I love coming here for the little beach area. It's $10 to enter the park per car and they have a small stretch of beach. We typically go during the week and it's never that busy. There's also a nice visitor center with educational things for the kids. As of recently, the playgrounds and fishing pier are closed until further notice. You can check their site for updates. There are also hiking trails and camping, which I haven't done yet. This place is a little gem, love it!

This park is very busy. We arrived at 9:30 in the morning and there were already a lot of people in hammocks, grilling and wading in the water and a lot of people putting boats in the water. We talked with the staff at the visitor's center and they stated that the park is mainly used for the boat ramp and it's often at capacity. They seemed excited for us to come in and talk with them and were very friendly and welcoming. The kids section of the visitor's center was amazing! My son loved the prepared slides and microscope. He spent a long time looking at all the slides. We decided to walk the Bushey Point Trail which seemed to be an exercise trail, but a lot of the markers were on the ground. The trail to the railroad bridge also seemed to need some TLC and cleanup, it was a little overgrown. We saw osprey pretty close to the bridge and my son found a beautiful shell on the small beach by the bridge. Not one of my favorite parks, but still nice. $10 entry. Lots of the cars parked with boat trailers had annual passes.

Awesome park. Went in February on a warm, sunny day and got lucky enough to have the place to ourselves. Gorgeous views of the Potomac. Very well-kept. The beachy areas are great and so are the trails through the woods. Nothing too hard but there are some fun stops and things to see. We enjoyed a nice day walking our dogs here.

Nice lake park with several places to have a picnic, a barbecue, or a party. The beach area cloud be a little bit cleaner without pieces of wood or branches.

Great time! Super helpful ranger helped with a trail recommendation (Bushey Point for some nature diversity!) And paddled out of the cartop launch. There were some cool water surprises and views!

We had a picnic party at Shelter 4 on June 15th Sunday. I also hiked before in the park. It’s close to water and has small beach area where you can do some yoga or other activities. But you have to come really early to get a shelter in the weekend.

Historic trails, barbeque area, and shore lines for sunset views, is all in one place, bring comfortable shoes. Stay a while.

A fantastic museum, organized chronologically through major conflicts. The exhibits feature everything from small arms to armored vehicles and aircraft, with vivid dioramas depicting Marines in action. The layout is well thought out and honors the service members who sacrificed their lives in each conflict. Knowledgeable volunteers are present in each area to provide detailed explanations. Truly enjoyed the visit.

This was a fantastic museum. We were told it would take about 1.5 hrs but we took 3 hrs & we still missed things. As we walked in we were talking to a guy who was a volunteer there so he ended up walking with us & giving us lots of information. We had an amazing visit.

This has been one of the most impressive museums I've ever seen. The interior design, the organization of the exhibits, and the architecture of the building itself are simply marvelous. From the moment you enter, the staff is incredibly friendly, and in each area, there are well-trained personnel who explain things or answer any questions you may have. I spent two hours exploring the exhibits and left completely amazed. I have to go back with family and friends to experience it again.

The Marine Corps Museum is beyond awesome! AND IT'S FREE...if it is not THE best museum that I've ever been to, it's at least tied. It feels like you are almost in a theme park. I strongly suggest planning to spend hours there...I wish we had planned on two half days because there is so much there that it is simply overwhelming. I highly recommend that all go that have a chance -- and whoever gave this less than 5 Stars is...

This place is filled with education and dedication! Definitely plan to be there at least 2 to 3 hours to see everything. The layout is perfect and you easily move from one section to another. Highly recommend checking this place out, it's free to get in!

This was probably one of the best museums we have been to and we've been to a lot. The kiddos loved it too with all the displays, hands-on activities, and play area. We also ate at Tun Tavern which was delicious! Overall it was a phenomenal experience!!!

