical location and seeing what it took to survive in a transitional period.
Bryan Hill — Google review
Jamestown was a great experience, especially for the kids. There's a lot to take in but the kids can touch a lot of it which makes it feel like a real experience. The kids loved putting on the armor and hats and really enjoyed the ship. The indoor exhibit was insightful and interesting as well. The people who were giving demonstrations were great at telling their stories and showing us what the tools were used for, how the bartering system worked and more. You need at least half a day to see and be able to appreciate the whole experience. The cafe had a lot of options to choose from. There are deli sandwiches, hot grilled food, salads, desserts and even snack items for quick bites. The gift shop near the entrance of the lobby when you first arrive is very nice. There was a lot of things to look at and the kids loved looking around and picking out their gifts. There are so many neat toys and books for the little ones.
C Drake — Google review
Interesting place to spend a few hours. Replicas of the ships the first settlers to the United States used, people in period correct costumes sharing knowledge, a village, shot tower, and an indoor museum going back to pre-settlement.
Excellent for children and adults alike.
carl graybeal — Google review
This place was amazing! There is so much to see and do! One of the highlights going with 2 kids and my mother was the abundance of air conditioning options (and cafe) if it gets too hot! The actors were really friendly and informative. Everything was clean and wasn't hard to locate at all! We loved the interactive games outside also! While we were there it wasn't overly crowded. We got in at 9 and we're able to get front row parking and had time to see the entire place before it started filling up with people! Even after, it is a great experience!
Amanda Meyer — Google review
It was an amazing experience. Looking back to history. Visualizing how British has started colonization in North America. Understanding and thinking about those old days how people survived. Overall it was a great experience.
Rahman Afrin — Google review
Excellent activity. Ships, fort, and museum are a must visit in this area. The cafeteria food was excellent and reasonably priced for a tourist area. Also offered a veteran’s discount.
James Simon — Google review
Loved every second of my four hour visit here. Could have stayed longer. At first I wasn't sure about having to take a guided tour for the outdoor exhibits (in certain weeks in winter they don't allow you to meander around), but I am actually really happy I was offered a tour. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and personable, the interpreters were fantastic fun and I didn't want to leave. The ships and the Fort were definitely highlights. The indoor exhibits are also well done and everything is spotless. Great for all ages. It looks like they experience large crowds in peak season, if that's not your thing plan a visit on a winter weekday and you won't be disappointed.
Sarah Longmore — Google review
It was a great experience. We purchased the american historic triangle tickets for multiple places and it was the best bang for the buck. The town, fort and ships were awesome!
Mike Michetti — Google review
Wonderful museum. It really gives you a well rounded view of the history. My favorite "thing" was the obelisk. It's an interesting celebration erected at the 350 year anniversary. The Cafe was also liked by our group.
Gunnar Larson — Google review
We had such a great time. We enjoyed touring the inside of the boat. The native Indian live exhibit is a must see. It's respectfully done and so interesting. It's like stepping back into their village. The Jamestown settlement was a little more sparsely done that I would have thought with a lot less actors but the ones there were excellent and informative. The facilities were clean and well maintained. The museum portion was excellent.
Marian Miller — Google review
It is interesting to see. Is it worth the money, not really. Kids love it. We brought our now 25 year old here when he was 8 and it was great. It seems ever here they have downgraded the entertainment aspect of it. The museum is interesting.
Lora Jacobson — Google review
I had a fantastic experience at the Jamestown settlement. The museum is beautifully curated, offering a rich historical insight. The outdoor activities, paired with captivating performances, added a lively and engaging dimension to the visit. Highly recommend!
Tatsiana Nelipovich — Google review
Wow. I was super impressed. Definitely exceeded my expectations. Great place for children and adults alike. And teens that enjoy history. I love how the enhibits were interactive and tactile. Lots of great films. You can walk or drive down to the Glasshouse after and finish by riding the ferry to the fort and back. Definitely worth visiting!
Justine Vild — Google review
We had a wonderful time! The galleries were much more extensive than I was expecting, with so many artifacts. All the exhibits were displayed so well.
The Native American village, ships, and fort really let you experience what life must have been like in 1607.
Carolyn Mason — Google review
Great place to visit and learn about our country's history. Between the gallery indoors and the outdoor recreations (villages and ships) we easily spent 3.5 hours. They do offer a military discount and a multi location discount to visit all 3 main museums of history.
Dacia Zimmer — Google review
This was a fun adventure. There was a walk through education center with all sorts of exhibits. The Jamestown replica stronghold was nice and informative. The Native American village was informative. All the staff were friendly, informative and, all around amazing. The 3 boats on the water were very informative. Crazy to think how small they are and that they (are replicas) crossed the ocean. A good place to spend some time and see a lil early Americana.
C M — Google review
I love history, and this is a wonderful place to see and learn. I wish we could have been there at opening time. We got there late in the afternoon and missed the outdoor area. Call for info before you buy the tickets. A bonus is that they do offer military and first responders a discount.
Gloria Rodriguez — Google review
Amazing museum that is interactive and a fun place to explore. They have a couple of shows to watch, a few demonstrations of musket firing, blacksmithing, cooking and sailing. I recommend getting the combo pass so you get into Yorktown as well with the price of one. All in all, a great experience for the family.
Historic Jamestowne is an intriguing site managed by the NPS, serving as the original location of the first permanent English settlement in North America. The settlement's remains were discovered in 1994, and visitors can explore the excavations on a free guided tour. Additionally, there is an archaeology museum called Archaearium that harbors over 4000 artifacts and features an exhibit called 'World of Pocahontas, Unearthed.
This was such a cool place to go visit. All the artifacts and information in the museums really help you get a clear picture of what life was like here. It's very cool to walk on the same land where English settlers walked 400 years ago, and also a bit sobering to know that many of the settlers died on that very land. The nearby musuem and replicas of the ships and Fort James are also very interesting and worth a look. All in all, a very cool experience.
Tristan Diekman — Google review
It was incredible to see the area first colonized in the USA. The day was perfect, weather-wise, and there was so much to see. The best part was the gentleman native American explaining how he was making an arrowhead in the traditional way. He showed and explained the tools he was using and how he was using them. He even explained the action to flake off pieces of stone to shape and sharpen it.
You enter through the main building and purchase tickets. They give you a sticker to wear as proof you paid. It's dog friendly and there is a gift shop/ post office inside. After passing through the building you walk across a long walking bridge. The tall obelisk is the first thing you see, then just beyond it is the church and you walk into the original Jamestown settlement. Beyond it is the building with artifacts.
There are plenty of benches to sit and rest while you watch the ferries go by. It was cool with the breeze coming off the water.
Laura Wright — Google review
Absolutely amazing place. It's so interesting to see the remnants of this country's origins. The archaeologists love taking questions and everyone there is so well-informed and just eager to share with you. Some of the archaeologists had actually found a couple of pieces while we were there and they showed them to us. It was a wonderful experience.
Tyrell Miller — Google review
Historic Jamestown is maintained by the National Park Service. Excavations are ongoing. Jamestown is the beginning of America. It is another story of the early struggles of the first settlers. There are lots to see and learn. The first fort on American soil is here. The first mansions are here. It is the story of people coming from all nations for a new beginning and contributing what they bring to the development of a new nation. I wholly recommend this tour.
Larry Henry — Google review
I would give it 5 stars but they have fenced off the best parts of the historic areas requiring a separate $15.00 entry fee. I was told this started in October 2023. Sort of a shame what the powers to be did here.
BILLY BOONE JR — Google review
The kids had a blast taking in our nation's history. What a fun way to bring our texts books to life! I would recommend good walking shoes as most is gravel and a good refillable water bottle. Restrooms are clean but not all around so potty before heading to the sites! Bring a camera the views are amazing.
tim taylor — Google review
Very well cared for park. Plenty of educational materials posted around the grounds. It was fun to see active archeological activities still occurring. The Park Ranger talk was very informative and engaging. It wasn't overly crowded even on a holiday weekend. Definitely recommend a visit.
Laura Jones — Google review
This is an awesome place just to walk the grounds to see everything restored and preserved from over 400 years ago. The view of the James River is beautiful, and it must have been very interesting starting the first permanent English settlement in North America back in 1607.
Mike McGuire — Google review
I haven't been back here for 30 years since I was a child, and I returned today with my kid and got to relive my childhood. Place looks so much better than what I remember as far as the museum areas go, and I'm happy they got as much going on as they do as this is an excellent place to preserve. Would highly recommend and I'm more than likely to come back with the family to tour the grounds a little more slowly. Had a wonderful time!
Jonathan Hartzell — Google review
This is the original Jamestown settlement. There is the US National Park and the Preservation Virginia area. There are two separate admissions. The Preservation Virginia side host the Archaearium Archaeology Museum, the Memorial Church, statues of John Smith and Pocahontas, and a fort replica. The National Park side has an obelisk monument and the grounds of the new Jamestown Settlement.
Michael Silas — Google review
If you are a military family the entrance will be free for all of the member of the family. That itself deserves a five star!
Most of the interesting things to see are outside so if you are afraid of Covid, go there confident. At the entrance of the welcome center, someone is at the ready to answer any questions before you buy your tickets.
We experienced NO wait, maybe because we traveled there before Christmas and during weekday.
Inside the welcoming center, there is a very cute souvenir store. There is also like a video room but that was closed — probably due to Covid restrictions.
Outside was lots of fun. The kids loved it. The excavation site was fascinating for them. They also simply loved running around and see the canon and statue of the first governor of Virginia.
I recommend that outing.
virginie gimenez — Google review
So awe-inspiring. To see where a nation first began is a piece of history you cannot replace. The interpreters are amazing and full of so much information. To think that the first English settlers also walked around here is thought-provoking. Well kept and rebuilt pieces of history.
Laura Gibson — Google review
The location has so much historical significance and they have done such a wonderful job exploring and preserving and presenting it. We were there for 5 hours and could have spent much longer. They currently have ranger lead programs 10, 1:30 & 3:30, but they said to call beforehand as the schedule changes daily. The National park pass receives 50% off admission.
Emily Anne — Google review
It's great to see the oldest English settlement in America. Much of the fort has been recreated for you to visit and there are a few original areas including some stone foundations, early graves, and some brickwork.
The museum included lots of original artifacts and also some skeletons from original settlers who had been identified using historical records and scientific analysis.
The cafe was FANTASTIC. Really great soups and sandwiches.
Overall, this was great value - about half the price of visiting Williamsburg, and much more interesting in my opinion. Also, kids get in for free!
Everyone was friendly and helpful. The ticket staff helped my parents obtain a discount.
Oliver Warne — Google review
Loved this place it has 2 museums one tou walk through to get to the out side settlement and one just off to the side in the settlement. They also have a live archeology dig they let you(kids) help with.its right by the water and just a nice place to walk in the grounds flat so it's not a hard walk. It's not to bad of a distance to walk neither with lots of shady spots to set and rest.i highly recommend to get a pass such as the triangle pass. But if that to high they offer other opinions. It covers all museums ,reenactment , and touts.
ray oliver — Google review
It was cool. Where comfy shoes, not saddles bc it is quite a walk to see all the exhibits and lots of gravel pathways. I appreciate how much available seating sprinkled about so when you get tired from walking and need a break, a bench isn't far away.
You can tell they took care and time setting up the exhibits. It is easy to understand the history that took place here.
Megan Villanueva — Google review
The site itself is pretty cool, albeit presented without much fanfare. Favorite part is definitely the archaeological museum that they have, whose staff are top notch knowledgeable and very interesting to listen to - in particular one Native speaker, I believe his name was also Daniel, gave one of the most in depth looks into the history of the first peoples here I'd ever heard.
Daniel Li — Google review
Great park to walk around and enjoy views of the river and learn the founding history of Virginia and the US. Dog-friendly in the outdoor areas only. Military families are welcomed for free!
Christina Patten — Google review
Came for the history. Stayed for the history. Left cause the pork and beans.
Great place. BYOF (Bring your own food!)
Military is free. But also, free for up to 3 adult guests w/ each military personnel as well. They don’t say that on the website.
Ben Crayne — Google review
Probably the weakest link of the Colonial Triangle, but still a fascinating place to visit. The Church is probably the focal point of the site, but there is still a lot of history to be seen here, and ongoing archaeological work being done to unearth even more. There is also a Wildlife Loop on the site with some very beautiful scenery, and 3 old graves.
Coming Judgement — Google review
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! This is a MUST for schools whether local, or even out of state!! The knowledge found here for children and adults is beyond comprehension! This information is HISTORY IN THE MAKING!! To have visited today and having met a few of the archaeological team currently digging to continuously unearth artifacts dating back some 400+ years to earlier settlers of the Colonial Era when John Smith uprooted the Fort there at Jamestown, and well, … it quite breathtaking for a historian such as I to be standing in a place where the first democracy took shape. There are absolutely no words to express the surrealism of standing in this place. But then to turn and see the name of your ancestors on the wall or yet the very root of your family’s last name and thus your heritage, right there … it’s astounding!! When visiting Williamsburg, VA I recommend staying at Aldrich Bed & Breakfast where you have the opportunity of selecting several personal guided tours from Mr. Tom Patton, he and his wife Sue Patton are the Innkeepers. Mr. Patton is a Licensed Tour Guide. You have the opportunity of selecting a tour of Jamestown Island, Colonial Williamsburg, and/or Yorktown with Mr. Tom Patton. Feel free to visit their website aldrichhouse dot com. Mr. Patton has a knack for making the history of Williamsburg come alive as you tour, ITS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. You literally feel as though you are there during that period!
Cindy Burgener — Google review
Love the Jamestowne settlement attractions. The National Parks did a great job as always. The Jamestowne Settlement is also a great place to visit. (2 different places)
The actors did a great job in character and the tour guides were great also.
There is so much to see and learn.
Amazing to be there and learn the history. Loved it!
Jason Sargent — Google review
Very interesting historical place. Our guide Mark was phenomenal. We actually stayed all day to hear his afternoon tour
Christy Werley — Google review
4.7
(3857)
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4.5
(5557)
1368 Colonial Nat'l Historical Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081, USA
I love going to see the girls play basketball and eat the food.
Larry Hall — Google review
The buildings and campus of ecu are so nice. The bricks on the ground are all pristinely laid in perfectly organized fashion. I wish the people matched this. The people who take your food orders in this building are Rude. No one told them they would be taking orders from college students all day. Maybe the ecu students are so rude to them back that’s why they act like that. The food is unhealthy there too. Ecu was a ‘party school’ so I thought. Yea not anymore. Fun is not in the vocabulary of the ecu student body. There are next to none student events on campus. No parties around campus either. No fellow students or neighbors who wanted to party either. Ok? It’s not the same place. I didn’t even get credit for a few classes I took here one of which the teacher didn’t even show up to! And I have a disability so it’s hard for me to even get to class. The teachers will give too hard of assignments, and then if you don’t get a good grade you are “partying too hard”. Actually, it’s called teaching, and your goal is intrinsic learning. You have to care if the students learn or not. I did pristine work for them and got substandard grades. And Just go down the street from ecu. Wow! What a great place for your kids to go to college! Safe and family friendly. They need to clean that place up. The girls if you were expecting ‘fun’ girls (or guys) think again. The party school thing is a fun veneer but the student body does not capitalize on this potential. The nursing students didn’t get the message that their job is going to be nurturing, and being sensitive and loving to other people. Ecu has A LOT OF WORK TO DO. It all starts with the leadership. Some things are nice, like the piano in the main student center. And the high quality printer in the library. In the tour to tour the campus, the girl said it was bad luck to walk under the fountain in the middle of campus or you wouldn’t graduate. Why would you tell the prospective students that? She also said she only went to one party her whole time at ecu. Ok why didn’t you? Ecu the campus itself is great. Some of the staff are real nice.
Robert Perry — Google review
They are mutilating young children. Should be shut down.
cate m — Google review
An unnamed frat is claimed to be racist. Most students under age drink. There have been rats in roaches in the dorm bathrooms. Most of the dorm bathrooms are used for under age class-men drinking. Also, most of them have fake ID’s. The bar security in town is terrible because they don’t efficiently check if ID’s are real. The ecu staff is very friendly. I do think the bars in Greenville need proper training on how to spot fake ID’s. This university is good academically but non academically it is very toxic. The frats don’t hold responsibility for drinking. They let drunk people get on the roof on the frat house which is dangerous. Every day, I hate it because some students that are idiots alarm our first line.
Breezy B — Google review
ECU is an awesome school! I've had so many great experiences and good memories made here. I wish I could go back!!
Private — Google review
ECU (East Carolina University) is one of the best University in United States. Professors are great, experienced, friendly and more realistic in terms of teaching real-world scenarios. Professors, Graduate Admin office folks and Chair person are always available and willing to help students for providing guidance that they need. Professors have PhD, and many of them have dual degrees. I was very much impressed and surprised the way they teach students using real-world technological examples. Assigning any software development, computer science engineering or computer networking projects as a group helps a lot. It helps students to interact each other and gain more experience from each other. Professors are even available after classes and ready to spend 1:1 time with students. I can't wait to see this University to be named Number #1 in the United States. Students are very talented and realistic.
Talented, hard-working, and ambitious people. Great people to work with! Always think ahead…
Sunil Ladekar — Google review
great place for meeting when school is out
Scott Greene — Google review
This university has really done a great job of reimaging itself. From being known as one of the top party schools in the US to now being a leader in the health science field, sports, and innovative technology. I definately recommend a visit just to experience the culture and pride that you will feel when speaking with the locals and students. Go Pirates!
Brian — Google review
As an out-of-state student, I was let down. Probably because I had the most generic and incompetent student advisor by the name of Jason Denius. Instead of giving me straight answers he kept talking in theories which wasted time and I lost interest. The school could use an upgraded curriculum until then it's not offering its student the best.
Eliza Beth — Google review
Community College would be better.
continued.
They bill you a month before school starts, so you better hope you have your money streight. And if you make any changes, sometimes they don't even have it right and change it significantly 2 days before it's due.
Brandon McMindes — Google review
Wonderful University. Very Kind Instructor, safe, Love purple!! Hello Nicole.
Hyung chul Kim — Google review
I attended this university for a degree in Business administration. My experience there was very positive. I thought the administration staff were helpful, the professors I had were knowledgeable and eager to help students who asked for it. My advisor was pretty accessible and helpful whenever I needed to talk or ask for guidance. The only thing I thought could use some improvement is the lack of diversity among the professors. During my entire time there as a student I only had 2 African American teachers. That needs to be addressed.
Traline DèMon Spencer — Google review
Best kept secret in the southeast. Great education. Great programs. Support systems for all students. It's the only university in NC with a Medical School, Dental School, and Engineering School. The city of Greenville is all about ECU and it's a great college town. I went there and both my kids are current students there. Check out the Honors College and the scholarship opportunities, too!
Ice cream shop serving scoops in many flavors made from the milk of on-site, grass-fed cows.
AWESOME PLACE!!! I have driven a bus here for field trips probably four times at least, and always enjoy going on the tour of their farm and creamery. The workers there are all so knowledgeable about their cows and the process of making the milk and everything. It is an excellent field trip for elementary age children. They will love it. And, their ice cream is awesome!!! 😊👍👍
Dan Thompson — Google review
Ice cream was very tasty and creamy. They have homemade waffle cones that were well worth the price. Ordered one scoop and it was a big, hearty scoop. Prices are very reasonable. Definitely pay them a visit. Great atmosphere and trip to take your family to. There is an adorable petty calf there in a Pin that you can pet.
Michelle Bayless — Google review
Delicious ice cream!! Friendly and helpful staff! A wide variety of flavors and offerings, something for everyone and very tasty!! Cute little country store to boot! The playground is wonderful for the kids to get some energy out after their sweet treat! Would definitely be back!
Nicole Manuel — Google review
We had no idea this place was so close to our home. it was an awesome surprise. Such a yummy cool treat for these hot days! The whole experience while getting our shakes was so fun . There is so much to do and take in. We loved it and can’t wait to come back with our family .
Mandy Frazier — Google review
Wow!
The kindness of everyone at this farm is heartwarming!
My daughters school had a field trip.
The fact that Jersey cows don't produce the lactose gene is pretty awesome since my two daughters and my wife are extremely lactose intolerant.
The ice cream sample we received at the end of the tour was one of the best I had ever had!
This farm seems to be ran like a well oiled machine.
I hope they continue to expand their reach as far as availability of the products, I had drive from Jacksonville NC to Double R Farm Market(Maple Hill, NC)
To get a few pints and a half gallon, however it was well worth the drive!
Steve Hahn — Google review
It is some of the best ice cream in Eastern North Carolina. I've had the black cherry, strawberry, and butter pecan. All of it is great.
Robert Wilson — Google review
My girls had an amazing experience at the Ayden Simply Creamery! It’s was a day with princesses and it was fun and well organized!
Brooke Fluellen — Google review
We wanted some farm fresh ice cream even though it's winter and it was so fun. The ice cream tastes delicious. They have a playground for the kids and a baby cow you can pet. Highly recommend checking this place out!
Airyl Crabtree — Google review
I went with the kids school field trip it was amazing they take the kids on a guided tour. They got to see the different food that they feed the animals. The kids got a pet in the baby calves. They have a fake cow the kids can milk. They got to pet the baby calves and then they watched a short video of the farm of how it runs. At the end of the tour each child and paid parent gets to get a small cup of their vanilla ice cream.
Tracie Robinson — Google review
Found this gem on a family visit trip to NC. Wish we had one in Minnesota! Fantastic ice cream.
C Ro999 — Google review
Our school group had a fantastic time at Simply Natural last Friday. The two young people acting as our guides were very friendly and informative. They were patient with the children and did a great job of explaining how a dairy farm operates while making sure to allow lots of fun time for interacting with the baby cows. Their animals are well taken care of and the facility is beautiful. Last but not least, the ice cream, milk, and egg nog were out of this world! Definitely a great school trip, family trip, or date idea for animal lovers. We will be back!
Alicia Tucker — Google review
First time going to simply natural creamery. The ice cream was delicious and many flavors to choose from. I got the banana split and enjoyed every bite of it. I even bought some milk to take home and look forward to drinking it.
