Visited in October 2014. I was prepared to drive past the brewpub without visiting because I had their OBX Beer the previous night and found it dreadful. However, my better half persuaded me to give it a chance, so we stopped by. Initially, I thought I could just pick up some beers to go and continue on my way, but it turned out that you have to purchase either a 6-pack or a 1-liter bottle. Eventually, I was convinced to try a flight. Most of the brews were German-inspired and somewhat lackluster. The standout selections were the American-style beers. The sausages, however, were excellent. In conclusion, it seems they excel more at crafting sausages than beer. The service also had a distinctly German feel.

We stopped today as part of the Harvest Host membership. Excellent food, great beer to sample...wine choices also. The staff are outstanding and very welcoming. Loved the ambience. Please stop if you're passing through the area. Highly recommend the establishment. Well done Uli !

Grab yourself a tasty sausage and some beer! No, I'm not kidding. The Weeping Radish is a very cool place to get some fresh farm made food a pint of something delicious (personally, I can't recommend the Black Radish enough). They're big on keeping everyone healthy and keeping the whole operation running, so do them a favor and wear your mask. It's not because they want to nanny you, but because they care--and you get the same sort of feeling when they're sitting you down and bringing you out your order. Service is friendly and familiar, like your favorite set of aunts wanting to make sure you have enough to eat. If you're checking out the many breweries in the OBX area be sure to stop by the place that also makes their own cuts of meat.

First Microbrewery in North Carolina. Pretty cool! The food is authentic and amazing. The beer is also authentic and amazing. The doppelboch was great, so was the Tuli and the Black. The best pretzel 🥨 that I have ever eaten. Thinking about the sausages makes my mouth water. Wish they had a better retail selection, but that’s not a complaint - just a wish. Ps. The goats are really sweet.

Nice brewery with a good selection of beers. Several very good beers. We ordered a couple of the appetizers, fried green tomatoes and soft pretzel. The fried green tomatoes were very good. The pretzel was ok would be nice if they had a beer cheese to go with it. Service was good. Place was clean.

This place was awesome! We went here based on the good reviews we read. Good variety of beer and they even offered us some samples before we ordered. The food was some of the best German food weve had, it reminded us of being in Germany.

We stopped here on our way to the Outer Banks. From the greeting and seating to our server Brenda it was just the warmest friendliest place. Brenda our server made suggestions at our request and she was spot on. We ordered the Ruben, 3 sausage sampler and apple strudel. Yummy is the word to describe. We decided if we lived close this would be a weekly trip. oh be sure to try the curry ketchup.

This is a must stop if in the area and looking for something to do, and it's free! I was killing time in town and wandered upon it. They had a wide range of exhibits of local history. Thought it was quite well done. Was able to take my time and check it all out. Lots was pretty interesting and very informative. Some of the wood carvings and making were amazing. They even had a current surfing exhibit going on. They had a duck decoys through the years, which was neat. There is also a little gift store. Lady working the front desk was super nice and helpful.

Excellent little museum with an immersive exhibition of local history. It has free admission and a waterfront park across the street. The big glass windows make for a nice backdrop and the outdoor ballroom area is well lit with good acoustics. Makes for a good wedding venue up to 200 guests.

Interesting NC state museum focused on the Albemarle region, including history and links to modern life. Really well done exhibits. Free admission, with donation boxes.

My husband and I really enjoyed visiting the Museum of the Albemarle. The best thing about the museum are the people that work there. We had multiple museum employees greet us and share information and wisdom with us. We liked how the information was shared. You can scan a QR code to open a webpage that takes you on a tour thru the museum. It shares much of the same material you can read and some anecdotes and info not on the displays. This museum is free to visit.

The Museum of the Albemarle, a hidden gem in Elizabeth City that goes above and beyond what one might anticipate for a town of its size, is tucked away along the shoreline. The size and caliber of the displays immediately establish that this is not a little local collection but rather a well designed area that reflects the richness and complexity of the history of northeastern North Carolina. Despite my short time today, I was amazed by the depth of the exhibits, which cover centuries of local history, from colonial colonization and Indigenous cultures to maritime heritage and contemporary municipal development. The museum's layout is expansive, with high ceilings and spacious galleries that invite deeper exploration. It's the kind of place where you could easily spend several hours and still feel like there's more to uncover.

This museum was well worth the long drive and visit. It took us about 3 hours to see everything and there was a section that was closed off. In addition to the regular sections of the museum they had special exhibit on the contributions of women and one called High on the Hog which was about the history of slaughtering and processing pigs. It was really interesting. Aside from those there was a section on the history of Native Americans as well as the history of the area. The museum is fully accessible and has benches throughout. I was able to easily navigate it with my scooter. One thing that was disappointing was the first floor bathroom. There was a handicap sign on the outside but no handicap stall inside. Then when I looked a little further I found a door that said “nursing room”, when I looked inside there was a handicap toilet set up. It was strange. The staff here are really nice and helpful. The gift shop was really nice, I spent way too much in there. I was also able to buy gifts from the local area. Take the time to enjoy this gem of a museum!

