2025 Trips
Discover exciting travel opportunities with the Active Adult Program! We design our trips with our patrons in mind, making them perfect for anyone looking to explore new destinations and create unforgettable memories.
Frequently
Asked Questions Frequently Asked Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can join our trips? join trips?
1. Who join our Who can
Our trips are designed with adults aged 50+ in mind, but all adults 18+ are welcome to participate and enjoy these exciting experiences.
2. Do I need to live in Raleigh to travel? I need to to travel?
2. Do need in to live Raleigh to travel?
Absolutely not! Adults from any location can join our trips. For multi-day trips, we’ll even coordinate with our tour partners to arrange flights from the nearest major airport to the destination, arriving close to the group’s schedule.
3. Are trip descriptions final?
3. Are 3. trip descriptions Are trip final?
Trip descriptions provide a general outline of planned activities but may be subject to change due to site availability or new opportunities that enhance the experience. We strive to provide the most enjoyable and updated itinerary possible.
4. How do I register and stay informed about trips?
4. How do informed 4. do I and informed about trips? How I register trips?
To receive trip fliers and register, you must complete the Yearly Trip Registration Form. This form covers all trips from January 1December 31 and can be submitted online via RecLink or at an Active Adult Center.
5. What if the trip I want is full? if the I want is 5. the is What if trip want full?
Join the waitlist! Openings frequently occur, and we may also add extra spots or schedule a second trip. No payment is required to join the waitlist, and you’ll be contacted in the order of your waitlist placement as spots become available.
6. What if I need to withdraw from a trip? What if I withdraw a 6. I need to 6. if need from a Cancellations must be submitted in writing, either via email or in person at an Active Adult Center. Refunds for day trips adhere
to Raleigh Parks guidelines and are subject to non-refundable costs. Multi-day trip cancellations follow the tour operator’s policies.
7. Where is the departure location? is the
7. is departure Where departure location?
Trips depart from the Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults (1901 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh, NC 27615). Please park in the designated lot between the fire station and baseball fields. Avoid parking directly in front of the center to leave space for daily patrons.
8. Can I request special assistance or accommodations? Can I special 8. request or Can assistance or Trip escorts lead all of our trips however they cannot provide one-on-one assistance as they are responsible for the group. Please indicate any special needs, such as wheelchair use or dietary restrictions, on your Yearly Trip Registration Form and during trip registration. Requests for ADA accommodations must be made at least three weeks prior to the trip.
9. What type of transportation is provided? What transportation is 9. type is 9. type transportation
Larger trips utilize chartered motorcoaches equipped with restrooms. For smaller or local trips, we use department buses or vans. Rest stops are scheduled approximately every two hours. Trip fliers detail walking expectations and accessibility information.
Trip details and registration can be found on our website at RaleighNC.gov/Parks and search "trip". Sign up for the Yearly Trip Registration to get the trip fliers as they become available.
Day Trips Trips Day
February -Sanford: Temple Theatre
February Temple -Sanford: Temple Theatre Theatre
Hank Williams, one of the most influential figures in country music history, wrote over 400 songs that vividly portrayed the struggles and triumphs of everyday people. His groundbreaking style laid the foundation for countless artists, including Patsy Cline, George Jones, Merle Haggard, and Elvis Presley. In honor of Williams' 100th birthday, Jason Petty brings his legacy to life with a captivating performance featuring authentic set pieces, period costumes, and compelling stories that celebrate the music and legend of this country icon.
March – Asheboro: North Carolina Zoo
March Asheboro: Carolina Zoo
March Asheboro: Carolina – North Zoo
The zoo houses 1,700 animals of more than 250 species, primarily representing Africa and North America. It is one of two state-supported zoos in the United States, with the other being the Minnesota Zoo. With 500 acres developed, it is the world's largest natural habitat zoo.
April- N.C.
April- Transportation
N.C. Museum
April- N.C. Transportation Museum
Once the home to Southern Railway’s largest steam locomotive repair facility in the southeast. Now home to many historical structures - including Barber Junction Depot, an authentic train station built in 1898 and the Bob Julian Roundhouse, the largest remaining roundhouse in North America. This museum features all types of transportation history including railroading, automotive, aviation, and more.
May –Duke Gardens –Duke May –Duke Gardens
Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a 55-acre botanical garden in the heart of Duke University. The gardens feature four distinct areas: the original Terraces and the immediate surroundings, known as the Historic Gardens, including the Mary Duke Biddle Rose Garden and historic Roney Fountain; the H.L. Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, a representation of the flora of the Southeastern United States; the W.L. Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, devoted to plants of eastern Asia; and the Doris Duke Center Gardens, including the new Charlotte Brody Discovery Garden.
June –Halifax, NC: Sylvan Heights Brid Park Sylvan Brid
June NC: –Halifax, NC: Heights Park
Enjoy an unforgettable up-close experience with over 2,000
waterfowl, parrots, toucans, flamingos, and other exotic birds from around the world. This 28-acre facility features spacious, walk- through aviaries, tranquil gardens, and lush natural areas.
July –NC Government Government July –NC –NC
Explore the rich history of North Carolina's government by visiting remarkable landmarks in Raleigh. The North Carolina State Capitol, serving as the seat of state government since its opening in June 1840, offers a glimpse into the state's political past. The Executive Mansion, completed in 1891, has been home to successive Governors and First Families, remaining in continuous use throughout the 20th century. The North Carolina General Assembly building stands out as it is exclusively dedicated to the legislative branch of state government.
August– In Your Back Yard August– In August– In Your Back Yard Your
Discover the dynamic essence of North Carolina in Raleigh, where history, culture, and innovation converge. Experience a captivating mix of adventures, from delving into the behind-thescenes workings that drive the city to uncovering the hidden gems that define Raleigh's unique charm.
