This museum is a gem for anyone who loves classic cars. The staff are genuinely friendly and make you feel welcome right from the start. There’s an impressive selection of vehicles on display, and the curator does a great job rotating the cars every so often, so there’s always something new to see on return visits. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting—you can take your time admiring the details, and there’s even a guest book where visitors sign in and share where they’ve traveled from, which adds a fun, personal touch. Before heading out, the small gift shop is worth a stop for a souvenir to remember the visit. All in all, it’s a wonderful little museum that delivers a lot of charm for classic car enthusiasts, whether you’re a casual admirer or a die-hard collector at heart.

If you are into cars, this place is a must! Truly a lifetime collection. Over 100 cars that you can walk right up to. Collector has another 100+/- so museum is always changing. Self guided tour. A lot of additional photos and articles. Little pricey but well worth the money. Large gift shop. Been multiple times in the past and will be coming back in the future. To Paul and family/friends, thank you for sharing

If you like old cars and some history with it this is the place to be. When we first Walked in we were greeted by two employees, after checkout he gave us some history of this place when it started who the owners were. Worth the trip.

A buddy of mine visited from out of town and I had never been here before - thought it would be a great place to see. It definitely didn't disappoint. The employee there gave a short spiel on why the museum exists and then sent us on our way. There are a hundred different classic cars to see and admission was $22 a person. Glad I went. I'm planning to bring my father and sister when they visit for Turkey Day.

What a neat place. They have many older cars models and, according the the man working there, they switch them out every so often so that there are new ones to see.

There's a lot to see if you're into cars and a fair amount to see if you just like old stuff. The employee we met was super friendly and helpful. Slightly pricy for what it is but maybe standard for car enthusiasts.

Great museum with a lot of classic cars - They alternate the cars once a year. Great staff, cute gift shop. Come check it out

First time here.its HUGE. Clean. Not enough direction for restrooms... Went looking for a specific pair of skechers at their store... didn't have my size found. Em at famous footwear... Said they were BOGO clearance... cashier definitely rang it up reg. Went back to dispute this problem. He refused to half process it. ...

Come at opening between 9:30-10am. Clean, no crowds and the best service.

The tiger outlets are very quiet. There are some good stores with great discounts. One things that I like there was an American Eagle clearance store most expensive item in the store was $19.99. I really like the coach factory outlet. They had a great selection. I was able to get two leather purses for $355. They have a loft outlet. They have a Ralph Lauren, a torrid a Case jewelers and some shoe stores also sunglass hut.. quiet and clean

This is an outdoor open space outlet mall. Lots of plants and sitting area in between the pavements and sections. Lots of good stores avalanche like Nike, Under Armor, Crocs, Forever 21, Coach, Gap, Banana Republic, and Polo Ralph Lauren. All the stores offer good discounts and sale offers. Prices are very reasonable taking the discounted price in consideration. Multiple small vendors are around the outlet selling nuts, drinks and ice creams. The parking lot is close to the shops. I was able to walk to my car few times to drop off shopping bags while we shopped around.

I had a good experience here, not really a whole lot else to say other than it is outdoors so you might not want to come on a rainy day. Plenty of parking!

Its nice, had stores that I haven't seen at other Tanger outlets. The prices in some stores were great. They had a 7 brew next to it, love there drinks/coffee. Overall great experience.

Outlet stores are no longer outlets, but shopping malls. The stores here, for the most part, did not have discount items, although a few stores had "clearance" sections. This outlet is no different. Plenty of clean, well lit, well stocked stores, but the prices are just like going to any regular store to shop.

My kids really enjoyed the splash pad... Please don't ever remove this feature! I really liked the food court! The Tanger outlets in mebane, where we live, obviously doesn't have that option. We also appreciate that this location has more stores than that of the Mebane, NC location and the other Myrtle Beach location (that we visited yesterday)

Great outlets. Food court has good options. Most of the stores have consistently great deals. It stays busy, but it's not typically too crazy. There is also a lot of coverings between the stores, so a good option for a rainy day. Kids love tossing coins into the fountain. Bathrooms are cleaned fairly often, and there is a family bathroom as well.

It's great. Lots of stores and discounts. It's a great time to start your holiday shopping. I found lots of things. I like that the food court is separated and on the inside. There is fashion, jewelry, toys, and so much more from every major store. I even got to take pictures of Bumblebee from the Transformer movie. I'll be back.

Space Battle at Tanger Outlet is an exhilarating experience! The immersive atmosphere, combined with cutting-edge technology, makes every moment thrilling. The staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring everyone has a blast. The variety of targets caters to all ages, making it perfect for families or friends. I highly recommend visiting for a unique and exciting adventure!

This place was great. Had really good deals. I spent a lot of money with my family. Had a really good time. Lots of good stores and everything is close. I've been to outlets were i litterally had to drive around to shop. Found everything i needed and wanted. A must stop if you love to shop. Also every store i went to had military discount.

We had a fantastic time at the outlet mall. Spending time (and money) here was how we kicked off my Son's birthday. There were so many great shops like Merrill, Oakley, Ulta, and Old Navy.

Really like the setup of this outlet. Large variety of stores to check out and choose just about whatever you like. My wife was able to find some places that she was a fan of. Real easy to drive in and out of as well.

I remember going here as a kid and it is still as pristine and enchanting today. The only down side is that society as a whole doesn't appreciate the simpler and cheesy nature of life 20 years ago. Too bad because there is still so much fun and memories to be hard here. The buildings and restrooms were to notch in appearance and cleanliness. We'll worth taking the time to take selfies with the many quirky statues and props. Go here to make a few memories with your family and remember the nostalgia.

Not a 5 star place but my room was huge, very clean and a comfy bed. The village is a fantastic little tourist trap. Had a great breakfast at the place next to the gift shop and a really good steak under the sombrero... you should spend a day here just to say you did it, tell your kids Disney world was closed and that was the #2 option

Kids loved it. I definitely enjoyed buying things. All different types of things. The cleanliness, the feeling the experience brings and the level of enjoying South Carolina.

A Stay to Remember… for All the Wrong Reasons 1. Wi-Fi in the room? Nope. I got so pruney sitting by the pool just trying to check my emails. 2. Hours of operation: We know it’s off-season, but shutting down almost everything at 7 p.m.? Meanwhile, fireworks are 24/7? Make it make sense. 3. Amenities: The shampoo provided was enough to wash exactly one butt cheek. 4. Toilet paper: Felt like sandpaper on my poor behind. Please invest in Charmin Extra Strong—your guests will thank you. 5. The TV situation: Pretty sure I needed a telescope. Was that a 26-inch screen? Walmart has 40-inch models on sale. Just saying. 6. The bed: I didn’t realize I’d booked a stay with the Flintstones. The bed was harder than a slab of granite. 7. Check-in: The new front desk staff couldn’t find my reservation. After digging through my junk email they finally located it. We got a parking pass but no directions, so we looped around like idiots. #TrainingNeeded 8. Gift shop: Decent, but please restock your light-up keychains. Out of N’s, R’s, and L’s! 9. Cultural note: Not a single Mexican in sight. Was hoping to see at least one of my fellow people. #Latino #MiRaza 10. Activities: No mini-golf? Missed opportunity. 11. Room privacy: The blinds didn’t close all the way. Had I not changed in the bathroom, my “hot bod” could’ve been a free show. 12. Phone book nostalgia: Found a Yellow Pages from 2013. Fun trip down memory lane, but maybe update it? Half those numbers probably belong to ghosts now. 13. Coffee tragedy: The Folgers machine nearly scalded me. Then the powdered creamer looked suspiciously like crushed Tums tablets. Might want to check those expiration dates. --- Final thoughts: Between the Flintstone mattress, the single-cheek shampoo, and the Tums creamer, this stay was one for the books. Would I come back? Only if the Wi-Fi reaches the room and the toilet paper stops waging war on my butt.

I had a pool pass. The place was empty. I had a lovely swim for at least 20 min. The water was refreshing, not overly warm. The place could use some cleaning/painting. It felt like an abandoned gem. The geodesic dome is really nice from the water

Really enjoyed my stay. Room was HUGE. It's very quiet .it's old school and cozy. This is where I like to stay , instead of modern boring hotels that are popping up everywhere . Parking is very convenient . Friendly staff. Clean, beds and sheets are so comfortable . The room is spacious and at a great price.

Had a great time and haven't been there since the 70s. The rooms are dated but it was great overall just because it brought back memories as it child going on vacation and staying there with my family. It would be nice to say all of the rooms updated like some of them had been renovated but the ones we were in if there was any renovation done it was very minimal. Thank you for the wonderful stay and the wonderful memories but I had staying there with my sister and I traveling to Florida.