Visited the Northeastern North Carolina Surfing Exhibit today at MOA. Admission is Free. The exhibit was awesome! There is a wall outside the exhibit where visitors can bring a sticker from their favorite surf shop, attach the sticker to the wall and get a photo on a surfboard in front of the wall. Inside the exhibit we saw so many local surf boards shaped from locally owned surf shops and shapers on Hatteras Island and Nags Head areas. Displays of vintage boards and accomplishments of local surfers are also included in the exhibit. There is so much history of NE North Carolina at MOA. We enjoyed the rest of our time visiting the history exhibits. Great time for friends and family!

Great place to visit! We focused on free to low cost activities, but there is something for everyone & every budget. We started at the Edenton State Historic Site Visitor Center (108 N Broad St). The staff were friendly, knowledgeable & welcoming. We were charmed by the “mini-manager” (a sweet, young lady helping her mom that day). We browsed the museum, gift shop, got a map and headed out. Free parking is available at the visitor center and downtown. The easily walkable downtown has maintained its historic charm with plenty of places to explore.1) The self-guided walking tour has several plaques highlighting the revolutionary history and reveals a unique story of the town’s emblem- the teapot- and the brave ladies who dared defy a king! 2) The Colonial Park at Edenton Bay is perfect for picnics, has a large playground, and brings you to 3) the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse. Walking the deck wrapping around the lighthouse, there is a panoramic view of the bay that doesn’t disappoint and the breeze is refreshing. There is a $2.50 charge to go inside and to the top of the light. Just across the street is 4) The Penelope Barker House which is perfectly preserved from that time period with handcrafted furniture, a museum, and many books about the town. Check out the quilt on the second floor- it’s amazingly detailed & informative. We strolled a couple blocks into town to the 5) Cupola House Gardens, they are vast and filled with variety. Take note of the murals as you walk downtown & there are plenty of shops and eateries. We stopped at 6) Huckleberry Ice Cream Parlor and enjoyed a cooling treat as we continued walking towards 7) the “Edenton Teapot” marker on Colonial street. We walked towards the waters’ edge fanned by cool breezes and checked out the cannons on the shoreline; a testimony to the naval battles and importance of this area where the river meets the ocean. We circled back to the park by the bay and headed out. Will definitely be back. There is so much to do, trolley rides, boat rides, guided tours, town festivals and events- it’s definitely worth checking out!

Our tour guide Charles was nothing short of knowledgeable, very kind and very accommodating for our Women's Ministry group. He answered all of our questions and gave factual information which was mind blowing! This is a must if you're visiting Edenton!

Small, quaint town. Was the first capital of NC until the capital was moved to New Bern. People are friendly. Historical Sites and homes. Eating out in the downtown area is a little pricey. Friendly people, although we saw a very few protesters wanting to take down a statue of course. (Eye roll). Otherwise worth a quick day trip.

Charles was our tour guide. He was amazing. We asked many questions and he took his time to answer everything. Definitely went above and beyond, one of the best tour guides we have had. Great job Charles, we will be back sir. We also had a tour with Lucas who again went above and beyond with the tour of the lighthouse. Finally we met Bailey with NC Historic Sites who answered questions about the area and offered some sites to see in Edenton, We have been on many NC historic sites to visit but this has to be one of our favorites along with Somerset Place. Great job NC Historic Site team. A+

Very nice place to take a History trip. We had a tour guide. We made ropes and dolls.It was $3.50 per person. Veiwed the inside of a historic home, court house, and a lighthouse. We picniced at the park near the lighthouse and water. Just have to go back to visit the cute little downtown shops. And there was a boat you could go out on for a fee.$18 per person. Would like to do that! The tour guide did a wonderful job! It was worth it! Great one day trip. ☺👍💒

Wonderful and beautiful little historical town from Revolutionary Era. Lots of historical sites to see and shops and restaurants.

Small town with a huge amount of history! Friendly folks and great places to eat. Make sure you take the trolley tour on your visit!?

Great piece of history. Well done exhibit and the people are super friendly.

Friendly & informative folks! The house is beautiful & well kept and the location stunning!

This old house is packed with old historical items. One can easily see this house is very old and very creaky. I really enjoyed sitting in the rocking chairs overlooking the water front. If you like to fish bring your fishing poles! There are great places to bank fish at the Penelope Barker House.

Welcome center indeed! 😍 Our family of seven felt so warmly welcomed here and we enjoyed learning about the history of the home before taking a self-guided tour through the downstairs and upstairs rooms. Great view of the water from the second story balcony! In the gift shop, be sure to purchase the walking tour guide of Edenton (green cover) and you'll learn so much as you walk through town.

Museum was as expected. Docents were very helpful. There is a lot of history on this town which they try to preserve and cling to. There's a lone cypress tree still standing next to the museum's dock that if you stand still, you could feel the tradesmen and slaves that passed through here. I tried not to look at it too often. If you're a sensitive, you'll know what I mean.

