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Get ready to experience some of the best things to do in Burlington NC and surrounding areas!
Burlington is situated in the central part of North Carolina, within Alamance County, and is dotted with lush green spaces, parks, shops, museums, and more providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for leisure and recreation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best activities and spots to visit in this vibrant North Carolina city and its nearby towns.
Explore the bustling downtown area with shops, restaurants, and an amusement park, or immerse yourself in the city’s history with a number of museums and historical landmarks to go to.
From family-friendly attractions to spots for adventure seekers, Burlington has something for everyone.
The city is less than an hour’s drive away from Durham, where you can also find plenty of fun activities and attractions.
For the ultimate North Carolina experience, check out our NC bucket list.
Fun Things to Do in Burlington North Carolina
To make navigation a breeze, this guide starts near downtown Burlington and then heads outward to some fun spots — including in nearby Graham and Haw River — before continuing on toward shopping hubs and out into the county for historic sites.
The Blend & Co.
Experience a cozy atmosphere and delightful brunch fare at The Blend & Co (1371 S Church St) known for its specialty coffee drinks and scrumptious breakfast dishes.
For healthy eaters, they also serve smoothies, avocado toast, parfait, and more.
Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream
Start your day with a sweet treat at Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream (107 E Front St), where you can indulge in delicious ice cream creations and mouth-watering brunch options.
This charming establishment offers a delightful menu of flavorsome ice creams that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Plus, their brunch options provide the perfect combination of savory and sweet for a well-rounded morning meal.
Treat yourself to a visit to Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream and start your day off with a delightful culinary experience.
Putt-Putt Fun Center – Burlington, NC
Experience classic family fun at Putt-Putt Fun Center (1340 N Church St).
This popular entertainment center offers a range of exciting activities for all ages.
Put your way through the challenging mini-golf courses, race against friends in go-karts, or test your skills in the arcade games.
Whether you’re planning a family outing or a day with friends, the Putt-Putt Fun Center offers an array of enjoyable experiences.
Burlington City Park
Enjoy a relaxing day at City Park ( 1333 Overbrook Rd) if you’re looking for free things to do in Burlington.
This expansive park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic walking trails, lush green spaces, and stunning lake views.
City Park provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to connect with nature and recharge your spirits.
Whether you’re seeking solitude or quality time with loved ones, City Park is the ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.
Burlington City Park Carousel
Take a ride on the charming carousel at Burlington City Park (1386 S Main St), a favorite attraction for both kids and adults.
The carousel offers a nostalgic experience and delightful entertainment.
Whether you’re visiting with family or seeking a moment of joy by yourself, the Burlington City Park Carousel is sure to leave you with cherished memories.
Burlington Carousel Festival
If you’re visiting Burlington during spring, join in the festivities at the Burlington Carousel Festival (1333 Overbrook Rd), held around the first week of May.
The festival celebrates arts, crafts, and music, offering a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages.
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you browse through art displays, enjoy live performances, and participate in engaging activities.
Burlington Tennis Complex
The Burlington Tennis Complex (1402 Overbrook Rd) offers a range of fun activities in Burlington, NC for tennis enthusiasts of all skill levels.
The Burlington Tennis Complex provides a vibrant and welcoming environment for individuals and families to engage in the exciting sport of tennis and an area for children to splash and play.
What’s All The Rage
Experience the latest trends and fashionable finds at What’s All The Rage (2398 Corporation Pkwy C).
What’s All The Rage is not your average axe-throwing venue; it’s a hub of fun activities in Burlington, NC that you can enjoy with your family, friends, and even co-workers!
Experience the thrill of axe-throwing in a dynamic setting with digital targets and scoring systems.
The Verdict on the Square
Visit The Verdict on the Square (24 W Elm St, Graham) in nearby Graham for a delightful brunch experience, featuring a menu with creative twists on classic brunch dishes.
With its cozy ambiance this place is also perfect for dinner dates, something you can add to your list of romantic things to do in Burlington.
Aside from a mouthwatering food menu, The Verdict on the Square also offers specialty drinks, cocktails, wines, and craft beers.
The Children’s Museum of Alamance County
The Children’s Museum of Alamance County (217 S Main St, Graham) is the perfect place to ignite your child’s curiosity with interactive exhibits and educational programs at this fantastic museum.
This museum offers a hands-on and educational experience, catering to children of all ages.
Haw River Historical Museum
If you enjoy looking into local history, take a slight detour over to nearby Haw River to dive into the rich history at the Haw River Historical Museum (201 E Main St, Haw River)
History buffs will have a great time gaining a deeper understanding of the people, events, and industries that shaped the Haw River area.
Busters Bar & Billiards
Looking for a fun activity in Burlington, NC?
Look no further than Busters Bar & Billiards (2602 Eric Ln).