What a great place! I just found out that I am actually related to the family who started this vineyard. The husband and wife were my grandfather's aunt and uncle. How cool! This was our first time visiting it and it is an absolutely beautiful place. The vineyard itself is beautiful, the pond offers fishing, there are cabins you can rent and there's a cute gift shop where you can taste some of the wine and juice they make with the Muscadine grapes they grow. It is also a great wedding venue from what I heard.

Nice vineyard out in the country. They have tastings and prices were reasonable. I'm not a fan of muscadine and scuppernong wine but found something that wasn't too sweet. They even have camping available. Dog friendly outside only.

Very friendly and accommodating. Tasteful sweet wines. Loved our samplings. Definitely approve of Muscadine wine. Lovely gift shop with jellies, sauces and condiments. Answer the phone cheerfully and provide needed information. Amazing buffet included a large food, drink and desert sampling. Wait staff very accommodating. Holiday light show is worth the trip

For me it was like a spiritual experience! I felt close to God as I walked through some of those acres of huge beautiful purple and green grapes. As I picked them I imagined the people in the time when Jesus walked the earth...picking grapes! YES LORD IT WAS AN EXPERIENCE! Thank you Lu Mil Vineyards for the opportunity and Mr. John (one of my neighbors who led me there!)

Very beautiful vineyard. I love the lights during Christmas and I love Mr. & Mrs. Claus! The price was only $10/person. Under 5 is free. When it isn't the holidays this is still a beautiful place to go check out. You can pay to catch and release fish, you can rent one of their beautiful and cozy cabins. You can also check out their gift shop including their delicious wines and juices that they make! 🥰

So, it was OK. I just expect more. We brought dinner back and no utensils. So think hotel not cabin. Also no hair dryer. No daily towels. My biggest peeve! Was all the RULES. We drove from South Florida and I was looking forward to having my parents over (who are local and would have bought a few bottles of wine). But they seem to be strict as they post the rules everywhere!! No this no that… no no no!! Looking for an excuse to charge more!! Beautiful location. No frills no extras. Boring. Staying at the competitor next month. Yeah we come monthly for several days at a time. Their loss. Clean and price is same for anything in the area.

We have had a wonderfully relaxing weekend in the cabin at lu mill. Cabin was spacious and clean. Bed was comfortable. Love the tub!! The only complaint is the water. It smells. Once we took a bath in that awesome tub, it made the room smell like the water. It could be that we are used to city water and this is well water but I would advise anyone to being bottle water. Please stop by the gift shop and get a wine slushy or two! Those are to die for!! Other than that we love it and we will be back!

This place was exceptional. The gentlemen at the front entryway desk were fun to chat with, and John had some great insight into what's in the museum. The pathway to go around the exhibits was great. I suggest giving it a try. Just a side note on your information kiosk is missing a bronze star information on recipients.

great place, no charge, great immersive exhibits. i drove to this on my way home from SC to PA. worth the visit. Super-61's rotor head now rests here. RIP to those men lost that day

🇺🇸🦅ALL gave some 🙏 Some gave ALL🇺🇸🦅 We live in the greatest country of all! The US of A has done more than the entire rest of the world has ever done for other countries and I never forget that my freedoms are not free!

Another of the large museums. Be aware, there are two (special operations) museums one on the base property and one in downtown Fayetteville. Be aware of this sleek programming your GPS. This review is the down town location. Very nice atrium with both a WW2 and a modern paratrooper decending from the overhead. The displays are large and well separated. Since airborne didn't use much armor or other mechanized transport there is a definite lack of such in the museum but it's 100% understandable. The gift shop seemed a bit small and the selection limited. I only found one fridge magnet 🧲 luckily it's one I would have selected anyway. I still rated it a full five stars due to the wonderful use of full size dioramas.

Why did I wait 35 years to visit? It's a great place for families, very informative, well organized and extremely affordable, FREE! ♥️ (Donations are accepted.)

Impressive place, great museum. Really worth visitng. The museum presents hstory of the Airborne troops since its beginning until present times. Very interesting exhibition, including authentic, historical items. It will take some time to visit the museum. It's huge (looks smaller from the outside).

I have visited the Airborne & Special Operations Museum many times over the years and it never disappoints. They always maintain the displays in this museum so well and clean. Even though the museum is free of charge, they do have 2 donation bins, so please make sure you donate if you're able too... So if you ever find yourself in Fayetteville, North Carolina and you're looking for something to do. Pay a visit to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum to make memories, meanwhile learning of the sacrifices our soldiers have endured and their achievements. At this beautiful museum full of Airborne & Special Operations military history. Thanks to the Staff and Museum employees, that do such an amazing job maintaining such a great museum.

I’ve been here numerous times and I love it during the springtime. This time my husband wasn’t able to attend with us, but the baby loved the trees, flowers, green grass and the cute little family of ducks/geese that we saw today! It’s clean, well kept and beautiful. It’s one of the best places in Fayetteville. It doesn’t even feel like you’re in Fayetteville-it’s peaceful and there’s so many different types of plants, trees, and flowers. 10/10 recommend!

Very beautiful. I really like that there were very tall trees in a garden, lots of both well maintained and non maintained grounds. The loving pergola is majestic. Wish it had a better maintained surroundings because it's very beautifully made by both plants and people.

Very lovely botanical garden! Love that it is all outside and that you can take your time, at your own pace. Loved that they had trails that took you all over the grounds and down near the river. If you love being outside and being one with nature, then I would HIGHLY recommend coming here!! Would definitely be coming back next time I am in the area.

We went for the Halloween event and it was beautiful. We got lucky and the weather was absolutely perfect for walking around at night. They had thousands of lights and some really impressive decorations, especially the themed skeletons. Even though it was a little busy there was plenty of room to move through the gardens and enjoy all the extra activities they offered for kids to have a great time. I definitely will go back if they have a Christmas event and next Spring/summer to see the flowers and trees. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the Halloween event.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden was the unexpected enchanted forest detour we didn’t know we needed after a long highway haul. Just minutes off the road and suddenly—you’re strolling through winding paths, towering trees, and fields that seem sprinkled with fairy dust (or maybe it was just all the butterflies fluttering around like tiny tour guides). If you’re looking to stretch your legs without the crowds and chaos, this place is pure magic. It’s quiet, calming, and full of surprises around every leafy corner. Bridges! Blooms! A gazebo that looks like it came from a storybook! Even the bathrooms were pristine—which, let’s be honest, is a rare and glorious find during a road trip with a toddler. So grateful we stopped. If we lived closer, we’d be back every weekend with walking shoes, snacks, and butterfly nets (for admiration only, of course). 🌿🦋

I had the opportunity to plan an event at CFBG. My clients and I worked with Brian Tyler. He was responsive to every need we had throughout the 14 month planning process for our mutual client. I would recommend this location to clients for future events and would be glad to work with Brian as well!

Fabulous gardens! Coming from Ohio I was in absolute heaven seeing all of the fearured plants/bushes/trees/etc!!! Kids can see frogs, fish and several other animals. I LOVE gardenias!

Iam so glad I found this little zoo! It was such a fun experience for the adults and kids in our group! We also decided to do the animal encounter with a baby kangaroo. Even with the little lack of communication we received regarding the experience, we still had such a great time. And the team member who was with us for the encounter was so knowledgeable and willing to answer all our questions! Also the pricing is phenomenal for the experience you get!

This place was so fun!! We originally showed up to do the drive thru safari. However, once we arrived, we saw the drive thru was closed due to them getting ready for their Christmas drive thru. We didn’t know what to expect but we ended up just doing the walk thru safari. We loved it!!! They have all kinds of animals and you can pet kangaroos and feed donkeys, ostriches, giraffes, etc. We were a group of 4 adults so this place isn’t just for kids. Highly recommend and we can’t wait to come back to do the drive thru safari!

second time going here and i can say , the later you go the better (during the week) went an hour before they closed on thursday and only two other groups walking around !! i feel like you can see more animals and even spend more time with the ones you like , without having everyone else close and by you (not in a mean way) !! the workers are nice and friendly as well … one of the best smaller zoos perfect for younger kids … took my one year old daughter for her birthday and she loved it (espically the cows) !!

Nice staff. The park is nice and appropriately sized. A bit expensive, however it includes the drive through experience which is awesome. It’s be nice if there was a little more ability to have interactions with the animals, not full on animal encounters, but just like petting the goats or something.

First time at Aloha Safari Park, I actually enjoyed myself. I'm glad I paid for a cup to feed the Barnyard animals that was actually the highlight of my visit. I enjoyed looking at all the animals of course but as a hands-on person I really enjoyed feeding the Barnyard animals the most. The giftshop had great souvenirs if you like buying something as a memory item. All and all I had a great time!