I enjoyed happening along this place. We stopped in Edenton to see the historic waterfront and found this treasure. I had no idea who Penelope Barker was. I had never heard about her tea party resolution. I found the museum very informative. It was neat how you can see the inside of the walls. (the ceiling is sagging in there because of the missing wall pieces). There are period correct dresses and slippers worn by the people that lived in this home. There are lots of local books for sale. A neat one that caught my eye was a book about all of the historical houses in Edenton, and their individual history. The museum is free to visit. We will definitely be back to explore this town more

Great place to visit! Beautiful views and lots of history. Staff very friendly and helpful. We could have spent all day in Edenton and learning the history of the town.

It’s a wonderful place to see a wide variety of birds all in one spot and learn more about them. The Landing Zone is especially delightful — you can feed the birds, and they’ll happily perch on your hand, shoulders, or even your head! It’s a fun and interactive experience that kids will absolutely love. Pro tip: Visit the Landing Zone in the morning when the birds are hungry. Later in the day, they’re usually less interested in food, so the experience might not be as lively.

This place is super fun and worth the price. We spent 2 hours walking around. The best part is the landing zone where you can feed tiny birds and they will walk on your head and body. It was so so fun! It’s definitely worth it to buy the little food sticks for them so they will interact with you. This was really an amazing trip!

Absolutely love this bird park! It's so beautiful! There is so much to see! You can easily make a day of it! We have been a few times but always look forward to returning! I don't think you'd be disappointed!

This was my second visit here and the perfect time of year to go. My first visit was in the summer, which was a bit too hot, but the weather was perfect in the fall. They have so many beautiful birds, some cool metal art and the landscaping is pretty as well. I definitely recommend making the trip to this lovely bird sanctuary. It's a sanctuary for humans too...very relaxing.

First time coming here and enjoyed it very much. So many different types of birds! It took us about two hours to walk through everything and we could've easily spent more time. Great place to take the kids and family.

Really beautifully done bird sanctuary. Very peaceful. The workers there were nice & engaging. We paid $2 extra to get the flamingo 🦩 food & we got to feed the flamingos, very fun. You can also feed the canaries, which are hilarious little punks, who will proceed to peck you with their tiny beeks trying to get more food out of you.😂🙃😊 Great day.

Holt crap what an absolute gem! We had a fantastic time exploring this super huge collection of birds from all over the world. Make sure you get a seed stick to take into the Landing Zone, and watch your step lol. I think my absolute favorite were the oh-so-angies geese... so pretty and also so mad at the world. This park offers an incredible experience for visitors of all ages. Highly recommended for a unique and memorable day out!

Really off the beaten path, but worth the time to get there. Wasn’t super expensive and the food was delicious. The place itself was not crowded whatsoever, but the restaurant was doing pretty good. The fries had a great seasoning and the burger (1/2 lb patty!!) was juicy and delicious. Go here for some good food!

Found this place through a friend. Its 16-17 miles from Greenville NC. There is a lot of driving on the back roads on the country through the farm lands but trust the map and you will find it. The place is beautiful and seems like a little amusement park if you bring your kids they have rides and playgrounds for the kids. Went on a weekday at 12 and had to wait 10 mins to get seated so I definitely recommend reservation if you are coming later in the day or the weekend. The isnide atmosphere is really nice, clean and has attentive staff. The food is ordered was a well done steak with coleslaw and chips/fries. The steak was juicy and full of flavour. They also have a little built in ice cream store outside in the yard as well as vintage comic shop that has figurines, old console games etc. I will definitely be coming here again to try the rest of the menu.

We absolutely love this place, sometimes we come for a day trip or stop in on our way home. Great place for everyone to get out and walk around for awhile, the boys love the toy shop and everyone loves the resturant. Even as the kids get older we always ride the train!

This place is a hoot. It is an experience destination, but the steaks are good too. It is out in the middle of nowhere but definitely worth the trip, at least once. They were not taking reservations when we went. We had to wait for a little while, but there was plenty to walk around and see while we waited. We also rode the train, but it does not run year-round. You may want to call ahead of time if this is important.

We went on a Saturday night. Place had a 20 to 30 minutes of wait. Take advantage of them by walking around the place. It's a western theme with carriages, trains, bridges and the old west look. A cold beer and fried green tomatoes or Wagon Wheels as they are called here. Followed by the petite ribeye and green beans. Great meal and proper temp on the sirloin. We walked around after just to get most of the sights. Plenty to see. Enjoy.

It's such a unique place. You can tell they have put alot of money into it and continue to do so. I can't wait until they get everything done. The food was delicious and the staff were wonderful.

Western themed chaos is the best way to describe this place. The food was good and the atmosphere was nice. They also have a coffee shop/toy store. We'll be back

This campground had the perfect beach meets forest feel. The campground itself is small and quaint. There's a hiking trail and a bath house. The cabins are adorable. If you travel down a trail or drive over you'll access the beach area. The entire park just has a feel. We will definitely be going back. I think the only thing I would say it was missing was a playground for the kids. My son doesn't need a playground to stay busy, but it would be nice to have one. Our dogs enjoyed the trails too.

