Kids swimming in plastic balls

Local Activities

Durham, North Carolina, is a vibrant and family-friendly city that offers a plethora of opportunities for raising children and providing them with excellent educational and entertainment opportunities. Known for its rich historical significance, diverse community, and world-class universities, Durham is a city that values education and ensures a nurturing environment for children. Durham is home to highly acclaimed public and private schools, known for their dedication to academic excellence and innovative teaching methods. There are numerous educational resources available, including libraries, museums, and research institutions, which provide a stimulating learning environment for children of all ages. Duke University and North Carolina Central University, both located in Durham, offer a range of educational programs and events for children, fostering a love for learning and exploration. When it comes to entertainment, Durham has something for everyone. Families can explore the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a stunning botanical garden with beautiful walking trails and educational programs specifically designed for children. The Museum of Life and Science is another popular destination, featuring interactive exhibits, outdoor play areas, and a butterfly house. Additionally, Durham is known for its thriving performing arts scene, with various theaters and venues offering family-friendly shows and events throughout the year. For those seeking outdoor activities, Durham boasts a vast network of parks, trails, and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for families to engage in outdoor adventures. The Eno River State Park and Duke Forest are both popular destinations for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. In conclusion, Durham, NC, is a city that prioritizes the well-being and development of children. With its excellent educational institutions, abundant entertainment options, and beautiful natural surroundings, Durham is an ideal place for families looking to provide their children with a well-rounded upbringing.

Activities in Durham

71 results
a group of people posing for a photo

Triangle Aikido in Durham, North Carolina offers a unique way for children and adults to learn the art of Aikido. Aikido is a martial art that focuses on blending and awareness rather than force and resistance. The techniques of Aikido are based on developing a calm mind, relaxed body and accurate positioning rather than relying on strength and size. Aikido is not only an effective self-defense, but also a great way to get exercise and enjoy a moving meditation. At Triangle Aikido, experienced instructors provide a safe and supportive atmosphere to learn in. Classes teach children and parents to resolve conflict without violence while also teaching respect and discipline. Parents and children can have fun while learning to use their energy peacefully and effectively. Triangle Aikido is the perfect place for children and adults to learn the art of Aikido and gain a sense of self-confidence and respect.

a person in a pool with a yellow floaty

Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) is dedicated to helping Durham community members stay healthy and active. By offering a wide range of recreational activities for all ages, DPR is helping people of all backgrounds stay connected to the outdoors and become lifelong learners. Through these activities, we aim to promote physical, emotional, and social health for all. The City of Durham’s Strategic Plan is the guiding force behind DPR’s mission to help residents discover, explore, and enjoy life. We strive to provide creative and challenging recreational activities for the whole community so that everyone can benefit from the health benefits of being active. From outdoor sports to educational classes, Durham Parks and Recreation is giving the community an array of activities to Play More. We believe that by connecting with wellness, the outdoors, and lifelong learning, we are creating a healthier community for all.

a group of women in swimsuits posing for a photo

. Bull City Gymnastics is dedicated to providing an all-inclusive atmosphere to students of all ages and abilities. Our goal is to provide a safe, friendly and fun environment to help each child experience the joy of gymnastics. We believe that gymnastics is a great way to help children learn the importance of goal setting, perseverance, and hard work. Our coaches are highly trained and certified and strive to bring out the best in each student. We are passionate about helping our students reach their goals and be successful. At Bull City Gymnastics, we strive to motivate, inspire and empower our students. We are committed to helping our students develop physical strength, coordination, discipline, and confidence. We believe in providing individual attention and positive reinforcement in order to encourage our students to reach their full potential. We are proud to be a leader in the gymnastics industry, and we are dedicated to providing our students with the best possible experience each and every time.

a boy kneeling next to a person in a uniform

At our Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Gi and No-Gi), Judo and Self-Defense classes, adults can benefit from group training. You can also take part in competition training and open mats on the weekend. As well as group classes, our youth program offers private lessons with a selection of experienced instructors. When it comes to self-defense, our group classes are perfect for adults who want to learn a range of techniques. On the weekend, there are competition training classes and open mats for adults to hone their skills. We also have a youth program with private lessons available from a variety of experienced instructors. Our Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Gi and No-Gi), Judo and Self-Defense classes are designed to help adults learn effective self-defense techniques. We offer competition training and open mats on the weekend, as well as our youth program with private lessons from our experienced instructors. So, whether you are looking to join a group class or advance your skills in a private lesson, we have the right program for you.

