A Triangle Bucket List For Families

25 Must-See/Must-Do Experiences

- Mandy Howard

We all know the concept of a bucket list — things you must do before you “kick the bucket.” These lists often include skydiving, mountain climbing and, if you’re Tim McGraw, riding a bull named Fumanchu for 2.7 seconds.

These activities sound great, but may not be easy to plan with young kids or strollers in tow. So, here we humbly present a Triangle Bucket List for Families. You simply have not lived (in the Triangle with a family, at least) until you’ve checked off a few of these items.

1. Play at Pullen Park. “Iconic.” That is the word Raleigh native and mom of two Amy Moreau uses to describe a day at Pullen Park in Raleigh. “Especially the train. When my kids were younger, there was just something about that train ride at Pullen that made you feel lucky to live in Raleigh,” she says. A playground, picnic shelters, concessions and the 1911 Gustav A. Dentzel carousel make this park a “can’t miss” destination. raleighnc.gov/parks (search for "Pullen Park")

2. Explore the Museum of Life and Science. From dinosaur trails to butterfly houses, and climbing trees to learning about the stars, this Durham museum has something for everyone. Better yet, consider putting a museum membership on your bucket list. With plenty of indoor and outdoor exhibits, you’ll get your money’s worth the whole year through. lifeandscience.org

3. Take a Hike! William B. Umstead State Park is just one of many fantastic state parks in the Triangle. Throw some sunscreen and water bottles in a backpack and find a trail with the right length and difficulty level for your family of adventurers. Turn to page 45 of this guide to learn about more family-friendly hikes in the Triangle area. ncparks.gov/william-b-umsteadstate-park