This is an amazing state park in Eastern NC!! Accessing the park is very easy, especially for ECU students looking to be a bit more outdoorsy. I went late last January during a snowy, cold period and had a blast. Even in the snow, it was clear that trails and boardwalks were well maintained and clear of trash. The unique environment of the park makes the visit all the more fun! I would highly recommend.

Beautiful state park, out in the middle of nowhere. Really unique scenery, lots of spanish moss in places as well. Not crowded whatsoever, free to enter and plenty of parking. Worth the drive!

This is a great hidden gem! The RV sites are very nicely spaced and a great size. The camp host was very friendly and informative about the area. The common area restrooms were the cleanest I've seen in a while at a State Park.

What a GORGEOUS place! It was PUT there as far as primitive camping goes. Not too bad with bugs surprisingly. Peaceful and quiet. Saw 3 deer and had an amazing time. The litle beach is quite nice too! Check it out!

I solo camped here for over a week in early August with my German shepherd. I stayed in the RV campground, which has 30/50 amp service, sewer, and water. There is also a separate tent campground. I LOVED this park. I hiked on all of its trails during my stay. The park is gorgeous, with well-kept, sandy trails and lots of raised boardwalk trails with ethereal Spanish moss gracing all of it. It must have rained every single day I was there -- once, torrentially -- and you would never know it on the trails the next day; a testament to great water mitigation. The trails also had fantastic options to fetch my dog in the water (Ivey Gut was my favorite trail). The trails were very quiet and I hardly saw another hiker. I saw park staff on all my hikes, however, maintaining trails and removing garbage. The whole area underwent a controlled burn (I'm not sure when, even though there was a placard about it). There were great interpretative displays on almost all of the trails to help hikers learn about the history, flora and fauna of the park. This is a very well-loved, well-cared for park. All of the camps are very well spaced (tent sites too) and unlike other reviewers, I loved that the RV campground was in an overgrown field, because the bird watching was amazing. I heard bluebirds, ospreys, and indigo buntings the entire time, with a bob white on two nights! The tent campground is shady, close to the water, and also has well spread out sites. *I used the boat launch for my kayak one day, but that's a ten minute drive, and I do wish there were better options for getting cartop boats in the water directly from the campground.

Amazing location! Saw dolphins our first morning there. Walk right over to a little beach and kayak dock right around the corner.

As a former MBA student at East Carolina University, I feel compelled to share my experience to warn others considering this institution. My tuition waiver was submitted on December 6, 2024, yet due to ECU’s failure to process it by the December 17 payment deadline, I was forced to pay $840 out of pocket to avoid being dropped from my classes. This financial strain was entirely avoidable had ECU handled their responsibilities competently. What followed was a month of administrative chaos: The Cashier’s Office gave vague assurances but failed to act in a timely manner. Senior leadership, including Dr. Lee Grubb, Senior Associate Dean of the College of Business, completely ignored my emails seeking assistance. Even after escalating to the Chancellor’s Office, I received only a last-minute apology and yet another delay in my refund, which is still not resolved. This isn’t just one person’s oversight—this is a systemic issue with ECU’s administration. Their inability to process basic requests, communicate effectively, or prioritize students’ financial well-being is appalling. If you’re considering ECU for graduate studies, think long and hard about whether you can afford to waste your time and money on an institution that treats students like afterthoughts. I’ve withdrawn from their MBA program and will be pursuing opportunities elsewhere—at schools that actually value their students.

ECU is probably the only thing interesting about Greenville to be honest. If you’re a partygoer, you just came to the biggest party school in NC. Just kidding, those frats are a small, insignificant, second-class portion of the student population. Things get wild on Halloween, though, and that’s not an exaggeration.

We had such a great tour of ECU! Was not expecting a large university experience on the eastern edge of the state, but coming from out of state, there it is! Our tour guide was well-informed and sung the praises of the school. We really enjoyed the energy of the student body, observing the hustle and bustle between classes and seeing how a big school can feel navigable at the same time. Loved Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium and the athletic facilities for the students were unreal! We even learned that the Maritime Studies program is working on the Queen Anne's Revenge, Blackbeard's true-to-life ship - apropos that the Pirates are working on a pirate ship! We felt like ECU is competitive, but not impossible to get into, and that the out-of-state cost was much more reasonable than many schools of the same size and type (Division I). This is my daughter's first choice now, and while we have other schools to see, her hope is to become a Pirate!

I got to see my sister graduate! Great experience for all involved. 🎓

If you go to _faithboi_ socials, you will see how they react to SA it will change your opinions about going to this University. Especially if you are a women

I visited Joyner Library. A great place to study and quietness

As an online student at East Carolina University, my experience has been frustrating from the start. Communication has consistently been poor, and there is a noticeable lack of accountability when issues arise. Despite balancing work, parenting, and full-time studies, I’ve received little support in resolving mistakes or addressing concerns. Unfortunately, I won’t be continuing beyond my second semester here.