Nicole Burnt — Google review
This ice cream is by far the best! Take the tour and pet the baby jersey cows, they are so sweet and ❤️ loving. Knowledgeable staff and very informative tour. Will be back!
Leslie LoAlbo — Google review
This is a must visit dairy and ice cream shop. They have the best ice cream I’ve ever tasted. This is a great place to take kids to tour a dairy farm and have a fun outing with the family. Our favorite flavors are butter pecan and salted caramel. Highly recommend 🙌🍦
Unique park with many creative wind-powered sculptures & events such as concerts & farmers' markets.
Love ❤️ Love ❤️ Love ❤️ the Whirligig Park! Kudos to the ones with the vision to salvage it and bring it to downtown Wilson. It’s an amazing story of Vollis Simpson’s creativity and humility. So glad many generations will be able to enjoy. It’s a great venue to visit for any event or just to stroll. Highly recommend!🙌
Sherri Barham — Google review
The opening ceremony for the Little League Tournament of State Champions was held here, and we had a blast. The large, open grass field is perfect for playing catch or just hanging out on a blanket. And the raised stage in the corner is set up well for musical performances or speeches. Of course, the main attractions here are the large whirligig structures surrounding the field...there are over a dozen of them scattered about, and each one is unique and interesting. The shaded structure outside the grass is perfect for banquets too. A great place to gather and have fun in the heart of Wilson!
Chris Schweighart — Google review
This spring break we brought the kids to Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park. We've been wanting to go see these for a while and we're finally able to make it.
These structures are 'cool' (as my daughter puts it) and we picked the perfect day as it was windy.
The park has a few plaque markers showcasing the artist and explaining the history of his work!
Across the street is a store fully designated for the park. It sells some souvenirs of the experience. The lady working there was extremely friendly and was able to tell us a little bit more about the park.
I definitely recommend stopping into the shop and signing the guest book. We found some 'cool' coloring pages that my daughter was excited about and wanted. We also found a few lego builds of whirilgigs for my son.
S T — Google review
Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park and Museum is a one of a kind art park. It is home to thirty large whirligigs and the largest number of gigantic kinetic sculptures in one location. These sculptures are North Carolina's Official Folk Art. Some as high as sixty feet and weigh as much as 13,500 lbs. At the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore Maryland you will find his 55 foot tall and 45 foot wide "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness " sculpture on permanent display. The museum and gift shop has many of his smaller sculptures on display and Anna can tell you all about everything there at the museum.
Scott — Google review
I’ll go out of my way any day to spend some time at this fantastic place! The whirligigs are unique and fun. Definitely worth a stop!
Bea Hall — Google review
It was hot, there was no wind, and the grandchildren were only somewhat impressed. I found this park to be an amazing engineering exhibit.
The museum was great, and the kids enjoyed it, and the staff were very helpful.
Dick Rankin — Google review
Great art, engineering, and a kaleidoscope for the eyes! Great park area to view these marvels! Wind is a plus! This was one of the highlights of my baseball adventure.
Craven Peay — Google review
This was the perfect day to come! The wind was surely whipping to blow these guys around. My son was loving it and was enjoying looking at these beautiful art pieces!
Tara Woolard — Google review
You have to see this place. We searched it out a few years back after seeing one of the whirligigs at the highway welcome center. They were just getting started then. Now it has lit pathways and a ton of whirligigs, and a nice museum. Definitely worth the stop!
Melissa Antul — Google review
Super neat tourist attraction honoring a local pioneering folk artist. Clean, wide-open, interesting, unique. They have a nice variety of music playing on the many speakers throughout the park. Also, a sound stage for concerts in one corner of the city block-sized area.
Ben Dukes — Google review
We visited for the Saturday morning Farmer's Market, and really enjoyed our time in the park and musuem. We started the morning with coffee from Larema, explored the park and museum, and stopped by the beer garden at Casita. So great to see the downtown Wilson area growing and thriving. Highly recommend a trip--very easy drive from Raleigh/Durham!
Ree Palmer — Google review
Always a great time here! There are plenty of places to eat and drink. I love the farmer's market and hope to see it grow.
K T — Google review
Such an NC treasure! So glad it has been brought together and is free and accessible to the public! The Whirligigs are so fun and clever. Looking at them from different angles you always see some new detail.
Definitely stop by when in Wilson (and grab a beer from the brewery next door to walk around in the social district).
Gina D — Google review
This is one of the neatist thing park I have ever seen. This is on the top ten list of unusual places in North Carolina. There are at least twenty five different large mobils on poles. Each mobil has a nameand who the sponcer is. Very glad I came to this free park in Wilson N.C.
Moving on with Old man river — Google review
We finally were able to stop by. It was well worth the side trip. Luckily, the wind was blowing. Visited the museum/gift shop across the street.
Elizabeth Sheppard — Google review
30Dec2023
Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park.
Wilson North Carolina.
This is the best park to visit. Just look at all those Whirligig erected in the Park. Best from the waste. Just amazing.
Took pics, slow motion videos.
Please do visit the museum in the building in front. You can watch the original pieces. You can buy small memorabilia like Whirlgig, and then magnets and t-shirts.
And don’t forget to thank the attendant Ms Catherine, who provides all good information. She is amazing person. Thank you.
Bhushan Patil — Google review
Such a fun park! It’s so nice to see these amazing art pieces restored, cared for, & enjoyed! Plenty of space & well kept tables to enjoy a picnic lunch & get some fresh air on our road trip.
Stephanie Gardner — Google review
I love this park during the Whirligig festival in November! They have music, food, beer, crafts, and lots of community. Plus, great activities for the kids. Wilson is a bit of a drive if you’re in the RTP, but I think it’s worth it. I would not go if it is not tue festival though…
Todd Cherner — Google review
What a wonderful way to save an artists legacy. Wendy (Events Planner for the park) was very kind and helpful, giving us information about the area and suggestions of what to do and where to eat. What a wonderful little town!
Timothy Staiano — Google review
Extraordinary place to spend a day. Picnics, frisbees, kites and the fabulous whirligigs. Serene, clean and great amenities.
Great escape from the woes of life. Lots to do. I encourage everyone to come meet in the streets or one of the great places to sit and meet your neighbors. Clean, safe, friendly and convenient with lots of parking available.
Elle R — Google review
Loved the small town feel. Had a nice lunch walked through the shops that have an interesting and wide selection of products.I was surprised by the art options available from painters, painting, framing you name it.
Angie M — Google review
Cute strip just too small. If this is their "down town" there is much more needed. Cute shops and restaurants. Decorated for holidays and very pretty. Not enough to do. We were done in under an hour.
Jennifer James — Google review
Wake Forest downtown is a quaint downtown, please enjoy this for what it is and support the small locally owned small shops. Buy local, if you are looking for franchises of the big sort or a large city downtown this not that place. Raleigh is your place. It boosts coffee shop, a few cafe's, brewery, Mexican place and great tapas place just to name a few. If you are interested in buying local and getting cool ideas from local arcticians you have come to right place. Keep in mind WF has humble beginnings as far back ask 1980's there were only 7,500 people in WF. Very unique and lucky to have this very cool downtown. #downtownwakeforest
David Soper — Google review
Love our downtown area! It feels like you've gone back in time. Lots of fun restaurants and some cute shops.
LuAnn Polk — Google review
Beautiful historical district
Conrad Lotz — Google review
Beautiful, historic, great to walk around and check out shops.
Trail-filled state park set along the Neuse River & offering space for camping, swimming & fishing.
This park is a gem, with great facilities and plentiful options for hiking and camping, swimming and boating. They have tent sites and several cabins to rent, which appear (from photos we saw in the office) to be in excellent condition and lovely for families.
Our visit only allowed time for an extended hike on several of the trails, but they were all in excellent condition and offered a nice respite from our drive back from coastal NC.
Highly recommend a trip to this park for a stay, or a short visit to enjoy their nature trails and the views of the Neuse River from elevated cliffs.
Robert Asdal — Google review
This is a nice little park.
The new bathhouse in the camping loop is great. You can actually shower without soaking your clean clothes. And you get to control when the water turns on/off! No motion sensor. Camp hosts kept everything super clean.
If you combine several of the hiking trails you can put together a nice hike. Sometimes the blazes/trail markings aren't great, so you might want to use an app for way-finding.
There's also a swim beach available (when it's open) and apparently you can sometimes rent a kayak to paddle around.
If you've read other reviews, you know there are a lot of ants in this park. We did not have any problems with them while camping. We were careful about not leaving food out and had no problems at all.
Scott Reston — Google review
Beutiful place to go for a weekend getaway
The bathrooms were very clean and close to our site. Our site was very big and spacious. All the sites were a little close to my taste, but no one goes camping to see what other campers are doing, so it was still pretty private. They sell ice and fire wood at their store at the entrance. Everyone who works there are very nice and polite.
Ana Cano Diaz — Google review
I've been going to the cliffs since I was a kid and it's such a wonderful place to get away from everything, the park was extremely clean, facilities were kept up nicely, would have been nice to swim but I understand why they have it closed.
Brandon Thompson — Google review
Nice park. Went camping here with our Trail Life group. The trails are easily accessible from the group camping area, bathroom facility was fine (nothing special but plenty adequate for the unimproved camping site), and the river was close by and beautiful. Aside from the rainy weekend it was great! Definitely recommend.
Mark Conneway — Google review
Meh. It's a nice park but has a lot of litter compared to other NC parks and an alarming amount of white flagging along the trail. Being so close to Goldsboro, the singing birds are drowned out by the airforce doing airforce things. Lots of intersecting trails with very gradual elevation changes. Nice place for fitness, but as an enjoyable nature experience I'd pass on this one in the future
TF — Google review
Very, very beautiful. We saw anoles, frogs, a crawdad, and an owl. Also the cedar knees sticking up. Parking is easy and free, visitor center is nice, picnic areas are shaded, beautiful, and not crowded on a Monday in April. The swimming area was seasonally closed.
Laura Saunders — Google review
Had a nice time hiking a couple of trails. Good place to bring dogs and very nice scenery. Great shade on trail. Lots of large ants though that had an uncanny ability to wind up on shoes, ankles, and dog paws. More of a nuisance than a problem. Park office is very nice. Little museum inside. Hope to camp in future
Mark Burch — Google review
Have visited and camped at this park for over 30 years. The trails are easy, views are awesome along the Neuse River. The swimming area is small but always one of my favorite spots. Plan a visit, you won’t be disappointed
Kirby W — Google review
My visit to the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park was an absolute breath of fresh air. The park's commitment to cleanliness and maintenance is evident, making it a top-notch destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Visitor Center serves as a warm welcome gateway, staffed by exceptionally helpful park rangers ready to guide and enhance your experience.
The highlight of my trip was the enchanting 1-mile hike along the Moss Trail, where the blend of scenic views and tranquil woodland whispers created a perfect symphony. The park's allure doesn't stop there, with several other trails beckoning for exploration, promising new adventures with each visit. It's a pristine natural retreat that promises peace, beauty, and a reconnection with nature. I'm already planning my next journey back to tackle the trails yet to be discovered.
Cary Joshi — Google review
Depending on the time of year, this is an excellent getaway. The nature and wildlife is nice, as is the pond. During summer you can actually go swimming in the pond. The view beyond the Cliff is amazing. This park also has a campground for both RV's and tents which provide electricity, sewage and restrooms with showers. For those who just want to stay the night, nice rental cabins are available too!
Roger Cozine II — Google review
Nice place to go for a walk or more. You have the option for picnic area and camping. There is an information area, do stop in and get the history of the area. There are bathrooms act. The swimming area is currently closed due to not having availability of lifeguards. Which is sad, that would have been a nice place to cool off from the heat. Hopefully it will open back up. But overall it’s a good place with clearly marked trails.
Rhonda — Google review
I don't think campers should have to pay to swim. But it is a very nice beach area! I love the campsites. Nice and shady! Quiet and peaceful!
Rhonda Naeter — Google review
1st time here. Beautiful area. Great trails. Can't wait to go back and visit the swimming area. The park ranger was super helpful too.
Jay Es — Google review
Beautiful trails. Very close camping sites. I wouldn't call it primitive by any stretch. Clean bathrooms. Definitely kid friendly. Saw a lot of kids Saturday. Dogs. People love to camp and bring their barking dogs. So it's not a real quiet place. The lake is beautiful. I suggest starting the Lake Trail from the bathhouse side. It's a great spot to walk with your sweetheart.
Rick Flair — Google review
The only complaint we have is... we wish they had an open spot more often! 😊 Cliffs of the Neuse is a beautiful place, and we highly recommend visiting, but plan in advance!
Restrooms are very clean and spacious. Friendly campground hosts, shady, and the camp spots are separated by trees and undergrowth, which is nice! You dont feel like youre exposed to everyone when sitting in your camp chair.
Polly Ferguson — Google review
Great way to spend an afternoon! There is a nice visitors center that has an interactive learning space for kids, and a gift shop. Plenty of activities to do, I have enjoyed fishing, hammocking, and hiking. Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a place to explore, and get out in nature.
Caroline Sheaffer — Google review
The Cliffs of the Neuse is a nice spot to go walking, as there are tracks for the deliberate purpose of walking... okay, maybe hiking would be a more appropriate word for this situation, as with those paths there are areas you've gotta be careful about.
So long as you've got a map, a good head on your shoulders, and considerate of others, I think you'll be fine.
They also have a small museum in the visitor's center, and that's sweet.
I only have one complaint, but it's minor in the grand scheme of things, and that's the location. The Cliffs of the Neuse takes about half an hour to get to from most areas outside of Seven Springs.
Brie Miller — Google review
Thanksgiving Day and few visitors were here. plenty of hiking areas. Bathrooms. Picnic areas. great visitors center. No negatives to this place. There’s a huge parking area for the swim lake that’s fed by a cool spring.
Stewart — Google review
4.7
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4.5
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240 Park Entrance Rd, Seven Springs, NC 28578, USA
The carnival was fun.. But it's the same thing every year.. About time they add something new... Kids still had fun
Justin Radford — Google review
This outlet has a very convenient location. It has been here for a long time and offers several brand names and specialty stores. Is very busy. Lots of parking spaces. Restrooms are clean but not enough of them during peak hours/seasons. Lounge is large and clean.
M S — Google review
Lots of stores to browse and it has a casual strip mall feel. An enjoyable shopping experience. Ample parking near each individual store so you don't have to walk a great distance unlike most other outlet malls.
Dave Guryevsky — Google review
We travelled down from Virginia and stopped off at this mall to pick up some items from the Carter children’s store. Music was loud enough to think I was in Tijuana and almost samba danced round the store. Staff were disinterested except for the obligatory ‘can I help you find anything’. In my head…..Yes, the volume button for this racket over the speakers!!
I made my purchases more out of necessity (quick baby gift). Prices misleading and not displayed very well. Amazon sells exact same items cheaper and without Samba (my bad for not forward planning). Buyer beware. None of these stores offer any real discount, definitely a ploy because of shortage of good high quality shopping areas. So let the exploitation of the masses commence.
Signage around the mall area states military discount……. I asked in the aforementioned store and it was like I had just cussed at her. Anyway, military discount is ONLY offered in stores where there is a patriotic star displayed. Good luck in the scavenger hunt for that one. Sorry my experience was not even mediocre and won’t be returning.
J. — Google review
I make a trip to the outlets a couple of times a year. There's always something fun to discover. When you're all shopped out. There are a few good places to stop and grab a bite. The only drawback is the parking situation. For as much space as there is, if you find a spot, you need to grab it.
Terry Eldridge-Murray — Google review
This outdoor mall has a bit of everything for shoppers. You won't find restaurants here, but there are a few nearby.
Noel Lovell-Moore — Google review
Love the Outlet stores. It's in a good location and has plenty of stores with a good selection of food places in the area. It can be expensive but it's worth the experience if you don't mind walking and shopping. I like that it's only an hour from my house. I even enjoy the drive to and from my house.
Tim B. — Google review
I had a great experience at Carolina Premium Outlet. However, I recommend going on a weekend during the holiday season. Two factors highly noted was Carolina Pottery had Senior Citizens 65+ entitled to a discount on Tuesday. There are quite a few stores that discounts for military persons showing their id and a symbol is displayed outside the store to inform them before entering. Great discounts but walk around and check out the prices before purchasing the first thing you see. Especially if you are trying to stretch your dollars which is not made out of rubber. I found my favorite store Woodbridge and went back the next day. The jogging pants are fleece line thick and very warm if you jog, or walk your dog early morning or late evenings.
Edith Berry — Google review
Wifee loves this place. Christmas time is here.
garybrnt87 — Google review
Great time shopping with family. Food Hall down the street offers good variety. Convenient location. Got some really good deals on name brand items and was able to take care of most of my Christmas list!
Angela HJ — Google review
Great location for me as I work next door as a gymnastics instructor and it's only a mile from home! While I've never personally interacted with staff, I've given a little wave here and there through the window as I walk by and they seem friendly. My daughter loves their dog that she often sees, too. I'll be sure to come here for any future garage door needs.
Heidi B. — Google review
Jewelry outlet a little suspect but Nautica and Nike outlet are great
Columbia is outstanding as well, they even offer employee discount for all mall employees. I think Nautica does the same.
And Cracker Barrel is phenomenal for eating before or after shopping
Rod — Google review
I finally visited the Smithfield Carolina outlet stores today. I'm really not an outlet shopper at all but I heard this location had a variety of stores and brands I enjoy. I did not get a chance to visit every store while on a time limit but I am happy with what I spent within my budget for the quality of items I purchased. I enjoyed shopping at the Adidas store. They had a 60% off clearance sale and I was able to purchase 2 outfits for my daughter priced at $7.99 & 10.99 per piece. The selection was excellent and I saw some adorable IVY Park sneakers and boots by Beyoncé. Customer service was excellent. I also visited the Lane Bryant store to purchase undergarments. The customer service was impeccable and the store was well stocked compared to Raleigh. I was very happy with the sale items I purchased and will definitely return to visit the remainder of the stores.
This outlet mall could use a modern renovation so that is the only negative.
Mariss — Google review
Great sales and majority of stores had great customer service. 1 store we went into didn't even greet us. It was the store that sold dresses for sweet 16 or proms. Shame on them.
Anissa — Google review
I had a fantastic experience at this outlet! They have an incredible selection of brands available at unbeatable prices. Highly recommend checking it out!
Saurav Malla — Google review
Only con, but a big one, of this place is not entirely their fault, is the road markings into this place!!
It is a nightmare for non regular customers. The turn lanes are so faded you miss them and other drivers are aggressive and impatient. They should "encourage" DPW to re-strip the roadway and use more signs. If it's dark outside and raining it's 100 times worse. But, inside the area is clean of any trash and clutter. Plenty of parking. And I feel safe there.
Sc783 — Google review
It's not terrible. I had a hard time finding items that fit me well, I'm on the tall side but Columbia was the only place that had clothing that I'd say fit well on me, the Big and Tall was more big than it was tall. "Premium" seems to be focused on the price of items more than quality or selection in a lot of stores. Was relatively clean with an ok food selection. Average outlet. I doubt I'll be returning if shopping for myself.
Skyler Shaffer — Google review
This was our first visit here after quite some time and it was a lot of fun. I would have given the visit 5 stars had it not been for us getting hit by clouds of weed smoke coming from every direction as we moved from place to place.
Smoking weed is still illegal here in NC, right? I'm just trying to educate myself about this just in case I missed the news that it's legal, now.
I hope our next visit will be a bit better. I will revisit my review if things improve at that point.
NOTE: I fully realize weed smoking is not the fault of Carolina Premium Outlets. However, having to endure it while on premises does diminish the overall experience for many people. So, the review nets a '3' rather than a '5'.
Marcus Harris — Google review
My son and I explored Carolina Premium Outlet. He got great deals and loved shopping at this place. Definitely, we’ll be coming with the whole family.
Museum devoted to the legacy of Hollywood actress Ava Gardner, featuring costumes, photos & awards.
We were pleasantly surprised by this museum. It is very well done! You learn about the history of an interesting lady. There are number of costumes worn in movies as well her personal attire. Also a number of personal items.
April Williams — Google review
For anyone who's interested in the Golden age of movies, this is a great day trip. There's a short movie (18 minutes) to get you started and then you can explore the many costumes, ephemera, and personal items from Gqrdener's life. Be sure to take advantage of the docent and ask a lot of questions, it will make your trip more memorable. I spent 2 hours but you could spend less or more depending on your level of interest.
Nichole Gantshar — Google review
I truly enjoyed the Ava Gardner Museum. It's small but filled with information about her. The movie was great.
Philip Elliott — Google review
A Beautiful museum. The person in charge of the museum is very enthusiastic and you can tell that she loves her works, she make her best effort to answer any questions you might have and put that extra to make sure your visit is memorable.
We visited Saturday afternoon and found parking in front of the museum. I did not see a parking lot. The museum is very clean and cozy.
If you want to know more about this iconic artist and are in the area you must pay a visit.
Hansei Kai — Google review
We pass signs for this museum on our way to Myrtle Beach every year and this year we decided to stop to check it out. We are very glad we did! The lady at the front desk was very helpful and full of information about Ava and the 20 minute movie gave more background on this beautiful lady. There are lots of original items and costumes and the library is full of interesting photos and facts. Definitely worth the stop (It's easy to get to off 95) and small enough that you can see everything in 1-2 hours.
Christine Barczy — Google review
Thrilled with my experience! I spent about an hour enjoying the exhibits. Beautiful costumes and an intriguing story for fans of Golden age Hollywood, music, and popular culture. She was a magnificent figure - a Goddess embodied to teach us all about true beauty and art.
Kimberly Hawkey — Google review
I really was not familiar with Ava Gardner before I came to the museum.
I was just looking for things to do in Smithfield, NC.
But I found it was well worth my time.
The tour guide was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot about Ava Gardner, particularly the paintings of her, which each have their own unique trait.
I would definitely recommend a visit.
Rashad Watters — Google review
When you 1st go in, there's a lady at the door who gives you loads of helpful info and then there's a 10 minute movie. Very helpful info before walking through the museum. There is a small fee but well worth it for all that is in there and all that you learn. Can't wait to go back!!
