Western North Carolina Nature Center – Experience animals and plants native to our region. Features over 60 species of animals including otters, black bears, red wolves and cougars.
75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, (828) 259-8080 New this year: a Nature Play area which includes natural balance beams and stumps jumps, musical elements such as pebble harp, and a fort building area.
Hours: Open 7 days a week; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Cost: Adults - $8 (Asheville City Residents - $6); Youth (3-15) - $4; 2 and younger - free
(No individual under 16 years of age is allowed on the grounds without an accompanying adult)
North Carolina Arboretum – 434 acres of natural treasure with 65 acres of cultivated gardens and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. Also offers activities such as Discovery Day Packs for all ages.
100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, (828)665-2492
Summer Hours: 8am – 9pm. Gates close at 8pm
Cost: No cost for admission, however, parking is $12 per vehicle
AMF Summer Games give children ages 15 and under the chance to bowl three free games every weekday. Monday – Friday; open – 8pm; Saturday and Sunday: open – 4pm; May 18 thru September 7.
Where: Star Lanes, 491 Kenilworth Rd, Asheville (828)254-6161
Register: www.bowlsummergames.com
Fun Depot - Asheville’s family entertainment center featuring: mini golf, laser tag, climbing wall, soft play area, arcade, go carts and much more.
7 Roberts Road (Exit 51 off of I-40), Asheville (828)277-2386
Hours: M-Th: 11am – 8:pm; F-Sat: 10am – 10am-11pm; Sun: 1 – 8pm
Cost: Prices vary for different packages
Colburn EarthScience Museum - Interactive earth science museum for all ages.
2 South Pack Square, Asheville, (828)254-7162
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10-5; Sunday 1-5; Closed Monday
Cost: Adults - $6.5; Students - $5.5; kids under 5 – free
Mountain Play Lodge – Indoor playground that is kid-friendly with inflatables, a jungle gym, soft foam sculptures and play houses.
3389 Sweeten Creek Rd; Arden, (828)676-2120
Hours: Thurs. – Mon. – 10am-6pmCost: Weekday – Ages 3-12 - $10; Ages 2 and under - $6; Weekend and Holiday – slightly higher