a man in a suit and white pants with a group of people in white clothing

Our beginner karate program is perfect for children, teens, and adults alike. Combining aspects of self-defense, fitness, and mindfulness, this class is an engaging and exciting way to learn the art of karate. Form training helps improve balance and coordination, making for a challenging yet exhilarating experience. For the beginner, our karate program is the perfect place to start. With a focus on self-defense, fitness, and mindfulness, this class is an enjoyable and educational way to learn the art of karate. Forms training promotes balance and coordination, making the class both challenging and exhilarating. Whether you’re looking to have fun or take your practice seriously, our beginner karate class is suitable for children, teens, and adults.

a group of children in karate uniforms

Systema is a powerful training system that combines the benefits of martial arts, yoga, massage and meditation. With a complete system for the mind, body and spirit, you can learn to protect yourself while becoming more fit, flexible and free of fear and stress. Whether you’re looking to increase team productivity or simply become healthier, Systema can help you reach your goals. Learn more here.

a group of children in a room

Welcome to Durham School for Ballet & the Performing Arts, Durham's premier academy for quality training in classical ballet, pointe, modern, contemporary, tap, jazz and aerial dance. We have something to offer everyone, from our children's classes to our student-level classes and our recreational classes for teens and adults. Our instructors have been carefully chosen for their unparalleled teaching and artistic abilities. At Durham School for Ballet & the Performing Arts, we use the American Ballet Theatre's National Training Curriculum in our ballet and pointe classes. This revolutionary 8-level program combines excellent artistic training with an understanding of dancer health and child development. It offers age-appropriate, outcome-based guidelines to ensure the highest quality ballet training for all ages and skill levels. So come join us at Durham School for Ballet & the Performing Arts! Our instructors are dedicated to helping you reach your fullest potential in the world of ballet and other performing arts. We guarantee you won't be disappointed.

a group of people posing for a photo

At DRT, we encourage collaboration and dialogue over the arts and the experiences of different communities. Our theatre is a platform for diversity, inclusion and equity, with an emphasis on the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. We foster an environment that celebrates multiple perspectives, acknowledges different forms of knowledge, and encourages everyone to express their true selves. DRT is committed to creating a community of theatre makers and theatre goers that actively strives to bridge cultural barriers, increase awareness, and spark meaningful conversations. Our productions feature stories and characters from many cultures, with works that reflect the rich human diversity in Durham, NC. Through our programming, we strive to create a meaningful and lasting impact on our theatrical community.

a couple of kids holding signs

Carrie Goldbeck, founder and instructor of Goldbeck's Martial Arts, is a shining example of the importance of self-discipline, self-control, and self-confidence. With a background that began in 1994 in Rocky Mount, NC, she is passionate about promoting these values in a fun and nurturing environment. Carrie first experienced national competition with James Dozier's Kicking for Christ competition team, and gained invaluable insight into the importance of commitment, discipline, and attitude. Her travels across the east coast have given her the opportunity to pass on these lessons to her students. At Goldbeck's Martial Arts, Carrie motivates her students to take ownership of their own progress, and strives to create an atmosphere of positivity and achievement. She is dedicated to teaching the importance of self-discipline, self-control, and self-confidence in a way that is both fun and rewarding.

a woman in a green dress

The Living Arts Collective is dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment for creative expression. We believe that through sharing our stories, we can bridge gaps between diverse communities, create understanding, and foster collaboration. We seek to nurture our community by creating a space for all to share their art and experience the joy of creative exploration.

a man and a woman in a gym

Movie Makers is the perfect resource for children, teens and adults to develop their movie making skills. We offer a wide range of workshops and camps to help refine existing talents or learn new ones. Our experienced instructors provide guidance on all aspects of movie making, from the production side to the performers. Movie Makers is dedicated to helping children, teens and adults of all abilities learn the art of movie making. Our camps and workshops are tailored to individual skill levels and interests. Our knowledgeable staff will provide guidance and support to ensure that everyone gets the most out of their experience. Since 2001, we have been helping our students develop the skills to become the next generation of movie makers.