We did not like this experience. To each their own. The exhibits were random, completely different species exhibits were beside each other in a cramped barn. We will not be returning. The loud Christmas music on November 1st really annoyed us. The staff were more busy setting up Christmas decorations (once again on November 1st) than fixing broken fences that almost fell on my toddlers near the emu exhibit. It’s giving consumerism and only caring about making a dollar. The whole zoo just seemed RANDOM?? The animals seemed stressed out. Particularly the monkeys and tigers. The animals in general did not have much space to roam and the conditions seemed pretty bleak. I wouldn’t waste the money to attend it. First “zoo” I have went to that I genuinely felt bad for the animals. Felt like a Netflix tiger king exhibit to be honest.

A Hidden NC Gem for Families We had the most amazing time at Aloha Zoo in Cameron this week — it felt like we had the entire place to ourselves! From the moment we arrived, our toddlers were wide-eyed with excitement, and the fun didn’t stop. We explored exhibits featuring monkeys, hyenas, tigers, crocodiles, giraffes, and so many other animals — each one more fascinating than the last. A highlight for our little ones (and us!) was getting to feed the animals — it’s such an interactive, up-close experience that they’ll be talking about for a long time. But hands down, the most unforgettable part was the drive-through safari. Where else can a camel stick its head through your car window and nearly steal your taco bowl? This zoo is a perfect, family-friendly adventure with a personal, welcoming feel. Highly recommend it for anyone looking for a fun, memorable day trip. We’ll definitely be back!

EDIT: This place is falling apart fast. Not only do they not have enough seating, but the kitchen is in a complete state of disarray. We waited 35 minutes for the 1st of our appetizers to come out and we got stone cold cauliflower bites. We never saw our pretzel, and were probably an hour away from seeing our main courses. The waitress had told us the table in the corner had waited 2 hours for their food and that people in the kitchen were creating plates "like tetris." Needless to say we went to another restaurant in the Fuquay area and was served immediately since it was 8:30 at night. This place is a breathe of fresh air in the Fuquay-Varina area. Awesome beers, food and ambiance. The band was great too!

Going through some growing pains but I'm excited about the new venue up and running at full capacity! The Hanger Bar has live music 6 days a week. The outdoor bar as well as the Speak Easy Whiskey Bar are officially open and the Breakfast/Brunch restaurant should be opened in a couple of weeks. I can't wait for the amphitheatre and airplane bar to be completed!

What a disappointment! First visited Aviator about 15 years ago and we were excited to visit this new location. Our server (Eric? He was wearing a safari hat, sunglasses and a beard) was uninformed and lazy. We were there Sunday, 28 Sept 2025 at 1245pm. We were a party of 7. My wife, who has a dairy allergy asked our server "can you accommodate my dairy allergy?" He replied 'No." So, she was the only one that didn't eat. We've been to numerous restaurants and breweries that serve food and most of the time they try to find something on the menu she can eat. Or, at the very least, a uninformed/untrained server, will go to the kitchen or manger and ask! Additionally, when I asked him his opinion of two beers I was considering he said "I don't drink beer." I awarded two stars because I enjoyed the Porter and Octoberfest beer I had, and it is a very nice complex. A couple of us ordered the wings and both agreed they were dry. If we hadn't been with 5 others, we would have left after we realized the server was useless. Would NOT go back.

Cooks really dropped the ball, had to wait 20+ minutes for a server. Then ordered drinks no problem there. Ordered food thats where we have issues. Nachos came out burnt. Wife's philly came out so salty and my entree of tacos came out where I had hair in my mouth. I've seen better days of this place but not today need new head chef.

Excellent craft beer and everything I have tried was really good. Friendly staff and quick service. Prices are reasonable. Nice place well maintained

If you’re looking for a fantastic experience at Aviator Brewing Tap House & Kitchen, look no further! From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the perfect tone for a great evening. One of the standout features of my visit was the bartender, Jason. His attentiveness was exceptional; he seemed to anticipate my needs before I even had to ask. Not only was he friendly, but his knowledge of the menu and the various brews on tap was impressive. Jason took the time to recommend a few selections based on my tastes, and his passion for the craft really shone through. I also indulged in their wings and a wedge salad, both of which were absolutely delicious. The wings were perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of spice, and the wedge salad was fresh and flavorful, topped with a delightful dressing. To wash it down, I tried their cream soda, which was a refreshing complement to my meal. The selection of craft beers was diverse, catering to all palates, whether you’re a hophead or prefer something smoother. Each drink I tried was expertly curated and delicious. The food menu also complemented the drinks perfectly, making it hard to choose just one item. Overall, my experience at Aviator Brewing Tap House & Kitchen was nothing short of exceptional, thanks in large part to Jason's outstanding service. If you’re in the area, make sure to stop by and enjoy the fantastic brews, delicious food, and welcoming environment. This place has definitely earned a spot on my must-visit list! Cheers!

Wow, went to the hanger. Nice facility. Beer was good. Ordered a Ruben with pastrami. No Thousand island dressing, Very slim on the Pastrami. The kitchen runner did a great job bringing food out, but none of the waiters or bartenders linked up with him on exactly where the food needed to go. Will try again! Thanks

This site was interesting. We drove the self drive tour which is very nice. Some signs are hard to read but we downloaded the app and listened to the info from that. Each stop was so interesting. Even my 9 year old son was into it. The visitor center has a great 15 minute video to watch and a small exhibit and gift shop. We were there for about 2 hours. Could have probably spent another hour if we really took our time. I’m so glad we made the stop here, it turned out to even more than we expected. The staff was also friendly and they do a great job. You can also do a. Tour of the house. We skipped that.

Went there to take part in the 160th anniversary of the battle. It was a great experience. I got to revisit the spot where my 2nd great uncle John W. Bogardus, 21st MI infantry was killed. He was 21 years old on March 19th, 1865.

There is a small visitors center with some very nice displays. Here you will find all the information needed to get around the battlefield either by foot or car. The walking trails are nice and take you through a variety of terrain. All of the sites are well-marked and easy to navigate through.

If you are looking for a small site seeing opportunity near here, GO! So interesting to see this history of our great country and the people here are so nice and know all about it and dont look at you funny for asking weird questions! We are local and will be going back when its not as hot to see more!

I've drove past this site 100 times and finally stopped. Despite the 100 degrees weather, it was fantastic. I had no idea of the history of this battle, not how big it was. I'll return on the Fall when I can spend more time without melting.

The largest historic battlefield in NC. It's quite interesting place with a bloody past. The farms are owned by the park but leased to local farmers. There are unknown Confederate soldiers' graves and nearby there's the Harper family's enclosed cemetery. The walking trails are pretty easy and shaded under tall trees most part. I'd assume that trails could get muddy when rains.

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.

It’s places like this that make me obsessed with our home. We tried Gregory Vineyards for the first time today, and did some grape picking and had dinner at the restaurant. Blown away with the charm of this place, the value, and the service. Our waitress, Bailey, was amazing and very welcoming. We will 100% be returning, and bringing family from out of town! I’m already planning our next visit

We had a great time on our first wine tasting at Gregory vineyards, Nate was very knowledgeable about the wines we tried and made this Mother’s Day weekend very enjoyable - Will be back again!

Went for the wine tasting. We didn't eat dinner at the reasturant. Very nice place with good views. The wines were good, alot of them on the sweeter side. I would not recommend the cheese plate. A few Ritz crackers and slices of cheese for 6 dollars. Our waitress for the wine tasting was friendly, professional and very good.

I would HIGHLY recommend this vineyard! Great wine and food as well as friendly staff and owners. The wine tour is fun and educational. The chairs by the lake make it a perfect weekend to sit in the sun or walk around the vines. If you go do a tasting, I suggest Tasha!

My first time visiting and I was delighted. Teresa and her husband are so hospitable. The wine selection is tasty from dry to sweet and every bottle had a story behind it. Nate was an awesome waiter and the food was delicious. I will be sure to visit again.

Normally we get some awesome seafood to go but today my granddaughter and I went grape 🍇 picking. We had fun until she got attacked by ants. Wear the right shoes to protect yourself. Buy some of their wine on your way out.

I came here on a Friday afternoon for wine tasting and it was just me there. The set up for wine tasting is way different then what I'm use to. Since it's a winery and a restaurant you do the tasting in the dining room area at a table and the server brings a different bottle out one at a time. The wines were sweet but not overly like most muscadine wines. Had some pretzels to enjoy while tasting. The Brady wines was pretty cool too, never had those before. A brought a bottle to enjoy while taking in the views. The property itself is very pretty , will have to go back and visit and maybe try the food.

If you are a true classic movie and Ava Gardner fan, you'll enjoy seeing bits of Hollywood history here. Please visit and support this lovely museum.

