Consider the NC Smokies to be the ultimate playground for kids and kids at heart. The summertime is flourishing with exciting activities for you and your young explorers to enjoy. Make this summer break one to remember by checking out—and checking off— our list of adventures.
1. CHALLENGE YOUR FAM TO A ROUND OF MINI GOLF
Test your skills (or your luck) at a family-friendly game of mini-golf. Wanna add a twist? Winner chooses the place for dinner! Check out Maggie Valley Carpet Golf or Fantasy Golf & Game Room for a tee-riffic time!
2. PADDLE THE WATERS OF LAKE JUNALUSKA
Cool off for the summer with an activity that’s fun together. Lake Junaluska outfitters has kayaks, canoes, and other water activities for rent. Consider this your opportunity to make a splash!
3. SWEETEN THINGS UP WITH SOME CANDY
What kid doesn’t love candy? Treat your kiddos to over 365 different types of candy at Jelly Bellies in Maggie Valley. Chocolate lovers, you’ll want to stop by the Dillsboro Chocolate Factory in Waynesville. Don’t forget to grab a bag for the road!
4. TAKE IN SOME ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Get ready to “ooh” and “ahh” over some adorable farm animals. Pay a visit to a few of our four-legged locals at Winchester Creek Farms: alpacas, pigs, goats, and so much more. You’ll have the opportunity to feed them and snap pictures. Or, stirrup some fun at Appalachian Horseback Rides!
5. FINISH THE DAY WITH COLD ICE CREAM
After a day full of adventures, ice cream is the cherry on top. Cool off with a double scoop in a waffle cone at Jack the Dipper Ice Cream Parlor or Kilwin’s in Waynesville.
6. STAY SOMEWHERE UNIQUE
Here in Haywood, we are big fans of the unexpected. When choosing your place to stay during your trip, mix things up! Stay in a train caboose, a yurt, or pick a place with a cool theme. Just another thing to cross off the bucket list!
There are so many more unique activities in Haywood County for the whole family to enjoy. The length of your checklist is up to you! Check out our Kid-friendly Things to Do page for more inspiration. Don’t forget to tag us in all your selfies and group photos with #HayNow or @VisitNCSmokies.