As a Marine, visiting the National Museum of the Marine Corps was nothing short of incredible. The moment you walk in, the design of the building and the atmosphere make it clear that this is more than just a museum—it’s a tribute to our history, our sacrifices, and our brotherhood. The exhibits bring Marine Corps history to life in a way that words alone can’t capture. From the Revolutionary War to the modern-day fight, each gallery is immersive, detailed, and respectful of the Marines who served in those eras. The attention to detail in the uniforms, weapons, and recreated environments made me feel like I was stepping back in time. What stood out most to me was how the museum honors every generation of Marines. It’s not just facts on a wall—it’s stories, images, and artifacts that remind you of the legacy you’re part of. Walking through, I felt a deep sense of pride, respect, and connection to those who came before me. If you’re a Marine, a veteran, or someone who simply wants to understand the heart of the Corps, this is a must-visit. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Semper Fidelis.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Easy access to the beach with plenty of parking. Perfect for short day trips and scenic walks. It's calm waters which are perfect for kayaks, paddle boards, and just going out into the water to swim. Bring your phone or camera so you'll be prepared to take photos. I recommend coming during low tide if you want to look for fossils or walk as far down along the shoreline as possible and in the meantime get a good workout. It's a little over a mile to the edge to get to the bigger cliff area. For extra nice photos, plan to visit around sunrise and sunset so you get really good lighting.

Yes this is where the first settlers landed in 1607 . You are truly walking in history s footsteps here. What s story.

This is not only a beautiful park but also historic. So much of our early history was established in this area. It surprised me how near to each other these historic events that i read about are to one another. Highly recommend this to everyone and I'll likely return for several more visits.

A drive along the Parkway is a slice of heaven along the rivers. When they reopen the full Parkway on July 4, 2026, it will be a big day for doing the full trip from Yorktown to Jamestown. Cherish the Park!

So much to see. Great reenactments. Carriage ride was enjoyable. If you love history you gotta come here!

Always love visiting colonial Williamsburg. Great friendly people. The carriage ride is a must every time we go. Relaxing place that makes you feel away from everyday life.

A great location for family outing and to enjoy learning about the historic significance of this location while admiring the scenery and the coastal charm.

Visiting Historic Jamestowne was such an incredible experience! Walking the grounds where America’s first permanent English settlement began truly felt like stepping back in time. The mix of history, archeology, and storytelling makes it both educational and inspiring. The exhibits and artifacts bring the past to life, and the staff/volunteers are so knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the history. It’s amazing to see history being uncovered right before your eyes! Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, Historic Jamestowne is a must-see. We left with a whole new appreciation for the roots of our nation. 🇺🇸

We enjoyed everything about this area. The Powhatan village is interesting because it let's us see how they may have lived during this time. The ships are cool. One of the ship captains actually had a pair of prescription glasses made to look like what would have been worn during that period. The settlement area was great with live features like the blacksmith, cooking, setting and musket firing. Absolutely loved the museum! It's informative and well designed.

I give it a 4 star because you don't know that if you want to view old Jamestown (Jamestown Rediscovery, $15 per adult) you have to also purchase the park pass which is also $15 because you have to walk slightly through the park to get to it. They should just say $30 per adult and separate it in the system automatically (2 different entities are being paid). Now that's out of the way. Family had a great time, daughter enjoyed learning Halberds with Captain Brewster. The dig sites were neat to learn about. Ren was our archeological tour guide and seemed to have recited everything I read in the museum verbatim, she knows the timeline well, was friendly along with the rest of the staff, and had a good speaking voice for large outdoor crowds. The history of the place is awesome to learn about. We then went to the main museum and was awed by the size and the technology they put in this museum, better looking than the Smithsonian! Past the main museum is more historical replica outdoor buildings with staff dressed in the time period and showing people how different things were made during that time. There was also a musket rifle firing demo, which is loud. We also looked at the 2 ships at the end of the walk on the pier, which were also well maintained and fun to explore. We did not do the glass blowing house, but will go back and do it again.