Wonderful museum to visit. Museum curator was very knowledgeable of Ava Gardeners life and death. Great place to visit.

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.

A fine museum highlighting and celebrating the glamorous and gorgeous Ava Gardner. It goes through her life and work and tells her story. It's wonderful that this museum exists and is dedicated to the most famous actress to come out of North Carolina.

I knew a few things about Ava Gardner going in as a classic film fan. It's a shame she's not as well known as her male counterparts like Mickey Rooney, Clark Gable, Gregory Peck, Frank Sinatra etc. Movie posters, costumes and even clothes from her off screen life are on display. Lady selling tickets was very knowledgeable and said Ava's niece still loved in town.

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.

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.

Very nice park! I go here every other month to just walk along their trails! It’s very well kept the only downside is when it rains the trails get flooded so I’m not able to walk anymore 😔 BUT other than that it’s very beautiful and I 100% recommend for a nice walk! 🤗 also there was a squirrel just eating his food so close to me and my bf I had to take a picture!

This is a cool place for family outing and usually nice place to swim and boat. Unfortunately this year you can't swim in the lake but you can in the river. Camping is really cool and we love going there. It's a must see and great for families to spend time together camping

Very nice, peaceful walking trails. Some more difficult than others, but they are accurately labeled accordingly. Made for a very pleasant afternoon.

Great trails! Safe area, great for exercise, clean bathrooms, dog “parking” area with bowls for water. I haven’t gone swimming or kayaking here but know many who have enjoyed doing so.

Cliffs of the Neuse was wonderful! Staff took care of the property with love and pride for the park. The camp sites, bathhouses and hiking trails were clean and well kept. Every staff member we came in contact with from the camp store, swim lake, and janitorial staff greeted us with a smile. I can't wait to get back for another camping adventure!💚

Beautiful and scenic park right outside the city of Goldsboro. Very nice trails and camping sites. Cabins, full hookup RV sites, and tent sites all available.

My husband and I come here often to walk the trails. Great place to camp also!! And if you’re lucky, you come across some wildlife!

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.

Easy to get to, plenty of parking...l go early to avoid any crowds. Went for running shoes at Rack Room Shoes. Buy one get one half price. I find New Balance to be comfortable and longer lasting than other running shoes.

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.

I came, I glanced, I conquered (my wallet). Carolina Premium Outlets doesn’t just sell stuff — it magically seduces your senses, your credit card, and your impulse to say, ‘Yes, I definitely need that.’ From the moment the sun crept over the parking lot it whispered, ‘Come. Be fashionably flawed. Embrace the markdown.’ And so I did. Every store beckoned. Coach winked at me. Nike high-fived me. Bath & Body Works tempted me with scents so intoxicating I nearly brought one home for my mailbox. I rounded the corner into Bose and nearly kissed the speaker — the sound was that delightful. At the Pretzel stand, Auntie Anne’s coaxed me with warm doughy promises. Dairy Queen sang sweet siren calls of frozen creamy joy. The layout is so intuitive that my feet (rebelling though they were) followed a perfect pathway through deals and steals. They don’t just show “outlet” — they deliver out-let (as in, letting me out with more stuff). I left with more bags than I came with. I left also with a lightness in my soul (and a slight wobble in my pocketbook). But mostly, I left saying: 5 stars + one more.

Stopped by on the way home. My husband fell on the sidewalk because folks would not move over to let people pass along on the sidewalk safely. I could not find a security guard for medical supplies or anyone checking the area to ensure the mall was safe and accommodating. Will probably avoid this mall in the future.

I luv this store so many unique items!! The customer service is exceptional especially Monique she was so helpful and knew the store inside out!! She also made great suggestions to what I was looking for!! I can’t wait to go back and do my Christmas shopping!!

I went to this place called DeWayne's. First time ever in the store and it was amazing. I had no idea they had that much stuff and the prices were very reasonable. Got some good blueberry plants for 50% off

I saved this location in maps to explore one day with my children and all I can say is WOW!! This park is absolutely beautiful! From the ground being well kept and fun to walk around to the different types of parks to play in based on age. We didn't get to experience the paddle boats because we arrived a little later than expected but the train and carousel were a lot of fun and only $2 a person, ya'll!! We're already looking forward to going back again soon... Thank you to all of the staff as well for being helpful and friendly when needed!

This park is so cute. You have a very cheap train ride for the kids. A nice quick loop around the water with a gorgeous fountain at the center and a couple of bridges crossing the water. There is some food and drinks too and a small playground as well. I believe they have paddle boats but only during the weekends and in good weather. Definitely a great place to go alone or with family and pets!

Pullen Park is such a charming and family-friendly spot in Raleigh! The park is beautifully maintained with scenic walking paths shaded by tall trees, plus a peaceful pond that makes for a relaxing stroll. It’s well organized and offers plenty of activities that children and adults alike will enjoy. We had planned to try the pedal boats, but since they’re only available on weekends, we opted for the train ride instead. The train was a delightful experience and a fun way to see more of the park while enjoying the breeze. Although the day was a bit too hot for us to stay long, we still had a wonderful time. On a cooler day, this would be the perfect place to spend hours enjoying the outdoors, picnicking, or simply exploring. Overall, Pullen Park is a gem in the area and a must-visit for families. We can’t wait to return! Cheers 🥂

They have a great playground for different ages. Very fun to be able to take a train ride and a ride on the carousel. $2 a ticket per person its not a bad price. We didn't get to do any other rides but I would recommend visiting. Feels very safe

Took my kiddos here who are 8 and 9. They did have a lot of fun. I’d say it’s geared more for younger. But they still had a blast! Road the train multiple times, played at the parks and did the carousel. We got lunch at the cafe, which everyone loved. Was very clean and well kept all over. We had fun just wondering and looking.

One of the oldest parks in Raleigh. Carousel, train, little boats to ride, Caboose, and paddle boats. Paddle boats are seasonal. Cafe with outdoor seating. Great place to spend morning or late afternoon. Nostalgia

We’ve visited Pullen Park a few times now, and overall it’s a beautiful, family-friendly place. Parking can be hit or miss — sometimes easy, other times tough to find a spot. During one visit, we did feel uneasy watching a few young men in safety vests handing out “where to park” flyers while pushing and shoving each other near the entrance. On weekends, especially Saturdays, the park is much busier than weekday mornings. During our latest visit on Friday, Nov 7th, we didn’t realize the train was closed for an event, which was disappointing, but we did get to ride the carousel again. It opened a bit late due to maintenance, which was understandable, and the staff were kind and professional. The carousel itself is always a highlight — clean, well maintained, and a nice length of ride. The park grounds are beautiful and make for a perfect spot to celebrate with family, enjoy a picnic, or just unwind with a book under the trees.

The North Carolina Museum of Art is an outstanding cultural destination that blends art, nature, and community. The permanent collection is beautifully curated, offering a wide range of works from European classics and African art to modern and contemporary pieces. Each gallery is spacious, thoughtfully arranged, and enhanced with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. The museum park is equally impressive, with miles of walking and biking trails accented by large-scale outdoor sculptures. It provides a unique opportunity to enjoy art in a natural setting, making the museum experience extend beyond the building itself. Staff and volunteers are consistently friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming, which adds to the overall positive experience. Another highlight is that admission to the permanent collection is free, making the museum highly accessible to the public while still offering high-quality exhibitions and events. Overall, the North Carolina Museum of Art sets a high standard for museums in the region. It is a place where art and community intersect in a meaningful way, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting or living in North Carolina.

This is a beautiful art museum! And it’s free. Except for some special exhibits. But the large portion of it is free. And stunning. The building itself is beautiful and they have some wonderful pieces. I was not expecting for this place to be so big. I will be back.

Absolutely love the NC Museum of Art! The galleries are stunning, the curation is top-notch, and the mix of classic and modern art keeps every visit exciting. The outdoor sculpture park is HUGE and feels like stepping into an open-air art adventure especially with cool installations like the Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky, which feels almost magical when the live sky appears inside. The café is pricey but delicious. Can’t believe admission to the main collection is free because the experience feels world-class. If you’re in Raleigh, this place is a must-visit. I’d give it more than 5 stars if I could!

This is an amazing museum and we didn’t get to explore all of it because of how huge it is. We love art so we spent about 3 hours walking around learning & looking at African American art, European art, WWII art, Christian art, and many more other powerful artistic pieces with a historical background. The museum is absolutely free to explore which is great but no food and drinks inside the place. There’s about 2-3 different buildings to go into.

