The drive alone is worth the trip to Grandfather Mountain. Once there, you make your way up to the top of the mountain where the hanging bridge is located. There is also an outdoor animal exhibit area that was enjoyable to visit as well. A definite must see!

The Natural Science Center has really improved itself with the addition of the outdoor zoo in the last couple of years. My daughter, age 7, loves this museum. She's been several times with us and on school field trips. She loves the outdoor zoo, the dinosaur room and the hands on activities. It is worth the money. Also, now that there is a certified zoo on site, it is reciprocal with other zoo membership programs. Check online before your visit for information.

We thought this would be the place that our daughter would love. We've literally went twice ever when she was young. The first time we went, she checked out all of the exhibits, but her favorite thing to do was the sidewalk chalk, the art station, and working in the grocery store. Every time, we tried to move her to another area, she would end up right back at the art station. We have not been back once she was over 5. It is really geared towards children ages 1-5. Also, it can be costly to enter. Look for coupons in entertainment books for discounts.

The NC zoo is huge! Be prepared to walk a lot, though there are tram stops along the zoo, but not too sure how often they arrive and leave. The wait may be long. If you start in North America, it is more of a downhill trek than if you start in Africa. Either way you go, there is a bus that will take you back to your parking area.
Overall, the zoo is enjoyable. Crowds can be thick on holidays and during the summer. We usually arrive early, right when the park opens, or after lunch, once everyone seems to have left for the day. The animals are spread out from each other, so there can be a short walk from each exhibit. Some exhibits are huge and it is very likely that your children may not see the actual animal, especially on hot days. We've been several times and have never seen the zebras, giraffes, or bison. We look and look and wait, but they are either inside or not within view. Overall, worth the trip. Specials occur during the summer. They used to offer $2 Tuesdays a few years ago. Though a good idea, really crowded.

This memorial is definitely not for younger children if you are looking for understanding. I have visited the memorial as an adult without children and was emotional walking through the memorial and I understood why it was here and what everything meant. I could see how older children would have a better appreciation of the memorial, but a lot of conversations and explanations would have to occur before visiting. Prepare for more questions while visiting.