Cecelia Helm — Google review
Very knowledgeable host at the small museum. Great theater room with large screen to watch a short biography of Ava Gardner. Lots of dresses and outfits from personal and professional life. A woman before her time for sure. Plan 1-1 1/2 hours.
Terri Moore — Google review
Have wanted to visit for years.
My mother told me of this grand Love. My MoM was from Japan and loved movie magazines.
I was enthralled as a teenager.
Tony Bennett had just joined Ava and Frank in heaven.
I asked them to please welcome Tony to Heaven.
I shared a quiet moment to thank her for her influence that her Life and adventures made a difference for those who came after her.. that she is world recognized and still influences women and our daughters and on it goes.
Timeless.
A daughter of North Carolina .
Two dragonflies came to visit me during prayers.
Synchronicity .
Ava is ever in our hearts
Susan Neeb — Google review
This is absolutely worth a visit. A lovely and personal tribute to a screen legend. The docent is the daughter of one of the museum's founders and her time ans attention to my visit was much appreciated!
Liz Pop — Google review
This is a wonderful and classy tribute to Ava Lavinia Gardner and everything she represented to her fans. I was personally thrilled to see the references and memorabilia related to Frank Sinatra (of course) but also Mickey Rooney, Artie Shaw and some of her friends and acquaintances like Earnest Hemingway and Howard Hughes etc... this place is well maintained, the hostess was very knowledgeable and friendly, it was very neat and clean and perfectly placed in her own small hometown! The price was very reasonable. It's an easy stop as it is right off I-95 and well marked plus a quarter-mile down the main street from the museum is the family gravesite where she is buried. Overall a very pleasant experience! 🥰👌🏻
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest museum of its kind in the southeast and dedicated to natural sciences. It features a collection of 1.7 million specimens from every animal species and is spread across three campuses.
A large, poignant, nicely arranged collection of NC natural history from prehistoric time to now and beyond. So much to read and see and great interactive screens in Building 2 (don't miss going!) The building is really nice and well-planned. Nice customer service. Clean bathrooms. Great for all ages. Free and handicap-accessible. Free parking. In a great area close to other attractions.
Michael Stephens — Google review
This place has definitely improved over the years! It's definitely worth your time going. It's free to enter and the paid events are not expensive at all. The best part is, you could spend all day there and still not see everything! I especially love their dinosaur exhibit. My only complaint is I wish the dinosaur exhibit was larger and more interactive for $10 a person. But I was surprised that they move!
Ariel — Google review
Outstanding museum that continues to thrive and innovate. Currently under construction which is a testament to their constant growth. Big dinosaur stuff on the way! So informative and interactive. The exhibits truly come to life. The museum is free however certain exhibits are ticketed. Membership is less than $100 for families! You can’t beat that. A beautiful place to learn and grow. I highly recommend and look forward to coming back, I’ve been visiting this museum since I was a kid! I admire the progress and look forward to more knowledge and creativity. Stop by when you can!
MJ Worldwide — Google review
What a great museum North Carolina had! I could spent a whole day here just looking how amazing they created the space. It’s spacious,detailed, and neat, and clean. The museum also has special exhibitions to interact with the visitors. With the amount of what they provide, it’s amazing that they don’t charge visitors to enter the museum. It’s a great place to learn and bring kiddos to explore.
They have a cafe if you want to rest a bit and enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the kids to explore 😃
Nelly Febrina Kembaren — Google review
This is a free museum that is open to people of all ages. I was so impressed by their collections. It’s a 4-story museum with a breezeway that connects to research labs that are currently in operation. They have interactive exhibits that are so fun for the kids and adults alike. Watch for special exhibits that they are rotating through. Be sure to keep an eye out for some unique finds that are native to North Carolina and even more rare finds that exist only in this museum. The staff is very friendly and helpful!
Maegan Bull — Google review
Loved it. This place was massive and free. Two buildings, one was four floors and the other was three floors it took us about 5 hrs to go though the whole building and see everything. The bug exhibit was amazing especially with the terrariums of live bugs. Sadly the butterfly room was closed but we did see the sloth that was in their and got to watch him eat. They also had live feedings during the week. They also have a nice little Cafe next to the butterfly house on the fourth floor so you can watch the butterflies while eating.
Stephanie Vollmer — Google review
Amazing Place! I took my family here for the first time and had quite the adventure. There are countless things to see and do and I only wish I could've done more. They have almost everything you can imagine in a museum. From the Paleontology Lab to the Living Conservatory, From the Biodiversity Lab to the 3D Cinema, this place has it all. Whether you're taking your kids there to learn something new or just looking for a little bit of nostalgia. No matter the reason, this place certainly has what every adult and child needs.
Jared E — Google review
This museum is in downtown Raleigh and offers a nice variety of things to view and learn about. It is free to get in. The museum also has movies and special exhibits that require payment. Some of the areas close sooner than others. However, whether young or old, this place has something to educate anyone of any age. It is two buildings with multiple floors. There is a parking deck close by to park in, and it's just a short walk to the entrance.
Lettie C — Google review
First of all, this place is educational. Probably will learn more here than from a teacher. Second, it’s entertaining and can brighten your schedule. Lastly, it’s free, which makes it a wonder without any price that you have you pay. Located in the heart of Raleigh, this place is a must for any visiting people.
Harvey Shao — Google review
Very impressed with the amount of exhibits considering the admission is free. My small children loved it. Worth the visit and your donations. The staff at the Microbe viewing station were awesome. They let me 3 year old use a microscope. He loved every second of it. Very knowledgeable and engaging.
Robert K — Google review
We took our kids here while on vacation in North Carolina. They had such a great time looking at the dinosaur models. I was very impressed that such a neat place was free to visit. You can tell that all of the models were very expensive and well made. My favorite part was learning about space and all of the space rocks they have on display. They also have a really pretty butterfly botanical garden that is also home to a sloth. Sadly this area was closed to visitors being able to go inside. Overall a 5/5 experience, perfect for learning! I can't wait to go back when the kids are a little older and can really appreciate what it has to offer.
Angelica Denham — Google review
Little disappointed that alot of the interactive labs and displays weren't working on the nature side. We originally went here 5 years ago and now again in 2023. As an adult nothing has changed much. Kids enjoyed it as they were to young to remember our first visit. If you do want to do labs do them first as they close at 3.
michael newman — Google review
What an amazing place!! Lots of natural science exhibits from reptiles to dinosaurs with great staff available to answer questions and help with the hands-on displays. Something for all ages from toddlers to adults and there is no cost to get in to see the exhibits. There are some things like movies and such that do have a charge, but with everything to see on multiple levels, we didn't have a need to see any of that. Every time I come to North Carolina, I am more impressed with the states commitment to quality of life for the residents here, and this free museum is a great example.
Tom Holley — Google review
Great museum! We spent about an hour there but could have spent the whole day. Lots of exhibits to check out, and lots to learn. There were lots of families walking around and enjoying the experience! They have some dinosaurs, spiders, bugs, geology, history, etc. very well laid out among the 4 floors with a cafe on the fourth floor. There is also a Sloth that you may be lucky enough to see like we did!
Jason Martin — Google review
Free admission. Worth your time. 5 floors of a very diverse exhibition. Very kid friendly. Cafe on the 4th floor for a quick snack. Bathrooms everywhere. Easy to navigate. Loads of parking nearby.
Staff is very friendly, the mood is great. Variety of live animals (bugs, butterfly, etc)
Must visit in Raleigh. Also a great alternative to
Marbles just down the road.
Brian “CoFii” Adams — Google review
Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, this museum is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a weekday excursion with kids. It boasts an impressive collection of live insects on the top floor, other floors included snakes such as copperheads, cottonmouths, rat snakes, and other snakes commonly found in North Carolina. The dinosaur exhibits were a big hit with the children.
We also decided to explore the spider exhibit, but I wouldn't recommend it. There are far more captivating displays and a 3D film to enjoy elsewhere.
What's even better is that there's no admission fee, and the place wasn't crowded during our visit. I wholeheartedly recommend this museum for families, kids, or anyone with a passion for spending quality time exploring.
Parking is available in public areas, and even on a weekend, we found ample street parking.
Ajesh Rn — Google review
We go to this museum all the time! We have never been during Bugfest. It was absolutely amazing!! One of the ladies that work there told us it’s the biggest event of the year. They offer several insects for you to see and touch, they also have lots of vendor set ups outside, you’ll get to see people dressed up in costumes, face painting, and just a lot of education on the several different kinds of insects . My kids loved it. We had so much fun and look forward to going next year.
Shonda T. — Google review
the museum is rich in exhibits 3 or 4 floors, for all ages. About 2 hr walk through. You are your own tour guide. Best part is its no cost at all. You'll learn a bit of history on wildlife and science. The dinosaur exhibit was pretty cool. I was to scared to get in there with the butterflies though, it would be a nice experience if you aren't squirmish like me. Quite fascinating. Something fun to do if you're already in the area. I wouldn't suggest traveling more that 2 hours to get here. I don't like that there's certain life wildlife displayed in cases that aren't the appropriate length requirements for them to thrive in. I hope they are taken out at night or something, but don't believe they are. But overall all great experience.
Courtney — Google review
Fun and educational place with lots of great exhibits. It was surprise for us knowing the museum is absolutely free to the public. Clean and very well maintained place. They also have canteen with good sandwiches and other snacks. Our favourite section was butterfly dome where we saw several species of butterflies. Love to visit this place again.
The Marbles Kids Museum is a nonprofit museum with exhibits aimed at children under 12 years of age. The permanent collection includes displays about play, imagination and learning. There are also interactive IMAX experiences available for visitors to enjoy.
Very clean. Masks required, which is great!! This is probably the best kids museum/activity center I've ever been to. My son is 2 and we could have easily spent 4 hours here. In two hours, we almost almost everything (but we were chasing our little guy all over).
5 stars all the way. We will be back - many more times!
Michael Hopkins — Google review
Must visit place if you are in the area. Plenty of activities for kids for all ages. Very interactive and creative set up. You can easily spend 4 to 5 hours and kids won’t get bored! Outside activities are totally different! Parking might be an issue, might need to find a public parking or street parking. Super friendly staff. Activities included but not limited to Arts and science, Drama, Electronics, music and much more..
Krunal Shah — Google review
What a great space for kids to come and play. So many great interactive exhibits and lots of room to get out wiggles and let the imagination run wild. All the staff we encountered we polite and helpful. Lots of unique play experiences for young kids to experience. My little had a blast and cannot wait to return.
Brittany Dietz — Google review
What a wonderful museum for the kids and adults to explore together! So many activities and learning spaces! My grandchildren had the best time taking me to each and every space and playing while pretending and exploring! The favorites were the Medical van, Veterinary office, farm, helicopter, creative space, Toddler Hollow, Money, Camping, and Hockey!
Enjoy this time for ages 8 months (Baby space that is wonderful) and up. Make sure you have plenty of time. We missed a couple of areas because I didn't allot more time (3 hours) so I would say at least 4 hours if you have an active preschooler or older kiddo. We had a 1 year old and 4 year old and could have stayed another couple of hours. Fabulous eating area for snacks and an on site Café for those who want to grab a meal and coffee. We also don't do a movie which is an option that they would have loved. Can't say enough great things. Go here for a day and have fun!
Sherry Short — Google review
Must visit place for kids. Right in middle of downtown and many parking options nearby, this is a gem of place. Kids can simulate and play with ambulance, firework, helicopter news, painting, water and many other things. Price around $9 on weekday and $12 weekends. Promotion for bofa customers on price on a particular day. Purchase tickets online as they sometimes have a full board at site.
Danda Naveen — Google review
It was a nice Saturday afternoon. We had our nieces in town and what better place to take them to then Marbles.
Highly recommend tickets in advance as they are $9 per, Vs. $12 the day of. The staff was very friendly upon entry.
We were taken back by all of the rooms and activities. Easily can spend 2 hrs here. Great for kids ages 18 months and up to 10-11.
There appeared to be a gift store and cafe, but we did not go to either.
I highly recommend going here with the little ones.
Robin Mehera — Google review
SO MUCH FUN to be had here!
All of the areas in this city block sized building are set up for hands-on Montessori style learning! Everything from a giant chess set and giant Legos to an exercise/game themed room with loads of fun, educational stuff in between!!!
This was my first time visiting, with my friends' kids, and I think I may have had more fun than they did!
If you're in Raleigh with children of all ages, this is an absolute MUST for a full half day or so!
D. Heather Campbell — Google review
This museum was really fun and my son enjoyed it. We got there at 1100 and it was packed already. I thought we’d only spend an hour but that quickly turned into three lol. There was so much to do that he was knocked out on the drive back home. He really enjoyed being able to color his own car and have it appear on the big screen. We will definitely come back.
jan tye — Google review
We got tickets in advance for the 10:30/11 time slot. Got there a bit later but that wasn't a problem. Easy access with scanning the tickets.
The museum was very busy, but with it being the Wednesday before Thanksgiving it was expected.
My kids are 7 and 9. They enjoyed the downstairs a lot but they enjoyed the upstairs more. The downstairs area is for smaller children I'd say. The upstairs is definitely more for the older kids. It's a lot of fun and you can easily spend the whole day there.
There are plenty of hand sanitizing stations around the museum, there's an elevator, water fill up stations, a nursing station and plenty of bathrooms.
The only thing I wish they would have had was free parking. You can street park and pay or pay for parking in one of the lots. But it wasn't a deal breaker.
I definitely recommend this museum for children.
We did not visit the cafe, gift shop or IMAX.
Pia Boje — Google review
Wow, this is a really really fun place for kids.. there is so much to do here and the ticket is really cheap..
You have to buy the ticket in advance. You cannot buy on the spot, if all are sold out.
We went on a long weekend and it was crazy busy and they were not allowing anybody to walk in to make sure you check their website and book in advance .
Also, if you have Bank of America credit card the first weekend of every month, you get a free ticket .
The weekend we went. It was hard to find a parking spot in front of the
But we can park for free at the Morse Square parking deck, but remember it’s only free on the weekends..
We were there for almost 3 hours .. it was crazy busy when when we went, but one hour before closing it started to get free..
Definitely worth taking kids..
Vinay K — Google review
I wish I could give more stars here, this place deserves it. Absolute fun for the kids of any age. Loads of toys, variety of plays spread across a two-storey building. Any kid would have a blast. Tickets prices are fair, ample public parking spots around the vicinity. A must visit place for the kids.
satyajit das — Google review
This museum is AMAZING. We live in DC where there are museums galore, but this one is fantastic for kids. You could easily spend an entire day here. My kids are 8, 5, and a baby and they were all very entertained. My only regret is not coming here earlier in the day to have more time.
Bonnie Lessans — Google review
Affordable and with plenty of things to do and see. The kids will have a full day packed with activities and things to see and do. Great place to spend some quality time with your kids.
William Geronco — Google review
We love marbles so much! Plenty of choices for kids with different interests. My toddler loves it here, he can pick whatever interests him and move on to the next fun thing whenever he prefers. Very safe environment and thought out designs.
Sunny Gu — Google review
Spent a delightful 3 hours here with 7 and 4 year olds. We explored nearly all of the exhibits and faced tears when we had to tell the kids it was time to go. Really clean, really fun and creative exhibits. The water table was probably the biggest hit for the 4yr old, followed by the room that lets kids color balloons and cars then projects them moving around on a giant city map. 7 yr old liked the balls in the “economy” exhibit. It was pretty crowded on a Friday but still totally enjoyable. Almost no wait- we got tickets online the evening before.
Laura James — Google review
We went on a Monday, there was a decent amount of people there. So I would recommend going on a Monday. There are a lot of exhibits here. My 8 month old enjoyed the baby area, there were a lot of soft obstacles for him to climb on. He also liked the toddler area, he could crawl around and there were some stuffed animals and some things for him to crawl on. I strolled him around to the other exhibits, he was too little for most of it but he enjoyed watching the other kids and splashing in the water table. The cafe outside was not great. I got a water and my daughter got a smoothie but the staff at the cafe were very friendly and attentive. There weren’t any handicap doors, which made it a little difficult with a stroller. I think we will be back when he’s 2, I think he’ll enjoy it a lot more! I would say if your child is walking until about 7 years old is perfect for this museum.
Theresa Novicky — Google review
Enough to do for the entire day. It can get chaotic on busy days so we go on off times. Love the outdoor and indoor sections. Kids love the sand. We enjoyed watch Polar Express on IMAX. We had no issues finding specking on the street.
Marc & Bella — Google review
Wonderful experience for younger kids. Place was clean with so many hands on activities! Lots of fun things to do from science experiments and water tables to learning about forestry, firefighters and carpentry. Reasonably priced but it fills up early. Go late morning or early afternoon to beat the field trips from multiple schools.
GeraldLaz38 — Google review
Great place to take children of all ages. I could have stayed there all day. The name is misleading if you are not a local. I expected to see how marbles were made and for there to be marbles everywhere games tournaments, make your own marbles..ext..
Over all this place was a hit I enjoyed dancing to the music, the water area, the outside garden, basketball, trampoline, omg they really out did it with the variety of things to do. I loved it! My grandsons ages 3,2,and 1 enjoyed it.
Maria Leimbach — Google review
First time visiting. Lots of activities for young kids. My kids really enjoyed their time there. There is an area for toddlers as well as an area for infants. Must buy tickets online in advance. We opted for the 1 year basic membership. $150 covers admission for 1 year for 2 adults and all kids in the household. Opens at 10am but members can enter at 9am. There are two levels and two small outdoor areas. Parking can be an issue since it's downtown Raleigh. Street parking in the area is free on weekends and metered during the week. Kids will definitely enjoy.
Tim Bullard — Google review
March 24, 2024
I... LOVED IT. I had a lot of fun going with my friend and her grandkids. I had just as much fun as they did (if not more lol).
Definitely recommend! It's a place where kids and adults can have fun, and have learning take place (without realizing it!).
Definitely can't wait to go back again!
Kristen Chason — Google review
This is a great place to take the kids. We especially enjoyed the hurricanes hockey area. We also liked the IMAX animal kingdoms movie. I took a star off because I usually expect some kind of free parking. I parked on the street not knowing I would have to move my car after 2 hours and I circled the block several times trying to find a new spot (losing time to play in the museum). Finally I realized there was a parking deck that I will use in the future that is close by (ended up paying twice to park). Overall this is a wonderful place for kids to play and the workers seemed cordial as well.
Jess Neu — Google review
Took a trip to Marble’s with our boys, and they had an absolute blast! They loved just about every single thing on both floors. The staff was friendly and helpful. The best part was the splash area, they had the most fun with that! Your ticket/sticker gets you all day come-and-go access to the museum. So we even enjoyed surrounding downtown Raleigh for lunch! Great place to spend the day with your kids. We would highly recommend!
Located in downtown Raleigh, Pullen Park is home to a carousel, miniature train, and many other attractions for the whole family to enjoy. It has been in operation since 1887 and is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States.
Beautiful park with a large playground for kids of all ages. The train around the park was more fun than I thought and great for taking pictures. There is also a place to eat and a carousel here as well, and plenty of restrooms. You can even take a paddle boat out on the lake!
Anthony Ferguson Jr — Google review
Beautiful public park with a great history. The old rides are really nice. I love how they have preserved the carousel, It feels like stepping back in time. Very family friendly with lots of activities. The rides I felt were reasonably priced at $2 each.
Liam Dobbie — Google review
This park is beautiful! Love the different types of activity you can do with your kids. The playground is huge and if you want to go for a nice walk, they have various paths you can do that with. Definitely recommend for a nice family day!
Kaini Feller — Google review
Amazing park rides are so dang cheap… kids will have a lot of fun.. each ride is like $2 to $4.
We went on a weekend and the park was crowded.. but all the rides are fun.. my kid love the carasol..
We went on the boat ride and it was super hot that day.. save your energy if you want it boat ride.. they give you 30 mins but you will be done in 15 mins..
The train ride takes you around the park which give you a good view of the park..
You can buy tickets online and no need to wait in line for the tickets.. Park is small and easy to walk around.. which I really like and you dnt get tired…
Vinay K — Google review
What a great park! I was in town and wanted a park to go to with the weather being so nice and I saw that there was a lot of reviews for this one and I decided to check it out! It was AMAZING! My daughter absolutely loved how versatile that park was! The coolest part of the park had to be the Marry-go-round! The paths are paved so they are stroller friendly. There was a lot of shade and places to sit and have lunch. There was even a little food hut in the park! We didn’t eat there but many people did! The coolest part was the music that was playing near the restrooms, gave retro vibes to the area and made you feel like you stepped back a few decades
Jaclyn Kliest — Google review
Great!!! Awesomely beautiful park. Great views, great breeze. Good for family, couple ‘s day. A day with the kids. Picnic. Anything. If you visit NC you HAVE TO VISIT THIS PARK. Super recommended
L — Google review
Very beautiful peaceful park with gorgeous nature and playgrounds. Cool thing that it’s close to the city and can be easily driven to in 15 minutes. Haven’t been there at the busiest , parking was really easy to find . There is a beautiful small lake on premises as well . Overall pretty park for relaxing
Dmitry Trishkin — Google review
Pullen Park is North Carolina’s oldest public park, and the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the US.
There are lots of flowers and gorgeous landscaping to enjoy while strolling around the park.
And there is a little train you can ride that circles the park.
The real highlight here however is the Gustave A. Dentzel Carousel which dates back to 1911. I may or may not have pushed some children aside to make sure we got on the cats! There were also giraffes, goats, bunnies and of course plenty of horses. Took me right back to childhood. Well worth the $2 ticket price.Swan shaped paddle boats are also available for rent. Plus plenty of play areas for kids and some other interesting things to see like a retired train car.
David Ethridge — Google review
Randomly stopped after noticing this park as we drove past. Very pleasant discovery for us. A historical park, with wonderful landscaping, paved paths, rides, fountains, playground, and signage for the history. We were too late for the attractions to be open, but everything was beautiful.