The free night event was wonderful. Plenty of exhibits . A variety of mediums. A quiet ,clean friendly atmosphere and plenty of on-site parking. The special exhibit...The book of Esther was informative and well put together. The African American exhibit was full of color and very eye-catching. The various mediums (wood, wire, paper, metal)will keep a person intrigued. There are benches throughout for time to reflect or just rest. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. There is a gift shop with a variety of items for sell such as books, jewelry, artwork and trinkets. There is also a dress up photo opportunity near the book of Esther exhibit.

Not to be missed art museum. I have seen many art museums in the world, I shall consider this as one the best viewer friendly museums. Everything is explained in English. Not very huge one but collections very good. Saw special exhibit on Rembrandt era’s collection on ‘ Book of Esther - very unusual. Whole museum is free except special exhibits. Do not miss cafe

Great experience with a plethora of art from different time periods. I would recommend designating ample time to really soak in all the pieces. The staff was present and available for any questions as well. I would definitely revisit.

This museum blew us away! It's definitely the best museum we've ever been to, and definitely worth the money and the trip to Raleigh. The entrance fee is incredibly reasonable compared to other museums, making it even more attractive. The place is truly fun and educational. The innovative hands-on exhibits are fantastic, engaging kids of all ages. We loved the award-winning programs and the larger-than-life movies. It's a perfect blend of entertainment and learning, perfect for kids and those young at heart. Highly recommended!

Went here on a field trip and it was the best thing ever! I really enjoy how many activities the establishment had, and how they welcome everyone no matter what. Even as a child, or even as an adult, you can come here and enjoy yourself and just have a good time in general. 5/5 stars! My favorite part was definitely the origami portion!

Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh is a wonderful place for children to explore, learn, and have fun through hands-on play. The exhibits are creative, educational, and designed to engage kids of all ages — from toddlers to school-age children. Every section encourages imagination and curiosity, whether it’s the water play area, the pretend town, or the science and building exhibits. The museum is clean, well-organized, and staff members are friendly and helpful. The IMAX theater is an added bonus, making it a complete family experience. It’s a perfect destination for families, school trips, or weekend fun. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Raleigh.

This is definitely a wonderful place for kids to explore their their motor skills, creativity and imagination. I absolutely love all the areas and outdoor activities. My 2-year-old and 4-year-old had a ball. However, it was frustrating that the staff has little to no input or comments when rules aren't being followed and most of the parents are on their phone instead of attending to their child. Seemed like a drop off daycare where the kids went wild and the parents tuned out. We love the sensory room because my 4-year-old is on the spectrum and needed to calm down a little. However was unable to do so because even with posted signs it was treated as if any other room. Staff came in as part of a tour yet failed to tell the two phone parents in the room the purpose of the room. But we find this anywhere. There is so much for the children to do. Just make sure you're a parent that participates with your child instead of holding up the wall while your child pushes Littles

My husband and I were on the fence about going here. I wish we would have came earlier! Our 2 year old had so much fun and would have loved to stay longer. Endless opportunities for pretend play, sensory activities, creative works, and physicality! This place has so much opportunity to create impactful and bonding moments with your child. Wish we had this in Detroit!

I took my daughter here even though I wasn't sure how much she would be able to do. She just turned 2 but because of a genetic disorder, her mobility is very limited for her age. I was so incredibly impressed with how inclusive this museum was. We LOVED the quiet sensory rooms where she could play at her own pace without big kids making it unsafe. We were having so much fun that we didn't even realize there was a 2nd floor until we were about to leave, so then we stayed longer to play with the big legos! Thank you for putting so much thought into this museum. This is a dream come true for a mama of a special needs kid! I wish I had something this amazing where I live. Bonus points for having a "tasted toys" bin to keep everything sanitary. Part of my daughter's disorder makes her want to put everything in her mouth, so we returned A LOT of toys lol

This is one of the best children’s museums that I have ever been to. The people are nice and fantastic. It’s ultra clean and there are exhibits and different spaces to keep the kids entertained for hours and hours and hours. You could honestly spend all day here and still not cover everything. Also, it’s very reasonably priced.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh is an absolute gem and a must-visit! When we went, they were hosting a special blue whale exhibition, and it was jaw-dropping. Seeing the enormous skeleton up close for the first time was unforgettable—it really gave us perspective on how massive and magnificent these ocean giants are. The museum has plenty more to explore, too. We loved roaming through the dinosaur exhibit, where life-sized displays and fascinating details bring prehistoric times to life. Standing next to those towering models was both humbling and exciting. One of the best parts is that general admission is donation-based, so you can explore the museum at no set cost, making it accessible for everyone. If you’d like to add something extra, they also offer 3D movies at a very reasonable price: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, students, and military with ID, $4 for children, and $3 for members. It’s a fun way to dive deeper into science and nature. Overall, our visit was fascinating, family-friendly, and inspiring. We’ll definitely return to see future exhibits and enjoy more of what this incredible museum has to offer. Cheers! 🥂

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the best science museum we’ve ever visited! The first thing that impressed me was that the entire main area is free — no tickets are needed to explore all four floors. You only need to buy tickets for special exhibitions or movies. I’ve never seen such a wonderful free science museum before! Out of appreciation, I bought tickets for all three movies and the Blue Whales exhibit for three people — and even with that, it wasn’t expensive at all, just a little over $90. The museum is so diverse and interesting that we spent the whole day there and still didn’t see everything. You definitely need at least two days to explore it fully. There’s a café on the 4th floor that was full of visitors. The menu doesn’t really offer much for healthy eaters, so we skipped it, but it’s a great spot for a quick snack, especially for kids. On the 4th floor there’s also a bridge that connects to another building of the museum — it opens up to a huge laboratory area that was amazing to see. We’re still impressed! The museum has two gift shop areas, but honestly, the museum itself is much more exciting and full of variety than the shops. There are restrooms on every floor, plus escalators and elevators, so it’s accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is an amazing place to visit. There are so many interesting exhibits for both kids and adults, and the best part is that admission is completely free! The museum is clean, well organized, and full of fascinating displays about nature and science. Parking is also free on weekends, which makes it even better. Highly recommend for a family visit or a weekend trip!

What a delightful place to visit! We enjoyed ourselves from the moment we entered, until the time we left. There's lots of floors to visit. You can also walk across the bridge and visit the multiple floors at the other part of the museum! You can easily spend a few hours here, learning so many things!

The Raleigh Science Center is an amazing place for all ages! It’s packed with interactive exhibits that make learning fun and hands on. Right now, they have an incredible Blue Whale exhibit that’s definitely worth seeing. Whether you’re into space, biology, or technology, there’s something exciting to explore. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help or answer questions. I especially loved the planetarium shows truly out of this world! Highly recommend visitors to Raleigh to stop by and boost their experience while you’re in town. Perfect for family trips or a fun day out with friends!

I really enjoyed my visit to this museum. The place is huge and super clean, which made walking around really nice. The staff were all friendly and professional, and there was a ton to see and do. One of the highlights for me was the dinosaur areas, they're really well put together, with some awesome skeletons and tons of interesting info for both kids and adults. The pictures are just a little bit of the areas, you've gotta check out all the floors Whether you're into science, history, or just want something fun to explore, this place has something for everyone. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is absolutely fantastic for all ages. From towering dinosaurs and mammoths to exhibits on rocks, whales, and North Carolina’s plants and animals, there’s truly something for everyone. Many of the displays are interactive, making it both educational and fun. The museum is huge—you could easily spend several hours exploring everything. Best of all, admission is completely free, which makes it an incredible value. A must-visit if you’re in Raleigh!

Entry is free and you can easily spend all day here. Huge wide range of items to examine on display from lots of different eras. An immensely interesting collection and a must-visit in Raleigh, the pictures I've added don't even scratch the surface, there's so much to view here!

Unfortunately, the only floor that was open was the first floor as they will be closing in one month so that they can do a three-year renovation. The good thing is it was free and very interesting as I have not been to Raleigh North Carolina before. It was a good two hour walk-through of the complete history from Neolithic days up until now. I do look forward to the reopening in three years to see what they can come up with I’m sure it will be much better.

Brought my family here for a visit and we had a great time. Every time we visit, there is a new amazing experience. My son enjoys learning from the staff and stations set up throughout the museum. Looking forward to coming back and learning more!

This museum is free, has restrooms, gift shops, and a cafe that is sometimes open. The parking lot near it charges cash and about $2 per hour. The museum is great, there is so much to see, there are about 4 floors and 2 buildings. It is fantastic for kids and adults. There are live animals and insects as well. There are also films in both buildings. The fun demonstrations and activities are usually done on weekends but a weekday is nice and calm if you don't like being around too many people. The museum has animals, plants, insects, rocks, wood, and dinosaurs. You will spend at least 2 hours here but could easily spend 4.