September– Wilson, NC: Whirligig Park
September– Wilson, NC: Whirligig Whirligig Park
Whirligig Park in Historic Downtown Wilson is home to the playful, recycled sculptures made by Vollis Simpson. These sculptures spin in the wind and bring joy to all who visit.
October– Haunted Raleigh Haunted October– Raleigh Raleigh
Immerse yourself in the haunting history of Raleigh as you uncover the stories of the spirits that linger. Learn about their past and the mysteries that keep them tied to the city.
November– Charlotte, NC: Billy Graham Library Billy Graham
November– NC: Graham Library NC:
Step into the 40,000-square-foot Billy Graham Library and explore the remarkable life and legacy of “America’s Pastor.” This immersive experience takes you on a journey through Billy Graham’s transformation from a humble farm boy to a global ambassador of God’s love. Nestled on 20 beautifully landscaped acres in Charlotte, N.C., just a few miles from his childhood home, the barn-shaped library offers an inspiring blend of history, faith, and reflection.
December– Selma, NC: Rudy Theatre Christmas Jubilee NC: Rudy December– Selma, Theatre Christmas Jubilee Rudy Theatre
Get into the spirit at a family-friendly theater with a musical journey through your favorite holiday songs and scenes.
Trip details and registration forms can be found on our website at RaleighNC.gov/Parks and search "trip". Contact Carmen Rayfield for trip questions and registration carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov 919-996-4734
Multi-Day Trips Multi-Day Trips Trips
Utah’s National Parks - April 27 – May 2 National April – May
Utah’s - 27 2 Parks May 2
Discover Utah’s Mighty National Parks on this adventure packed seven days six nights trip. Highlights of this trip: Salt Lake City, Moab, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, Monument Valley, Arches National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Park City. The trip also includes Canyonlands by night cruise, Goulding’s Lodge Museum and Trading Post as well as wine tasting in Moab.
Highlights of the Columbia and Snake River - July 20 – 27 Columbia Snake River July –
Highlights the Columbia and July –
Highlights the River - 20
Explore the highlights of the Columbia and Snake Rivers during this eight days and seven nights trip. Tour Highlights includes Mount Hood and lunch at Timberline Lodge, Portland city tour including Old Town Historic District and International Rose Test Gardens, Columbia Gorge with Vista House, Multnamah Falls and Bonneville Dam, Fort Walla Walla Museum, a jet boat excursion on the Snake River, Dinner cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene and a SkyRide gondola in Spokane.
Alaska Land and Sea – July 31-August 11
Alaska Sea July 31-August 11
Alaska and – Land 31-August 11
Grab your passport and travel to breathtaking Alaska by land and sea. Enjoy 2 nights in Fairbanks, 1 night in Denali, 1 night in Anchorage and 7 Nights Alaska Cruise aboard the Norwegian Jewel. Trip highlights include Riverboat Discovery Sternwheeler cruise, Fairbanks City Tour, Alaska Railroad to Denali, Denali National Park tour, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Anchorage City Tour, Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and the Inside Passage.
Athens & Greek Islands – October 7-15
Greek Islands – October Athens – Greek Islands 7-15
Grab your friends and join us for an unforgettable adventure to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini! This 9-day journey will immerse you in the rich history, stunning beauty, and vibrant culture of Greece. In Athens, explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, Ancient Olympic Stadium, Plaka, and Syntagma Square. Then, discover the charm of Mykonos, including a guided tour of the historic island of Delos. Finally, experience the breathtaking beauty of Santorini with a visit to a local winery for a tasting, a stroll through the enchanting Oia Village, and panoramic views that will leave you in awe.
Winter Holidays at Myrtle Beach – December Holidays at Beach – Winter at – December Holidays Beach
Get into the holiday spirit with a festive getaway to Myrtle Beach, SC! Enjoy enchanting Christmas shows, indulge in some holiday shopping, and unwind with friends by the beach before the holiday hustle begins. It’s the perfect way to embrace the season and recharge.
Social Outdoor Active Recreation (S.O.A.R.)
Social Outdoor Active (S.O.A.R.) Outdoor Active Recreation
Indoor Skydiving - Spring Skydiving Spring Indoor Skydiving Spring
IndoorEmbark on an exhilarating adventure without jumping from a plane. Feel the rush of skydiving alongside your friends!
Hiking a Local Trail - Summer
Hiking Hiking Local Trail - a
Discover the beauty of nearby trails with the guidance of the Adventure Program staff. Whether you're a beginner or looking to reconnect with nature, join us to explore, enjoy the outdoors, and make new friends along the way!
A Day on the Water - Fall Water
A Day on the - the
Join the Adventure Program for a fun-filled day at a local lake. Explore kayaking and paddleboarding while enjoying the water and making memories with friends!
Find a list of all of the day and of the day and of all
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F Five Points Center for Active Adults
ive Points Center Adults Center for Adults Active 2000 Noble Road 2000 Noble Raleigh, NC 27608 Raleigh, NC 27608 NC 27608 Raleigh, (919) 996-4730 (919) 996-4730 (919) 996-4730
Walnut Terrace Center Terrace Center Center Walnut 1256 McCauley Street 1256 McCauley 1256 Street Raleigh, NC 27601 Raleigh, NC NC 27601 Raleigh, (919) 996-6160 (919) 996-6160 (919)
Anne Gordon Center for Gordon Center Anne Center for Active Adults Adults Adults Active
1901 Spring Forest Road
1901 Spring Forest Road
1901 Forest Road Raleigh, NC 27608 Raleigh, NC 27608 NC 27608 Raleigh, (919) 996-4720 (919) 996-4720 996-4720 (919)
raleighnc.gov/parks