William ?Maclind? Coley — Google review
Pristine park within the city of Raleigh NC. It is beautifully landscaped around ancient trees. It has plenty of paved pathways and bridges with benches and seating areas to enjoy the beauty from. There is plenty to do. You can ride a train, a carousel and paddle boats. There are picnic areas and playgrounds for toddlers to older children.
Eagle Mountain — Google review
We had such a good time at Pullen Park. I enjoyed riding in a paddle boat; you will see beautiful scenery around the park while paddling. There’s no long wait on weekday afternoons. The park offers many attractions for kids and families, including carousels, a train, paddle boats, and playgrounds. There are also some picnic areas, or you can enjoy walking around, and tickets are not expensive.
Nook Hanklang — Google review
This is a 5 star park but only gave it 4 star due to lack of parking spaces. Otherwise beautiful serene peaceful park with natural beauty surrounding it. Definitely highly recommend taking the train!
MindfulLiving Bellevue — Google review
This is a great park, not just because of the attractions and play area, but the history also. It makes it all the more enchanting. The train and the historic carousel absolutely delight my toddler, as do the paddle boats. Be prepared to wait if you go on a weekend, though. There's pretty much no wait on weekdays. There's picnic shelters and grills, and a great playground, with stuff for kids of all ages. The concession stand also has great food and treats, and the restrooms are very clean.
Allie Thurkill (Sock Thief) — Google review
Awesome park. There a lot of activities to do for all ages like train ride, playground, carousel, kiddie boat ride, Paddle boat and alot more. Definitely recommended. Buy tickets online to beat the croud. Lots of parking. Clean restrooms. Mist stations & water filling stations located throughout the park. Cafe inside the park.
Deepak P — Google review
A fun park for all ages. Rode the train which runs along the park boundary, it was a short lovely ride. This beautiful park has a lake with fountain and boat riding activity, walking paths, bridges, playing areas, kids activities, carousel, shelters, benches, kiddies boat ride etc. Well maintained restrooms. Parking available but may gets busy on weekends. It has no entry fee but activities are chargeable.
Chanchal — Google review
Had a lovely experience at Pullen Park over Labor Day weekend. We were able to ride the train, carousel and Kiddie boats. The cost is $2 per ticket and it's easiest to use your smartphone to buy tickets in advance. There are several different playground areas all designated to fit different ages. Gorgeous flowers and plants. Beautiful landscaping. They also have paddle boats for rent and a nice walking trail around the lake.
Chelsy L — Google review
Kids love this park! Can’t ask for more. A full playground, a train that you can ride around the park, a carousel, and a concession stand! During the warmer months there’s boats and other activities that we weren’t able to do, while visiting during January but there’s still a good amount of attractions for kids of younger ages.
Park is extremely clean, staff is friendly. A good place to come and take a stroll too. Dogs can’t come into the playground area but it would be a nice place to walk them around the pond.
Katie Bevacqua — Google review
Our favorite park in the triangle! $2 tickets per person for the rides (train, boats, and carousel). And a fun play area for kids. The peddle boats in the pond were not open when we went at the end of March even though it was a warm day.
Allyson Urling — Google review
The park is beautiful and I'm absolutely in love with the cypress trees around the grounds. However, one really big problem that we encountered is that there was music playing over a loud speaker. I imagine that for most kids, that would be fine. Unfortunately for us, my daughter is autistic and music triggers meltdowns. It's a sensory thing. We were trying to walk to the park area to see if we could get her to play a little bit, and as we got closer to the music she got upset and we had to leave. It took over an hour to calm her down. I know that our experience isn't normal, but it would be amazing if more places considered children that aren't neurotypical and maybe could skip the music or have sensory friendly days or times without it. It's so hard to go anywhere outside of our home and parks are usually a safe place.
I don't imagine that we'll be back because of this.
That being said, it's a lovely little park and I think most kids would really enjoy it.
Holly — Google review
Beautiful family park. There is 3 mins train ride, kids boat ride, carousal within park.
Manoj Jagtap — Google review
a beautiful place to walk around… the train ride was $2/person - if you go during the week, the wait isn’t long at all.
the big swans are picture worth as well.
the playground looked great, but we didn’t have anyone with us to test it!
Brittani Atkins — Google review
Excellent place to bring the family.Clean and well kept. Lots to do and the employees were super friendly and helpful. Carousel, train, paddleboats and a kiddie boat ride. The playgrounds are awesome too!
Dina Hanson — Google review
We came here in mid February. The playground is very crowded yet a place to cool down. Train ride is entertaining with kids, and the same with the carousel. At this time, the carnival games were closed, but I’m sure they are as good as everything else. A great way to relieve your kids, and having fun yourself at the same time.
The North Carolina Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The museum attracts more than two million visitors annually and houses a permanent collection spanning 5,000 years. The museum also features traveling exhibits and an outdoor monument park and amphitheater.
What a nice community resource! The grounds are lovely. This is both an indoor and outdoor experience. The West Building has the permanent collection, and it's very decent with a few big names (Raphael, Monet, Rodin). Loved that everything is free. Lots of outdoor space designated for events and short walks/hikes.
Michael Stephens — Google review
Gorgeous place! We usually go there to walk outside and there is lots of space to spread out from other people. What I especially love is that the grass is all natural (not an urban desert like many people’s lawns) and they have wild flowers planted throughout the area. Not only the wild environment looks absolutely stunning but it also supports bees and other insects. If you look closely, the grass has wild clover mixed in which is a native flower and feeds rabbits and other wildlife plus it’s drought resistant and stays green all summer long. It doesn’t grow long so you don’t have to mow as often if at all. We need more (or all) lawns to be natural to support our wildlife. Plus it’s healthier for people too.
Another great thing - the NC Museum of Art is dog-friendly! There is a creek in the woods so dogs can quench their thirst there if you forgot water. I recommend all people who are travelling and need a place to stop and stretch their legs and give a break to their dogs/kids to stop at this place! Take advantage of this beautiful place and don’t forget to take pictures!
Love this place! Breathe fresh air not pesticides!
Katya ????? — Google review
Amazing outdoor art in rolling hills where one can picnic, fly kites etc. New building is big glass metal one, old is brown one. Both incredible with insane amount of very famous art. Great to go hang out and do own sketches/art of what you see or feel. They have wee seats one can borrow as well a wheelchairs and walkers for those with impairments
Amanda Babuin — Google review
Beautiful museum. We came for the Dutch Art exhibit- it was spectacular. I generally prefer 1-2 hours at the museum, here I was happy to stay for several hours to take it all in and I’d happily return. Our local family purchased memberships which seem really worth it. Cafe was decent- great cappuccino, sandwiches were not bad, salad had great dressing. The outdoor grounds are beautiful and lots of fun for kids and adults!
elana woolf — Google review
This place is free all throughout the week The common ground is the free access. there are paid parts of the museum there are paid exhibits. But there is enough there to view for 3 hours of free fun and that's not including outside or reading all of the notes we came in about 12:00 and still left as they were closing. We had a great time. There are also two different buildings that have different exhibits in them. Will definitely be back soon. My favorite part was probably the cigarette machine or the old Roman statues. The cigarette machine has several different artists concept of art. It can arrange from pictures to portraits to sculptures. Definitely read signs around the exhibits some say don't touch some even say do not enter PLEASE READ THE SIGNS AS WE DEFINITELY MADE SOME MISTAKES AS WE WALKED AROUND THE MUSEUM FOR OUR FIRST TIME.
Anthony Conwell — Google review
The entire experience at this museum was exceptional!
Outdoor areas are great, very peaceful and lots of sculptures. There is a lot of walking involved, so wear comfortable shoes.
There are multiple nature trails as well as the outdoor exhibits, they are very relaxing and you can rent a bike. We also had lunch at the cafe and would recommend.
The indoor exhibits are simply amazing! There is something for everyone, from Renaissance portraits to the ancient Egyptian collection to the Roman mosaic to the modern art. There is so much to look at and I would have spent a whole week there wandering around. There is also an interactive area that is fun for little and big kids, and even adults.
Everything about this museum is great, and I would definitely recommend this for any art lover.
Maya Brogan (MayaB) — Google review
This art museum was under construction when we went but they still had a lot to see. We saw the very cool exhibits inside and they have a vending machine to purchase little handmade art pieces, which was a lot of fun and we got some cute things. The best part was the outdoor exhibits. They have amazing architecture and I want to return soon! It is also a great walking track for families and pets. Tons of parking.
Brave Root — Google review
This is a fabulous walking area. Dog and bike friendly too. There are benches and vistas aplenty.
A gorgeous combination of meadow, shady woodlands, pond, hills, and resting spots with large scale sculptures and native floral. There is a lovely bee garden with hives and plenty of healthy activity.
A must if you are in the area. Open dawn to dusk, plenty of parking. Over 5 miles of trails, I didn't even cover half.
The general art museum is free as well, but I didn't have enough time for that.
Sarah B — Google review
Absolutely beautiful museum with stunning outdoor spaces. Saw a family having a picnic and people strolling (and biking) around. I was fortunate enough to see Ruth E Carters exhibit and it was so captivating to see her career accomplishments laid out with thorough background information. The amount of research she does for her costume design is above & beyond. I ran out of time to finish seeing the exhibits in the second building, so I'll have to return!
Roars — Google review
Free admission !! Best museum I have ever been to. There are so much rare ancient pieces in the West building. There’s also a large park outside where you can walk around, or ride bicycle. Huge parking lot with some shaded trees. You can spend the whole day there. Highly recommend it, we really love it there.
Khem Eamolarn — Google review
We had a great time at this museum! We went with a school group with the Expedition School. The focus was on art made by women and on art made of recycled and found objects. The NC Art Museum offered a excellent docent who taught us about many of the works on display. Our teacher had worked with the museum in advance to create a scavenger hunt for the kids to find the art that will fit into their future science, ELA and Art projects. I’ve been to this museum many times before on my own, but I really appreciated how they handled having a slew of middle school kids trying to navigate their assignment. Excellent space and we loved the art!!
Amy Gelber — Google review
An awesome experience if you're looking for something free to do during the week. The art selection is diverse so I feel like there is something for everyone. Take a moment to enjoy the artwork and then head outside for a walk around the museum park pathways. Any day of the week you will find locals going for walks, having picnics, or hanging out with friends.
Renee Adamonis — Google review
Easily one of the most incredible museums I’ve ever been to! Top 5 for sure. Such a hidden gem. Really thoughtful curation, juxtaposing contemporary & classical art with interesting text. Gorgeous space. Epic permanent collection.
Miriam Carothers — Google review
This place is free? I just don't understand how this huge place is free for all to enjoy. Amazing grounds, fun sculptures, interactive art,nature beautifully maintained, extensive walking trails... I could go on about the unique gem that this place is, but instead I say go see for yourself.
All the amenities too, free parking, access to a cafe, bicycle rental, great places to relax and take a break.
The only thing that it might be worth knowing before going is if you mainly want to stay indoors call before you go, on our particular visit the west building was closed and the east building has a large number of exhibits getting redone, so if you plan was not to be outside and walking around talking it all in you may not have enjoyed it as much as there would be limited things to see.
Simi — Google review
We went to see one exhibit and quickly realized we should have allowed more time to see the rest of the museum. Loved Afrofuturism. We also had tickets to the outdoor concert featuring Samara Joy. Rain was predicted for the day and hours before the concert was to start I got an email that arrangements were made to change the venue indoors. Brilliant! Bravo to the museum and staff for making this happen.
ericha thompson — Google review
This is a great thing to explore with your family in Raleigh. They have a lot of knowledgeable staff that works here as well. There is a never ending amount of things you can learn about in these museums. It’s very clean and very cool. It is also free entrance so if you have a big family and looking for something cheap/free to do. I would highly recommend the art and science museums!
In the science museum there is a live butterfly exhibit!!
Anna Fox — Google review
We honestly only walked around outside. But it is a beautiful stroll with plenty to see, read, and do. You can bring your little ones and see sculptures and nature combined for free. It was a great walk on a fall day.
Ariel Smith — Google review
Came here with my boyfriend about a month ago and had a great time. Their were two different buildings, one consisting mainly of art, and the other with a dining area, store, and more art. There were also several outside areas to explore. All the art was very unique and engaging. I would like to mention, their is no admittance fee or anything, unless you want to view the private room. Would definitely like to come back and see more of what the outdoor areas have to offer.
Lilie Wilkinson — Google review
Art in bloom was spectacular! My nephew blessed me with behind the scenes experience. A lot of work, but worth every smile you saw!
Rosa Tilley — Google review
A multifaceted place with both indoor and outdoor options. It was just a tad cold for us, so we did not explore the trails (but would very much like to.) It definitely seemed like a regular destination for local folks to visit for outdoor walks with families and with their dogs!
Inside it has both the formal/historical, and the more current/local, types of exhibits —in the west and east buildings, respectively.
The range of the formal presentations is impressive (I.e., African, European, American, Egyptian). Also, their use of unified/simplified large digital touchscreen displays is both very attractive (less clutter) and very effective. They have even used technology to make ordering food at the restaurant/cafeteria easy, right from your seat. Pretty cool.
Being slightly out of town makes them easy to get to and easy to park, all for free.
If you like museums at all, this is an easy choice to be sure to include in your visit to Raleigh.
e baerwald — Google review
Awesome museum. Today, I visited the park that's next to the museum. It's prom season, kids flying kites and dogs being walked on a gorgeous 70 degree day.
Norika Fisher — Google review
For a free place to visit it was outstanding. I was shocked to see so much art from so many different places and times. Requires quite a lot of time to properly enjoy it all. Nice grounds too, for a good walk
Alex Voronov — Google review
This museum is amazing. We didn't realize how big it was, and came after 12 pm on a Saturday and only had time for the West building. We came back on Sunday and spent the whole day doing the East building and outdoors. You can easily spend days here. There's so much to look at, and the paths outside are great, mostly all paved, and extensive.
The bathrooms are clean, and each building has a free locker area to lock up your jackets/bags while you're walking around.
Dani Drugan — Google review
Absolutely stunning. I was impressed, both by the exhibitions and the park. You'll need a full day if you really want to delve into the collections. The staff is extremely friendly and the lighting is most of the time ideal, which really stimulates our contemplation of the pieces of art on display. Plus we were warmly welcomed, we really appreciated the passion that the staff showed.
Leopold Bouzard — Google review
From history to modern art, paintings to sculptures, metal to fabric, visuals to audio, indoor and outdoor - here's a little of everything! Must visit for a rejuvenating experience. Choose a day when the temperatures are comfortable for a long walk outdoors to make the most of your day
Sneha H S — Google review
Visited during my first time in Raleigh and I was blown away by the quality and the quantity
of art on display. While the more contemporary artists were my favorites (especially Kehinde Wiley's Judith and Holofernes), there are also ancient and classical works as well. That includes a few Monet paintings, a Botticelli, and others.
Rain prevented us from checking out the sculpture garden, but I'd love to go back and see it on a future visit. The café and gift shop were nice as well. The best part is that admission is free!
Hal Hughes — Google review
A museum that hits WAY above its weight. 🎨 10/10 worth going, not least because it's 🆓! (Donation suggested) Great variety of art. It has a surprising amount of antiquities too. It's a beautiful place to take a stroll around the museum grounds.
Durham Performing Arts Center is an incredibly modern and well-known theater in the American Tobacco Historic District. It regularly showcases Broadway shows and major performing artists, like Hamilton. The theater has a capacity of 2,800, making it one of the top attractions in Durham.
Amazingly beautiful venue, not a bad seat in the house. Very clean. Lots upon lots upon lots of the color RED. Sound system was great. Bathrooms were clean, drinks were easily accessible and a wide variety of drink choices. I also like that the venue is within walking distance of good food.
Business AsUsual — Google review
I had to take away another star for the seating and the fact that they ran out of pretzels within minutes of the 20 minute break. The seats are definitely not good. They hurt your butt after about 30 minute so I definitely recommend a seat crushing come with you.
Had to take away a star because someone decided to kick and beat my seat. Not happy with that.
Show is good so far, though.
Very nice, crazy but nice.
The bathroom is definitely nice. Complimentary lady products are available in the bathroom also. The entrance is crazy definitely going through a good search.
Drug dog
Metal detector
Tickets scanned
People are available to help around every corner
Erica Hill — Google review
I was there for the recent STYX concert and my family and I have no complaints. The staff was extremely kind and helpful. We were pretty much escorted to my handicap spot and my wife and son were shown the seats in front of me. Heck, I even had one of the staff, a bubbly, cheerful woman on the second floor interior of venue help me pull on my concert t-shirt I bought. I usually have to complain about handicapped service because it's just not very good most places. Here I felt just like another concert goer. They saw me the person and not the guy in a wheelchair.
Soulful Archer — Google review
This is such a nice venue. There really is NO bad seat in this place! We sat in Section 10, Row A which was the 2 level balcony for the musical WICKED. It was fantastic.
The parking deck was very close to the venue with only a short walk. And checking in was seamless.
Loni Aycock — Google review
First time guest here, and this venue has the most amazing customer service of any concert hall I have been to. Top notch all the way. Beer and food were very reasonably priced as well. Most places like this, you’re just another customer, but DPAC was so welcoming and made me feel like an appreciated guest! THANK YOU!!
MARY CAY — Google review
My husband and I drove 2.5 hours to see Bert Kreisher perform here. It was totally worth it! Entering the venue was a breeze and so was finding our seats. The servers at the concession stands were very friendly and the food and drinks were pretty good! The bathrooms were also very clean and the venue staff were very helpful with guiding us out of the venue towards the parking lot. We will certainly return here!
Brittany Zorn — Google review
The first picture is the orchestra pit. The second one is the stage for Hamilton. What an amazing show. The theater is of course fairly new and just beautiful on the outside. They have several parking lots, so parking was easy. The interior is beautiful also oh, and very very clean, and very secure, with lots of service people two man the food and refreshment stands. Drinks and food all right bit cheaper then they would be at the Ballpark. All the employees are extremely helpful. And friendly. I'd go there all the time if I could afford a season pass.
Patrick Nalley — Google review
Beautiful venue. Parking was so easy. They had all kinds of snacks, clothing apparel for WICKED. We went with a group. Seating was very comfortable. Staff was Amazing.
Martha Martel — Google review
DPAC is a nice venue, the staff is friendly and everything moved smoothly before we were seated. They offer drinks and simple snacks, there are alcoholic beverages from beer to a bar as well as a coffee station. The seats were nice and the bathrooms were clean. My husband and I really enjoyed our experience!
Abby Normal — Google review
Got great tickets to the jinx and dela holiday show. The show was right up my alley, a parody about religion, politics, consumerism, climate, miserable conflict, and people forgetting to look out for others... everything that make people appear and be ignorant. DPAC staff are super pleasant and helpful, crowd is fun and eclectic, and the view is pretty good from the lower levels, even the side section 4/Q/213. There seems to be complimentary coffee and tea. Bathrooms are big and clean. Multiple entrances and exits. The venue holds a huge crowd. The volume is a little too loud so that some of the singing numbers are difficult to understand and distinguish. Parking is nearby for $12, but honestly you can find street parking free just a few blocks around. It's nice to arrive to park around 45 minutes before the show, though this one started 10 minutes late, and lasted a total of 1 hr. 45 min.
Neha Patel — Google review
Came to see the Nutcracker for a Christmas present. It was a well put on show, beautiful costumes and sets. The doors opened about 10 min later than it said so that felt a little frustrating as it became more of a mad dash frenzy to get to seats. However everything is clearly marked, so it was easy to find where you were supposed to go.
The staff was friendly and attentive, happy to help and answer questions.
It was nice that DPAC sent out quite a few emails in the days before the show regarding parking and traffic with specific rates and locations. I’m sure we could’ve found some free street parking, but we used one of the parking garages for $10 and it was safe and easy to get in and out.
Tayler T — Google review
First here for Kem concert featuring Niito Band for Mother's Day! My mom, sister, and I had a phenomenal time. Beautiful place and great sound system. The concert was awesome! We are already looking at the next concert to come back!
LaTonya A. — Google review
Fantastic venue for an extraordinary 2Cellos Concert! All the staff were efficient, friendly and welcoming and the area of Durham was great. Had dinner at Tobacco Road Cafe and the food was plentiful and delicious!
Sherry Bevins — Google review
This was my first time seeing a musical. I didn't know what to expect.
This place is super nice and so clean! The lone tends to build during intermission but it went pretty quickly. They direct you which stall to go to and have hygiene products available. We were were on the third row on the balcony and we loved our seats! We could see everything. There were a few moments when I couldn't hear the audio. The cast and music was phenomenal. One thing to note about the stairs: they can be hard to maneuver. I am an aptuee and they made me nervous. Not unsafe... Just nervous. Wonderful time and sweet staff! Huge range of snacks and drinks. Highly recommend. I am getting a pretzel next time! They looked SO good.
Tiffany Anderson — Google review
Convenient and they have the most amazing acts that come to perform never disappointed! We just saw Wicked, it held up to performances I've seen in New York. Can't wait for our next adventure there.
Lysa Britt — Google review
Great venue, not a bad seat in the house. Very affordable garage parking $7, they didn’t take cash 10/14/23. Coming back, only one elevator was working and the line was long. If you are using the elevators at the theater, usually a long line, and it may take 4-5 waits until you can board, so plan the extra time. Staff are always friendly and helpful. Used the vending machine to get soda, 20 ounce bottle, charged $5. And don’t forget to visit the box office if buying tickets to other shows to save the extreme handling online fees from TM.
E M — Google review
I personally feel it isn't a bad seat in this facility. I sat in the Grand tier for this event. I have truly enjoyed all the events I've gone to here. The staff is awesome. Here are some pics of Dru Hill from the Ladies R&B Kickback Concert Part 2 last night.
Karen Warrick — Google review
Just outstanding! We saw the Lion King. Great location. All seats are good. The acoustics were excellent! Highly recommend.
kenneth & belinda Holley — Google review
What a superb venue!! I saw an amazing musical done so well!! The people here are incredible, from waving us into the parking area, to scanning tickets or ushering us to our seats...everyone was super friendly and pleasant! Loved that you could bring food and beverages into the theater to eat at your seat. Rows are situated at a height where the rows below do not obstruct your view. Great place!