It is a very well maintained museum. The staff were very friendly, had a great time seeing all the exhibits from olden times maintained in the best way possible. And it's open to the public for free, but you can do your part by offering small donations. My favorites were a couple of exhibits with houses and rooms which were about 150 years old and also a few exhibits where they recreated models of scenes from the past, the one I have in my pics. This is a good place to learn and feel the history of North Carolina. Overall, time well spent at the museum.

Free to enter and really interesting. Gives you the history of North Carolina. Give yourself at least 2 to 3 hours to get through it. They have some old houses in there too from the past which were really cool. Go before October of this year because they are about to shut down for renovation.

Cool free thing to do while in town. The lady at the help desk was helpful and gave a brochure explaining each level and also how to get tickets to a current special attraction they had going on. Took my dad and my son. There were interactive displays that caught both of their eyes. So much to learn: went on a Monday so it wasn’t a big crowd which I loved cause no rushed feeling. The sports area upstairs was pretty small with a few highlights that my son enjoyed. We all learned a lot which was the goal. On street parking was available close by.

Town management is killing this beautiful little town . Never seen such incompetence in a town council and mayor in my life .

Not very welcoming. Parking is a real challenge. Mainly taverns and Brewerys

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.

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.

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

Love our downtown area! It feels like you've gone back in time. Lots of fun restaurants and some cute shops.

I went to the lake and it was very nice and family friendly

🌟 Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park: Where Art Catches the Wind 🌟 If you’re ever in Wilson, NC, and feel like you could use a bit more whimsy in your life (and honestly, who couldn’t?), Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is the place to be. It’s like walking into a Dr. Seuss book—if Seuss had a fascination with recycled metal and wind-powered art. The park is a dazzling display of massive, kinetic sculptures made from old road signs, bicycle parts, and who-knows-what-else, all spinning and clanking together in mesmerizing harmony. It’s equal parts art gallery, junkyard symphony, and open-air carnival. You can’t help but stare at these quirky giants as they twirl and clatter in the breeze—it’s oddly therapeutic. There are benches and open green spaces perfect for a lazy afternoon. Plus, the park hosts events and concerts, which means you can enjoy live music with a side of whirling wonder. And bonus points: it’s free to visit, making it the most affordable way to have your mind blown by a bunch of glorified weathervanes. ⭐️ Pro Tip: Visit at sunset—the golden hour lighting makes the sculptures look like they’re auditioning for a fantasy movie. If you’re looking for a place that’ll make you grin like a kid and ponder the creative potential of scrap metal, Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is a must-see. Just don’t be surprised if you leave with a sudden urge to build a wind-powered masterpiece in your backyard.

We love this place. New to NC and we enjoy finding cute little gems throughout the state. Not very busy, with a cute little arcade and bar across the street. I took my daughter and her best friend, then I took my mom and all three of my children. We had so much fun!!! Nice and clean, when windy it can blow up a bit of dust, so a face mask isn't bad. The kids laughed ran and played while learning the names of the different mills. Can't wait to revisit.

I recently visited Whirligig Park in Wilson, NC with my grandson, and it was an unforgettable experience for both of us. The park is unlike anything we’ve ever seen — a vibrant, open-air display of massive kinetic sculptures created by the late folk artist Vollis Simpson. Each whirligig is a masterpiece of motion and imagination, spinning and turning with the wind, catching light in the most mesmerizing way. My grandson was absolutely fascinated, running from one sculpture to the next, pointing out all the quirky details and asking questions about how they worked. It was a perfect mix of fun, learning, and wonder. What really stood out to me was how accessible and family-friendly the park is. There’s plenty of space to walk, shaded seating areas, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to slow down and take it all in. The park is beautifully maintained and sits right in the heart of downtown Wilson, where we also enjoyed a snack at a nearby café after our visit. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking to enjoy something truly unique, Whirligig Park is a must-see. It’s an inspiring place that celebrates creativity, community, and North Carolina’s rich artistic spirit. Highly recommend!

Whimsical, delightful display of the wonderful whirligigs made over the years by Vollis Simpson. Love that the community came together to create this park and make it free for all to see and enjoy. Definitely worth a stop to marvel and smile at the ingenuity of the wonderful folk art. Yes they really do move in the breeze.

We did a Wawa visit and then drove here with our toddlers to see the spinning whirligigs. They have an open grass park in the center, ample parking and then you look up and see all the spinning whirligig pieces made from metal, scraps, etc. I had no idea what a whirligig was and my friend suggested we visit. It is a great stop in Wilson to be outside and admire spinning and colorful art in the sky.

My absolute favorite place in Wilson!!! Sunsets are always beautiful here & I love that it’s dog friendly! I’ll take my kids to throw the ball a bit or just hang around and play.

Lovely park with so much to see and do! Wear comfortable shoes!

The pictures don't do this place justice. We stopped here in the middle of a 9-hour drive. So we only had 1.5 hours to spare. We will need to come again to see it all again. 3 hours would be more realistic. My kids are 9,7, and 5. And they didn't complain once. We just read "Laura Ingalls Wilder." I'm sure this helped the kids connect to the time period.

I always noticed the highway sign for this site and finally had the opportunity to visit. The visit was well worth it. While the museum architecture is a bit dated, the exhibits are extremely well done. An audio tour is available which provides much context to the exhibits. The audio tour also offers the chance to choose a person who actually participated in the war and follow their story. You learn a lot about the life of average soldiers in a most engaging manner. The museum staff was friendly and the interpreter who spoke about the life and gear of a Union soldier was excellent. The grounds are beautiful with convenient walkways to enable access to the impressive fortifications that survive to this day. This is a wonderful site for kids and history enthusiasts.

Amazing site. It’s is a great history of the battle and the museums are great love the walk through a soldiers experience. The earthworks are a great walk and the recreated trenches are awesome for realization of the battle. It is a must stop for history people and non history people. The plantation and houses show the civilian life as well. And are just as important.

Nice to visit if you have already visited Appomattox. This battle took place one week prior to surrender. Will come back again, to walk the trails.

Very well done park with many exhibits inside and out. I really enjoyed the audio tour which is included with your admission. The Park Staff at the Battlefield Center took the time to provide a great summary of the battle of Petersburg. Definitely take time to enjoy this piece of history.

First rate museum experience! My son and his friend especially enjoyed the presentations and the exhibit audio tour. Well worth the trip. A must for any history buffs.

Great place to explore history! We stayed 5 hours and couldn't do it all! Lots if walking... what an excellent way for history and nature buffs to get their exercise;) the museum is so interesting. And for those who would rather listen than read, the players/ headphones are awesome. So to surmise, thr adult and child alike will enjoy this gem!

Had the most amazing time at the zoo and our added on Hippo experience. McKenna, the woman who lead our experience, was super knowledgeable, fun and kind. She has so many fun facts and was great addition to the experience of seeing and feeding Iris and Poppy. I highly recommend the zoo and the extra experiences. The other animals all were in exhibits that were closer than I was used to which was cool. They’re in the process of building expansions and larger/newer enclosures too so I’ll definitely be back to see that in the future. Thank you again McKenna for such an amazing experience and so much fun in the rain. And for the amazing photos you took of us so we could always remember this adventure!

I had the absolute BEST time at the Richmond Metro Zoo! I went on a Friday in the fall and it was perfect—not crowded at all, which made the whole experience so pleasant. I’ve been to a lot of zoos over the years, but this one truly stands out as my favorite. The variety of animals is incredible, with species from Asia, South America, and Africa. My favorite part was feeding the giraffes—what a special, unforgettable opportunity! The sky lift ride was another highlight, gliding right over zebras and rhinos. And feeding the birds? An absolute riot—I couldn’t stop laughing! Seeing a skunk, komodo dragon, tarantulas, Cappies and cheetahs was amazing! The animals were so unique (so many amazing monkeys!) and clearly well cared for, and the staff was friendly, welcoming, and helpful. Honestly, I had so much fun I didn’t want to leave. If you’re looking for a zoo experience that’s both exciting and memorable, Richmond Metro Zoo is the place to go. Highly recommend!

I went in with low expectations because of Tripadvisor/ reddit reviews but this zoo actually ended up being pretty good. We went on a weekday and it wasnt crowded. Some of the exhibits could be a bit bigger/better, especially for the small primates but many other exhibits were the same size/enrichment Ive seen at multiple AZA zoos. They had multiple babies, which was fun. Over half of the small primate enclosures had a baby. The 6 cheetah cubs were adorable, though a bit hard to see due to distance. The dog/cheetah combined enclosure was something new and i learned that dogs are routinely used as emotional support for cheetahs in zoos. The budgie area was super fun and we went in around 2pm after multiple people already had been. Feeding the giraffes was super fun too. The actual concession stand wasnt crazy overpriced, compared to other zoos Ive been too. My son also really liked the playground next to the food concessions by the petting zoo. It was a bit out of the way for me as we live in Newport News, but we'll likely come back once a year.

