Free Children's Entertainment in the Research Triangle

Ever have one of those days? You know the ones, you just want to get out of the house but do not want to blow the weekend budget for a few hours of fun. Or, maybe you’re just tired of doing the same activities with your toddler. The good news is that the Triangle offers lots of choices for a day’s play. Here are some of the favorite, free hang-outs of Triangle parents.

Kids Together Park in Cary, located off Thurston Dr. Features a variety of play areas with Big Toys for different skill levels. Areas for sand play even have some toys available for those who forgot to pack their shovels and dump trucks. A covered picnic area is available by restrooms as well as benches arranged throughout the site. The park is wonderfully landscaped and even has a dragon sculpture tucked into the hillside. Open from sunrise to sunset. Check out the Town of Cary’s website at www.townofcary.org for more information.

Barnes and Nobles in Cary, located at the corner of Walnut Street and Maynard Dr. The children’s section features a Thomas The Train table for the children to play with and a stage for comfy reading. Free story times are offered weekly by age group. The café offers Mom and Dad a chance for coffee and snacks while the kids look for a new favorite bedtime story.

J C Raulston Arboretum is stashed among the busy highways of Raleigh on Beryl Rd, near Hillsborough street. The Arboretum is surprisingly large and full of relaxing, shady nooks. Frog ponds and maze-like gardens offer plenty to explore. Most of the programs are oriented toward adult audiences but the grounds provide lots of space for curious kids. This is a great place for a teddy bear tea party or a picnic. Open everyday, 8 am - 5 pm November through March and 8 am - 8 pm through October. Phone: 919-515-3132.