Halifax County: A Family-Friendly Weekend Destination
Hit the road for a fun-filled weekend away with the family in Halifax County, where there’s something for everyone—no matter their age. Enjoy outdoor adventures, historic museums, unique attractions, and a variety of dining options to please every palate.
Unwind at the Campground
There’s no better way to enjoy quality family time than camping, and the KOA Campground in Enfield is the perfect place to do it. Parents will enjoy the tranquility of the location, nestled among cotton, tobacco, and peanut fields. The kids will love the swimming pool, games, and playground, and if you’re traveling with your canine companion, the large, fenced dog run will let him burn off some energy. The campground features laundry facilities, a convenience store, and propane for sale, and whether you stay in one of the full-service RV sites, a tent site, or a rustic cabin, you’re sure to enjoy the peaceful surroundings after busy days exploring the area.
Answer the Call of Nature
You’ll find plenty of opportunities in Halifax County to take in the region’s abundant wildlife and beautiful natural scenery.
Spend some time exploring nature at Medoc Mountain State Park. More than 30 miles of trails wind their way through forests, along streams, and up mountains for spectacular views. If you’ve brought your mountain bikes along, nine miles of the trail system is open to two-wheel adventure, suitable for riders of all levels. Check in at the ranger station to learn about free interpretive programs and guided hikes. The park is the perfect place for everyone to relax, serenaded by birdsong and the occasional drumbeat of woodpeckers.
And speaking of our feathered friends, at Sylvan Heights Bird Park, you can see them in a whole new way. The 28-acre facility features more than 2,000 birds from around the world in spacious, walk-through aviaries that you can explore at your own pace. Follow along the well-marked trails as you move from one habitat to another, discovering the wonder of bird life from North America, as well as more exotic species from Africa, Asia, and Australia. You’ll be able to watch groups of waterfowl swimming in ponds, while high in the tropical trees, parrots and toucans call out for your attention. Make sure to visit the Landing Zone, where kids can experience the thrill of feeding friendly parakeets, flamingos, and other birds right out of their own hands… and parents will enjoy it as well. Don’t forget your camera to capture the excitement!
Step Back into Halifax County History
A family getaway is a great time to instill a love of learning in your children. Lucky for you, Halifax County is filled with museums and historic sites where history comes alive in engaging ways. At the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail, the whole family will enjoy the interactive exhibits that tell the story of the original canal here, which turned the Roanoke River into a superhighway of commerce in the 19th century. After exploring the indoor portion of the museum, take a stroll along the trail that follows the old canal, where you’ll get a glimpse of the remains of this engineering marvel along the way. You can also pick up a free rental bike to explore the 7.5-mile path and don’t forget to keep an eye out for some of the native wildlife along the way.
Travel back in time to the Halifax State Historic Site. You can explore on your own, or sign up for a guided tour. You can also visit several historic structures on site, including the Halifax County Jail, the Tap Room, and the Eagle Tavern, as well as follow in the footsteps of those who traveled the Underground Railroad.
The Cryptozoology and Paranormal Museum in Littleton takes you on a journey outside the traditional boundaries of science, and it’s sure to be a trip you’ll all remember. Take a guided tour of the facility with owner, Stephen Barcelo, where you’ll learn about the enigmas of our world, like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, as well as other cryptid creatures that roam the land. Several artifacts, such as locks of hair and plaster footprint casts rumored to be those of Bigfoot, haunted dolls, and photographs of reported UFOs, will have you discussing these phenomena for days. Make sure to contact the museum first to arrange your visit.
Family-Friendly Food Options
Your hungry group will find plenty of choices for dining in Halifax County. Check out Oscar’s Restaurant in Roanoke Rapids for home-style Southern dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. If it’s time for a quick snack and a piping hot cup of coffee, Lake Gaston Coffee at Daphne's in Littleton has you covered. Named after local artist and town matriarch Daphne Fitts, this cute cafe serves up delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee, Tuesday through Saturday.
For some games with your meal, stop into Misfits Bar and Grill at Fairwood Lanes in Roanoke Rapids for some pub grub. Children can bowl and play arcade games to their hearts’ content, while parents will appreciate the 19 rotating taps and a full bar, featuring locally made spirits from Weldon Mills Distillery.
With all it has to offer—outdoor fun, the chance to learn a bit about the area’s history and culture, delicious dining, and relaxing accommodations—don’t wait to make Halifax County your family-friendly weekend destination.