a group of girls wearing medals

We strive to create an atmosphere that allows each child to reach their full potential in gymnastics and life. Our classes are designed to provide our participants with the tools they need to become physically active and successful in the sport of gymnastics while building self-worth, self-confidence, and an "I can" attitude. At AcroSport Gymnastics, we aim to provide an enjoyable and safe environment where students can learn to appreciate the value of physical activity and build character. Through our classes, we work to foster a sense of self-worth and confidence, empowering our participants to develop a positive "I can" attitude.

a group of people in a pool

At Woodcroft Swim and Tennis Club, we are proud to offer one of the Triangle's premier tennis programs - Durham Tennis Academy (DTA). DTA runs clinics for players of all skill levels and ages, including private lessons and Junior League Play. We have also embraced the R(red)O(orange)G(Green) program, which uses softer, lighter tennis balls to make learning more enjoyable. If you have been looking for a healthy activity to introduce your son or daughter to a sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime, now is the perfect time to act. Fall junior tennis registration is now open at our website. You can find descriptions and breakdowns for each clinic available, and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email or by phone. We look forward to seeing you on the courts this Fall!

a person in a pool

Our swim school is dedicated to helping your child learn to swim faster, safer, and more competently than any other program in the area. We have an impressive record of success with our 21-day aquatic survival program, which is designed to give your child the skills they need to survive an aquatic accident in a short amount of time. Our swim lessons are designed to be the most efficient use of your time and money, allowing your child to become a competent swimmer in no time. Our experienced, certified instructors are committed to helping your child gain the skills they need to be safe in the water.

a girl with a pink bow

Are you and your family looking for a fun and creative way to spend an evening? In Durham, NC there is an amazing opportunity to let your inner artist run wild! With our step-by-step instruction, everyone from the novice to the experienced artist can join in. Bring your own favorite beverages and snacks to make the night special. Unleash your creativity and make lasting memories with your loved ones! Our knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the entire creative process to ensure that you’re happy with the outcome. Best of all, no artistic experience is required. Gather friends and family and come to Durham, NC for an evening of fun and creativity! Enjoy great conversation and laughter over your favorite drinks and snacks in a relaxing and social environment. Leave with memories of a great night and a masterpiece created by you!

a person and a boy playing frisbee

At Duke School, we understand what a special opportunity it is to have a summer camp experience. That's why we strive to provide an atmosphere of safety, support, and fun for campers of all ages. Our convenient location in the Triangle makes it easy for families from Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro to join in the fun. We hire only the most qualified and dedicated staff members to ensure that our campers receive the highest quality instruction and mentorship. We are committed to providing a summer of lasting memories and friendships, and we invite all children to join us for a summer of learning, growth, and fun!

a group of people dancing

ADF Scripps Studios provides dance instruction for all ages and levels of experience, from beginner to advanced, and from toddlers to adults. At ADF Scripps Studios, we believe in the power of dance to bring people together, express emotion, and create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie. Our facility provides a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for dancers of all ages and levels to learn, grow, and express themselves. Our expert faculty are dedicated to helping each individual find his or her own voice in the art form and develop their skills in a non-competitive atmosphere. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, ADF Scripps Studios is the place to come to learn something new. Our year-round dance classes are available for all ages and levels, giving students the opportunity to experience the joy of movement and explore their creative side. Our expert faculty will help you develop your skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere, and you’ll be sure to leave each class feeling inspired and invigorated.

a group of people sitting on the floor

Welcome to Happymess ArtPost, Durham's own locally owned art supply store! Our shelves are stocked with all the art materials to bring your creative vision to life. Whatever your age and skill level, your artistic journey begins here. We also offer art lessons, camps, and workshops to help you on your creative path. Our experienced instructors will help you refine your artistic skills, no matter where you’re starting from. Our extensive range of classes and workshops will help you develop your artistic abilities and explore new techniques. At Happymess ArtPost, we believe in the power of creativity. Our goal is to help you discover the artist within and create something truly unique. Come and explore our store and join us for an art lesson, camp, or workshop. We look forward to seeing you soon!

