Top Family-Friendly Summer Activities to Enjoy Together
- courtneycottone29
- May 1
- 7 min read
Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your loved ones. The warm weather and longer days invite families to step outside and enjoy a variety of activities that bring everyone closer. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simple fun, there are countless ways to make the most of your summer together. This guide highlights some of the best family-friendly summer activities that will keep everyone entertained and connected. I have created a list of Top Family-Friendly Summer Activities to Enjoy Together!
Discover Exciting Family-Friendly Summer Activities
Finding activities that appeal to all ages can be a challenge, but summer offers a wide range of options that cater to different interests and energy levels. Here are some ideas to inspire your family’s summer plans:
Outdoor Concerts & Movie Nights: Many communities host outdoor movie screenings in parks or open spaces. Bring blankets, snacks, and enjoy a family-friendly film under the stars.
Movies in the Park (Kernersville - Harmon Park):
May 15: Elio
July 17: Top Gun
September 18: Mystery Movie Night
Innovation & Cinema (Winston-Salem - Bailey Park):
May 15: Talladega Nights (Series kickoff)
Ongoing through Summer: High-speed film series including Cars and Ford v Ferrari.
Music Under the Stars (Lewisville - Shallowford Square):
May 23: The Embers feat. Craig Woolard (Beach Music)
June 13: Special Occasion Band (Party hits)
July 11: The Tams
July 12: Camel City Yacht Club
August 16: Rev On (Foreigner Tribute)
Lewisville Movies Under the Stars (Shallowford Square):
June 19: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
July 24: Wonka (2023)
August 14: Kung Fu Panda 4
Concerts in the Park (Mocksville - Civic Green):
Monthly through Summer: High-energy performances from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Gates open at 4:30 PM).
Nature Hikes and Picnics: Explore local trails and parks. Pack a picnic with everyone’s favorite foods and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Salem Lake Trail (Winston-Salem): A nearly 7-mile loop around the water. It is mostly flat and very popular for families with strollers or bikes.
Tanglewood Park (Clemmons): Offers rolling wooded trails, a dedicated dog park, and multiple playgrounds.
Bethania Trails (Bethania/Pfafftown area):
Black Walnut Bottoms Trail: A 2.1-mile easy hike with footbridges and bluffs.
West House Trail: A 1.7-mile loop that blends local history with nature—perfect for a 30-minute walk.
Quarry Park (Winston-Salem): Features the Waughtown Connector Greenway and a stunning overlook of the old quarry with views of the city skyline.
Hanging Rock & Pilot Mountain State Parks: Both are within a 30–45 minute drive.
Hanging Rock: Best for waterfall hikes (Hidden Falls and Window Falls are shorter and family-friendly).
Pilot Mountain: The Jomeokee Trail is an easy loop around the base of the "Big Pinnacle" with great views.
Farmers Markets and Food Festivals: These events are great for tasting fresh, local produce and trying new foods. Kids often enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and sometimes live entertainment.
Clemmons Farmers Market (Jerry Long Family YMCA):
Opening Day: April 25 (9 AM – 2 PM, part of Clemmons Community Day).
Weekly: Saturdays through October 3 (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM).
July 10: Special "Christmas in July" Night Market (6 PM – 9 PM).
Cobblestone Farmers Market (Winston-Salem - Old Salem):
Weekly: Saturdays (8:30 AM – 12:00 PM). Focuses on local meats, produce, and artisanal goods.
Trade Street Farmers Market (Winston-Salem - Arts District):
Select Sundays: April 12 through June 7 (Starting at 10:00 AM).
Winston-Salem Food Truck Festival (9th Street):
May 24: A massive gathering of over 50 regional food trucks from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
Dream Asia Festival (Winston-Salem Fairgrounds):
April 24–26: Features over 80 Asian food vendors and cultural performances.
Water Parks and Splash Pads: Perfect for cooling off on hot days, these venues offer fun water activities suitable for all ages.
The City of Winston-Salem operates a fantastic network of splash pads. For the 2026 season, these are scheduled to be open from May 1 through September 30, with daily hours typically from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Nelson Malloy Park (Pfafftown/Bethabara Area): Conveniently located at 2619 Bethabara Road, this is one of the closest options for your neck of the woods.
Polo Park (Winston-Salem): Located at 1850 Polo Road, this spot is a local favorite for its easy accessibility and shaded areas nearby.
Hathaway Park: 301 Anita Drive.
Little Creek Park: 600 Foxcroft Drive.
Sedge Garden: 401 Robbins Road (Great if you are headed toward the Kernersville side).
Washington Park Splash Pad (Lexington): If you’re up for a short 20-minute drive, this 4,000-square-foot facility is free, highly rated, and open May 16 – September 27 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Tanglewood Park Pool & Splash Pad (Clemmons):
Features: A large winding river, slides, and a dedicated Splash Pad Playground specifically designed for younger children.
Season: Typically opens Memorial Day weekend.
Winston Waterworks (Winston-Salem):
Located at 3584 Winston Lake Road, this facility includes a water playground, a lazy river, and a large slide. It’s a great mid-sized option that feels like a water park but is managed by the city.
Kernersville Family YMCA (Outdoor Pools):
Opening Weekend: May 23–25.