Very nice place, it was my first time here and I enjoyed it. I bought a tumbler and homemade dog treats. They had a baby calf that you can go visit and pet. There was a playground area, very kid friendly.

Tried this place for the first time and it was excellent. The service was friendly, the ice cream (and waffle cone) were delicious. The portions were generous and the facility was lovely. We would definitely visit again if in the area.

Took a long bike ride today and it was a little over 2 hours to get here. Heard a lot of things about this place and heard it was some damn good ice cream. Boy was I disappointed. I got a scoop of the key lime pie ice cream and a scoop of the blueberry cheesecake. That KLP was ALL frost bitten. While it was edible, it tasted awful. The blueberry cheesecake was a bit better, but it still was not great. This was a super disappointing visit. Key Lime Pie - 2/10 Blueberry Cheesecake - 5/10

Ice cream was fantastic. There were about 20 flavors. Prices were reasonable. The tour was definitely worth it. They gave an overview of thr farm and let you pet some young cows. All while riding in a large wagon

We really enjoyed our tour and learned a lot from our guide. The ice cream is delicious and it's even better knowing the cows are treated so well. Highlight-- we got to pet the babies! Definitely recommend.

Finally, we found the natural half gal cream here! Plus the store has a nice welcoming atmosphere to visitors👏🏻 kids also enjoyed their Sally Dairy Day Camp!

My son has a diary allergy.. I hate they only have one flavor for him… He be so sad but that’s all they have.. Wish they had more non diary ideas

🌟 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!

Pretty awesome to be able to see a Mudcats game in their last year of existence before they move in 2026. The stadium is pretty awesome with great seating. The view from the upper deck was great.

We had a great time at the baseball game! The stadium was clean and well-kept overall, and the staff were all friendly and helpful. We went on church night and truly enjoyed the atmosphere and time together as a family. That said, the bathrooms could use some attention—especially the floors. One restroom had nice epoxy flooring, while the other didn’t, and the difference showed. The non-epoxied floor looked dirty, and even the epoxy-coated one seemed to trap dirt. The type they used is hard to clean without scrubbing and using something strong like Purple Power each time. I’d recommend they switch to an epoxy flake floor with extra topcoats and grit like we have at our school—they stay cleaner, are easier to maintain, and are still non-slip. Also, the women’s stalls in the older restroom were pretty gross and definitely need improvement. One unexpected moment: a ball thrown toward some kids ended up hitting me on the hand, just missing my toddler’s head! Lesson learned—watch for balls even when the game isn’t in play 😅🙏❤️ Despite that, it was a wonderful night, and we really enjoyed the field!

We will miss coming here!! Always a great and fun time!! Friday fireworks are the highlight of the evening for my kids, pictures with Muddy and Mini Muddy and going on the field to run the bases.

I'll never understand why venues charge so much for water or soda. You could cut it in half sell three times as many and make more profit. Otherwise ticket prices are great and it's a fun place to take the kids. Update: still don't understand why food prices are so much. 3 people more than $130. If happily pay $5/ticket just to get that amount applied to food and drink price reductions. Update: 5/17/25. Everything remains the same. Probably will stop going once they move into Wilson as traffic will be a NIGHTMARE! Also, why if I buy a bottle of water, soda AND beer do i need to pay $10 for a cup of ice on a hot night? Especially when it seems like you don't sell soda by the cup?.

We attended the Carolina Mudcats last home game ever tonight in Zebulon. The game was good, even though we lost 2-1. The fireworks were amazing & we had fun.

Went to our first Mudcats game. Getting there was easy. We came from Louisburg so it was a quick trip down 39. Parking was 7 bux. Not awful. Getting in was easy. The parking lot is right there so you don't have to walk a mile to get in. Place is in good repair. Concourse is wide. It got a little crowded at times but not horrible. There's really not a bad seat in the house. We were in section 213. Great view. We did get some tacos. They were ok. Maybe a little pricey. Next time we'll do a little tailgating before going in. Save some money on food. The level of play was good. Mudcats won. Fireworks after the game were ok. Getting out of the parking lot after the game was rough. That was the worst part. Took forever to get out to 39. All in all though, it was a great time for a little bit of cash. We'll totally be going back. Update 8/29/25: went to the penultimate game for the season and for the stadium. Alas, the Cats are moving to Wilson and 5 County will be torn down.

Easy to get to, but nothing else around the ballpark. All parking is paid lot. Enjoyable experience.

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

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

On Sunday I went to experience the walking trails at the NC Museum of Art, and loved it! There are so many interesting art pieces in view while walking! The paths are measured and posted in the Welcome Center area and also on the Blue Path (sponsored by BCBS). I posted an image of that map. It felt safe with families, couples, and singles all around. I ended up walking on most of the paths, and it tired me out. Luckily, I was parked in the edge by the entrance with the Reedy Creek stoplight on Blue Ridge Road. A plethora of parking there!!! So great!