a group of people holding signs

Are you looking for a creative and fun way to spruce up your home? AR Workshop Durham is the place to go! Owned by Leslie Wright, AR Workshop Durham offers a hands-on DIY Workshop experience. You can create wood signs, canvas pillows, wall hangings, framed signs, wood boxes, lazy susans and more! Leslie has a background in residential real estate and home staging, giving her a great eye for design and color selections. AR Workshop Durham is the perfect place to express your creativity — they serve Durham, Chapel Hill, Duke, Brier Creek, Hillsborough, Bahama, Mebane, Timberlake, Rougemont, Bethesda, Efland, Burlington, Brightleaf Square, and Downtown Durham.

a group of people dancing

Bring the whole family down to Ninth Street Dance! Our classes and workshops are designed to be accessible to all levels, so everyone from toddlers to grandparents can have fun while learning the joy of dance. Our passionate instructors are dedicated to helping students of all ages understand the beauty and power of movement. Whether you’re a newbie or a professional dancer, you’ll be sure to find something to love at Ninth Street Dance!

a woman doing a handstand on a mat with another woman lying on her back

At Encore Academy of Dance, we know that dance is more than just a hobby – it’s a way to build life skills. Our mission is to provide a positive and safe environment for our dancers to achieve excellence in technique and poise, while also learning important life lessons along the way. We strive to develop respect, confidence and conscientiousness in our students, helping each dancer reach their fullest potential. With our guidance, we believe our dancers can grow into the best version of themselves, both on the dance floor and off.

a woman playing a piano

Girls Rock NC is working to create a world where young people feel supported, empowered, and free to create. By providing tools, resources, and political education, we are helping young people to build a more equitable and just society. Our commitment to intergenerational collaboration and holding space for youth to access their power is proving to be an effective and impactful way to create positive change. We are proud to be working together to create a more equitable and just world.

a group of people sitting in a room with drums

The Durham Arts Council, Inc. is the driving force behind bringing art to the city. By providing leadership, inspiration, and promoting access to the arts, DAC is helping to foster a vibrant cultural development in Durham. Through earned revenues, grants, and contributions from corporations, foundations, individuals, as well as support from the City of Durham, Durham County, North Carolina Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts, DAC is able to bring the arts to the people of this community. The mission of DAC is to create an environment in which creativity and the arts are highly valued and seen as positive and transformative forces. By working towards an excellent and sustainable arts and cultural sector, DAC is helping to ensure that Durham is a great place to live and work. The Durham Arts Council, Inc. is committed to making Durham a vibrant and culturally rich city. DAC strives to provide access to and experience of the arts to all members of the community, while also working to make the arts and culture a vital part of Durham’s educational and economic life. Through their dedication to creating an excellent and sustainable arts and cultural sector, DAC is helping to make Durham a great place to live and work.

a person in a garment

Each season the Hillside Drama Department produces three to four full scale productions ranging from classical Shakespeare to modern musicals. The department also produces several student written productions and plays each year. Hillside Drama prides itself on giving students the opportunity to express themselves artistically. From a staff of award-winning teachers to passionate and talented students, the Hillside Drama Department has always been a place to explore creativity. Hillside Drama isn't just about the production process, it's about developing the artist within each student. Hillside Drama offers a variety of classes to students, such as acting, directing, design, stage management, and technical theatre. Hillside Drama also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students to explore the craft of theatre. From improv clubs to touring productions, Hillside Drama allows students to explore their creative side. With Hillside Drama, students have the opportunity to express themselves, create, and learn about the craft of theatre.

a group of people in a canoe

Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) provides opportunities for the Durham community to get active and connect with each other. DPR’s mission is to support the City’s Strategic Plan by helping residents get outside and explore the outdoors, stay healthy, and learn new skills for a lifetime. With creative and challenging recreational activities, DPR is dedicated to helping residents stay physically, mentally, and socially healthy. From outdoor activities to sports to fitness classes, Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) has something for everyone. DPR works to promote wellness, the outdoors, and lifelong learning for the Durham community. With a variety of recreational activities to choose from, DPR strives to give residents the opportunity to stay physically fit, mentally alert, and socially engaged. By connecting our whole community to wellness, the outdoors, and learning, DPR strives to make a positive impact on our city.

