Summer is here, and we’re sharing fun, kid-friendly outing ideas to help make the most of the summer! From visiting the Whitewater Center and riding roller coasters at Carowinds to bowling, roller skating, grabbing ice cream, exploring children’s museums, and enjoying a pool or water park, this guide is full of inspiration for memorable summer days.
Whether you’re planning a big adventure or need a simple afternoon activity, our summer activity list is packed with ideas that nannies and nanny kids will love.
Big Adventure Days
Start with the outings that feel extra special:
Visit the Whitewater Center
Play at the Wildwoods playground, have lunch, watch the whitewater rafters, zip line, or try a ropes course.
Ride a roller coaster at Carowinds
A classic Carolina summer adventure for thrill-seeking kids and families.
Visit Slick City Action Park
A fun indoor option for kids who need to move, climb, slide, and burn off some energy.
Spend the day at a local pool, YMCA, or water park
Take some time to cool off at a neighborhood pool, local YMCA pool, or Water Park like Ray’s Splash Planet or The Great Wolf Lodge.
Before heading out, remember to pack extra clothes, sunscreen, snacks, and refillable water bottles. It is also helpful to check hours, ticket requirements, and age or height restrictions before going on these adventures.
Indoor Fun
Perfect for hot, rainy, or high-energy days:
Go roller skating
Introduce your nanny kids to the joys of roller skating at Kate’s Skating Rink. They have locations in Indian Trail, NC, and Gastonia, NC. This is a fun choice for an active indoor outing on hot days.
Get a few friends together and go bowling
Bowling is a great group activity, and many kids can bowl for FREE during the summer at participating locations like Spare Time (locations in Huntersville, NC and Pineville, NC).
Explore your local children’s museum
Try Discovery Place, Discovery Place Kids (Huntersville and Rockingham), ImaginOn, the Main Street Children’s Museum at the Museum of York County, or the Schiele Museum for hands-on learning and play.
For indoor activities, plan around nap times, bring socks when needed, and check whether places offer weekday specials, toddler-friendly hours, or summer programs.
Summer Classics
Great for lower-key afternoons:
Play putt-putt
Check out Lake Norman Miniature Golf, High Seas Miniature Golf, or Monster Mini Golf (May be scary for some younger children) for a simple and fun outing.
Grab an ice cream cone
Cool off with a sweet treat from Two Scoops, Golden Cow Creamery, Tony’s Ice Cream, or Handel’s.
Get out in nature
Visit a local park, trail, garden, or nature preserve for fresh air, movement, and a change of scenery.
Whatever adventure you choose this summer, we hope this list helps you create joyful, memorable days with the children in your care. Happy summer!