Karina Romanelli — Google review
Great place for live music and musicals. The facility is very comfortable with good views and acoustics except for the occasional big head in front of you. Try for seats near the middle sections 5 and 6 of the Grand Tier for the best value but the balcony view is also very good.
Brian Hammill — Google review
I went to see The Grinch The musical and everything was awesome! I really enjoyed watching an amazing performance. Please be kind and explain to children that it is rude to kick those sitting in front of you. Educate your children before you take them to an event. And don't start getting in the way when the performers are still on stage, I was impressed to see how many people started to leave when the performers were saying goodbye.
Noelia Bautista — Google review
This place is beautiful inside and out, so easy to navigate and so many bathrooms and food counters. The acoustics were great! All you could hear was the performer, not a peep could be heard from the raucous crowd while the music was playing. A lovely place to enjoy a concert.
Alana Schmitt — Google review
This marked my inaugural visit to the DPAC, driving from Greensboro to catch the performance by Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith. Despite having secured tickets months in advance, a curveball came our way when my wife required foot surgery just 1 1/2 weeks prior to the concert. Concerns loomed over logistical challenges, including drop-off/pick-up and navigating her limited mobility at the venue.
Our apprehensions swiftly dissipated thanks to the extraordinary assistance of Nancy, an outstanding parking attendant. Addressing all my questions, she guided us to optimal parking to ensure proximity to the front door. Even before entering, multiple staff members inquired about our needs, offering to provide a wheelchair or any necessary assistance. Upon entering, we were efficiently ushered to the elevator and directed to our seats.
Enter Donna – truly exceptional! She engaged with us, discussing options to enhance my wife's comfort and guiding us to the most convenient route to the restroom. I cannot praise her enough for the stellar service provided. From beginning to end, it felt like a Red Carpet experience. And, of course, the show was nothing short of amazing in this fantastic venue. :)
Jared NoneYa — Google review
Ledisi tour was great. Saw her a few years ago. She really gives a great performance. Her new music is on target for today.
Looking glamorous and sounding even better than soft butter on perfectly brown toast.
Gail Bryant — Google review
Good acoustics, great show, the typical tight rows of seating. No enforcement of not using cellular devices during the show. My neighbor was watching gymnastics throughout the first act, the filter did not make it less distracting.
Reuben Moore — Google review
Well, we came to see JP and when I bought the tickets, I didn't see anything indicating a handicapped or companion, so I bought aisle seats thinking I could be ok there. I didn't realize there were stairs leading to the seats when I bought them and was stuck. Fast forward to our wonderful usher, ZEDA, coming over to ask if we needed any help. She immediately took charge, radioed to the others and asked if there were any more open handi spots and got us situated in no time flat. Plus, I inquired about what spots to book for future shows since this was our first time here and she pointed them all out!! She went above and beyond to help us and I will be booking many more shows here just because of her. Y'all made a wonderful choice hiring this young lady and even though we didn't converse with many other ushers, they all seemed very happy to help when necessary. Thank you for making this a wonderful evening!!
Durham Bulls Athletic Park is a well-known baseball stadium in Durham, North Carolina. The 10,000 seat venue has a unique bull statue on top and impressive architecture that matches the original Durham Bulls stadium. The ballpark is home to the Durham Bulls minor league baseball team and provides an unforgettable fan experience.
Beautiful ballpark within a great setting. Not a bad seat in the house. Plenty of services for food, drink, and souvenirs. Parking was easy with multiple parking garages close by. A must see park for AAA baseball fans.
Theodore Melton — Google review
We used to love going to the DBAP multiple times each season. Since covid, things have changed for the worse in my opinion. DBAP has gone cashless.
My first minor issue was at the parking deck, getting slowed down by paying with a card because my card tap didn't work. When attempting to enter the park, we were close to an opening that we weren't allowed to enter through. We later exited though those gates. Would have been more convenient to have a ticket scanner there at the beginning. We had to walk halfway around to another entrance where there was a ticket scanner.
Moving on to food ordering..keep in mind that we are 36 & 43, so we are familiar with electronics and screens. Our tickets were preloaded with $5 so we attempted to order at one of the first few stations we saw. There are now screens to replace people. 👎 We selected our orders and tried scanning our tickets multiple times and it wouldn't work. My husband tried and still couldn't get it to scan. We ended up cancelling after being there several minutes and moving on to another area since no one was there to help. We actually found an area where a person took our orders, but we forgot to order a drink and were looking for the discounted Bull Durham beer (on Thursdays), which wasn't available at the normal food places. Wasted a few more minutes getting one soda and the tickets actually scanned there. Discount beer wasn't available there either. There was a little area with fridges on the opposite side as the food places (near a bar), which had the discounted canned Bull Durham beer. This was the 4th stop we made! Ridiculous.
Once you make it to the seats, everything was perfect. The opposing team (Jumbo Shrimp) would throw a ball over the net after each inning for the kids to catch. My son loved this, but wasn't able to catch one. He later walked up to their dugout and was handed a ball. Very nice guys! We noticed the the Durham Bulls quickly went inside, not allowing time for signatures, but the Jumbo Shrimp remained outside for a little while. If we had a marker, we would have asked them to sign the ball.
After we walked back the the parking deck, we saw that we were unable to exit. Parking deck was gridlocked at our location (level 5) and cars blocked us in. We decided to go back down the stairs and took some photos near the Lucky Strike towers and the water. There must have been some event at the neighboring DPAC, which led to an extremely congested exit. We took about 20 minutes down near the water and it was clear when we returned to the deck.
Overall, this is still a great family experience, but not cheap if you're on a limited budget. On discounted food Thursday, this was still about $120 with tickets.
Francesca — Google review
Great facility to see a game, so much energy in the crowd. Love the atmosphere the organization and the guy that gets the crowd involved during the game is awesome. Day there was the kids got to run the field. Also as a fan of the movie, you won't be disappointed of the experience. WAY TO GO BULL'S... ya bunch of lollygaggers!!!!!🦬⚾️🧢
Matthew Le Sage — Google review
Amazing ballpark and atmosphere. For being a AAA ball club, this place is a lot of fun. There are a ton of food options as well as lots of draft beer stands. You will not be disappointed coming to a ball game here, every seat in the house is fantastic. Next time you are in or around the Durham area, definitely plan a trip here! 10/10
Tyler Tubbs — Google review
The seats were great and the concession has great selection of food and drinks.
It's a fun and great atmosphere to take a family and friends out to enjoy a nice game during the weekdays or over the weekend.
The Athletic park has great access and walkway from the parking structure located on each side. The fountain on the main entrance was great spot to meet and take photos.
Sam Fantaye — Google review
I LOVE going to see the Bulls play! I grew up in Durham and have been going to games my whole life. The field and stadium are very nice. The eating areas, seating, and bathrooms are clean. They have a lot of activities for kids and adults. The fireworks on Fridays nights are awesome.
Ashley S. — Google review
Great stadium, felt like a major league ball game! 😃 The prices are super reasonable. There isn't a bad seat in the stadium. The view of the park is spectacular from any angle. We decided to not sit in our seats and stood in all different areas during the game and it was great being able to walk the whole park and see the game form all different ways. It was one of the last games of the season and it was almost sold out, but the layout made it not seem that croweded. It is wide open and spacious. Great night of baseball and a fun spot to take the family for a night of entertaiment that won't break the bank!
Michelle — Google review
I have been to this baseball stadium twice with my brother. The atmosphere has been great. I played baseball as a kid. The Bulls mascot Wool E. Bull is loved by the fans. If you are ever in North Carolina during baseball season this is a fun place with great food.
Ken Harris — Google review
Had a great time. It was dog night! How fun to see all of the dogs! Such a great idea! Mine will come next time for sure! He loves being out in public. The weather was perfect! Parking was easy.
Amy Hodge — Google review
This stadium is one of my favorite places to be. No matter who plays, the atmosphere, food, beer, and of course the Game are just the best experience ever. I get 10 game passes every year now and don't regret any of them! I pray Durham can get this mess with the MLB handled so we can continue to enjoy visiting!
Chazney — Google review
This is a great family friendly place! The staff is always friendly and helpful! I been going to Bulls game for many years and there is always a great time!!! Even when it's not a MLB game it feels like it and before/after the game there are may options around!!! If you haven't already seen them playing, I'll highly recommend you to try it!!! It's worth it!!! Friday night games always have fireworks!!!
Luis Marcano — Google review
We love the Durham Bulls. And we made it a girls night out. The hubby could not make it. We had great seats but all the seats are great in the stadium. We enjoyed the fireworks at the end of the game. The Durham Bulls is a great family, group or company outing. Win or lose the game is a joy to watch.. Go Bulls!!!
Brenda Gilliam — Google review
Nice upper end minor league park. Opened in '95 and has been continuously upgraded since. Bathrooms are decent, access is good, seeing is good from the box seating to the grass field GA in the outfield. Good concession variety at a ok price. One major restaurant can be frequented over behind left field above the "blue monster".
Joseph “Joe” Caruth — Google review
Bulls games are fun for even casual baseball fans like me. The ball park is beautiful, food options are plentiful, attractive extras like post-game fireworks are frequent, & attendees are usually cheerful & pleasant to be around. My family typically attends a few games each season, & we always enjoy ourselves. Going as a group is a terrific outing for a church group
Kathryn Sobel — Google review
We love love the ballpark. Lots of parking garages. Well managed exterior and interior. Right next to American Tobacco complex. So many food options. Watching the Durham Bulls is quickly becoming my favorite leisure activity
RobertsMom NC — Google review
What a wonderful night of baseball (even thou the Bulls lost😔)! Easy parking at the South lot with prepaid tickets - worth buying ahead. We had dinner at Tobacco Road Sports Cafe above left field. When we were done we just walked through the small gate in the patio - showed our tickets and walked down stairs and into the stands. We were in Section 207 Row T under the overhang which put us between home plate and 3rd base. The stadium was clean with plenty of staff if you needed assistance. Great place for families and anyone wanting a reasonably priced night out to enjoy some ⚾️!!
Diane Mason — Google review
We picked the perfect night for a game on May 11. Slightly cool and low humidity, just perfect for a night out for baseball. And the Bulls started like a rocket with 5 runs in the first including a grand slam. It doesn't get much better. This is still America's pastime with folks of all ages and lots of families. Highly recommend.
Jim Williamson — Google review
We had not been in years. They have added whole new sections to the ball park! Many are suited to those that don't want to sit through a whole game. Great addition. Adds more views of the ball park too.
This night the home team lost but a fun time was still had by all! Hats off for the Durham Bulls! Thanks for autographs and posing for pictures. And thanks for a banging fireworks display!!
Louise Martin-Carpenter — Google review
Great stadium with a good selection of typical ballpark food options. Free admission for military, just show your ID at the ticket window. Parking was $10 at all the parking decks around the area and it was easy to get in and out with minimal traffic or delays.
Warren Korges — Google review
The Durham Bulls is an absolute MUST for anyone passing through the triangle. I've recently seen several games here and can't wait for next season! Food, drinks, and service are all exceptional and the atmosphere is very family friendly.
John-Stuart O'Neill — Google review
Probably one of the best minor league parks and experiences around. I've been to games with my kids over the past few years. This year we hosted 22 5th graders for my son's 11th birthday and the group sales folks were amazing. Highly recommend for birthdays, group parties etc.
Peter Weishaar — Google review
The most beautiful stadium I have ever been to. It is such a fun environment and we have been lucky that the Bulls have also been very good in recent history. Makes going to games even more fun when the home team wins. Also really cool to see players who will almost certainly be playing in the major leagues in just a few years. Even if you don’t live watching baseball, the his is just a fun experience. I highly recommended
Brennan — Google review
One of the best Minor League parks around. Not a bad seat in the house. Besides the usual ball game food, you have got to try the pulled pork bbq and a margarita. Great venue for the whole family.
Damon Taylor — Google review
They are the most iconic minor league team for a reason.
They have their own "Bull Durham" beer available at the grab and go kiosks throughout the park. They also have dollar dog nights on Thursdays. I like to get one of the $10 outfield tickets and just roam around and post up at some of the bar/picnic areas.
The Friday and Saturday night fireworks shows are better than some of the major league parks I've been to. Wool E. Bull is also the best mascot in the league!
Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a large botanical garden with many attractions, including a wildlife garden, koi pond, and amphitheater. The gardens are located on the Duke University campus in Durham, North Carolina.
It's absolutely stunning, and it's a fantastic spot for a scenic stroll and photography. There's a lot to see, so you'll probably need to come back a couple of times depending on your mood for a long, long walk. A beautiful body of water with this adorable red bridge is only a small part of the scenic beauty that this park has to offer. It's also completely free. ( Parking is only $2/hr) unfortunately gift shop was closed because of private even.
nitish deshpande — Google review
This place is amazing! Fun for the whole family if they are able to appreciate beauty. Notice: Wear walking or supportive sportswear because there's lots of different attractions and trails. Might be too large of a walking area for toddler's and young children.
paisleygirl — Google review
Probably one of the most well laid out parks I’ve visited, and this was my first time visiting. The only bummer was that there were some areas closed off due to landscaping so I wasn’t able to get photos there, but this park is a nature enthusiast or photographer’s dream. There’s such a broad spectrum of plants throughout the garden that you just have to see. The ground along the paths are pretty even which makes for comfortable walking since you will find something eye catching down every path. I wasn’t planning on going on a misty day, but the photos I took still came out amazing. Would love to do photoshoots in this location.
Dana Dane — Google review
This botanical garden took me by surprise! It looks small from the road but it is quite large with plenty of walking paths. Even though it was moderately busy when i went it didn’t feel like it since there’s so much space to walk around in!
All the flowers, bushes, and other plants are meticulously maintained and it truly is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve ever been to.
Tayler T — Google review
Nice walk through various regions themed gardens and woodland. Not busy, pay to park. Staff very helpful and polite. It has a children's discovery area with staff supervision indoors and out.
Great place to chill with tree coverage providing shade.
John Turnbull — Google review
This place is such a beauty to behold! You literally feel like you enter a place of enchantment. There's various gardens with different themes. Many places to sit and enjoy your surroundings during your exploration. The gardens are massive, so rest areas are great! There's workers riding golf carts who you periodically see to answer any questions and give directions. Definitely an amazing experience.
Deidra — Google review
*LOVED* this place!! We moved here from Idaho in September and have been exploring a lot. This has been our favorite place so far. If you are from here, you might not realize how special it is to have banana trees and bamboo just growing outside in nature under pine trees and elms and maple trees. In Idaho, there was only pine so you didn't see leaves change colors with the seasons at all. I can't believe how colorful everything is here!! It's the thing I had been looking forward to the most, and it didn't disappoint.
There's a smell outside as you walk around. It's this earthy tree smell that is my absolute favorite smell in the whole world (tied for the #1 spot with my daughter's head and my dog's feet). It was a 76 degree day with a light breeze and it felt like walking around in a rainbow heaven. The grounds are beautiful and there's lots to see. I'm certain we'll come back frequently.
That being said, I will give one suggestion. It's a little bit hard to get around with my daughter's wheelchair and it would be helpful if paths were marked with arrows showing which way to go if you're in a wheelchair. They had an info both but it was busy so we skipped it, and I'm sure they could have told us where to go. Alas! We had to backtrack a little bit here and there, but there were other ways to get around. We took a detour to the chapel which was about an 8 minute walk from the gardens, and we did have to go up some stairs for that part. It was so pretty though and barely out of the way. Worth seeing. I expected only one chapel, but the university has tons of buildings that look like ancient mini castles. I didn't expect it to be so utterly breathtaking.
Back to the gardens, there were some gravel areas inside the gardens that we decided to skip. Otherwise, the majority of the gardens were very accessible. We all loved this place so much.
Holly — Google review
Beautiful garden .My wife and I visited in February and we couldn't believe how fragrant everything was at that time of year. We will definitely return in spring. Very nice walking paths with maps and signage. Dogs allowed in yhe mornings and evenings, which is awesome.
Highly recommend.
Brian Maynard — Google review
One of my favorite gardens! So beautiful and much bigger than I anticipated. I loved the educational section on growing produce/farming for children. If I lived in Durham, I’d come here all the time to read, picnic, and take a stroll. And it’s free! (Just $2/hr for parking). Photos were taken 10/31/21, so some of the flowers weren’t blooming. Would visit again in the Spring.
Greeshma James — Google review
Beautiful gardens with even more various colors of flowers and plants all over the place. Gardens is maintained well and walking through gives you good feel all the way through. It's most famous for its natural light and scenery views for capturing your beautiful memories of any events or occasions😍 better carry strollers if you going with kids or toddlers as the walk can be easy with it instead of carrying them all the time.definitely makes you feel good and worth visiting this place.
B Keerthi Naragoni — Google review
Yes, please go there and enjoy the breathtaking gardens. Different plants and flowers, they decorate everything in a beautiful way. It was super hot, but we enjoyed every single stop. The entry is free, but you have to pay 2 dollars/ hour for the parking.
Areen dhoon — Google review
Wow!! We were blown away by how beautiful and well kept everything was. You do have to have cash for parking. It was $2.00 per hour.
It would be a great place for family pictures and can’t wait to go back to have a picnic there. Lot’s of shade and areas to place picnic blanket and sit with the family.
They do have restrooms around the area and it is very helpful with little ones.
Arelys Delgado — Google review
Duke Gardens are a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees, from the Japanese Garden to the Discovery Garden. There are also walking trails, a lake, and a chapel.
The Japanese Garden was particularly stunning, with its koi pond, waterfalls, and bamboo groves. The Discovery Garden was also a lot of fun, with its interactive exhibits and play areas.
The gardens are free to visit, but there is a fee for parking. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to the gardens, but it can fill up quickly. There is also street parking available, but it can be difficult to find.
If you are visiting the gardens in the off-season, be aware that some of the trees may be dry and without flowers. However, the gardens are still worth a visit, as the beauty of the architecture and landscaping is still evident.
Sasank Gadiko — Google review
Visited with my boyfriend last Spring and the scenery was gorgeous. Lots of different kinds of flowers to view, as well as walking trails. We also stopped at the little shop and bought popsicles to cool down. Great place to visit and lots you can do!
Lilie Wilkinson — Google review
The visit to the Duke Gardens on the campus of Duke University was spectacular. Much of the gardens were still in bloom. The staff, volunteers and workers were quite pleasant, very knowledgeable as well as helpful. It was a beautiful day to spend walking amid such floral beauty. We brought a simple picnic lunch to enjoy at the conclusion of our walk. If you are in the area, leave at least an hour or more to enjoy this treasure.
Michael Cohen — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Visited twice while in town and still didn't get to see everything because it was so big. My favorite was the vegetable garden which consisted of a compost and watering system and a bee keeping section. The workers and volunteers were super nice. There was a little building that sold snack and wraps that were delicious,fresh and reasonably priced. They also had a gift shop and area where you could purchase plants. The garden is free but you have to pay to park but the parking fee is reasonable but parking fills up quick.
Jacque 3777 — Google review
A most beautiful and delicate "World" of beauty, wonderment, joys, and serenity... filled with colors and textures and the miracles of Nature to feed our souls and hearts... while also offering to our eyes delightfully labeled plants and flowers to educate our minds as well...
Go there to walk around... or lay down on the grass... and rejoice in beauty and serenity all at once...
I so love that little heaven on earth...
Enjoy ❤️
Pascal Monmoine — Google review
Good place for relaxing. Lots of Verities of trees, flowers and plants. Good walking trail. Parking online $2 per hour. You can use free parking a few blocks away. Must visit between March 15 to 30 to see the full blossoms of cherry. 2 toilets, one in the main building and another in the middle of the park. A few free drinkable water fountains too.
Blaise C — Google review
I love Duke Gardens. It's my favorite garden in NC. I've been there many times in summer, fall, and spring. Every season has a different charm. The Asiatic Arboretum is my favorite part. It's like you're in Japan, walking around the pond, where you'll see a lot of wildlife: turtles, ducks, and I even saw a great blue heron, which was amazing!
I went there today 3/14/24 the cherry blossom trees at the entrance are in full bloom! It was so beautiful, like a cloud of blossoms. The blooms should stay intact for about a week, depending on the weather. I recommend stopping by for photographs no later than next week and also visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowd. No entrance fees!
Duke University Chapel is a neo-gothic building with a 210-foot tower and 77 colorful windows depicting scenes from the bible. It is located on the west campus of the university, and its 5,200 pipe Flentrop organ and 50-bell carillon are worth a visit.
Don't let the name "Chapel" fool you. This place looks like a straight up cathedral! If you love the architecture of a beautiful church make sure to go see this one if you are in the area.
Toward the altar on the left is the resting place of some of the notable Duke family members.
Also to the left of the altar is a staircase to the catacombs where some of the past university of duke presidents have been buried.
Roger L'Heureux — Google review
It the largest Church I have been to. It is roman catholic themed, it has a crypt with resting place for the founders of Duke University. You can light candles. Get your pictures clicked in the Hogwarts looking alleys. And at 5 in the evening you can here the bells rolling. It is truly mesmerising
HARSH OJHA 4-Yr B.Tech. Chemical Engg. — Google review
Historic landmark great to see. The historic Gothic chapel, standing at 210 feet and on the highest ridge of Duke's campus, features pointed arches and ribbed vaults. The stained glass windows help add color into the impressive structure.
Kevin Wang — Google review
Nestled within the heart of Duke University's sprawling campus, the majestic Duke Chapel stands as a testament to both architectural grandeur and spiritual reverence. As I ascended the steps leading to its colossal doors, the awe-inspiring beauty of the Gothic-style structure unfolded before me.
The exterior, adorned with intricate stone carvings and soaring spires, seemed to reach for the heavens. As I crossed the threshold, a profound sense of tranquility enveloped me. Sunlight filtered through the stained glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors that danced upon the polished wooden pews.
The interior of Duke Chapel is nothing short of breathtaking. The vaulted ceilings create a sense of openness, and the air is filled with a hallowed stillness that invites introspection. The chapel's intricate details, from the ornate altar to the meticulously crafted organ, underscore the dedication and artistry that went into its construction.