Challenge your pals to a pool match, showcase your skills, or simply unwind with a drink and watch the action unfold.
Busters Bar & Billiards offers a variety of games, including pool tables and dartboards, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual participant, Busters Bar & Billiards is a go-to destination for things to do in Burlington at night where you can enjoy good company, friendly competition, and a vibrant social scene.
Ready Up Game Lounge
Get your game on at Ready Up Game Lounge (2401 Eric Ln #101) in Burlington, NC.
This gaming lounge offers a fun and interactive experience for gamers of all ages.
Step into a world of virtual reality, console gaming, and eSports as you immerse yourself in the latest titles and multiplayer adventures.
Play with friends or join organized tournaments for a thrilling gaming experience.
The Cutting Board
Indulge in a delicious brunch buffet at The Cutting Board (2699 Ramada Rd), offering an array of breakfast and lunch options in a comfortable and welcoming setting.
Holly Hill Mall
Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment options at Holly Hill Mall (309 Huffman Mill Rd).
After a successful shopping spree, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the mall’s restaurants or grab a snack to refuel.
With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, Holly Hill Mall is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for a day filled with retail therapy and entertainment.
Bouncin Around
Jump into a world of excitement and bouncing fun at Bouncin Around (309 Huffman Mill Rd).
This indoor trampoline park offers a thrilling experience for kids and adults alike.
Bounce across the interconnected trampolines, show off your flips and tricks, or engage in a game of dodgeball with friends.
This is great for those seeking an active adventure or even hosting a birthday party.
Blue Ribbon Diner
Step into a charming retro diner atmosphere at Blue Ribbon Diner (2465 S Church St) and enjoy their classic American breakfast dishes, including fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon.
Blue Ribbon Diner offers a delightful dining experience that takes you back in time.
This diner captures the essence of traditional Americana with its nostalgic decor and comforting breakfast fare.
Lazer X – The Family Zone
Enjoy the excitement of laser tag and make unforgettable memories during your time in Burlington, NC!
Lazer X – The Family Zone (3356 S Church St A) provides a thrilling and immersive laser tag experience that’s perfect for friends, families, and groups.
This state-of-the-art facility features a multi-level arena, interactive game modes, and cutting-edge laser tag equipment.
Engage in epic battles, strategize with your team, and unleash your competitive spirit in this action-packed attraction.
Whether you’re a laser tag enthusiast or trying it for the first time, Lazer X – The Family Zone offers a fun and adrenaline-fueled adventure that’s sure to be a highlight of your visit to Burlington.
Simply Massage & Wellness
Take a break from your busy schedule and prioritize self-care at Simply Massage & Wellness (1145 St Marks Church Rd D).
Simply Massage & Wellness offers a range of services aimed at promoting relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.
Treat yourself to a soothing massage tailored to your specific needs, unwind with a rejuvenating facial, or experience the therapeutic benefits of alternative healing modalities.
Whether you’re seeking physical relief or a mental reset, a visit to Simply Massage & Wellness is one of the best ways to rejuvenate in Burlington.
Southeast Cinemas Alamance Crossing Stadium 16
For a fun and entertaining experience in Burlington, NC, head to Southeast Cinemas Alamance Crossing Stadium 16 (1090 Piper Ln).
This state-of-the-art movie theater offers a wide range of film options, from the latest blockbusters to independent gems.
Sit back and relax in comfortable seats as you immerse yourself in the cinematic world.
Grab some popcorn, find your favorite spot, and get ready for a memorable movie night in Burlington.
Alamance Crossing
Discover a variety of shopping and dining options at Alamance Crossing (1080 Piper Ln), an outdoor shopping center that offers a vibrant experience.
Alamance Crossing is a hub for fashion, home goods, entertainment, and more.
Explore the numerous stores, from well-known brands to local boutiques, and find everything you need.
Lake MacKintosh Park and Marina
Lake MacKintosh Park and Marina (2704 Huffman Mill Road) is a delightful lakeside destination.
The marina provides a variety of recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, and kayaking, allowing visitors to make the most of the scenic lake.
With its well-maintained facilities, including boat docks, picnic areas, and walking trails, the marina creates an inviting atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy a relaxing day by the water.
Alamance Battleground State Historic Site
Step back in time and explore the historic battleground where the Battle of Alamance took place.
The Alamance Battleground State Historic Site (5803 South NC 62) offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Walk the grounds where pivotal events unfolded and learn about the significance of this site through informative exhibits and displays.
This is one of the best Burlington attractions where you can immerse yourself in the stories of the past and gain a deeper understanding of the Battle of Alamance, a turning point in the state’s history.
Final Thoughts
We hope our list of things to do around Burlington, NC inspired you to plan for your next trip.
Let us know in the comments which one you enjoyed the most.
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