Features: The outdoor area is very family-centric with water features for kids. They offer daily passes if you aren't a member.
Lexington Aquatic Park:
Season: Opens May 23.
Features: A competition-size pool with zero-depth entry (perfect for your toddlers) and various splash features. Admission is very affordable ($2 for kids, $4 for adults).
Craft Fairs, Classes and Art Workshops: Engage your family’s creative side by attending fairs or signing up for workshops where everyone can make something special to take home.
Craft Fairs & Hands-On Workshops
These events are perfect for little ones who love to create (and for parents looking for unique local goods).
Kids Summer Craft Days (Hanes Mall - The Craftin' Loft):
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays (June – September), 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
What: Guided craft sessions designed specifically for kids. Great for a rainy day or a break from shopping.
Camp Sawtooth "Saturday Sunshine" (Sawtooth School for Visual Art):
When: Select Saturdays in June and July.
What: While they have intensive summer camps, Sawtooth often hosts family-oriented workshops where parents and kids can try pottery or painting together.
Art in the Park (Shallowford Square, Lewisville):
Keep an eye on the Lewisville town calendar; during the Summer Concert Series, there are often local craft vendors and community art tents set up near the playground.
Family Museum & Children's Events
Winston-Salem has world-class museums that lean heavily into sensory and musical play.
Kaleideum (Downtown Winston-Salem):
MESStival (May 9): A huge outdoor/indoor event featuring oobleck pools, foam parties, and "foot painting." (This fits your sensory play focus perfectly!).
Weekly Storybook Science: Check their July schedule for events that blend literacy with hands-on building and music.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens:
Spring/Summer Homeschool Days (Through May 20): Even if you aren't a homeschooler, these days offer discounted "All-in-One" tickets and extra hands-on demonstrations like hearth cooking and pottery.
Winkler Bakery: Always a must-visit for kids to see (and smell!) traditional bread-making in action.
REYNOLDA Gardens & Village:
Family Adventure Days: Usually held on select Saturdays, these include nature-themed crafts and scavenger hunts through the gardens.
Learn and Play Hooray
Integrating your own sessions into these local outings helps parents build their weekly routine.
Weekly Playgroups:
Tuesday at 10:00 AM: Infants – Preschool.
Thursday at 9:00 AM & 10:00 AM: Infants – Preschool.
Note: Remember your "No Class" dates for the summer: June 2, 4, 30, and July 2.
Free Mini-Classes: You occasionally offer these for new families—adding a "Join us for a Free Mini-Class" note at the bottom of your local event guide is a great way to convert "event-seekers" into regular students. www.learnandplayhooray.com
These activities not only entertain but also encourage family bonding and create opportunities for learning and exploration.
Planning Your Family-Friendly Summer Activities
To make the most of your summer, planning is key. Here are some tips to help you organize enjoyable and stress-free outings:
Check Local Event Calendars: Many towns and cities publish summer event schedules online. Look for events that are specifically designed for families.
Consider Everyone’s Interests: Involve all family members in choosing activities. This ensures that everyone feels included and excited.
Prepare for the Weather: Summer can be unpredictable. Pack sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and light rain gear just in case.
Set a Budget: Many family-friendly events are free or low-cost, but it’s good to know your limits to avoid overspending.
Plan for Downtime: Balance busy days with relaxing ones to keep energy levels high and avoid burnout.
By planning ahead, you can enjoy a smooth and fun summer filled with memorable experiences.
What Events Do You Celebrate as a Family?
Every family has its own traditions and special occasions that bring everyone together. Summer is a great time to celebrate these moments with unique events and activities. Here are some ideas to enhance your family celebrations:
Birthday Parties with a Twist: Host outdoor birthday parties with themes like treasure hunts, water balloon fights, or backyard camping.
Family Reunions: Organize a reunion at a local park or beach where everyone can catch up and enjoy group games.
Holiday Celebrations: Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or other national holidays can be celebrated with barbecues, parades, and fireworks.
Cultural Festivals: Attend festivals that celebrate your family’s heritage or explore new cultures together.
Seasonal Traditions: Create new traditions such as making homemade ice cream, planting a summer garden, or having a weekly family game night.
These events strengthen family bonds and create joyful memories that last a lifetime.
Tips for Making the Most of Family Summer Events
To ensure your family enjoys every moment of summer, consider these practical tips:
Stay Flexible: Sometimes plans change due to weather or other factors. Be ready to adapt and find alternative activities.
Capture the Moments: Take photos and videos to document your adventures. These will be cherished for years to come.
Encourage Participation: Let kids help with planning and preparation. This increases their excitement and sense of involvement.
Prioritize Safety: Keep an eye on children, especially near water or in crowded places. Bring a first aid kit and know the location of emergency services.
Balance Screen Time: Use summer events as an opportunity to reduce screen time and encourage outdoor play and interaction.
By following these tips, your family can enjoy a safe, fun, and fulfilling summer.
Embrace the Joy of Togetherness This Summer
Summer is a season full of possibilities for families to connect, explore, and have fun. Whether you attend local festivals, enjoy outdoor adventures, or create your own traditions, the key is spending quality time together. Remember to check out family summer events in your area to discover new opportunities for fun and learning.
Make this summer unforgettable by embracing the joy of togetherness and creating memories that will warm your hearts for years to come.
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