Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in North Carolina

Day 1: Explore Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina

8:00AM

Discovery Place Science

Start your day with interactive exhibits at Discovery Place Science, perfect for family fun and learning.
Adults: $19.95, Children: $14.95, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

Enjoy a unique dining experience with a fusion of burgers and sushi at The Cowfish.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Carowinds Amusement Park

Spend the afternoon at Carowinds for thrilling rides and family entertainment.
Varies based on ticket type, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Haberdish

Indulge in Southern comfort food at Haberdish, known for its delicious fried chicken and sides.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina

9:00AM

Freedom Park

Spend the morning at Freedom Park, a beautiful green space with playgrounds and walking trails for the family.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Price's Chicken Coop

Try some of the best fried chicken in the city at Price's Chicken Coop, a local favorite.
$, 1 hour

3:00PM

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Explore the history of NASCAR at the Hall of Fame with interactive exhibits for all ages.
Adults: $25, Children: $18, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 300 East

Enjoy a cozy dinner at 300 East, a charming restaurant with a diverse menu for everyone.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina

9:00AM

Biltmore Estate

Explore the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate, including the house, gardens, and winery for a day of historic charm.
Varies based on ticket type, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tupelo Honey

Enjoy Southern comfort food with a modern twist at Tupelo Honey, a popular spot for families.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Downtown Asheville

Stroll through downtown Asheville, filled with eclectic shops, street performers, and local art galleries.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Admiral

Experience creative cuisine at The Admiral, a unique dining spot loved by locals and visitors alike.
$$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: More of Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina

10:00AM

North Carolina Arboretum

Explore the beauty of the North Carolina Arboretum, featuring gardens, trails, and exhibits for all ages.
Adults: $14, Children under 12: Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at White Duck Taco Shop

Grab a quick and delicious taco lunch at White Duck Taco Shop, known for its creative flavors.
$, 1 hour

3:00PM

River Arts District

Explore the vibrant River Arts District, where you can see artists at work and shop for unique souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Curate

Savor authentic Spanish tapas at Curate, a top-rated restaurant offering a taste of Spain in Asheville.
$$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Experience Raleigh

Raleigh, North Carolina

9:00AM

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Start your day at the Museum of Natural Sciences, featuring fascinating exhibits on nature and wildlife.
Free admission, donations appreciated, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pit Authentic BBQ

Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch at The Pit, known for its authentic North Carolina barbecue flavors.
$$, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pullen Park

Spend the afternoon at Pullen Park, a family-friendly park with paddle boats, a carousel, and playgrounds.
Park entry is free, attractions have individual fees, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Beasley's Chicken + Honey

Indulge in Southern comfort food at Beasley's, known for its fried chicken and delicious sides.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relax in Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina

10:00AM

Wrightsville Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores of Wrightsville Beach, perfect for family beach time.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dockside Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with a waterfront view at Dockside Restaurant, a local favorite for seafood lovers.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Battleship North Carolina

Explore the historic Battleship North Carolina, a fascinating WWII battleship with self-guided tours.
Adults: $14, Children 6-11: $6, Under 6: Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Indochine

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Indochine, offering delicious Southeast Asian cuisine in a beautiful setting.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Discover More of Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina

9:00AM

Airlie Gardens

Explore the stunning gardens of Airlie, featuring beautiful blooms, walking trails, and historic structures.
Adults: $9, Children 4-12: $3, Under 4: Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Basics

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at The Basics, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cozy atmosphere.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Downtown Riverwalk

Stroll along the scenic Downtown Riverwalk, lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful views of the Cape Fear River.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Manna

Indulge in a memorable farewell dinner at Manna, a fine dining restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
$$$, 2 hours
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