When the kids start saying “I’m bored”, it’s time to find some activities. While there are seemingly endless outdoor activities in Western North Carolina, this Top 10 Kids Activities list will focus on the other possibilities in Hendersonville.
- Elijah Mountain Gem Mine
Buy a bucket of sand and let the kids “mine for gold” like the 49ers of old. Each bucket is guaranteed to have gems, but don’t expect to strike it rich. Parents can look out for coupons in local mailers that often run as a BOGO and can save up to $25. - Hands On! Children’s Museum
Located on Main Street in downtown Hendersonville, the Hands On! is filled with interactive exhibits and STEM learning experiences. It is best for younger children (4-9). Annual memberships are available, or you can pay-as-you-go for the current rate of $8 per person. - Appalachian Pinball Museum
At the north end of Main St., this museum offers visitors the ability to play new and vintage pinball machines for a bargain rate of $10 per person. - Boyd Park Mini Golf
Located just above downtown, this no-frills miniature golf course is perfect for the entire family and won’t break the bank! Operating times are seasonal, so check the schedule. - Aquarium & Shark Lab of Team Ecco
An aquarium on a smaller, yet more interactive level thanks to the touch tanks, the Aquarium and Shark Lab in downtown Hendersonville is sure to please. The facilities were changed in late 2018. Rates are $4-5 dollars per person. - Western Carolina Air Museum
Older kids or younger ones fascinated with airplanes will enjoy looking and learning about by-gone aviation. - Apple Valley Model Railroad Club
Open on Saturday’s to the public from 10am-2pm, the AVMRC is housed in the old train depot building just off 7th Avenue in Hendersonville. The building is home to miles of model railroad tracks with only one the level for kids to interact with that usually sport a Thomas the Train engine. - Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County
Learn all about geodes and rock formations at this downtown museum. The museum’s goal is to be a primary resource for education and information to the community on the earth sciences related to geology and paleontology. Admission is free. - Tarheel Lanes Bowling
Roll a strike at this local bowling alley. Tarheel Lanes participates in the “Kids Bowl Free” summer program which includes up to 2 games during select hours on summer days. - Epic Movie Theater
Just off I-26 on Four Seasons Boulevard, Epic movie theater is tucked into a strip mall. The theater offers stadium seating and all the normal movie going concessions you would expect. As of this posting, Epic is offering $6 movies all day on Tuesdays. Hopefully, they will offer a summer package for kids similar to Regal – fingers crossed.