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Photo Credit: Carol M. Highsmith’s America Project in the Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division For families, educators, and anyone passionate about experiencing history, Hickory Ridge Living History Museum and Horn in the West Outdoor Drama in Boone, North Carolina, offer a treasure trove of…
Read MoreThe Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina’s High Country is a premier hiking and outdoor exploration destination. The region caters to adventurers of all skill levels, offering diverse trails, from serene walks along the Blue Ridge Parkway to challenging hikes up rugged mountains. The area is renowned for its stunning…
Read MoreAre you planning a trip from Charlotte to Boone, North Carolina? Buckle up as we take you on a picturesque adventure full of awe-inspiring sights and some of our favorite stops that will make your road trip to the North Carolina High Country an unforgettable experience. Recommended Stops at a…
Read MoreNo adventure to the High Country is complete without a visit to the historic Mast General Store. Find out why!
Read MoreAffordable Spring Break Day Trips for Families Near Charlotte, NC
Every year as spring break approaches, families in and around Charlotte, NC, gear up for a week filled with fun, adventure, and learning. With the promise of warmer weather and the kids out of school, it's the perfect time to explore the bounty of activities that lie just a short drive from the city. Here are some fantastic spring break family trip ideas that promise both education and recreation, ensuring that every member of the family has a memorable time.
- Lazy 5 Ranch
- Discovery Place Kids
- T.H. Broyhill Walking Park
- Greene's Trading Post
- Doc's Rocks Gem Mine
- Mystery Hill
- High Gravity Adventures
- Appalachian Ski Mountain
Whether you're looking for educational programs, hands-on exhibits, or simply a chance to wear off some energy outdoors, the region offers a plethora of options for spring break trips for families.
Lazy 5 Ranch
Drive Time: approximately 45 minutes from Charlotte
Kick off your spring break adventures with a unique safari-style experience at Lazy 5 Ranch. This privately owned exotic animal park located just outside Charlotte offers a chance to see over 750 animals from six different continents. From the comfort of your car or on a wagon ride, you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, making it a thrilling educational experience for kids and adults alike. It's an excellent way to learn about wildlife conservation and animal care, all while having fun.
Discovery Place Kids
Drive Time: approximately 25 minutes from Charlotte
Located in Huntersville, Discovery Place Kids is a wonderland for young explorers. This museum is designed with children in mind, featuring hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and play areas that encourage kids to explore and learn through play. Whether they're pretending to fly a plane, exploring a rainforest, or experimenting in a kid-sized lab, there's no shortage of activities to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning.
T.H. Broyhill Walking Park
Drive Time: approximately 1 hr 40 minutes from Charlotte
For families looking to immerse themselves in nature, T.H. Broyhill Walking Park offers the perfect setting. This serene park is an excellent spot for a leisurely walk, with paths that meander through beautifully landscaped areas and by tranquil ponds. It's a great opportunity for kids to explore and learn about the natural world, with plenty of spots for picnicking and relaxation.
Greene's Trading Post
Drive Time: approximately 2 hrs from Charlotte
Take a journey into the rich tapestry of local culture and history at Greene's Trading Post. Greene's is renowned for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, eager to share the stories behind their wide selection of local food, crafts, antiques, and collectibles, offering insight into the traditions and artisans who create them. Green's Trading Post is a memorable stop on your spring break adventure, where every item has a story.
Doc's Rocks Gem Mine
Drive Time: approximately 1 hr 50 mins from Charlotte
For a hands-on sensory experience, head to Doc's Rocks Gem Mine. This educational gem mining operation not only allows kids to sift through ore to find real gems but also teaches them about geology and the science behind gem formation. It's a fun, educational activity that leaves kids with a tangible reminder of their day out.
Mystery Hill
Drive Time: approximately 2 hrs from Charlotte
Dive into a world of wonder at Mystery Hill, where you'll find a blend of history, science, and mystery. Explore historic artifacts, experience optical illusions, and learn about Appalachian culture. It's a place where education and entertainment meet, offering lessons in physics and history in the most engaging way.
High Gravity Adventures
Drive Time: approximately 2 hrs from Charlotte
After a week filled with learning and exploring, our very own High Gravity Adventures offers the perfect outlet for all that pent-up energy. Located between Boone and Blowing Rock, this aerial adventure park features zip lines, rope courses, and a giant swing that promises fun for the entire family. It's an exhilarating way to encourage physical activity and bravery, all while creating lasting memories.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Drive Time: approximately 2 hrs from Charlotte
Cap off your spring break with a trip to Appalachian Ski Mountain for one last ski adventure before the mountain closes for the year (weather permitting). This family-friendly ski resort offers slopes for all skill levels, top-notch instruction, and a fully lighted outdoor ice skating arena. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the tail end of winter while embracing the outdoors.
Affordable, fun, and engaging spring break trips are abundant for families near Charlotte. From hands-on learning to outdoor challenges, you can build an itinerary for almost any budget. If you go to the mountains for spring break, we invite you to experience the thrill of a Boone zipline, the challenge of an aerial adventure course, and the excitement of the giant swing drop at High Gravity Adventures.