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.

I love the museum park and all the installations and sculptures. Love the landscaping too. I love the design of the west building. Not so much about the collections though. Highly recommend the museum park. There is similar museum park which is the Glenstone Museum in Maryland.

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.

Great trail to walk. Lots of greenery, peace, and quiet. There is also a small waterbody on the way which makes it more picturesque.

Had the best time tubbing on the river and Glamping. My sister and I came here for the first time for a girls day out and celebrating her birthday. We had a great time floating in the river until I lost my sunglasses but it was my fault for not securing them properly. Loved that there’s a restaurant on sight too, we had a pizza and beers after a day in the river. Highly recommend for small and big groups, reasonable prices too.

This place is an absolute disappointment and I would never recommend it to anyone — especially beginners. It is not beginner-friendly at all, and honestly, it feels unsafe. The staff are extremely rude and unhelpful. My friend was literally drowning, we were shouting for help, and not a single staff member came to assist us. Strangers kayaking on the river had to step in to save my friend’s life. When we finally made it back to shore, instead of showing concern, Kalen (staff) rudely told us, “this is what you signed up for.” I find this response not only unprofessional but also heartless. All they seem to care about is charging money, not the safety or well-being of their customers. On top of that, there are no amenities whatsoever — no private changing area, everything is completely open and uncomfortable. For the high cost, what you actually get is zero support, zero service, and plenty of rudeness. I walked away from this place shocked, upset, and feeling bad. This was not just a bad experience — it was a dangerous one. If you value safety, respect, or even basic courtesy, do yourself a favor and stay away from Cape Fear River Adventures.

We had a fantastic mother son weekend getaway. Staying in the covered wagon was an exciting and unforgettable experience. Going tubing and kayaking were fun adventures. We took a short drive to Raven Rock and went hiking as well. All the staff members were friendly and welcoming. The whole experience exceeded my expectations and we were sad when it came time to say goodbye.

Was searching for something to do for our anniversary when I stumbled upon this hidden gem! I wanted adventure, my husband wanted comfort-- so we did the 10-mile kayak challenge, enjoyed dinner at the on-site restaurant, then stayed overnight in a wagon. ✔️✔️ The staff were all super-pleasant and helpful, and I know we'll be back soon with the kids!

I was so happy with the cleanliness of not only the wagon but the bath house. They have thought of everything with the little extras like outlets and noose boxes. We will definitely be back. There were heavy rainstorms the night we stayed but it was so peaceful and we loved hearing the rain on the wagon. It was not at all wet or hot. You owe it to yourself to visit and enjoy this experience.

We loved it! We found the organization at the beginning of our trip helped us navigate our kayaking trip. Everyone was helpful, friendly and made our first kayaking experience enjoyable. Thank you!

Took my daughter here for 10th birthday glamping and canoeing. The river was high and canoes were out of service, so they switched us over to Kayaks. We both had an amazing time and she really loved it. Definitely will try to go again and recommend to friends. The conestoga wagons were comfy and quaint, but with modern conveniences.

I’m so glad we made a stop at Raven Rock State Park. The visitor center is clean, welcoming, and very informative. A great place to start before hitting the trails. We did the 2.6-mile loop, which was an easy and enjoyable walk through the woods. The only challenging part is the staircase leading down to the base of the cliff (and back up!), but it’s absolutely worth it. The view from the bottom, and the cliff itself, make for a great reward. A beautiful park that’s perfect for a relaxing hike and a breath of fresh air!

Raven Rock State Park is a beautiful escape into nature, just a short drive from Raleigh. The trails are well marked and offer a mix of easy walks and moderate hikes, with stunning views of the Cape Fear River and the iconic Raven Rock formation. It’s the perfect spot for hiking, picnics, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet of the outdoors. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, so every visit feels different. Highly recommend for nature lovers looking for a refreshing day trip.

First time going here in over 15 years! Still well maintained, still a great park. We did the Raven Rock Loop Trail plus we went down the stairs and then checked out the overlook. Great for families, kids, and dogs (on a leash). I love that there's a local place like this to get outside.

What a great little park. There are multiple trails for every level of activity, from a 1/4 mile loop to a 2 mile loop. I personally would come in the evening, because the sun hits just right and really makes the trail and trees just light up!

One of the best Parks in NC that seems to be forgotten a lot of times. It's got a beautiful view of the Cape Fear at the overlook and a wonderful visitor center. The Campbell Creek loop trail has to be the most hiked but also the moderate hike you will take there unless you want to try one of their bike trails. They have four Park rangers on staff there so safety you don't have to worry about because they have you cover. The campsites are great and their primitive campsites are so great. They also have cabins you can rent for a two night get away. The Raven Rock loop trail have to be the easy one they have. Wonderful Park and wonderful staff all the way around. If you haven't been you really need to check it out.

