Anyone who has spent a summer in North Carolina knows that the combination of heat and humidity can make outdoor play challenging. While we love exploring local parks, playgrounds, and trails, sometimes the weather calls for an air-conditioned adventure instead.
Whether you're looking to escape a scorching afternoon, dodge a summer thunderstorm, or simply find a new place for the kids to play, we've rounded up some of our favorite indoor destinations across Burlington, Graham, Mebane, Hillsborough and surrounding areas. From indoor playgrounds and laser tag to museums, libraries, bowling, skating, and creative spaces, there's no shortage of ways to stay cool while making summer memories.
For Kids Who Need to Run, Climb, Jump, and Burn Off Energy
When your child has endless energy, these spots are lifesavers.
- Kiddy Town (Burlington) offers a safe indoor playground designed especially for younger children. Kids can explore, pretend, climb, and play while parents relax nearby.
- Everyday Kids Community Center (Burlington) provides an inclusive play environment where children of all abilities can enjoy open play and social interaction.
- If bouncing is more their style, Bouncin' Around at Holly Hill Mall features inflatables, arcade games, and plenty of room for active fun.
- Older kids often love Ground Zero Tactical Laser Tag in Elon, where they can challenge friends in laser tag battles, experience virtual reality adventures, and test their skills in a variety of interactive games.
- Lazer X: The Family Zone, Broadway's Family Fun Center, Putt-Putt Fun Center, and Buffaloe Lanes Family Bowling Center offer a mix of arcade games, attractions, bowling, and family entertainment that can easily fill an afternoon.
- Need to cool down even more? Head to the Orange County Sportsplex in Hillsborough, where public ice skating provides a refreshing escape from summer temperatures.
- Bizi Kids combines supervised indoor play with flexible drop-in childcare, giving children a fun place to learn and explore while parents take care of errands or enjoy a little downtime.
- Teen Hoops: Pick-up basketball nights for ages 9–17 at Fairchild Community Center. Fridays (June 5 & 19, July 17 & 31), 6 PM to 9 PM.
For Curious Kids Who Love to Explore
Looking for something educational that doesn't feel like school?
- The Children's Museum of Alamance County in Graham is packed with hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity, imagination, and learning through play.
- Train-loving children enjoy visiting the Mebane Train Display and the Gibsonville Garden Railroad, where miniature trains and detailed displays capture the imagination.
- History-minded families can explore the Alamance Battleground State Historic Site, the Textile Heritage Museum, or the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum & State Historic Site, each offering a unique glimpse into our region's rich past.
- Animal lovers should add the Animal Park at the Conservators Center to their summer bucket list for an up-close look at fascinating wildlife and conservation efforts.
For Creative Kids
Some kids would rather paint than play laser tag.
- At Painted Grape in Burlington and Mebane, families can paint pottery and create keepsakes together.
- Alamance Arts offers classes, exhibits, camps, and creative activities throughout the year, making it a great destination for budding artists.
- Creative Kids: Story Time & Craft at Solgarden hosted by No Bad Books Co. and Solgarden Eclectic Giving, this weekly program combines storytime with a themed craft activity that children can take home.
Local Libraries/Storytimes
- Alamance County Libraries have events going across all 4 of their libraries and in the community every Monday through Saturday all summer long. Plus, you can go to their space to enjoy reading a book, coloring, playing on the computer, enjoying the kids toys and puzzles, etc. SO much fun to be had with our local libraries! Plus, check out their summer reading program here.
- Don’t miss the ACPL ZOOM Pass Program, where families can reserve FREE passes to popular local attractions like the North Carolina Zoo, Children’s Museum of Alamance County, Sylvan Heights Bird Park, Animal Park at the Conservators Center, Putt-Putt Fun Center, Studio 1 Theatre, and more — a great way to enjoy budget-friendly summer adventures on a first-come, first-served basis!
- Orange County Libraries also have incredible events with options all summer long and so many things to enjoy in the AC in addition to books. While the only library officially located in our Macaroni KID territory is the one in downtown Hillsborough, it isn't too far to check out their events at the Carborro branch as well. They also have a wonderful summer reading program you can check out here.
- Gibsonville Public Library: Enjoy six weeks of Summer Reading fun with storytimes, family activities, movies, trivia, a scavenger hunt, and special events like the Dino Petting Zoo. The library is also a great place to read, play, explore, and learn all summer long. View the Summer Reading Program here.
Free & Affordable Kids Movies This Summer
Looking for a budget-friendly indoor activity? Several local theaters and venues are offering family-friendly movie screenings throughout the summer, making it easy to stay cool without spending a lot.
- Graham Cinema in downtown Graham - shows kids movies for just $2 every Wednesday, June 11 - August 20 at 10am and 1pm
- Alamance Crossing's Theater in Burlington - shows kids movies (with a kiddie combo) for $7.50 every Wednesday at 10am
- Turner Theatre at Elon University (Elon) Families can also enjoy FREE summer movie screenings, popcorn is included.
A Summer Parenting Survival Tip
You don't have to plan an all-day adventure every time the kids get restless. Sometimes a quick hour at an indoor playground, a stop at a museum, or an afternoon bowling with friends is enough to reset everyone's mood and break up a long summer day.
The best part? Every place on this list is right here in Alamance or Orange County, making it easy to stay cool without spending hours in the car.
Did we miss your family's favorite indoor spot? Send us a message—we're always looking for great local recommendations!
Before You Go
Hours, admission prices, and programming can change throughout the summer, so be sure to check each venue's website or social media pages before heading out. Many locations also offer memberships, camps, special events, and discounts that can help families save money all season long.
Did we miss your family's favorite indoor spot? Send us a message—we're always looking for great local recommendations!
