the best kid-friendly spots in the piedmont triad
The NC Triad may not be anywhere on your radar for a weekend trip but… let me try to change that. I grew up in this area and most recently lived there from 2019–2021. The area continues to evolve and it has some seriously awesome attractions for families. Here are our recs for the best kid-friendly spots in the Piedmont Triad.
the basics
WHERE? | Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point (plus the smaller surrounding towns) make up the Triad. This area has lots of history: Revolutionary war battles, Moravian settlements, civil rights movements, and the tobacco, furniture and textile epicenter.
HOW FAR? | It’s about 3.5–4 hours from most parts of the Grand Strand. It’s in the central part of NC.
Big attractions
NC Zoo | This is just outside the Triad in Asheboro (35–50 minutes). I would recommend doing this on the drive in! You’ll pass right through Asheboro on the way in from the Grand Strand.
Quebin Children’s Museum | This fantastic museum opened in 2022 and will blow you away. It’s great for all ages and jam packed with your learning/play elements that nearly any museum we’ve ever experienced. Be sure to get tickets in advance. They have two time slots (AM or PM) and will sell out on holidays and weekends!
KALEIDEUM | The area’s newest children/science museum is in downtown Winston Salem and it’s fantastic. It’s 5 stories and 70,000 square feet of learning and fun. Kids (and adults) will be delighted at every single turn because the exhibits feature so many elements to explore. The rooftop playground is particularly wonderful. Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for kids (under 1 is free). Park in a nearby parking garage but pay for parking at the front desk before leaving (is you’ll be there longer than 2 hours as their rate is cheaper).
other attractions
There are plenty more smaller attractions we’ve experienced firsthand and recommend. Here is a list and quick notes.
Old Salem | Gorgeous, historic, can enjoy grounds for free.
Greensboro Science Center | Aquarium, zoo, ropes course, and more
Mt Airy (Mayberry) | Full of antique shops, an Andy Griffith museum, and other public art & photo opps.
State Parks | Hanging Rock and Pilot Mountain offer kid-friendly hiking and amazing views. Well worth the visit.
Yadkin Valley Wineries | The area has a surprising number of beautiful wineries. Many offer plenty of open, outdoor space making them kid-friendly.
Gardens | Reynolda Gardens, Ciener Botanical Gardens, Greensboro Gardens
HISTORIC BETHABARA | Remnants of an 1700s Moravian settlement. Has a visitors center and tons of outdoor space to explore. Gorgeous!
The Battle of Guilford Courthouse | I love history and this is one of the most historical sites in the Triad. Has a visitors center, many monuments and nature trails.
Int’l Civil Rights Center & Museum | Never been but it’s a big part of Gboro’s history.
High Point Chest of Drawers | This is a unique photo opp. Playing homage to the area’s importance in furniture and interior design.
Standout Parks | The Quarry at Grant Park (WS), LeBauer Park (Gboro), Tanglewood (so much more than a park!),
Food & SHOPPING
The Triad is pretty spread out so it depends on which city you stay in. We usually stay in Winston so we love these places.
Yamas | Quick and fresh, Mediterranean bowls.
Cugino Forno | Pizza in a hip and kid-friendly space.
The Porch | Tex-Mex with great outdoor space.
Chad’s Chai | Tea house. I buy their chai mix in bulk bags 4 times a year!
FIDDLE & FIG | Think Magnolia Market in Waco.
THRUWAY SHOPPING CENTER | Trader Joe’s, Athleta, Lululemon, J Crew, etc
Louie & Honey | All delicious but known for their cinnamon rolls.
Dough Joes | Doughnuts in Reynolda Village (go by the gardens)
Mojito Soul Food | Have yet to try but it’s in the home of a previous fav restaurant and the outdoor space is great for kids.
EAST OF TEXAS | Tons of outdoor seating and spaces for kids to play. Delicious food.
MAST GENERAL STORE | For a mountain feel and nostalgic candies.
The Go-To Winston Salem and The Go-To Greensboro are our “go-to’s” for where to eat in town. Here is a list of WS’s best restaurants with patios and Gboro’s list (always a plus to dine outside with kids).