Beautiful relatively unknown state part with breathtaking views and interesting plants and scenery. Raven Rock Loop trail is a must, but if you have extra time and energy, Little Creek Loop trail is also very good. The creek bed is made of rocks and surrounded by mountain laurel tree and other interesting trees.

Me and my fiance enjoy exploring local state parks and its my personal goal to go to all the state parks east of Raleigh before the new year. Maybe a few in the western part of the state... So in the beginning of August we went to Raven Rock state park. The two trails we went on were the Raven Rock Loop Trail and Little Creek Loop Trail. Along those trails, there is an overlook, a point of interest and the creek. The overlook was worth the walk. There are stairs that you have to climb down from and up again, so be weary of that. Quite a lot of stairs actually.

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!

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.

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!

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.

Palmetto Peddlers Antique Mall is a large antique mall located in Florence, South Carolina with a huge facility featuring a wide variety of used items from many vendors. The mall is clean and well organized with knowledgeable and helpful staff. I purchased an M-51 Engineers Field Bag for daily carry. Cash is king here so be sure and bring cash to avoid a credit/debit. I would definitely frequent this place again as vendors move in and out.

The overall concept of the establishment is unique, but I was deeply disturbed to see several shops openly selling racist and Jim Crow-era imagery, photos, dolls, and other offensive memorabilia👎. The fact that this kind of harmful, dehumanizing material is allowed to be sold, sends a clear message that the ownership/management is willing to tolerate, if not enable, racism for profit. That’s something I personally can’t support or condone.

Wonderful place to find great treasures. Expect to spend 2+ hours combing through the booths. Some can be a little pricey but you can always find a hidden gem!

We spent about 2 hours here, walking down the isles and exploring all of the wonderful items, many of which reminded us of years past (we're both in our mid sixties). I collect dinnerware and I found the old style steakhoyse plates that have the removable stainless steel inserts...you place them in the oven to heat, place them back into the plate holder and serve your steak and potatoes on the heated plate. I'll include a picture. These plates were in every steakhouse in the 70's and 80's, then started to fade out in the 90's. I was thrilled to find a set of 4 for just $15 for the set! We're eating steak more often now just to use these because we love them so much and they bring back memories. My daughter just bought a new house and she filled her buggy with decor like baskets, art work and garden statues. it's so much fun to spend time here!

We loved this place! It took us back in time, way back! My wife found a trinket she liked, my son a couple toys he'd not found anywhere else, and my mother-in-law a hand-tatted doily! She tats and says it's a dying art no one learns anymore. This place was great. We could've spent another two hours wandering around and still not have seen everything! It's a must-visit in Florence, SC.

Went here for some vinyl records. The front of the store has an okay selection, decent enough for Florence area (I'm visiting from out of town and don't know of any others). Out side of vinyl it has plenty of options, whether you need a new bird bath and cement bench, to a local handmade sign. Would recommend.

Beautiful selection. Huge antique shop & variety. Pleasant staff. Tasty baked goods at the register & they have carts.

A well preserved piece of history that was not restored on purpose. It is not the most known place in Charleston but for my daughter it was a place she needed to see. She is majoring in historical preservation and this place is a perfect example of a piece of history that is preserved but not restored. The grounds were beautiful and the place is still being researched and preserved to this day. The tour was very well presented.

Every inch of Drayton Hall is absolutely gorgeous! I had the opportunity to take my children yesterday to visit Drayton Hall and view the current archeological excavation. It was fantastic!! Drayton Hall is absolutely beautiful and the guides are so knowledgeable. It was not only a fun experience but highly educational. It was amazing to see the artifacts they are recovering and the beautiful restoration of the house. They have a Phillip Simmons gate there as well. I highly recommend visiting. Their gift shop is amazing too, beautiful pieces from local artists and fantastic books. We had an amazing experience and will be bringing our family back in a few weeks when they come to visit.

This is a beautiful place and the history of the home and families that lived in the home is quite interesting. The story was told very well on our tour. Wear your walking shoes.

Great historical look at an I preserved plantation. It gives you a sense of what life was like and connects you to history in a way that books, documentaries can’t. Unique in its unrestored state.

House tour was okay, tour guide was informative but not very interesting. Loved the house architecture and the grounds were nice to walk around.

Loved the experience. It was great to get the tour, and then be able to also do a self-guided tour as well.

I loved this tour and museum. Our tour guide Cody did a wonderful job, and was very knowledgeable. We had a small group, and it was a quiet day, so he took extra time with us, and went into more detail. You're able to wander the grounds on your own. Id highly recommend walking down to the Ashley River to appreciate the stunning view.

I was very hesitant to visit a plantation, however, this one had great reviews about the gardens and other activities on the property. They should probably add in the "know before you go" section on their website. It is extremely buggy. Do not forget to wear bug spray. My family has never been so bit up after leaving a place. The Cafe was just okay. We took the nature tour and did the slavery to freedom tour. Again, the nature tour was just okay. We saw some cool things but did not think the trip was worth over $100 for a family of four. The gardens really are beautiful and I am sure it is a great place for photos, but I wished they would have highlighted more of the tragedy of slavery rather than a potential wedding venue. I'm glad I experienced one plantation, however I wouldn't go back.

