Oct 6, 2016

Bowling Colorful Bowling Balls Bowling PinIf you’re looking for something fun to do with your family this weekend that won’t break the bank, check out these affordable activities in Charlotte, N.C., that are perfect for kids.

1. Bowling

Bowling is fun for all ages, and there are two AMF bowling alleys in Charlotte. The locations have plenty of lanes for you and your family, along with arcade games, billiards, and a restaurant. Even young kids can get in on the fun of bowling by using bowl ramps, which allow smaller children to push the ball down a metal ramp so it can move down the lane, and bumpers, which keep the ball out of the gutters.

Visit on Tuesdays and Sundays to get the best deals: AMF Centennial Lanes offers $2 games and shoe rental starting at 8 p.m. every Tuesday and $3 games and shoe rental every Sunday starting at 6 p.m.

2. Carolina Place Mall Play Area

For a completely free outing, head to the Carolina Place Mall, where younger kids can play at the children’s play area. This jungle-themed play space is for those who are 48 inches and under in height and has plenty of spaces to crawl through and climb over. The maze of tunnels is especially fun for smaller kids who aren’t as apt to climb. Make sure to stay close, as kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

3. Mallard Creek Recreation Center

This expansive 20,000-square foot indoor play area has all kinds of equipment to enjoy. Best of all, it’s free of charge for kids. People can rent it out for private events, so call before you go to make sure it’s open to the public. Be sure to bring a pair of socks for every child who plans to play, since they won’t be able to enjoy the area without them.

4. Discovery Place Kids

This museum has a variety of exhibits that appeal to kids of all ages. The hands-on play experiences encourage imagination and creativity while allowing children to learn about science, history, nature, and other subjects. The cost of admission is $10 per person, but if you buy a membership, you can save a lot if you visit frequently. Members get free parking, unlimited admission for two adults and all children ages 18 and under living in the household, invitations to special events, four half-price vouchers for friends and family, and much more.

5. Billy Graham Library

If it’s rainy or chilly outside, skip the park and pay a visit to the Billy Graham Library. It sits on 20 acres of land, and the barn-style library includes multimedia presentations, educational exhibits, and memorabilia and photos of Billy Graham. If you’d like to learn more about the religious leader, you can take a tour. Admission is free for all ages. If you work up an appetite at the library, visit The Graham Brothers Dairy Bar for a sandwich, salad, cookie, or bowl of ice cream.

Head out and do something fun with your kids in the Charlotte area this weekend.

Image via Pixabay