During my visit, the chapel hosted a choir rehearsal, and the melodic strains of the music reverberated through the sacred space, adding a celestial soundtrack to the ambiance. The acoustics of the chapel are renowned, and it's easy to understand why as the harmonies swirled and resonated, creating an ethereal experience.
Venturing outside, the chapel's expansive grounds provided a peaceful retreat. The well-manicured gardens and quiet courtyards offered a serene escape, a stark contrast to the bustling academic life just beyond its gates.
Duke Chapel isn't merely a place of worship; it's a sanctuary that transcends religious affiliations, welcoming all who seek solace and inspiration. Whether one comes to marvel at its architectural splendor, attend a service, or simply find a moment of quiet reflection, Duke Chapel stands as an enduring symbol of beauty, grace, and the pursuit of higher understanding.
Sajib Aninda Dhar — Google review
Duke University Chapel is one of oldest and prestigious campus with an awe inspiring view and place to relax on a spring day. Enjoy the architectural beauty around you.
MindfulLiving Bellevue — Google review
Duke University Chapel is a must-see for anyone visiting Durham. It is a beautiful and inspiring building that is full of history and tradition. The chapel offers free tours that last about 30 minutes. Tours are available Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. There's no need to rush through your visit. Take your time to explore the chapel and admire the beautiful architecture and stained glass windows.
Sasank Gadiko — Google review
One of the most prestigious and historical places in Durham, NC we recently visited Duke University Campus and it was absolutely inspiring . we visited in March and the weather is just perfect, The atmosphere was incredible it’s like you are visiting one of London or UK universities. the Dormitories are well planned, The Brian Center is absolutely a place. Where you will be in Awe, The restaurant are modern and built in high standard.
The Duke Chapel is incredibly built with Class in Gothic -nd impressive Architecture, If you have not been the. You are missing a lot , Hughly recommends for everyone.
Raco medal — Google review
Beautiful, wonderful campus. Parking was a bit of a hassle, had to download an app with sketchy phone service because the meter won't work but that was forgotten when walking through the Beautiful campus.
There were not as many AA students seen while walking, as compared to our visit to UNC chapel hill that same morning ... we did see a group of 20-30 having a meeting in the courtyard right in front of the chapel, so there's hope.
Chi-Chi Anike — Google review
If you haven’t been to the Duke University Chapel, it is an absolute must! This was my second visit. Growing up Catholic my mother and her family frequently visited beautiful churches around the world. She is gone now but I know she would have put this chapel at the top of the list in beauty! There is a crypt. In fact, five Duke dignitaries are buried in the basement of the chapel.
Take your time and walk around. This place was meant for meditation and reflection.
Check out my videos and pics.
Enjoy!
JOSEPHINE — Google review
It's a nice chapel, with beautiful buildings around. There was a bride and groom taking engagement photos. A must visit when you are in Sarah P Duke gardens. Yes, go and enjoy
Areen dhoon — Google review
Absolutely stunning architecture! Beautiful and well maintained. The choir sounded so good you just sit in awe for a little while
Milana K — Google review
Obviously this place is historic and gorgeous, but the real trick is to follow their calendar and see when there are free musical performances. I saw an Organ specialist play a recital and although it was not exactly my cup of tea it was still really cool, especially when he played the second set on the older, more traditional Organs (they were louder). There are upcoming free choir performances. Definitely worth checking out.
Fit Gear Hunter — Google review
We did the Duke Chapel guided tour which is free and open to the public. We were introduced to the beautiful history, architecture, significance, and traditions of the Duke Chapel and truly enjoyed it. The chapel is known for its gothic style architecture but one has to go inside to be able to appreciate the intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, the organs, carillon, and more! Parking is available at the Bryan Center garage on a first come first serve basis.
Sampada Chavan — Google review
Duke Chapel is stunning. Wonderful place to visit if you're in the area or walking from Duke hospital. It is such a warm welcoming Chapel. A respectful receptionist was waiting offering assistance and a great information on the Chapel and also a cute story about the two mice ( I won't tell you the story you'll have to go see for yourself). The offerings of this chapel is quite amazing. The public is free to enter and be a part at anytime. Be sure to check of the music events etc. Go and pray 🙏❤️
Suzie Jackson — Google review
Such a prestigious place. Historic. Top scholars. I don't believe you can take a bad photo of this place. Duke will forever possess a legacy of excellence. From those who teach to those who learn.
Corbin B — Google review
It is the Jewel of the Duke campus and if you are lucky enough you will get to experience the organ being played on your visit. Take your time and enjoy the ornate glass, wood and stone while taking in the music. Explore all the chapel has to offer with its many nooks and crannies. From the side chapel to the vault in the basement and the exterior is as spectacular as the interior which includes a cloister like courtyard to the right.
Christopher Kearney — Google review
This Chapel is just so beautiful. What an incredible experience. I've attended both church services and concerts/musical events here. The acoustics are perfect for choral events. If you haven't seen Handel's Messiah here, then you absolutely must. Just beautiful.
Damon Taylor — Google review
Beautiful church. There was organ music playing while we were there. On the he campus of beautiful Duke University .
Oh no... they close at 5 and I arrived @ 5:30 🙄. Since I still have a couple hours to drive to get to my destination, I drove around for a little bit and located Stop 1 Confederate High Tide. The Battlefield is very clean and spacious. It has informative historic markers and signs. If you have time, I highly recommend doing the entire driving tour.
Tilly Lo — Google review
Great stop to learn about the Civil War battle field in N.C. As this is my 1st time ever being near Civil War stuff, I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more. There was a visitor center and an informational movie.
C M — Google review
I love visiting here when I get the chance. Despite our difficult history as a nation, it is still important to learn from it. This place allows such an experience. I love getting to visit the visitors center, as there are some great items for sale, and it offers a bit of history on the battlefield. There is also a very nice walking trail, but it can get muddy at times. There's always something to do regardless of the time of the year.
Robert Wilson — Google review
Guided tours of the battle sights. Cemetery is a mass grave sight. Well maintained grounds with handicap access. There's also a visitors center with maps and souvenirs. The main house was used as a makeshift hospital during the battle. There is also a separate kitchen for the house that you can check out. A workers cabin can also be seen. The house well is capped off.
Erik ?Popeye? Wagner — Google review
I took my son to experience the Heavy Thunder Summer Artillery program. The reenactment was wonderful. The re-enactors were very knowledgeable, kind and patient with all my questions.
Christina Bagley — Google review
We visited Bentonville Battlefield State Park in North Carolina. It is very interesting history to me. I was unaware of the large battle that took place here. We stopped in the visitor's center, looked around and watched a 15 minute movie about the history leading up to the battle. Unfortunately, the Harper house was closed for restoration work. However, we did get a tour of the grounds and outbuilding. Our tour guide was informative and provided a good picture of the history of the battlefield and the Harper house. There is a self guided motor tour to different sections of the battlefield and surrounding area, that is about 10 miles. We tried a couple stops, but we didn't get good enough cell phone coverage to be able to hear about the sites. I like historical places of interest and this was a good visit to part of our nation's history.
At the visitor's center, there is a vending machine for drinks, restrooms and picnic tables. We visited on a Tuesday morning and there weren't a lot of people. By the time we left the visitor's center, several more people had arrived.
Chris E — Google review
If you haven't been and have a chance do not pass it up. Went to their "Peace to the Gallant Dead": the 157th Anniversary Commemoration. This was the anniversary of the first day of the battle. Over 4,000 luminaries lit up the battlefield to the sound of taps in commemoration of each of the casualties of the battle there. You can see the house where the injured were treated. Such a sobering experience Thank you Miss. JoCo Emilyann Marsh for the invitation to this event. I will be returning and offering to volunteer 🧜♀️
Merri Meredith — Google review
Nicely preserved battlefield in which one can walk and explore sections of the battlefields, trails, cemeteries, and check out the museum (check hours of operation). This is the site of the largest Civil War battles in North Carolina, but it is often overlooked as significant because Lee surrendered to Grant just a few weeks after the last shots were fired here. A fascinating and horrific time in this country. I am glad this and other sites are preserved so those that follow May remember and learn from the past.
Mark MIlburn — Google review
The park looked interesting, but when they state gates close at 5 and you park at 4, they mean buildings will close at 4:15. It's a little disappointing, but I did get to park on "overflow" outside the gate and tour the monuments. I'll go back and look in the house when I can spend more time.
Although it is primarily a Confederate battle memorial site, there is information and a monument dedicated to Union soldiers who fought and fell there.
Selena Nederhoff — Google review
Great outdoor experience. Good home restoration and museum. Lots of walking trails.
Chris Denise — Google review
The must-see major battlefield of NC which virtually closes the Civil War leading up just days before Lee's surrender at Appomatox.
Charles Reinhart — Google review
It’s always amazing to visit Historical Landmarks and Bentonville Battlefield Historic Park is one of them. there was no entrance fee when we visited, and there was a Volunteer. Tour guide that show us around the Historic House, I’d say it was worth a visit and a good experience to see the actual Battlefield tour.
Raco medal — Google review
You can feel the history! Love going out here for day hikes!
Melody Parker — Google review
Impressed by our experience here! The workers in the visitor center were so nice and helpful! We took our time and explored all the battlefield had to offer. I loved being able to dial in for the phone guided tour. We went on the driving tour as well! Just an awesome visit with tons of information!
Craft brewery with a rotating selection of beers plus a small taproom serving American chow.
My wife and I went and got a flight each, I liked every beer I tried and naturally took some home with me. The tour was fun and informative. We will be going back, it's about an hour but worth the drive if your going for good beer and a relax vibe. Service was great as I think they are back to almost full staff and they were very friendly and helpful.
David Sahina — Google review
We had a great time at the Aviator brewery. We used a Groupon. We went on a Friday evening. It was fairly busy and they seem to have a number of repeat customers. You get a flight of 6 beers and they are very generous servings. I would say the flight glasses hold about 3 oz. Each. The staff is very friendly and willing to answer questions. There are a number of oversized games you can play. There are indoor and outdoor seating. Outside there are lights around the veranda area.
April Williams — Google review
Updated:
Over the last 2 years I have noticed the beer quality of Aviator has gone down hill. For years I enjoyed most of their offerings but lately not so much. Not sure what they are doing but it is not the same. Food is decent so I'll still pop in from time to time but obviously with all their growth they haven't kept the same attention to detail with their beer.
Original review:
Some of the best beer in North Carolina. I wish they would open up a tap house in the RTP area so I wouldn't have to always go out to Fuquay....but either way I always make it a point to go visit aviator whenever I can!
Thomas Carcione — Google review
If I could give 10 stars I would!!! We had an absolutely fantastic time! The beer tender was in such good spirits and was having fun cracking jokes with our group. Our tour guide was funny, informative and overall a great dude. We got to try so many beers and fell in love with so many of their delicious beers. They have an incredible variety - you’re gonna find something you love! Thanks Aviator for an awesome Saturday. Can’t wait to come back. Cheers! 🍻
K — Google review
Never fails. Every time I’m in town, Aviator establishments nails it. Great variety of brews, the food never disappoints and the staff is on point. The only problem I have is I can never bring home enough HogWild and I can’t stay. Until next time Aviator brewing. Cheers!! 🍺🍻
Chris Vanderbeek — Google review
Ernie is top shelf. Great service always and always happy to be doing what he’s doing !
Rick does a great job educating everyone on the beers. Get the Super Fortress while it is still around. I think only the brewery has it now. Coin pool table is a great addition. Great spot to chill for a couple hours on Friday/Saturday.
jim ouellette — Google review
Annelise our server was awesome and the Aviator Brewing Company accommodated our large group easily, and the food and beer was excellent! Highly recommend.
Jason McComsey — Google review
I had a party if 14 on the Saturday of Memorial Day. We were celebrating a birthday. Vicious fishes rudely turned us away despite having several open tables. We came to aviator and they were so hospital and kind. They seated us and took care of us and then apologized on Vicious Fishes behalf. THANK YOU so much for saving the day!!! The food was delish, the drinks were awesome and the hospitality was fantastic. I’m having a wedding soon locally and will make sure my guests stop by. Unfortunately, the owner of Vicious Fishes never properly apologized and accused our party of being “too drunk” clearly we had no problem at Aviator. Thank you so much!!! We will come back again.
Nicole Koskinen — Google review
A very nice place to have a drink but the wait staff are very raciest. I felt very uncomfortable. The waitress went and took care of all the people that came in after us. My fiancé had to go to the bar to order our drinks and even after that the waitress came 15 minutes later to ask if we needed something and never came back to our table. All the white customers were taken care of immediately. While nobody came to our table this is a very very raciest place to come to as a black person. I don not recommend this place to anyone.
Cici Jara — Google review
Had a really great experience on the Aviator Brewing tour. I’ve never seen how beer is made but now know the entire process.
On the tour we learned, we sampled beer and received these glasses. This is a must for any beer lover. Small Warning, beer smells as it’s being processed! More for adults.
mandy frevele — Google review
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209 Technology Park Ln, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526, USA
Swimming beaches & hilly hiking trails around 9 lakes, plus campsites & boating excursions.
Very much enjoyed camping here with my son's. Campsites are nice enough and easy to get to, clearly marked. Bathouses we're better than expected. We camped right on the lake and the boys fished all day and night. Caught plenty of channel catfish. Will go again!
Mark Conneway — Google review
This was a fun stay. Was there for 7 days and it went fast with lots to do in the area. Staff was easy to work with and kept the park up well. Our spot (B9) was secluded with the neighbors a ways away, and an easy walk to the lake! Will go back if in the area.
Jim McMichael — Google review
A wonderful group camping location on the lake....very spacious and cared for... Staff are responsive and understanding... Water pressure on site is plentiful... Views from the campsite are what we hoped for... Unfortunately, there are planes from time to time overhead... But not bad... Bathrooms and showers are well kept and hot water is plentiful... We will definitely be rebooking again...
John Jones — Google review
A nice relaxing area. Currently free to enter. The sign says no charge to enter until March 31st. Plenty of parking . Plenty of kids were there on a weekday. There are places to change clothes, grill, relax and have a good time. Alot of trees for shade and open area if you want to get some sun.
ladi da — Google review
Great water front campsites (tents) and nice spacious pads with power just behind them (have power hookup). Can’t beat the cost for a couple night rental. Swimming was good and the water is super warm (it was early August), great to lounge and just relax in, just don’t expect to take a dip and cool off 🤣
Zachary Parchomenko — Google review
The water level is too high because of recent storm. The ramp was completely flooded and in some places parking spaces are completely submerged in water.
Madhu — Google review
Great Day Trip! $7 parking fee for all day long. Grilled right next to the beach at a picnic table. Parked in the first entrance and i love that the water was shallow enough for my 5 year old to play in. She ad a great time at the park as well.
Alee Hernandez — Google review
Love this lake! My papa is a regular here he drives here from Durham. He goes to this lake almost every week. Caught some great fish here, lost my biggest fish I ever caught and made some awesome memories
Haley — Google review
It would have taken a 5 star review, if it was not for a situation we encountered on our second night there. Around midnight on Saturday (Sunday June 2, 2023), the campers in the campsite before ours began to argue loudly, screaming and using profane language. My daughter, a minor who has special needs and could not sleep, shouted "please shut up", to be answered by foul language. We contacted the park rangers and explained that their argument had become physical, also there had been statements of a knife or the threat of stabbing. 45 minutes later, rangers showed up, as the altercation had come to an end. Aside from this, we enjoyed the park and lake, my kids love the place and we will continue to go, but do recommend as an expert in the safety/security/enforcement field, to have a better response time for volatile situations as this, as this could have turned into a life threatening situation, without the involvement of other campers, not the rangers.
Ricky Bonilla — Google review
Love the set up of the sites and scenery. Facilities are very clean. Most campsites are level and are easily accessible for rv parking. Only gave a 4 rating due to no water at campsites as it is still winter. Currently here (February) and Temps are in the 70s. Attached pictures are of campsite C19 in Poplar Point.
Michelle Bayless — Google review
Just beautiful 😍 I stayed at the Poplar Point section.
The RV sites are far enough apart so as not to disturb your neighbors.
Many of them double as tent sites.
I was surprised to learn that they just installed 50 amp service as well⚡
Nice walking trail🥾🚶
Michael Scott — Google review
Really lovely campsites on Jordan Lake. We didn't have direct access to the water, but could have selected a site closer to the water if I wanted to.
This time of year, the bathrooms are locked during the week (which was on the posted info but we didn't really pay attention so it was a bit of surprise for us).
We love car & tent camping. Loved the clean and freely available bathhouse. Good privacy this time of year.
My only word of warning: be prepared to be "inside" of wherever you are sleeping when the sun sets. The yellow flies and other flying bugs came out and were relentless, even with our tried and true thermocell. It's not unexpected being out in the wilderness, but should be known in advance.
We will ABSOLUTELY be back for a longer stay next time!
Zoe Dean — Google review
It's a great place for a family outing, fishing,camping,They have 3 beaches. My grandkids loved it. You have to get there early in the morning,bring your food,drinks and don't forget the charcoal for the grill.
Vanessa Shepherd — Google review
This was my first time here. It's a beautiful spot! It's a very big area, and was also very clean. There was a nice playground area for kids, nice bathrooms, and even a pretty area for camping. It is definitely a great place to relax.
Drayton Hall is a well-preserved, renowned antebellum plantation situated on the Ashley River in South Carolina. The estate showcases Palladian architecture and holds the distinction of being the sole plantation house to survive both the Revolutionary and Civil wars fully intact. As a National Historic Landmark, Drayton Hall offers visitors tranquil grounds to explore and an African-American cemetery to reflect upon.
BEAUTIFUL place. Way better than the plantation up the street that costs $80 to do everything. Super quiet during the week, especially in the morning. Beautiful and well preserved place. Self guided audio tour is awesome! They did a great job of preserving and showing the area.
Jeff M — Google review
One of very few surviving plantation homes in the area post civil war period. Took the audio tour rather than a guided one which was great as you can wander at your own pace and listen to the guide, pausing her when you want to stay in one area a little longer. Having some info is a must though, to understand what went on in and around the estate and the architecture of the building. Staff were very friendly and informative too.
Kevin Blackley — Google review
We went for a Sip & Stroll that included an audio tour of the grounds, the museum, short film, the caretakers cottage museum, and gift shop plus two drinks tickets per person - so fun and relaxing. No more than 25-30 people and we were all spaced out to where it felt like you were the only ones there on the whole plantation! Would definitely recommend and do it again next spring!
Jennie Meetze — Google review
A wonderful experience, seeing Drayton Hall is like a step back in time. The house is preserved instead of restored, the tour includes information on slaves and tenants post-Civil War, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Part of the house is off limits for now due to ongoing preservation work.
Mac McCormick III — Google review
Exceptionally interesting and well-preserved area offering fascinating insights into the world of a southern plantation. Unlike similar sites, the focus here is on preservation rather than restoration, meaning the old buildings, including the main house, have had minimal work done on them since the 1800s.
The guided audio tours were informative and well-paced, guiding you both through the main house and the grounds. The only downside to an audio tour vs a guided tour would be the inability to visit the top floor of the house, although I don't think one is missing too much there.
On the Sunday I went in September, there were hardly any other people on the grounds, so crowds weren't an issue. There were two historians on site in the main house available to answer additional questions, which was a great feature. Moreover, despite much of what we know about the location coming from the former owner's diaries, I appreciated how the audio tour did what it could to speak from the perspective of the enslaved peoples forced to work the plantation, as well.
For $26 per person, I thought this was a very worthwhile place to visit.
Lance G — Google review
There has been some great improvements at Drayton Hall over the last few years. New gift shop visitor Center and bathrooms. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff
Kathy Woolsey — Google review
I visited Drayton Hall on 1/12 and I absolutely loved it as I love history and appreciate historical structures. They have a very clear introductory video and a very nice display of furniture and other historical pieces in their museum before you head to the house. My tour guide was very informative and I am just sorry that I forgot his name, but he was so knowledgeable on the history of the estate and in general the history of America at that time. The estate itself is beautiful and I can just imagine how this place looked in its prime. I enjoyed reading the map that captured the changes of the land now vs then near the enslaved cemetery and can only imagine where their houses were as there are no standing structures left. I enjoyed listening to the archaeological finds when they were doing some renovations in the basement and on the grounds, tons of history on this land even before the Draytons.
Tiffany Galvan — Google review
Beautiful plantation home with interesting history. We did not do the audio tour but explored the space on our own. The details on the home are amazing. The craftsmanship can’t be found today. It was interesting to see the graffiti from 1874. The staff is very attentive and helpful. They are currently working to put supports in so there is construction equipment on the ground floor.
Tiffany Harmer — Google review
Spent a fascinating afternoon with my son at the Plantation. Very informative audio tour, plus knowledgeable historians were on-site to answer questions. Excellent presentation, a very thorough explanation of this period in American history. We really learned a lot! Gorgeous grounds, trees, and landscape. Very friendly and helpful staff, super clean everywhere. Highly recommend a visit 👌
Wendy Graham — Google review
Tour of the house was great, plus tour guide was knowledgable and friendly! Beautiful home, and an amazing amount of history there and on the grounds. We also purchased Sip & Stroll event. The self guided tour on the phone was ok but the landmark number markers were not as clear, and overall was little lack luster. Could have easy had same experience without the small glasses of wine included and saved some money. However super cute signature wine glass souvenir was nice and everyone from gate check-in, sip and stroll check-in, gift shop gentleman, and tour guide were great. Recommend to anyone to do the house tour for a serious dose of history!
Charity D — Google review
Recent trip to Charleston and Drayton Hall was on our list. Very interesting history. Our guide was informative and was able to answer questions. Not sure if they ever intend to add gardens but I think it would enhance the visit to the property. There is a black cemetery on the grounds that is easy to miss. Our guide mentioned it and I asked for the location.
Joanne Shedrick — Google review
Our tour guide Florence provided many details and painted a realistic picture using their historic knowledge of the estate. Would recommend the house tour and to walk the grounds using the audio tour. Would go again anytime we visit, very interesting US history!
