There’s no shortage of fun things to do and see with children in Topsail Beach and in the surrounding areas. In our article, 4 Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved Museums, we mention a few great museums that are educational and fun. But what about when you just want to get out of dodge for the day? In this post, we’ve included other kid-friendly destinations that require a drive. So grab some snacks and a few good car games, because these museums are definitely worth the drive.
1. Fascinate-U
- http://www.fascinate-u.com/
- (910) 829-9171
Where?: 116 Green St, Fayetteville, NC
Drive Time?: 2 hr 19 min (117 mi)
How Much?: $4 for children, $3 for adults
Why Go?: Opened since 1994, Fascinate-U emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning. Their motto, “I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand!” is seen in action throughout the museum. By replicating a miniature city, Fascinate-U offers children the opportunity to learn about different jobs through pretend. Different exhibits include a grocery store, farm, post office, army fort, and fire station. There is a toddler room featuring a mini-house for children under four. The building also contains an art room, science room, and a model train.
2. Wonder Works
- https://www.wonderworksonline.com/myrtle-beach/
- (843) 626-9962
Where?: 1313 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
Drive Time?: 2 hr 8 min (114 mi)
How Much?: $18.99 for children, $28.99 for adults, free for children 3 and under
Why Go?: What doesn’t this museum have? There are a series of WonderZones that range from Natural Disasters to a Far Out Art Gallery and all the STEAM in-between, a ropes challenge, and laser tag. WonderWorks boasts 50,000 square feet of educational entertainment. Just make sure that everyone is wearing closed toe shoes. Sandals will prevent you from taking full advantage of all that WonderWorks has to offer.
3. Kidzu
- https://www.kidzuchildrensmuseum.org/
- (919) 933-1455
Where?: Inside University Place, 201 S Estes Dr, Chapel Hill, NC
Drive Time?: 2 hr 44 min (166 mi)
How Much?: $8.50 for children over 12 months and adults, $3.00 for EBT cardholders, $7.00 for seniors 65+ and military family members
Why Go?: All of Kidzu’s 8,500 square foot space is dedicated to help children make, build, explore, and learn. Like many children’s museums, the emphasis at Kidzu is STEAM. The museum is constantly undergoing changes as they swap out exhibits and revitalize old favorites. Kidzu also partners will local artists, scientists, craftspeople, and authors on events to create an authentic learning experience about the region and those who make it special.
4. EdVenture Myrtle Beach
- formally the Children’s Museum of South Carolina
- Opening Feb 2019
Where?: The Market Common, 4017 Deville St, Myrtle Beach, SC (museum will be on Howard Ave)
Drive Time?: 2 hr 18 min (120 mi)
How Much?: TBA, prices at other EdVenture locations range from $8 to $11.95 with discounts for military, educators, and groups.
Why Go?: The Children’s Museum of South Carolina will be reopening in February 2019 as EdVenture Myrtle Beach with a theme that has yet to be announced. While exhibits vary based on location, all EdVentures tout “engaging, hands-on exhibits, programs and events will make you wonder how learning can be so much fun.” If you make it before we do, please let us know what your impressions of this new children’s museum are.