A Deeply Moving and Enriching Experience** Visiting this former plantation was both emotional and educational. The tours through the plantation house and the slave quarters were thoughtfully designed and offered a powerful insight into the lives of enslaved people. The beauty of the grounds—with centuries-old trees and a well-kept garden landscape—adds a peaceful atmosphere to the experience. What truly stood out was the exceptional staff: incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing history. Both the lady in the main house and the one in the slave quarters were outstanding in their presentation and expertise. I truly appreciated the time spent here and left with a deeper understanding and valuable perspective. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!

Loved our day at Magnolia Plantation & Garden! Beautiful and serene surroundings and fascinating history. Enjoyed the water tour and all the pretty birds and saw my first gators in the wild!!! The home tour was interesting and I’m so grateful that we were able to see and learn so much by touring the home. Highly recommend a visit!

Beautiful place to take long walks and tours of the Plantation house,gardens,and rice fields. It is an adventure filled with history and nature. The boat tour was fun and interesting. My family had an enjoyable day.

I was very leery of the venue due to its history, and although it would not ever be my personal choice for an event, it was absolutely gorgeous. It was extremely well tended to and immaculately landscaped. The venue areas were gorgeous, clean and had the perfect amount of space for a large gathering.

Before you read any further... BUG SPRAY!! The grounds are stunning and well kept. We did the boat tour and our guide was very knowledgeable. It is great to see wildlife being taken care of. Saw some baby gators too! Trails are covered however there are lots of mosquitoes. The history at this location is unbelievable.

Gardens are English style, with proper expectations they are stunning. Great journey through checkered history of the land. Family owned and it shows. The generations of caretakers here shows in the beauty. It’s clear that the people here take great pride in preserving this part of history. The restrooms are clean and well maintained. Snack bar isn’t great and very expensive for what you get. The guides were very knowledgeable and each added a personal touch. John stood out in the Slavery to Freedom tour. If you’re able to spend time with him, consider yourself blessed. He spoke with such reverence and compassion for the heartbreaking circumstances the slaves endured, it brought my wife and I to tears. He makes the experience personal with details about families (both the plantation owners and generations of slaves) that I’ve not experienced before. When we were researching Magnolia, we saw a bad (and quite frankly, racist) review dismissing the Slavery to Freedom tour given by “a white Irishman”. Don’t let that kind of closed mindedness deter you. John may be white, and he may be Irish, but his heartfelt conviction about sharing history and moving beyond the horrors of slavery is second to none!

I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. It made the entrance easy and was able to plan ahead to think about what guided tours we wanted to do in advance. The grounds at Middleton are gorgeous! We learned about the Middleton family, some of the people who worked on the plantation through the years and the historical significance of plantation in shaping history. I wished the docent were more explicit about why the black slaves did not runaway or when they did the harsh repercussions. There was vert discussion about the psychological scarring of slavery and the fear instilled upon all.

It’s like taking a step back in time when entering this rice plantation. The gardens are kept in a way that you can feel the history and age. The knowledge from the staff and the few tours we did was impressive. We spent about 4hrs doing two small tours and enjoying the grounds.

I’m really glad I had the opportunity to visit this plantation. Its story is at the heart of America’s colonial beginnings. Several tours are included with the price of admission and I appreciated their Garden Tour as well as their Beyond Slavery Tour. Whether your walking the grounds, coming for lunch, or learning it’s deep history, one could easily spend the day here.

My daughters and I visited yesterday. We took the Beyond the Fields tour, about the Enslaved People's experience, with Linda. We all found it to be very informative and even emotional. The property is well preserved and tended and the docents are quite knowledgeable. The Middleton Oak is magnificent. Being mid-August, the weather was hot and humid which, combined with an approaching thunderstorm, cut our visit short. We agreed that our visit was a highlight of the trip.

This place is absolutely beautiful and the guides are great! Put on your walking shoes and prepare to see alligators. I would like to see access to the house included in admission price as it is not cheap. Also please have sandwiches/wraps in snack bar that is at entrance.

We were in town from Michigan to attend a Sunday wedding. The wind was very strong and the temperature really dropped. The wedding was held outside by the large trees. It was very scenic but quite a walk from the parking lot to spot wearing high heels. The parlor where the reception was held was a bit overwhelmed by the number of guests. There were no cocktail tables to place snacks and cocktails prior to the reception starting. The food was great and the bartenders were very attentive. It was a romantic spot for a wedding but from a logistics perspective, very challenging to get transportation to and from our hotel. Guests had to take the shuttle to and from the venue. The reception ended by 10:30 PM to account for the return shuttles to the hotel. Family and friends made it a wonderful event.

I could have spent days here instead of just a few hours. The vast grounds offer dazzling landscapes. There are tours and stories about the generations of families who lived here, both the enslaved and the plantation owners. It is a trip back in time.