a group of people playing instruments

At Notasium, we believe that music should be a part of every child's life. Our 3,000 square foot play space is the perfect place for children of any age to explore the world of music. With open play and birthday parties available, there's something fun for everyone! We also offer group music classes and individual music lessons on a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, drums, and woodwind and brass instruments. At Notasium, we're passionate about helping children discover the joy of music. Our inspiring 3,000 square foot play space is the perfect place to explore, learn, and create. With open play and birthday parties available, children of all ages can have a blast! Additionally, we offer group music classes and individual music lessons for a range of instruments, including piano, guitar, drums, and woodwind and brass instruments. At Notasium, we strive to awaken a love of music in children of all ages. Our 3,000 square foot play space is the ideal spot for children to discover the wonders of music. From open play to birthday parties, we have something fun for everyone! We also provide group music classes and individual music lessons for a variety of instruments, such as piano, guitar, drums, and woodwind and brass instruments.

a person playing drums

At Russell Lacy Music, we never forget that the real joy of mastering music is the art of it: the freedom to create and improvise, to express yourself through the music. We believe that art is a combination of self-expression, exploration, and a journey of discovery. Our faculty is dedicated to developing our students' artistic potential through careful guidance and mentorship. Russell Lacy Music is devoted to helping students become the best musicians they can be. We focus exclusively on teaching music, and understand that it has two parts: craft and art. Our faculty has the expertise and commitment to craft to ensure that every student has a strong foundation. We also recognize that the real joy of mastering music is the art of it, and are devoted to developing our students’ artistic potential through guidance and mentorship.

a person working on a sewing machine

At Sew Crafty, we are passionate about encouraging creativity and inspiring empowerment! Learning how to create something with one’s hands is an incredibly satisfying experience. We have a wide array of materials at our disposal, which can be transformed into something beautiful with the right guidance and techniques. In today’s world, it is more important than ever to have a balance between virtual and tactile activities. That is why we strive to make the experience of learning to sew and quilt both enjoyable and accessible for people of all ages. Our goal is to create a safe, inviting atmosphere where everyone can explore their creative side and use their hands to express themselves!

two women sitting on a couch

At BDTS, we strive to create an atmosphere of encouragement and support. Our teachers are passionate about helping each student reach their fullest potential, giving clear and kind corrections, and fostering a love for the art of dance. We focus on building self-confidence, strength, and grace in each of our classes, and emphasize the joy of movement. Our classes provide children with a safe, non-competitive environment where they can express themselves creatively. BDTS is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality, developmentally appropriate theatre education as well. Our theatre classes are designed to help students develop essential skills such as public speaking, problem solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. We focus on creating an environment that is both fun and challenging, encouraging students to take risks and explore their creativity. Our teachers are experienced in helping students find their voice, build self-confidence, and develop their performance skills. We strive to instill a passion for the theatre arts in each of our students.

a man and a woman walking through a grassy area with trees

Since 1966, the Eno River Association has been committed to conserving and protecting the natural resources of the Eno River Basin. We strive to ensure that the river and its surroundings remain a healthy and vibrant place for generations to come. Our mission is to promote and protect the natural, historical, and cultural resources of the Eno River Basin and to build a community of people dedicated to preserving its beauty. We work to ensure the physical and spiritual health of the basin by encouraging residents to act and advocate for conservation and protection of the area's resources, both for its intrinsic value and for its ability to meet our needs and enrich our lives.

We help you save time and money
We bring families fun and entertainment
We are parent’s little helpers

Local Events

Jan06-2718:00 PM
AJRC Life Skills for Kids event image
Jan06-2718:15 PM
Happy dancing parents draw
Jan07-2810:00 AM
MCAC: Starbabies (6-36months) event image
Jan07-2818:00 PM
MCAC: Starbabies (6-36 months) event image
Jan07-2818:00 PM
WPRC: Let's Build With Legos event image
Jan07-2818:00 PM
MCAC: Starbabies (6-36months) event image
Jan2313:30 PM
WHealthy Starts Kids Program event image
Jan247:30 AM
Happy dancing parents draw
Jan248:00 AM
RSP: School Day Out 1/24/2025 event image
Jan248:00 AM
ELRC: School Day Out 1/24/2025 event image
Jan248:00 AM
DWRC: School Day Out (Jan 24, 2025) event image
Jan248:00 AM
HGRC: School Day Out 1/24/25 event image
Jan248:00 AM
WPRC: School Day Out January 24, 2025 event image
Jan248:00 AM
MDRC: School Day Out (1/24) event image
Jan248:30 AM
SCRC: School Day Out (Jan 24, 2025) event image

Articles