Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, 240 Park Entrance Rd, Seven Springs www.ncparks.gov 919-778-6234

Visit this park for a view of the Cliffs which rise 90 feet above the banks of the Neuse River. Hiking trails, an 11 acre lake, picnic shelters, and camping can all be enjoyed here.

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, 6254 Satterwhite Point Rd, Henderson www.ncparks.gov 252-438-7791

Straddling the border of North Carolina and Virginia, this 50,000 acre lake is an outdoor boating enthusiasts dream. Enjoy boating, camping, hiking, swimming, picncking and camping at the park.

Medoc Mountain State Park, 1541 Medoc State Park Rd, Hollister www.ncparks.gov 252-586-6588

The mountain may have erroded long ago, but this 2300 acre park has plenty to offer with canoeing on Little Fishing Creek, hiking, fishing, bird watching and tent and trailer camping sights.

Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area. 625 Virginia Cates Rd, Hillsborough www.ncparks.gov 919-383-1686

Take in scenic views from the top of this Mountain, the highest point in Orange County. This 190 acre park has hiking trails, unique wildlife and plays host to special events and guided hikes.

Raven Rock State Park, 3009 Raven Rock Rd, Lillington www.ncparks.gov 910-893-4888

Raven Rock, the main attraction in this 4,684 acre state park, sits high above the Cape Fear River. Enjoy camping, fishing, picnicking, miles of trails and the Raven Rock Rumble race in November.

North Carolina Zoo, 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro www.nczoo.org 800-488-0444

The North Carolina Zoo is located on 2200 acres in the Uwharrie Mountains, just 75 miles from Raleigh. Spend some time with the intriguing animals from North America and Africa all in just an afternoon. One of the most unique features of the Zoo is the 500 acres that have been set aside as a "natural habitat", one of the largest in the United States. Enjoy the Kid Zone, carousel, playground, prairie geyser, Dino World, aviary and so much more.

Old Salem Museum & Gardens, Visitors Center, 900 Old Salem Rd, Winston Salem www.oldsalem.org 336-721-7300

Step back in time to this Moravian Settlement dating back to the 17th century. Walk along cobblestone paths or take a carriage ride. Watch as living-history interpreters demonstrate the old craftsmanship skills of the town blacksmith, tinsmith and silversmith. Old Salem features many restored churches, homes and shops as well as gardens. Visit the Salem Tavern where George Washington once stayed and the historic St. Philips Moravian Church. Special events, music and exhibits take place throughout the year including the Cobblestone Farmers Market.