My friends and I did the Poppy experience and it was SO WORTH IT. McKenna was super knowledgeable, answered all our questions, and gave us a wonderful experience. Poppy and Iris were out and hungry. It was so much fun to get up close and personal with them. We walked around the rest of the zoo after leaving Hippo Haven and it was such a good time. The zoo has plenty of exhibits and activities for little kiddos to do. I recommend buying tickets in advance since the ticket line looked long when we got there and we were able to breeze through with on-line tickets. This zoo is super fun to go to and the keepers and staff are super friendly. I highly recommend the Metro Richmond Zoo.

We had an amazing time at the Galapagos tortoise experience. McKenzie provided lots of interesting facts and the tortoises were surprisingly friendly and expressive. Always love feeding the giraffes and visiting with the budgies! The new exhibit areas looked wonderful. My son and I had a great afternoon!

I took my Best Friend to feed and visit with Poppy and Iris! It was nice perfect. The guide was so knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. We got to be up close to the adorable Pygmy Hippos in a safe way for both us ans them. They were so sweet! It was super easy to sign up for. 10/10 would recommend!

I really liked going there and I came away with more knowledge than I had. The animals on exhibit all appeared healthy and well kept. Workers were cleaning and tending habitats behind the scenes all over the place. I really liked how close you could be to some of the animals and even feed them. Hopefully the cheetahs can go to other facilities when they're old enough and help repopulate the species. That is the goal of conservation and zoological parks after all. Parking was ample, entry was really easy, it was a beautiful day so I expected it to be more crowded but it was not. I would give this facility 5 star, but I really think they need to update their signage because much was sun faded and some banners tattered. It's the details that people notice when you're taking care of animals. It would be a better impression.

The tour guides were excellent. Very knowledgeable. Answers all questions. The church has a lot of history. Love the history.

As cenetaries go, it's a beautiful one!

The tour guide Ken, was very knowledgeable and engaging. Beautiful and historically amazing!

The center is run by volunteers. There was a tour going on in the church so the center wasn't open when we arrived. We walked around the cemetery and toured the church later. The guide was nice and knowledgeable. We drove around the cemetery later. I'd like to go again sometime and walk around the cemetery more.

Absolutely worth a stop! We had Ken as our guide and he was amazing! Very knowledgeable and took so much time explaining each pane of glass to us! Highly recommend!

If you are into history at all, it's a must see. Our docent, Ed Betts, did a great job of giving us the historical backdrop without going too deeply into the weeds. The Tiffany glass windows and the story behind them are absolutely amazing.

Fabulous history!! Take your and see the church and get the history. Fascinating!!!

Really enjoyed myself with the history and the visitor center was cool

Room my k9 there for an afternoon walk. Very nice place full of history.

Greatly preserved historic site. I loved seeing the cannons. Especially the dictator.

The Park associate was very knowledgeable about park.

The visitor center had a fantastic short movie to watch, along with some very informative exhibits. Start the driving tour from there - lots to see including 'The Crater.'

Staff at the visitors center was very helpful and knowledgeable. This place was so nice to walk around and see all the history. There is so much to see and walk through here it amazing. I love how they’ve preserved what they could and have started to fix some of the things falling apart. Would definitely recommend stopping by and checking them out if you have the time. We only had time to make it through the east half but are going back tomorrow to finish the west half.

One of the most well preserved battlefields I've ever seen, I'm unsure if any of the wooden structures are original or not, but the earth foundations of multiple forts still stand along with countless cannons. The only downside is the the visitors center closes super early.

It was really nice, quiet garden to walk, hang out place. You can picnic or just lay down and take nap! I went here with my husband. We walk to the down to see Japanese garden and Italian garden. We saw a lot of squirrels and deers. It was amazing. I love nature and i like the way they take care of this place except bamboos. Please, take good care of those bamboos! Bamboos symbolize very good fortune. The park/garden was not dog friendly unfortunately. That is why I gave only 3 stars just because bamboos (one of my favorite plant) and I couldn’t bring my well behave dog. I would still recommend this place, family friendly, stuff were friendly. It is also nice date idea. It is a romantic place. Oh, there is a parking lot.

Free, lots of free parking. The mansion is closed under renovation/construction but still had a great time walking around the Japanese and Italian garden. Didn't manage to walk the entire park butvwhat we did was beautiful. Went end of October and still had lots of beautiful colorful flowers. I recommend taking water and snacks.

I’ve been to this place during the day with my kids, and it is absolutely fantastic. It has a huge green meadow, beautiful Japanese gardens, and plenty of deer to watch. Everything is incredibly scenic and peaceful — a perfect way to spend time with kids and family. They also have a great play area, some cool animals, and lots of photogenic spots. I definitely recommend visiting! During the fall, they host a “Glow Night,” which was really awesome and such a fun experience.

Me and a friend stopped here to stretch our legs. Beautiful property. The Italian and Japanese gardens were very pretty. It is hilly so it may be challenging for some. Especially since some of the paths are under construction.

Maymont is a beautiful Park located in Richmond. They have beautiful gardens to walk in. They have lots of animals to pet and feed. The fee is free to get in. They have the garden Glow going on right now. It takes about 90 minutes to walk through the whole thing. We love maymont and we come here about once a month. You can never appreciate the beauty of it enough.

We only went for the Garden Glow experience and arrived pretty late in the night. It was a bit chilly around halloween, but we bundled up and had a great time. The Japanese Garden is a must see experience, I wish we had more time here. We did the hike and unless you have limitations with walking I would suggest it over taking the tram. Overall, it was a great experience and worth the money we spent on it.

Maymont is a must see Richmond landmark and shouldn't be missed. It has beautiful and unique formal gardens, an animal farm, a historic home, a nature center and so much more. Years ago I attended a wedding at the Italian Gardens and it was a beautiful ceremony. The Italian Gardens are right behind the historic mansion. In front of the mansion is a grouping of the most amazing trees that my children loved having a picnic under. Maymont has benches set up under these trees. The fact that admission is free to all of the grounds and the farm area is amazing and quite the gift to Richmond. I hope people appreciate how unique and special this is. Highly recommend this special gem of a place.

This beautiful cemetery offers ample parking, with additional street parking available nearby. Enter through the cemetery gates, go down the hill, and the parking lot is to the right. The best view of the park can be found near Monroe’s mausoleum. The cherry blossoms here are stunning. The park is quiet, peaceful, and perfect for walking.

Peaceful walk… Hollywood Cemetery is a nice spot to walk. The cemetery is big and hilly, offering great views of the James River, downtown Richmond, and a calm environment for exploring its historic grounds. There are different sections to admire the monuments and gravestones, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Beautiful cemetery that has many historical figures and interesting items to see. It was peaceful and quiet. You can easily drive through and follow the blue line on the road as a self guided tour. There are parking areas on the drive or just pull off to road side if you see something interesting. The overview of the river Beautiful.

Absolutely breathtaking. Very peaceful to walk through and spend time admiring centuries of craftsmanship, masonry, and ancestry. Sits overlooking the James River rapids with beautiful trees across the property and the city skyline in the periphery. Lucked out and had 3 whitetail deer stroll alongside me plus a tattered Monarch land on the mausoleum of President Monroe. A beautifully preserved venue that is both humbling and unexpectedly inspiring. I’d consider this a must-see in the Richmond area! There is a lot to explore if you want to walk. Quite a few graded hills so wear comfortable clothes and bring water, a light snack.

This place is rich in history and beauty. An active cemetery and resting place of Soldiers, two presidents, and many loved ones with a few well knowns sprinkled throughout. Overlooks the James River,

Beautiful historic cemetery! The rolling terrain and narrow roadways presented a bit of a challenge, but it's worth it. The views of downtown Richmond and the James River are amazing. And we were able to pay respects to three presidents: Tyler, Monroe, and Davis. In a bit of historical irony, Jefferson Davis's statue faces the Grant family plot!

My husband does Way mlMarking which is an activity which is kind of tied into geocaching. It's locating interesting places. Cemeteries have lots of interesting historical places to waymark. So I've seen a lot of cemeteries. This is one of the top three cemeteries I've ever been to. It is absolutely beautiful. There are so many old trees and interesting structures and memorials. I love the fact there's no plastic flowers or decorations. We met the gentleman who gives the chores and spent time sharing the history of the cemetery with my husband and it really made the visit all that more interesting. We'll be going back soon and next time we plan on taking the tour. It's well worth the visit, even if you're not sure you're into cemeteries. It's just a beautiful place.

