30 of the Best Things to See and Do with Kids of All Ages in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, North Carolina
It’s been almost two months since our last visit to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and now that the kids are back in school I’ve had time to look back on our summer adventures. If you’re planning a family trip to the North Carolina mountains, this comprehensive guide will help you plan memorable days with kids of every age.
If you want to prepare for the drive, you can find our road trip essentials and printable travel checklist here: our road trip essentials and travel checklist printable.
Both Robert and I grew up visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure long before we met. It’s a place that makes us feel young again — perfect for unplugging, reconnecting, and enjoying simple family time in a beautiful mountain setting.
Why Lake Lure Works So Well for Family Vacations
- There’s a wide range of activities that won’t break the bank, making it an affordable family option.
- Each season offers something different: water fun in summer, vibrant foliage in fall and spring blooms, and cozy winter escapes.
- While you can access the internet, the area encourages unplugged family time and outdoor play.
The Best Things to See and Do in Lake Lure, NC
Where to Stay
We typically choose between two comfortable options: private vacation homes inside Rumbling Bald Resort or the historic 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa. Both offer different vibes depending on whether you want a full-service experience or a home base with space for the whole family.
The 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa
For history, charm, and a walkable location near local attractions, The 1927 Lake Lure Inn is a classic choice. It’s well known for its role in the film Dirty Dancing and even offers suites tied to notable visitors from the past.
Rumbling Bald Resort
Rumbling Bald Resort is our favorite with kids because renting a whole house or townhouse through Airbnb or VRBO gives us room to spread out and save money by cooking some meals. The resort offers many on-site amenities that make it easy to keep the whole family entertained.
Recommended Lake Lure Airbnb Homes
- The Boho Bungalow
- Happy Nest at the Lake
- Bluegill Lake House
- Tiny House Cabin
- Mountainview Cabin
What to Do at Rumbling Bald Resort
Rumbling Bald Resort packs plenty of activities into one location, which is ideal for families who prefer convenience. Whether you want to relax lakeside or fill the day with outdoor fun, there’s something for everyone.
Scenic Lake Lure Boat Tours
A lake cruise is one of our favorite low-effort activities—perfect for a sunny afternoon when everyone wants to unwind and enjoy the scenery. The guides often share local history and interesting stories about how Lake Lure was developed, which keeps the ride engaging for adults and kids alike.
Views from the boat are consistently beautiful and make for great family photos.
Golf at Bald Mountain and Apple Valley
The Bald Mountain course features some picturesque holes — one in particular is familiar if you’ve seen the movie Dirty Dancing. Even if you don’t golf, the courses and clubhouse areas are pleasant to visit and make for a relaxed afternoon.
Mini Golf
The resort’s mini golf course overlooks the lake and is a perfect short activity for kids and adults to enjoy together, especially in the cooler evening air.
Trout Stream Pool & Lazy River
The pool complex at Rumbling Bald includes kid-friendly spray fountains, a lazy river for lounging, and lap lanes for adults who want a workout. During summer months the resort often runs family pool parties with games and activities that create lasting memories.
More Resort Activities
- Private beach access for resort guests
- Kayaking and paddle boarding
- Fishing and boat rentals
- Indoor pool, sauna, and spa services
- Fitness classes and tennis courts
- Kids Adventure Camp and organized family activities
- Hiking trails and outdoor games
- On-site dining options
What to Do in Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock and its nearby village sit just beside Lake Lure and make a wonderful day trip full of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and scenic views.
Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine
Our kids love the Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine — they always find interesting stones and it’s a fun, hands-on experience. We’ve tried a few gem mines over the years and this one consistently delivers.
On our last visit Olivia uncovered a large amethyst — a highlight she still talks about.
Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is especially delightful in spring and summer. Local clubs and families create imaginative displays and interactive exhibits celebrating nature and community. Kids love exploring the themed gardens — our personal favorite was a Peter Rabbit-inspired display.
Canopy Ridge Farm Zip-Line Tour
Canopy Ridge is a thrilling zip-line experience suitable for a wide range of ages. The guides are upbeat and encouraging, which helps even hesitant family members take the leap. On our trips, older parents and younger kids alike returned from the course thrilled and proud.
Cedar Creek Stables
Cedar Creek Stables is a local favorite for pony rides and guided trail rides. The staff are patient and experienced with children, and they offer both short pony experiences and longer rides for families who want something more adventurous.
Chimney Rock Village River Park
On hot days there’s nothing better than splashing in the cold mountain water at Chimney Rock Village River Park. It’s an ideal spot for children to play and for families to cool off while taking in the natural surroundings.
Chimney Rock State Park
The view from the top of Chimney Rock is unforgettable. You can reach the summit by hiking or by taking the elevator carved into the mountain — both options make the panoramic outlook accessible to many visitors.
More Great Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Activities
- Lake Lure Beach and Water Park – slides, a splash pad, and beach volleyball for a full day of water fun.
- The Right Track Toy Train Museum – a must for train enthusiasts, with interactive displays and models.
- Morse Park – pretty walking trails, gardens, and wetlands perfect for easy nature walks.
- Lake Lure Adventure Company – boat rentals, waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and guided fishing outings.
- Boon Life Adventures – guided ATV tours and outdoor family activities; new attractions may be added periodically.
- Hickory Nut Falls – a moderate hike leading to one of the area’s tallest waterfalls, featured in the film The Last of the Mohicans.
Have you visited Lake Lure or Chimney Rock? What experiences would you add for families traveling with kids?
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