This is an amazing place! This is a place in a place in a place. If you come here this gets a little pricey. Jamestown is broken into 3 pieces, there’s the more touristy Jamestown that’s not in the original spot, there’s the actual Jamestown where they are doing archaeological digs and have the original church and where you can see actual artifacts found from the digs, and then finally there is New Jamestown which is from the 1700s and is just ruins. Be prepared to do a lot of walking! It’s beautiful and educational but not for someone who can’t do a lot of walking. This will also take a lot of time, maybe 5 hours or more to do all 3 places. There’s parking at Jamestown museum and then at original Jamestown. All three places you have to pay. I didn’t mind paying for Jamestown museum ($20 a person) and the Original Jamestown ($15 a person). I was annoyed about paying for New Jamestown ($15 a person). You have to pay for new Jamestown and Original Jamestown together. $50 for all of it was a bit much. The only reason I’m ok with it because it helps fund the projects on the 2 sites.

Such a great experience! We saw many historic places as well as a lot of nature! There’s plenty to see so come early! Make sure you took your national parks card if you have one!

This was our first time to Historic Jamestowne. Since we are able, we went ahead and bought the lifetime NPS annual pass, which is valid for admission at all US National Parks. We actually visited two days in a row, the first time to go through the brick and mortar museum and the second day to tour the grounds. Please be aware that there are two sites, the "Old Towne" is owned by the state of Virginia, and the "New Towne" is owned by the National Park Service. Both require separate admission fees. The museum buildings and grounds are well maintained. The museum also has a nice 15-minute overview movie of the origins of the site, including artifact displays. What's interesting is that all of the Native American artifacts have been removed from the exhibits. The walking tour is self-guided. Guided tours are available for an extra cost. Our only mistake was going on one of the hottest days of late June, temps in the upper 90s. The museum has site maps available. However, there are enough placards throughout detailing people and events. Don't expect to see any buildings or recreations that's over at the "Old Towne." The only standing structure is what's left of the Ambler House. Otherwise, you'll only see the foundations for over a dozen structures. With a bit of imagination, one can visualize what it may have been like at the settlement over 400 years ago. We accomplished the walking portion in 30 minutes. If you have time, please take the driving tour on Island Drive. From the NPS Museum, simply take a right out of the parking lot. It's well worth it if you enjoy nature. There's also the 1608 Glasshouse that's available to tour. Check before you visit for times as they have live glass blowing demonstrations. Enjoy!

You just cannot put a value on our historic places. Everyone should see tour the Historic Triangle. We had a great time. We went off peak season so it was very peaceful without being extremely busy. A lot of this is outdoors so prepare accordingly. So worth it!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Loved the small town feel. Had a nice lunch walked through the shops that have an interesting and wide selection of products.I was surprised by the art options available from painters, painting, framing you name it.

Cute strip just too small. If this is their "down town" there is much more needed. Cute shops and restaurants. Decorated for holidays and very pretty. Not enough to do. We were done in under an hour.

Wake Forest downtown is a quaint downtown, please enjoy this for what it is and support the small locally owned small shops. Buy local, if you are looking for franchises of the big sort or a large city downtown this not that place. Raleigh is your place. It boosts coffee shop, a few cafe's, brewery, Mexican place and great tapas place just to name a few. If you are interested in buying local and getting cool ideas from local arcticians you have come to right place. Keep in mind WF has humble beginnings as far back ask 1980's there were only 7,500 people in WF. Very unique and lucky to have this very cool downtown. #downtownwakeforest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This 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.

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.

Such a beautiful and peaceful hike 😍 feels like you are walking in a fairytale forest. Unfortunately due to our schedule that day we only got to lookout point but will definitely go back again when we come back to NC to visit. There is plenty of parking next to the trail entrance and bathrooms. The view from lookout is so breathtaking. We came during end of October 2025 and plenty of colorful leaves all around. Perfect place for a picnic 🧺

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.

I've only had the chance to visit one of the many trails they have to offer. Campbell creek loop trail (moderate 4.5 miles) we thoroughly enjoyed this hike. A good bit of incline walking to get your heart rate up. Our 3 year old aussie kept up with us. We are looking forward to trying the more advanced trails.

Met the guys for a hike Tuesday, weather was perfect, had the place to ourselves. Have been here before when my son was much younger, good workout for this 65 year old !! We had a great time and will return soon..

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’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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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