If you live near Washington, D.C. and have already explored all the Smithsonian museums, and you're looking to venture a bit farther, this place is worth the trip. It’s not huge, but it offers a thoughtfully curated collection — and best of all, it’s open year-round and completely free. The surrounding scenery is also beautiful, making it a perfect getaway for those who want a peaceful break from the everyday hustle. The current Frida Kahlo exhibition didn’t quite meet my expectations, as it features more writing than artwork, but it’s still worth a visit. This is a museum where you can enjoy the playfulness of surrealism and discover the hidden modernity within ancient art.

There are a lot of great works of art! More Egyptian items than I have seen other places. That was very neat to see. The Faberge eggs were very interesting. I really enjoyed the section with the black walls and the lighting on the paintings. That really made them pop! We also enjoyed the giant paintings!

Wedding Venue: We had an amazing experience planning and hosting our wedding at the VMFA!!! Beth was awesome to work with through the planning process, and wedding weekend. She was kind, helpful, professional, responsive, and we had full confidence in her executing our event! She helped provide all the critical info up front, answered all our questions through the process, provided guidance, vendor suggestions (DJ was amazing), helped coordinate details for some of the other vendors, and overall was a calming presence that put us at ease. The wedding logistics were executed flawlessly, and it was such a nice feeling to be able to have full confidence in Beth and the staff, and truly be able to enjoy the day/evening. The venue itself (Amuse & Claiborne) was perfect, and our guests were raving about it - they enjoyed the different rooms to talk and dance, and enjoyed the patios. The food was incredible (especially the mac and cheese!), we loved having so many options as a part of the station dinner, and guests really liked having the food out all evening. The bar never had a line, everything was efficient, and guest enjoyed the selection. Most importantly, we and our guests noticed and appreciated how every staff member we interacted with was so nice, helpful, and were just a positive addition to our evening. Lastly, we loved all the different outdoor options for pictures, including a private first look in the front of the building. The grounds are so beautiful! Thank you to Beth and the entire VMFA staff for everything they did to make our wedding weekend perfect, smooth, and SO much fun - we are so grateful! We could not have picked a more perfect wedding venue! Note: Photo credit Michael & Laura Photography

I visited the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and absolutely loved it! The Frida Kahlo exhibition was incredible, so inspiring and beautifully curated. The museum itself is spacious and elegant, with a great atmosphere for art lovers. I really enjoyed spending time there, and I’d love to go back to explore more of their collections!

Beautifully curated art spanning every era — from contemporary pieces to works thousands of years old. One of the most impressive art museums I’ve ever experienced, with such depth and volume that you’ll find yourself returning again and again.

This museum is both active and peaceful between the inside and the outside. It's a go-to for me. This is fantastic place with an incredible collection, whether you're into art or you're just checking it out for the first time.

My son and I went today. It was an incredible experience in no small part because of the wonderful people who work there. I am bad at jotting names down to remember them for reviews but.. the lady on the first floor from Texas was kind and directed us to some amazing art. The gentileman on the second floor with the nice mustache was helpful. And Mary in the cafe showed us compassion and gentilness in a very embarassing moment. Thank you VMFA y'all rock and your space is amazing. All the love from your new Texas friends we're already plotting our next visit!

This was literally the worst stop on our entire trip in 2025, and we went to 50 different locations during our vacation. First off, parking was horrid! It did state on the website that you can park in the parking deck of the hospital. Once we found the entrance to the parking garage, we then had to walk down two blocks to the museum. Fortunately, we walked around the back to find where you go in to buy a ticket. We were told the first tour was canceled and we had to wait an hour for the next one. At that time, there were two people at the counter (please remember this detail). The staff at the counter informed us that we could walk a few blocks to visit the capital if we wanted, and then return for the tour. We chose to just wait around since my wife is still recovering from her chemo treatments, I am not in the greatest of health, and it was almost 95 degrees outside, and we just drove in from Williamsburg and didn't even check into our hotel yet. We were not sure if we could keep up the pace walking and be back in time for the next tour. We paid for the tour and walked around the grounds a little bit, taking some B-roll video and pictures, and just sat in the courtyard waiting for the tour. At first we were the only ones there. As it got closer to tour time, more and more people showed up. When the tour started, there were literally 21 people on our tour, and the tour guide (one of the people that was hanging at the counter, by the way) said they normally limit the tours to 15-18 people. Needless to say, we were cramped. As the tour went on, the guide was mostly focused on people not touching anything, staying on the carpets, and not leaning on the wally. It was so cramped we could hardly see anything or even hear the guide. It was a truly dreadful experience. We were there once; that was enough. Oh... we did obtain a stamped paper from the museum to use as parking validation. I presented it to the attendant at the parking garage, and he basically yelled at us and said we were supposed to go into the hospital to take care of the parking cost. Nice of the museum to mention that little bit of information, as I am sure that happens to everyone. We had a much better time walking around the old Hollywood Cemetery.

I was concerned they would be sympathetic to the Confederates, but I found the tour pretty straightforward. No Confederate flags or anything. I particularly enjoyed hearing about the slaves who escaped and sold out the Davises. I understand some won't feel comfortable here, but ultimately, they lost. So why not learn some more about why the U.S. is the way it is? (Or gloat, which is also fair.)

The place where Jefferson Davis, the only president of the confederation dwelt during the war of secession. The guide was excellent. And we could have a more intimate understanding of the life of the leader of the confederation.

An excellent tour that opened a window onto Jefferson Davis’s life. A great tour by Rob, who has deep knowledge of the period, and made the house come alive.

Omg this place is amazing! The site is ofcourse wondrous, but ANDY is such a pro. She was SUPER funny, but very professional, knowledgeable, accommodating. Dont come to Richmond without stopping in!

Great tour. Costs $15, $12 for students. The tour itself is about half an hour to 45 minutes, and the tours leave every 45 minutes. The building itself is pretty small.

Had a really fun time at this small museum. My husband and I wanted to kill some time in Richmond and came upon this & we were blown away. The museum is smack dab in downtown in between the hospitals. We parked at the hospital parking lot and it was a quick 3 minute walk. Andy was a delightful tour guide and she was very well versed on all things President Jefferson Davis. This tour took around an hour and I definitely recommend it.

The gardens are beautiful. I was very impressed by the size of the gardens as well as how well everything was labeled. There were also interesting art pieces displayed throughout. While I do not have children, there were lots of play areas and even a little water sections that would be perfect for children. Be prepared to walk a lot as there is a lot gardens to see. My only complaint would be that the butterfly conservatory was completely closed but it was the same price. I feel like that is a bug part of the experience so if it is not opened, they should adjust the admission price.

This is a “must do” when you’re in the area! We decided to visit this botanical garden while in town for the day! We did come at the end of the growing season (October) but it was still beautiful and we hope to come back in the spring or summer to see this garden in its glory! It is truly a relaxing place and when the renovations are finished next year it’ll be perfect!

What a gem! Had the lovely opportunity to visit the gardens and discover they were hosting a concert the next day — so fun! Incredible section for children and families. Pond is a great spot for taking some Time to see what’s swimming around. Quite a bit of construction at the moment, which didn’t interfere with the enjoyment of the gardens.

We had our Elopement Ceremony at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden on 5/5/25, and it was truly amazing! The entire setting was like a dream. The gardens were bursting with vibrant flowers in full bloom, creating the most beautiful and romantic backdrop for our vows. Everywhere we turned, there were gorgeous spots perfect for photos, which made capturing our special day so easy and memorable. The staff at Lewis Ginter were incredibly helpful, kind, and professional from start to finish. They answered all our questions promptly, helped us plan the details of our ceremony, and made sure everything went smoothly on the big day. We felt so well taken care of, and it allowed us to fully relax and enjoy the moment. I absolutely loved having our wedding here and can’t recommend this venue enough to anyone looking for a stunning, peaceful, and unforgettable place to say “I do.” Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden made our elopement everything we dreamed it would be!

August 2025 Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is beautifully maintained, with a nice variety of flowers, plants, and walking paths. It’s a relaxing place to spend an hour or two, and there are plenty of benches and shaded spots to just sit and take in the scenery. The themed gardens and water features add a nice touch, and everything feels thoughtfully designed. KID FRIENDLY! The Children’s Garden is a hit — with a splash area, play spaces, and sand box. It’s a great stop if you’re in the Richmond area and want to enjoy some fresh air and nature.

The botanical garden in Richmond is a must-visit! It’s incredibly spacious—you can easily spend several hours exploring. There’s a beautiful variety of plants, including lots of dragonflies fluttering around and a stunning collection of roses. The grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. They also have a large café and a great gift shop with plenty of unique items. If you're visiting Richmond, this is definitely one of the top attractions to check out!

Took my mom here for her birthday as part of a Richmond trip. It rained for the first few minutes of our trip but once the rain stopped, the grounds were so pretty. I particularly enjoyed some of the shaded walking paths with streams and huge bonsai!