Dan Smith — Google review
the tour of Drayton Hall was my one of my favorite parts of our trip to Charleston! Florence was our tour guide and WOW. amazing! the best tour my fiancé and i have ever taken! Florence made it the best! So knowledgeable and passionate about the history of charleston
Kimmy Harker — Google review
A very historic and picturesque place by the Ashley River. The rooms of the house are empty of pieces of furniture that can be seen in a separate exhibit, but they are full of memories of the souls who throughout time spent their life here.
Alex L — Google review
I had visited Drayton Hall over 50 years ago, around the time of National Trust start for this preservation and restoration. Back then I felt I stumbled on to a hidden treasure. Now the grounds are pristine, the public entry, parking welcome center are appreciated improvements. When I found that Drayton Hall is now open with guided tours and encouraging archaeological digs in progress, I knew this tasks of preservation there were going to be immense. I've sought out Villa La Rotonda in Vincenza, Italy and even London's La Rotonda. To Palladio: you've made a big impression!
Greg Hargus — Google review
Great experience. We did the tour and our interpreter Makayla really brought the history to life. Her passion for Drayton Hall's stories was evident. The fact that the home has stood since the mid 1700s is amazing. If you are into history, Drayton is a must see.
Ken Wolf — Google review
One of the best plantations we've seen! The beauty was the original works were still in place and magnificently maintained. Our guide, Morgan, did a phenomenal job on the tour! The trees are gorgeous and the small garden was very pretty. Large grounds to tour, just watch out for the gators! So glad we visited Drayton Hall.
Lynne L — Google review
An amazing historic plantation just outside of Charleston. We enjoyed our tour with a knowledgable guide. The grounds are beautiful and the staff is incredibly friendly. Would definitely come here again!
Peter Reckling — Google review
The staff was friendly and informative! The museum and video were interesting. The buildings up front are fresh and done well!
The grounds were beautiful! The audio tour was a nice addition. There are great photo opportunities!!! We did see alligators as well! The ones we saw were little ones!
FYI
**I did not realize you could not tour the whole house without an extra fee and specific tour time. The upstairs was roped off with a sign saying it was for a specific tour only. That was disappointing, we found that out while on the self guided tour of the house. We were able to see the cellar and the first floor**
We were told the upstairs is the same as the first floor. There is no furniture in the house. They are all empty rooms. No AC but they did have fans going. It was in the 70’s when we went, the house temperature was comfortable. In the summer, I am not sure how hot it will be inside!
We really enjoyed walking around!
C U — Google review
February $10 rate for locals was a great deal. Drayton Hall was a wonderful experience. Archeological dig was very interesting, as was all the treasures found. The tour guide was unbelievable, giving an extensive history of the site, the owners, and the architecture. Every question guests had was answered in detail. Watched a brief movie, visited the archeological lab, and shopped in the fabulous gift store. It is one of the best historic sites in Charleston. Thoroughly enjoyed my visit.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation dating back to the early 1700s, with gardens which are popular with visitors for their lovely natural surroundings and fascinating history. Besides the garden itself, there are attractions such as an animal zoo and nature center. There's also a train that takes visitors around the grounds, as well as boat tours.
This was our first plantation tour. We had a great time. We did not tour inside the big house, but went on the tram tour and the From Slave to Freedom cabin tour. I recommend both very highly. After the tours we went though some of the gardens and around the ponds. Great scenery and views. We were surprised to come upon two large alligators near a walking path alongside one of the ponds. We were told there were many alligators on the property, but did not expect this encounter and left expediently. They made no aggressive moves, but we did not hang around. The rest of our walk was very nice and relaxing.
Daniel Brown — Google review
My family had a lovely visit to Magnolia Plantation. We came early on a Wednesday, and were able to quickly purchase tickets and get started with exploring the grounds.
The plantation’s massive Live Oak trees are picturesque, and the house itself is well maintained. While waiting for our tour, we visited the conservatory which was lovely. We ended our tour in the gift shop which had a wide assortment of lovely items.
We chose to pay for the Nature Tram since we had folks in our group who couldn’t walk far. It was a great choice since we were able to see the grounds and gain some historical perspective without walking a lot. On the tram we were able to see the slave houses, several rice fields, and many wild animals including alligators, birds, and turtles!
Although we didn’t go into the house or take the From Slavery to Freedom tour, I imagine these are as well done as the Nature Tram and well worth their money!
Dana B (WI - MN - TN) — Google review
What a beautiful place! So glad we went to visit. The grounds were gorgeous! There was a wedding there yesterday, so the various vendors were there tearing down their set ups. Other than that, all areas were open. We spotted many gators, so be mindful when walking near ponds and waterways. Lots of turtles too. The magnolias were so fragrant while we were walking around. We just did the house tour, but they had other tours available too. Those can be booked ahead of time right online. Lovely visit.
Lynne L — Google review
Magnolia was one of the best experiences we had while visiting Charleston. The tour guides were all very knowledgeable about the plantation. We did the house tour, train tour, and the Slavery to Freedom tour. The tour guide for Slavery to Freedom was Vanessa and she was absolutely amazing. I would recommend more then 4 hours for the entirety of the plantation. We only were able to do our tours and visit the gift shop in the four hours we were there. We wish we would have had more time to explore the gardens because this place is absolutely amazing. They also have an app that was extremely helpful for navigating the grounds and location the tours and restrooms.
Kierra Thiry — Google review
The plantation is absolutely gorgeous. The scenery and flowers were breathtaking and the farm animals made the experience so much fun for the kids. When walking the different gardens, the signs leading there could have been more clear. Most importantly, be prepared to be completely devoured by herds of mosquitos, so prepare accordingly. Otherwise, the experience was top notch! Highly recommended.
Hussein Fayad — Google review
Such a nice way to spend the day. The house is smaller than you’d guess, but the tour was one of my favorites. Full of history and interesting facts. The Slavery to Freedom tour literally made my eyes tear up with emotion, the guide couldn’t have been more perfect, it is clear that she loves her job and takes the history seriously. The grounds are beautiful. And my favorite part - the wild gators were all out and sunbathing, not at all phased by the visitors.
Kirsten C — Google review
This is a truly special place. We visited on a Thursday in late March. We took the train around the gardens and walked around some of the trails. There are many benches to sit on if you get tired easily. Bikes are allowed on some of the trails. There are so many great photo ops, so definitely bring a camera. There's plenty of parking and a bathhouse by the ticket booth. There's also a cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks. You download the Magnolia app on your phone and it has a map and info on events. There's a "From Slavery to Freedom" talk and a guided tour of the house. There's a very nice gift shop in the ground floor of the house. I bought an art print, Gullah seagrass basket and a cool candy on a stick for my son.
Amber Connell — Google review
Extensive gardens and large tracks of natural habitat. The Ashley river runs along the edge of the property providing beautiful views from the gardens. There are interesting trees to be found including redwood. There is a biblical garden as well as a conservatory. There are places with picnic tables and benches to rest at. There is a petting zoo. And children's garden. We did see little blue herons, great egrets, alligators and turtles. There is an excellent presentation "from slave to freedom" that takes about 30 minutes. Takes place at the remaining original slave quarters on the plantation. Gives a good snapshot of what life was through the decades from 1850s to 1990, they were still in use by the grounds people. All these can make for an entertaining and informative day.
JMcCoy McCoy — Google review
Had a nice afternoon here with the family. It wasn't peak bloom for anything in late September but there were still plenty of flowers and the overall scenery with the Spanish moss draped trees was stunning.
We did the rice field boat tour, which was very informative. The rice fields were given back to nature and are now just wetlands with a few remnants of the old farm. We saw tons of beautiful birds and alligators. The pontoon boat had a roof, so we were out of the sun.
Definitely should be on your Charleston list. If you are a local, call ahead to learn about what's in bloom and what time of year is best to visit.
M B — Google review
Beautiful grounds and rich in history. Great stop on way to Charleston for a bit of a walk and some lovely pictures! Bring bug spray and pack a lunch. Bit pricey but if you have more time it is well worth the money.
Waterfall Yoga Therapy — Google review
It's definitely a beautiful place filled with lovely flowers, plants and trees. The slavery to freedom tour and petting zoo are included in admission. Personally, I think for the price, everything should be included. There shouldn't be "add ons."
The guide for the freedom tour was exceptional and he deserves a raise. He told the raw history which needs to be said.
Alexa Wallbrown — Google review
A beautiful old world plantation garden. The many acres of the gardens offer many photo opportunities, including the long white bridge and the bamboo garden. There is also a little zoo area with several cool animals to visit with.
Evan Bair — Google review
Unfortunately for me it was a big disappointment. I love flowering plants but the azaleas and camellias had 95% finished blooming. So little to no color except for the plantings at the entrance. Pretty much if you miss the spring blooms you are just strolling through the woods.
There were multiple bus loads of people being dropped off. I felt sorry for those standing in long lines to get food at the small cafe.
There were miles of trails, most of which were not well marked, so we wondered aimlessly until we found our way back.
There were several small ponds and bridges with a couple of alligators floating around.
The entry fee seemed very high at $35. We did not take the house tour or tram tour. Overall disappointing.
Cathie Bales — Google review
I had an amazing time here, it was super beautiful and a really enjoyable experience overall. The "train" tour is nice because you're able to see a lot of the area with a lot of wildlife. The boat ride is also fun and you see a lot of gators. There are also many birds throughout the plantation along with flowers along various paths.
Jawand S. — Google review
Our family had a great time here! It was so nice to get up close to so many animals. We enjoyed our train tour and learned a lot! I only wish it was easier to take pictures during the tour. The cafe had great options for food. The gardens were lovely! We didn’t have time to do the silvery to freedom tour, but we will definitely be back to do it.
Jess W — Google review
Beautiful Plantation with so much to see and do! We loved going over to the “look out platform” and seeing over the whole area! We also saw SO MANY alligators in the ponds! SO cool!
We also LOVED the zoo! It had the coolest animals and was so fun to walk around and see them all up close!
We visited the last week of May and noticed that none of the flowers in the gardens were blooming (could’ve just been an off and cold year for the flowers).
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Bring Bug spray! We were a little unprepared and got EATEN ALIVE
- Look up the tour times! The grounds are beautiful, but each segment (ex: house, garden, train tour etc) costs money and most of the segments have specific your hours! Look up your times to get the most out of your experience
Hannah Upham — Google review
This tour provided real and accurate information about slavery. No sugar coating, Gone With The Wind, it wasn't that bad narrative. Beautiful and breathtaking gardens, swamp and scenery. We did the big house, train and "From Slavery to Freedom" tours. We spent 3.5 hours and could have walked the garden more but, the 🦟 🦟 🦟 were hungry so we left 😂 A great tour and educational experience!
Margra Ferrier — Google review
Beautiful gardens and worth the visit on fresh day, with a chance to see alligators during train ride.
From slavery to freedom tour was
disappointing by our opinion. It was mostly self tour with 20 minutes story while you have to sit in the pavilion.
Guide was rude with kids (not mine but it felt wrong), taking into account that even our kids were bored and didn’t want to sit calmly who are big fun’s of any kid of excursion.
Olga Stryia — Google review
On the west side of the Ashley river are three plantations all within close proximity to one another and around a 20 minutes drive from historic Charleston, one of them being Magnolia. While originally a working rice plantation, Magnolia has now evolved into more of a naturalistic park with a large number of pathways and various types of foliage on display. Like other plantations there is a manor home which tours are offered for (at an additional cost) as well as a complimentary tram ride around the property that is quite pleasant and offers a nice respite from all the walking you would do. A worth stop if visiting the area. Enjoy!
Craig Bromberg — Google review
Terrific gardens!
Lots to see. Excellent variety of azaleas and camellias.
Lots of trails. Enjoy the birds and alligators and snakes.
Swamp boardwalk a huge plus.
So many photo ops.
Can't wait to return!
Mark Shuford — Google review
As a nature lover this was my favorite thing I did while visiting Charleston. Absolutely beautiful grounds with lots of wildlife and flowers to see. I also enjoyed the Slavery to Freedom Tour as it was informative and gave me a better understanding of the property and the hardships slaves faced. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend going in the morning as it started to get more crowded during the day. Bathrooms are easily accessible and very clean. They have a nice cafe as well.
Morgan — Google review
I have never seen anything like this. It’s so beautiful, it looks unreal. The gardens and trails are absolutely breathtaking. We toured the house and the guide was so pleasant.
I still can’t get over how beautiful everything is!
Debbie Collins — Google review
Very enjoyable experience! We took the train through the swamp area and later returned on foot to hike the trail through the swamp. We saw many birds, alligators, and turtles. Very unique atmosphere with an almost mystical quality
Ann Telma — Google review
Visited on a Tuesday afternoon, and there were quite a lot of guests during that time.
It was $38/person to access the gardens, Wildlife Center, Slavery to Freedom Tour, Wildlife Tour, and swamps.
We enjoyed walking through the swamps - alligators, turtles, birds.
Wildlife Tour - very squeaky tram to where we could barely hear the tour guide and definitely couldn't enjoy the sounds of nature.
Slavery to Freedom Tour - very quick history from the guide + Q&A. Didn't get very deep into it and have had better experiences in other cities.
Wildlife Center - small sanctuary with several species (alligator, peacock, goat, deer, owls, racoons, reptiles, fox, turtles, and more)
Gardens - decent views and nice walking paths.
Overall, we enjoyed our day but felt it was overpriced for the experience and offerings.
Middleton Place, a sprawling rice plantation on the Ashley River dating back to the 1730s, is located about fifteen miles northwest of Charleston. Once home to the Middleton family, who played significant roles in South Carolina's colonial and antebellum history, this landmark suffered damage during both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Despite being ransacked by British troops and burned by Union soldiers, Middleton Place stands today as a National Historic Landmark District.
We have visited four plantations in the Charleston area. This is our favorite setting and relaxing atmosphere. The grounds are exceptionally maintained. We spent two hours walking the grounds. It is the various buildings that tell the story. One stop shows a very large number of Middleton slaves. Depicted by each location and where they determined their value to the plantations.
The house tour is self guided after a short synopsis of the Middleton family and furnishings.
We had lunch outdoors in a very relaxed setting. Salad with baked chicken breast, green fried tomatoes with sauce and corn fritters with honey butter.
Runnsun — Google review
Lovely grounds. You pull into the gravel parking lot and there is a Cafe/market to the left. Please know that is not the only place to grab a bite. You can access this, as well as the gift shop, prior to your paid entrance. We opted for a tour of the house for an additional $15pp. Not sure if I would do that again. We were maybe in there 15 minutes....maybe. it's self guided but there are volunteers to tell stories or answer questions. If you are expecting a grand southern plantation mansion, this is not it. Its a small 2 story home. The first thing you see upon entering the plantation is the large reflecting pond. Very beautiful. The next thing you'll notice is the livestock running amuck. Namely sheep. So be careful where you walk. 😉 they do have a lovely dining room. It was a very nice plantation. Lots of grounds to explore. Everyone was very nice. Just not that grand southern home. Not sure the livestock gets the best care. Which is why I gave it 4 stars.
Sherri Fischer — Google review
We visited Middleton in late September 2022. Granted, hurricane Ian provided atypical weather, but in general, it’s probably not the best time to visit. Little to nothing was in bloom. The grounds were well kept and people were friendly and helpful. There were a few animals freely roaming - a handful of sheep and some swans. They had horse stables but nothing super interactive. There are some small buildings to showcase how the enslaved lived, but it’s not very detailed. The grounds had easy walking paths - mostly sand-based so if you are wearing sandals, know you’ll get a little
dusty. There’s a restaurant on site which is nice. The beyond the fields tour … wasn’t a tour. You gather around under a tree, sit on benches and listen to a historian explain the enslaved conditions. It was informative, but different than how it was presented. There is a restroom, gift shop and plant shop in the parking area. It’s not a must-see for me. We spent about 2.5 hours here.
Cortney Ayers — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous location. The oak trees are stunning, the gardens are lovely to stroll through, and I love a history lesson. We went to the restaurant last week and enjoyed the drive out, delicious food and cocktails and friendly and helpful staff. Shout out to Maggie who helped us make memorable dish selections. Looking forward to coming back later this fall for a wine stroll. I went last year and enjoyed it so much, I am coming back with girlfriends! I would recommend it as a date or as a nice evening with friends.
BKV — Google review
Middleton Place is really special. First the staff are very helpful. And they are easy to find. Everything is well organized & with the map, it's not hard to get around. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful. There are plenty of beaches to set and enjoy the views. It's nice the restaurant is on the grounds. Having a place to set, cool off and relax helps so much.
K A — Google review
Restaurant had a very good steak, but the locally made cinnamon ice cream, I honestly cannot stop thinking about it. The view outside this restaurant, although "wild" not tamed, alligators were ALL OVER THE PROPERTY, was Southern thick farmland and just spectacular. The property tour was very neat and the history was rich and interesting. The Inn was very different and unique, rooms had ceiling to floor windows showing the lush grounds. An interesting property worth the visit.
cyndi becker — Google review
Breathtaking! This place was the highlight of our honeymoon. The cured gardens and ponds were like a dream. The staff are all very helpful and know their stuff or will send you to someone who does. What a pleasant and enjoyable day. Give yourself a whole day to soak in the history and experience of this estate. Enjoy!
Kevin Keller — Google review
Beautiful grounds and house. Wonderful restaurant on property with absolutely amazing food. House tour was very informative as were the historical interpreters around the grounds. Very relaxing and serene surroundings.
US 1 — Google review
What a wonderful place to visit. It has great trails throughout the property, and it is so peaceful and beautiful. It is truly a step back in time. I loved the trails that were bordering the Ashley River.... phenomenal! A huge Osprey dove down, caught a fish, and flew right by us. So cool! We did not do the house tour, but I was perfectly content outside with the beautiful topography and interacting with all the animals, most excellent visit!
MA B-B — Google review
Great historical place to visit. Beautiful landscapes and the old buildings are amazing. Bring bottled water as it was hot a d humid and there is a lot of walking but, worth every minute of it.
Jeff King — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! Loved getting to walk around and explore the gardens- there were tons of free garden tours or other guides that you could listen to- to learn more information about. But overall it was such a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It’s pretty far North Charleston- and tons of walking- we got there around 9:30am and didn’t get done until 12:45pm- so allocate for a good chunk of time here!
Kelley — Google review
Absolutely loved it! Amazing grounds and scenery. The house tour was really cool, lots of history in the building. The restaurant waa nice, I didn't eat there, but it smelled amazing. Had a couple drinks at bar, beat Old Fashioned I have had in years! Huge shout out to Colby H.....kudos buddy!
Gloria Worthington — Google review
We booked a tour van out to the estate which included transportation, tour of house and lunch. Self guided tour of grounds and gardens in between the timed tour and lunch.Beautiful place and well preserved house with interesting articles from the Middletons. Gardens are beautifully maintained. All of the staff were extremely helpful and kind. A must if visiting Charleston.
Bernadette Jamieson — Google review
This is a lovely place to spend the day. We went specifically to see the Middleton Oak. The ticket agent was helpful with directions to get to the oak on the shortest route. The grounds are lovely with lots of wooded, shady paths. We saw swans in the reflecting pond and alligators in the flooded rice fields, which my daughter was very excited about. The two gift shops are very nice and well stocked with a variety of items of different price points.
Rhonda Waterhouse — Google review
Visiting from Georgia and this was such a fun outing! Bought student tickets online, quick and easy. The parking is good. The whole estate is very large and worth the price. There are some small trails around the swamp, some by the water, some around the garden. It is all well maintained and beautiful. We were not able to attend any of the tours but there are plenty scheduled throughout the day. The livestock here are very nice and obviously well taken care of. The chickens ran up to us expecting food, which kind of startled my partner. I loved the whole experience here. Though I do recommend coming when the heat of summer isn’t in full affect, we were dripping sweat by the time we were done here in July.
Unknown Inc. — Google review
Middleton has beautiful gardens and grounds along the Ashley River. You can find period reenactment of many of the trades that used to exist on the plantation, along with animals that would have been present during the Middleton family's residency. It has also been the set for movies, such as "The Patriot."
The Foundation that runs Middleton does an excellent job maintaining the property and in recent years has been very open about the tragic reality that the Middleton family owned hundreds of enslaved people. It seems they are trying to do their part to preserve history and acknowledge the failings of the past.
Scott Penick — Google review
Went on a Wednesday night when they were having one of their annual wine walks. Four stations with a red and a white wine as well as a cheese board and finger sandwiches at each station. The grounds were beautiful, not a lot of colorful flowers, but lots of greenery. The ponds had alligators and turtles, made for a magical night. Highly recommend.
Jaime Kessler-Gengler — Google review
Huge property, nicely laid out walking tour of the gardens and working areas. The day we were here, they were doing guided golf cart tours of the rice field.
There is an extra cost to see the home on this site. I would suggest going earlier in the day rather than later due to heat during this late spring and summer.
Leith Britt — Google review
I have been to Middleton multiple times over the years. It has beautiful gardens that you can get lost in. Don't look at the pics here. Just get out and see it. I went to a Creative mornings event that was hosted here and didn't pay but there is usually a fee. There is a cute garden center where you can buy plants, but the big draw is the incredible southern landscape. Enjoy!
Descartes — Google review
Incredible tour with lots to do! My husband and I spent 6 hours walking around the beautiful property, ate an incredible lunch and toured the main house. So many beautiful things to look at and a lot of rich history. Make sure to say hello to Arthur, the resident stable cat!
Miranda Zook — Google review
Amazing plantation with knowledgeable guides and tons of history. We visited early October and the weather was spectacular. Did Beyond the Fields and Guided Garden Tour. Both were included in the admission price. Ate lunch in the restaurant which was wonderful. Our wait staff was engaging and attentive. (No tax on the bill!) Learned so much about slavery and history of the plantation. The trees alone were worth the visit. One was 1,000 years old! I highly recommend.
Robyn Brooks — Google review
Great way to spend the afternoon in Charleston area. This place was brimming with history but had enough to keep all ages occupied. I have 4 kids aged 12-17 and they really enjoyed the grounds. The house tour is an addition that added a lot of context. They have numerous guided tours on the grounds themselves including a garden tour and a stable tour. Beautiful place and worth the trip.
