3 family road trips from Raleigh

Spring break and summer vacation are just around the corner, and we’re here to make sure your family has some real fun while the kids are out. We’ve got a few road trip ideas fit for any family, including animal encounters, mountain views, and an NC beach recommendation.

Asheboro, NC | ~90 minutes from downtown

Ashboro’s NC Zoo isn’t your typical zoo — it’s the largest natural habitat zoo with 250 species. Pack a lunch and wear comfortable shoes; there’s a lot of ground to cover. If you’re visiting from April through October, consider hopping on the Zoofari for an up-close and personal ride through the grasslands.

Photos by RALtoday

After a day of making new animal friends, pop by famed Southern eatery Magnolia 23, Cantina Taco Loco, or The Table in downtown Asheboro.

Itching to stay overnight? Grab a night or two at the Postcard Cabins for a screen detox, dinner cooked on the fire, and a night under the stars.

Kure Beach, NC | ~2.5 hours from downtown

Located south from the hustle and bustle of Wilmington and Carolina Beach, we’ve found Kure to be a bit quieter but still ideal for a family trip. If you and your kids aren’t into lounging in the sand, go further south to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher to learn more about NC’s marine life.

Grab a bite at Beach House Burgers shack or have a seat at Jack Mackerels Island Grill after your busy day. Settle in for the night at the no-frills Sand Dunes Motel — with an ocean view, of course.

Roanoke, VA | ~3 hours from downtown

The kids are gonna love Roanoke. Let some steam off after the drive at Center in the Square, home to cultural arts + sciences nonprofits, including an aquarium and pinball museum.

Photo by @hello.roanoke

Eateries like the historic + cash only Texas Tavern and nostalgic bites at Pop’s Ice Cream and Soda Bar are perfect for a kiddo’s taste buds.

Stay the night at the historic Stone House which sleeps six with updated amenities, and have some fun looking through Black Dog Salvage next door.