The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Location: Raleigh Cost: Free Travel time: 1 hour Website
This museum is an elementary school field trip — you’ll feel like a kid again with the numerous hands-on activities. The new-and-improved museum reopened in the spring of 2012 and offers lively permanent exhibits such as the living conservatory, the naturalist center, prehistoric North Carolina and much more. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit will open late September, showcasing 200 artifacts that were brought up from the wreck site of the sunken ship.
Sky High Sports – Trampoline Park
Location: Charlotte Cost: $10 on weekdays, $12 on weekends Travel time: 2 hours Website
Sky High Sports will also bring out the child in you. This trampoline house has all trampoline floors and all trampoline walls. Jumping provides a great workout, as Sky High boasts how an hour of jumping on a trampoline can burn more than 1000 calories. It’s probably the most fun you’ll have working out, so make sure not to miss out.
Battleship North Carolina
Location: Wilmington Cost: $12 for adults Travel time: 3 hours, 15 minutes Website
North Carolina offers a wide range of geographic locations, mountains and beaches included. Wilmington provides the closest beaches to Elon. Not only can you lay out on the sandy shores with friends, but you should also check out the various kayaking locations and wild preserves. Looking to be more adventurous? Check out Aquatic Safaris and experience North Carolina wreck diving through SCUBA at its best. On your way to Wilmington, make sure to stop at the Battleship North Carolina. The battleship, which was decommissioned in 1947 after six years in service, offers a fun and hands-on history lesson about World War II.
Wet ‘N Wild Emerald Pointe
Location: Greensboro Cost: $34.99 for one-day adult Travel time: 30 minutes Website
Emerald Pointe is the largest water park in North Carolina and offers a large variety of slides and water attractions. It’s well worth the price, especially if you get there early in the day when the crowds are smaller. Choose among 12 rides and slides around the park and four pools and wave areas. Whether you’re feeling adventurous and want to slide the 76 feet down Daredevil Drop or just want to tube in the Lazee River, there's something for everybody.