Andrew Jameson — Google review
Magnificent! You could spend all day here and still want to come back for more. The volunteers there are very knowledgeable and helpful, you can tell they love being there. A ton of history to absorb there. Animals are friendly and there is no shortage of picture opportunities. Restaurant on site is good but a little pricey.
Katie Ishee — Google review
Beautiful ❤️ and Natural Surroundings. Please check Flower Blossoms season and you will enjoy it.
Yes, live alligator 🐊 all around the place.
The Coastal Discovery Museum is a learning center situated on 68 coastal acres. It offers educational programs and guided walks through ancient buildings, trees, and wildlife habitats. The venue includes salt marsh boardwalks, open fields, gardens, trails, and a butterfly habitat spanning 1200 square feet. This habitat is home to around 13 species of native butterflies found in the Lowcountry region. Visitors can explore the natural history and cultural heritage of the Honey Horn property.
This is a great spot to visit if you have an hour or two to explore the inner exhibits and the exterior trail. It's a very educational place and is great for all ages. We went in the rain which wasn't bad. We could still are our way outdoors with an umbrella and raincoat. We especially liked the history and lantern exhibit. Quite a nice treat.
Julie Goldammer — Google review
This little museum is an absolutely wonderful thing to do if you enjoy nature walks and scenery. There's chickens, a horse, bee hives, a camellia garden, a carnivorous plant garden, a butterfly house (butterflies are released for migration October-April), a piece from a NASA rocket, and plenty more 🥰
The volunteers were all incredibly sweet, one of them gave me several cuttings after she noticed me admiring a potted plant near the front desk. Which made my visit that much better.
Highly recommend it! But not great for a rainy day, as most of it is outside. Entry fee is just a $5 donation :)
Kathryn VanNuland — Google review
We had such a great time! We spent the first part exploring the indoor museum and were treated with animals, history and an amazingly knowledgeable volunteer who helped us gain our bearings and truly made us feel so welcome.
Then we explored every bit of outside! So much beautiful nature to explore and so much to learn. Great for kids, adults, couples, everyone!
Chelsea Whitney — Google review
Visited for the Gullah Celebration 2024. I am glad I was able to make it because it was a good presentation of all things Gullah on the island. There were lots of beautifully created crafts and I am sorry I could not buy them all!
LaQuita Logan — Google review
We had such a great day at the coastal discovery museum. The grounds are beautiful. There are so many things to see and learn about. We had an excellent tour guide who explained about Myrtle the turtle and horseshoe crabs. We spent about 2 hours in total there but easily could’ve taken longer! A great learning environment for kids and adults.
Katie Collett — Google review
Great spot to visit and learn about the island wildlife. There is a museum (with lots of info about the birds, fish and turtles), a few outdoor (and partially shaded) exhibits including a butterfly house, two walkways into the marshland, and a couple small barns. It's free for the most part (you can leave a donation if you want) and there is a small gift shop if you want to buy a souvenir. Overall this was a fun and informative place to go.
Mike Moore — Google review
The museum itself was delightful. But I paid full price for a ticket for the Gullah history tour, and I felt it was way overpriced. I would have liked more information about the history of the Gullah people and their culture here on the island and not just pointing out neighborhoods where they lived. There were very few butterflies in the butterfly house, and there were no carnivorous plants growing in the carnivorous plant exhibit.
Julie Overbeck — Google review
Very nice place to visit. Museum well done and informative. Came in March, outside would be nicer in warmer weather. Free, but we donated.
Greg DeCicco — Google review
so awesome!! visiting this museum was free (but they do accept donations!) and it is a beautiful area to walk around. there is a great butterfly garden that you can walk through, pretty trails, and they even had a little meet-and-greet with some animals (this was $7 a person, but it’s totally optional. i would absolutely recommend, though!!). we got to hold a corn snake, turtles, and baby alligators. the staff was super friendly and nice and i would love to go back.
annslee — Google review
Be prepared to walk.and bring bug spray. Very informative, nice walk-around to see the marshes and different plants/animals. Cute gift shop as well as some canned things for sale. Children's activities and live horseshoe crabs & a turtle!! Our kids loved it.
Ali Bettencourtt — Google review
We stopped in to the museum to check it out with our 8 and 1 year old daughter's. There is a lot to explore on the grounds and inside the museum. They have a scavenger hunt for the kiddos to do which involves hitting all of the checkpoints on the map. Great for a quick home school lesson if you're on vacation and playing hooky! This kept us busy for a good couple of hours while exploring and learning about the low country and all it has to offer, as well as the history of the land. We visited towards the end of March and I think with it being the off season, the grounds needed some attention and they could stand to update a few things but all in all, it wasn't bad. I would assume it's a little more lively during the peak season. There was no entry fee but they do accept donations. There was a kids room inside the museum with their pet turtle and some other fun things for them to play with. There's a lot to learn inside and out. I would compare it to a National Park welcome center and gift shop. We're glad it wasn't raining because the scavenger hunt and trail are all outside so be prepared and plan for a fair weather day!
David Strzelecki — Google review
We toured the museum and its grounds and found both very interesting. We also took the Blue Crab Discovery tour with Carol Horowitz, who was an excellent guide! We enjoyed the Dolphin and Nature Cruise, and the crew was also excellent. We will definitely make a visit the next time we're in Hilton Head!
David Thornton — Google review
WOW, WHAT A GREAT PLACE.
Enjoyed our afternoon in the museum and walking the around the Horn Trail.
Robert Whitaker — Google review
We visited the museum July 5th. It was very spacious with air conditioning. It has very beautiful local art displayed along with information about local wildlife, and Hilton Head history. We also took a class in the Exploratory Laboratory. Amanda taught us lots of fascinating information about alligators, horseshoe crabs, and the environment. She was very friendly and deeply invested. Thank you for a fun and educational outing!
Phillip — Google review
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70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, USA
Shelter Cove Community Park is a popular gathering spot in the city that hosts frequent shows and festivals. In addition to its entertainment value, the park also features green space for sports and fitness activities. The park is well-designed for children to burn off energy, making it an ideal destination for families with young kids. Located in Hilton Head, the park is surrounded by great shopping options including numerous restaurants and small shops.
Shelter cove has some of the best shopping in restaurants hands down. This park was so well designed for the kids. They were able to burn some energy off so they could behave well at the dinner table. We went twice in our week vacation down there in Hilton Head. Highly recommend stopping by here if you have kids. Let them burn some energy off so they don't act up at the store's while shopping lol
Emily Banks — Google review
Beautiful path to walk or bike along the marsh/water. Great for bird watchers. Mixed path - paved and raised wood decking over marsh. Art sculptures too.
Jeanne Louks — Google review
Shelter Cove Community Park is a beautiful park located adjacent to the Shelter Cove Towne Centre. It includes a large grassy area for recreation, a stage for concerts, and an area with playground equipment for children. Plus, it has a gorgeous view of the marshland. It's a beautiful place to run and play or simply to sit and relax.
Greg Squyres — Google review
This is a awesome Greenway that goes put over the edge of the marsh area near shelter cove. There is open parking at the end, and there are two small parks that this takes you to.
One is a veterans memorial park with pavers of some veterans of various wars. I am not sure how the featured veterans were chosen, but still a pretty stop
The 2nd park is behind shelter cove shopping center, and has a playground, and gazebo area as well as easy access to shops and restaurants.
The whole trail is probably about a mile, but might be a nice excursion if you find yourself in the area
Andrew McAllister — Google review
Have been here a couple times while visiting the area.. Nice park with good views. There are stores and small shops. Also a few nice restaurants and club located close by.
john sgrulletta — Google review
Love this park. It's close the restaurants and shopping and has the Memorial park. It's a great place to watch the sunset and to look at the amazing Memorial built for veterans. You can even purchase a brick for a veteran and they will have there name there for ever. They have done such a good job in building a beautiful park. It's a MUST visit while you're in HHI.
Don K — Google review
Cute little park with a community market on Sundays. Location was excellent to do extra shopping after the market. Playground was perfect for kids of different ages to explore and had good benches for parents.
Morgan Melton — Google review
This is new to us. Wonderful amenity. Well laid out paths, nice views, respectful of the natural environment. Nice veterans memorial. Perfect place for sunset pics. Connects to other Shelter Cove paths. Highly recommended
Brian Capron — Google review
Shelter Cove Community Park is a very well-designed shopping center, community park for the whole family to enjoy. All of the photos were taken on our recent visit at Christmas and the park is just beautiful! The playground is great with rubber mulch and very cushioned for wild kids like mine:). Large grass area to run around or picnic with the family. Hilton Head puts on events there all the time such as movie nights under the stars, snow at the beach, 4th of July celebrations etc. Check with the community calendar to make sure you don't miss out on any of the great events going on there. This is a park we often take people that come to the beach to visit us. They always seem to maintain the park very well and we will continue to go there as it is just a great place to hang out, walk around, shop, eat, date night and of course go and see Santa Clause at Christmas!
Anchors Away Sailing Charters — Google review
It's a wonderful community park but there's very little shade along the boardwalk so pick your days carefully and wear lots of sunscreen. The views are absolutely beautiful
Ralph Landi — Google review
Beautiful place to watch the sun set!
SEG — Google review
This was one of our favorite stops as a family on our day-long biking trip! Beautiful waterfront views and a very well put-together park with lots of seating, a very nice playground (with video surveillance), and restrooms. This park is right next to the French Bakery and other good eateries.
Devon McKenzie — Google review
This is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. There are walking trails, picnic benches and a nice playground for kids. Lots of children, families, teens and elderly enjoying the evening. Several people were walking their dogs. This location is near the marsh and is very peaceful. We saw lots of water birds flying overhead heading to the rookery for the night.
Debbie Wilburn — Google review
The best on this side of the island! Free and a playground foe kids with water fountain, restrooms lots of seats and walking for the family. Sunscreens in the bathrooms and lots of cameras around to spy on you! And free wifi however not enough handicap parking.
Cya Vsqz — Google review
4.7
(1136)
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5.0
(2815)
39 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Coligny Beach Park is an oceanfront recreational area featuring well-maintained walking and biking paths, as well as amenities like Wi-Fi, swings, and the option to rent beach equipment. It is a popular destination for families as it is conveniently located near a playground and the Hilton Head Island Children's Museum. Locals also frequent Islanders Beach, where they can enjoy grilling facilities and picnic pavilions in addition to swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.
I love this beach park. The trees are so beautiful and the water was so clear. They have lots of pine trees and the bright green leave plants. I also love that parking was easy, at least when we went in December. They also have bathrooms and showers.
Atche Portillo — Google review
Free public access to the Atlantic Ocean in a Hilton Head Island, SC! Beautiful boardwalk bringing you into the heart of the park. Clean restrooms, rinse off area, changing rooms and lots of shaded seating stops. Wheel chair and scooter accessible mat also available. Beach with lifeguards is very clean with several umbrella chairs and prime seating for families enjoying the day at the beach. Would definitely return!
Elizabeth Kibby — Google review
Beautiful beach with all amenities like washrooms, foot wash, changing rooms, showers, parking.
Walk to the beach is a pathway with beautiful trees, you can take your carts along with beach chairs.
During the day beach was quite jammed but when I went in the morning around 7am it was much less crowded and looking more peaceful and beautiful then the day.
Water of the beach is very very salty so if you skin allergies take precautions.
You get Chairs along with umbrella shed on rent but I did not take it so don’t know the rent.
P.S- I would request to each of you reading the review not to leave your plastic cans/items near the beach( I saw many during the day visit). Also other request would be to minimize the use of plastic so that our oceans don’t get destroyed.
Arpita ABhatia — Google review
Wonderful beach! Very clean and well maintained. We loved the walk up to the beach. There is plenty of seating where you can just rest and admire the beauty of the park. Just a short ways from the main Coligny Beach Park entrance, there is tons of safe, free parking. People (tourists and locals) are very friendly and will guide you if you need help. We particularly loved the outdoor changing area because we visited the beach again on the day we had checked out of our hotel. We were able to let the kids get in the ocean and play in the sand, and then come and rinse off and change into dry clothes right at the park. This extended our trip and gave us another day to enjoy the beach as we still had a safe area to get dressed. The park is close to tons of restaurants and shops. Just leave your car in the free lot and go explore. It’s worth it!
Renita Taylor — Google review
I live in Atlanta and don’t mind driving here because it’s clean, family-friendly, has free parking, and it really is beautiful. I love this beach! Lovely place to spend the day with my family
Nurse Yana — Google review
This place is really nice. The beach is usually very clean and well maintained. Has a nice long wide mat that makes it easy to get through the soft sand. There are some nice shops and places to eat. All of which are within walking distance from the beach and where you park. Definitely recommend coming here. FYI It does get crazy busy during tourist season
John — Google review
Beautiful place, flat beach area, soft sand nice to walk in the area that close to the water, not crowded, there is clean station and toilets. Pretty nice and clean side walk. Ocean water is pretty cold right now. friendly wave all day long..
AnVe 2021 — Google review
Cool beach, gets busy during hot days for swimming.
Many people around so it's mostly safe.
Nice sunrises over the Atlantic and decent sunsets.
Oceans can be flat as pancake or have 4-5 foot choppers in the same day. High and low tides add about 20 yards to beach area.
Fun place to people watch
M Caff — Google review
This was our first time coming here. Making our way to Florida. This park is actually really nice & convenient! So many wash off showers, bathrooms are decent, swings to sit down and chill. The beach sand was so nice, there was some trash here and there. The waters are warm!! I've never felt the waters that warm before. I recommend this park though, it's a nice place to take the family.
Katie Kramer — Google review
FREE PARKING!
HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE right down to the ocean! There are mats lining the path that wheelchairs can roll on easily.
This place is stunning.
Very little shells on the beach. It's nice to see a city put so much into public access. Restrooms, showers, water faucets and more! The water was good and cold from the fountain which is a surprise.
The sunrise was pretty even if that one cloud blocked it a little.
Plenty of restaurants within walking distance too!
Ray Smith — Google review
A beautiful park with lovely bench swings on the walkway to the beach. We were there in December and the temps were in the mid 50s. It was warm on the swings and cooler on the beach, where it was windy. If you dress for the wind it is a beautiful walk along the beach and not very crowded this time.if year.
Hadassa 1 — Google review
A good beach access point for the public. It has all the necessary after beach clean up facilities. The restrooms were kept as clean as possible for a public restroom. There was good enough sanitations. The park had several shops and restaurants which were unfortunately all closed as I visited on Christmas day.
Abhish Abraham — Google review
Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for both solo travelers and families alike, the boardwalk leading to the expansive beach offers an intoxicating blend of natural beauty and modern convenience.
The crown jewels of this picturesque location are the enormous live oaks that shade the park's well-maintained boardwalk that transforms the park into a cool retreat even in the peak summer heat. They're not just functional – these age-old guardians of the island possess a rustic beauty that adds a unique charm to the landscape.
The park's splash pads are a real delight, particularly for children. A fine mist keeps visitors cool under the South Carolinian sun, adding an element of fun to the soothing serenity of the beach. The area is kept clean and is perfectly safe, making it an ideal spot for families to create lasting memories.
Adding to the park's tranquility are the numerous swings scattered throughout the park. There's nothing quite as relaxing as swinging gently under the protective canopy of the oaks, enjoying the soft sea breeze and the hypnotic rhythm of the nearby ocean waves.
Coligny Beach Park is a harmonious blend of leisure and nature.
Lisa Medford — Google review
Best beach to spend an afternoon with friends. Very clean beach. Found sand dollars and starfish. Life guards and helicopter kept eyes on water for any potential threat of sharks. Warnings were given and everyone had to get out of the water. It was about 30 minutes. Then the all clear was given. Clean bathrooms. Definitely my favorite beach!
Spedrock W — Google review
Beautiful beach, easy access and lovely rest area with water spigots to wash off your feet as well as showers to rinse off completely. Could use more parking but there isn't anywhere to add it - plus, it's walkable from many of the condos nearby. The sand was perfect and waterntemp was cold but bearable for an October sunrise.
Patricia Batchelor — Google review
Love the fact if you are in a wheelchair you can go and see the beach with no problem. Also if you have a hard time walking in the sand they have a cover over the sand in which makes it easier to get there. The cover doesn't get hot either.
MeLinda R — Google review
Out of all my visits to this magnificent island, I never once had been to this beach access in Coligny Plaza, as I always have beach access inside Sea Pines, so I decided to try something new. What sort of local guide would I be if I didn't?
As far as the actual beachline goes, it's a beach, so everything there was what I expected it to be, but as far as the entrance, it was well-maintained and there were enough restrooms around! The beach itself also extends quite largely, so there's plenty of room for everyone!
beastlycharizard13 — Google review
Looks like a well maintained area, clean with restrooms, showers, swings, and short easy walk to the beach. parking upfront was easy to find as we went during winter. Parking was free. We didn't stay for very long but enjoyed the area quite a lot..there is shopping nearly and restaurants too. We saw lot of people with dogs too.
Sanjeeta Pai — Google review
Great beach with a lot of space to set up chairs, blankets or whatever. A lot of walkable or bikeable stores and restaurants close by. Stations to wash off feet, showers and bathrooms. There is a wheelchair accessible mat at the entrance that brings you to the beach as well as beach wheelchairs you can borrow for free.
Hannah Montroy — Google review
Coligny Beach is a high quality spot with nice facilities, including restrooms and changing cabanas. It’s a great walking beach, especially at sunrise. You can rent chairs and umbrellas ‘in season’. There is plenty of parking nearby.
Keith Moore — Google review
The first time I had been there and it was very clean. It had a lot of added family touches. Share toys and clean up area for the beach. The changing rooms and the restrooms were very clean. I loved the porch swings as well.
Dustie Brown — Google review
4.7
(9533)
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4.5
(3680)
1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a protected natural area that offers various activities such as walking paths, boat tours, and an archaeological site constructed with seashells. This wildlife habitat, known as the Sea Pines Shell Ring, has been designated as a historic place and boasts diverse landscapes like bridle paths, wetland boardwalks, bridges, and fishing docks. Visitors can also explore vast areas of untouched nature including rice fields and swamps while observing the local flora and fauna.
We had a wonderful time at both the Walking & Driving areas of the Preserve. If you're not staying at Sea Pines or have a pass already, you will need to purchase one. The day pass was $9.00. The trails on the walking areas were well maintained and marked. The Rice Field Boardwalk was just teeming with wildlife. The Vanishing Swamp boardwalk didn't have much wildlife, but the foliage was gorgeous. The driving area was beautiful with the ponds and wildflower area. Very narrow roadway. Overall a very lovely, well maintained preserve.
Kyriya — Google review
If you enjoy beautiful 3-mile nature walks, you will enjoy Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Well-marked trails meander around several lakes in the preserve, allowing for sightings of turtles, alligators, and assorted birds. Boardwalks navigate over former rice fields and swamp land. Horses travel down designated bridal trails and recreational bicyclers enjoy the preserve on wheels. But it's mostly hikers, more during tourist seasons and rather sparse during the cooler fall and winter months. In the middle of the preserve near Lake Joe is Fish Island, a place with a shelter, picnic tables, grills, drinking water, and portable toilets. And at Lake Mary, Fisherman's Point extends to the center of the lake with a fishing deck. The trails are easy, and families with young children can often be seen enjoying nature together. Maps of the preserve may be picked up at the trail's entrance. There is a charge for non-residents to enter Sea Pines, but there are opportunities in Sea Pines for hiking, biking, shopping, golfing, and dining, all in beautiful settings.
Greg Squyres — Google review
Really pretty location. Lots of easy trails to hike on for hours. We were here in the winter time, so we didn't see too many animals. I'd say the most lacking thing is the restrooms, there just weren't enough of them for the size of the park.
Olivia Rene — Google review
Day pass fee is 9 dollars per car, pretty reasonable I thought. We just did the preserve but there seems to be an entire world back behind that gate! Who knew?? The preserve is very nice, flat trails very well marked. The raised walkways through the swamps are in great shape, we saw tons of Anoles (small lizards), Heron, ducks and other birds and I'm sure in warmer weather there of lots of gators. Great place to walk the dog or kids!
Matt M. — Google review
Nice trails that are marked. There is also a boardwalk. The place is easy to find and plenty of parking as well . To get inside the Sea Pines area, you need a pass that is $9. But you can come and go as many times during that day.
Sanjeeta Pai — Google review
Really beautiful preserve. It was winter (January) but we saw some animals entering the preserve and in the preserve. Shell ring was interesting. It is $9 to enter this part of the island. Thought it was worth it for the day. Perhaps seeing animals made it all the more enjoyable.
Todd Nolan — Google review
The trails here are nice and flat and well maintained. Beautiful scenery. You will pay a $9 charge to enter this portion of the island unless you're a resident or renter in Sea Pines. Signs were very helpful when navigating the preserve. Highly recommend.
Lori Wilson — Google review
FYI - $9 fee to get into Sea Pines. I’m from out of town and didn’t know this until I arrived at the gate.
The forest preserve trails are very well maintained and you’ll hear and see tons of wildlife.
There’s a warning sign for alligators but don’t forgot to keep an eye out for snakes too.
Jesus Leon — Google review
Beautiful and quiet place to take a morning run. A great way to see the flora and fauna of the low country.
Jared Mumley — Google review
It's okay. $9 for a day pass to walk around a kind of average state park. Trails are well maintained and grounds are well kept. Saw a few turtles, a couple gators, a snake, and several cranes. But if you expect a lot nature, you should consider driving the 20 minutes to Pinckney National Preserve. I enjoyed it way more and it was free. Just get there early to get parking.
burbn101 — Google review
lots of loops & hiking to do, wildlife, & some great spots to take a break. Some cool bridges & boardwalks as well.
Celeste — Google review
Great place to visit, we even saw a few alligators. Small admission fee of $9 a car. Lots of other things to do in Sea Pines as well.
Dan Waitt — Google review
The trails were nice, but the weather wasn't so little to no critters out and about. Shell ring was not as expected. Several lakes and different types of trails. Dirt, sand, and boardwalk style.