Active Adult Trips

The Active Adult Program is working on the 2024 trips now. Register for the 2024 Yearly Trip Registration so you don't miss out on our trips.

One-Day Trips

Please note that there are no dates or costs for our trips on this list. Once a trip is ready for registration a detailed trip flier will be added to the trip description. To receive the trip fliers automatically when the trips are available for registration, sign up for the Yearly Trip Registration.

February - Sanford: Temple 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.
Additional Information
Trip Registration

March - Asheboro: North Carolina 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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

April - North Carolina 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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

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 their 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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

June - Halifax, North Carolina: Sylvan Heights Brid 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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

July - North Carolina Government

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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

August - In Your Back Yard

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-the-scenes workings that drive the city to uncover the hidden gems that define Raleigh's unique charm.
Trip Information Coming Soon

September - Wilson, North Carolina: 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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

October - Haunted 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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

November - Charlotte, North Carolina: Billy Graham Library

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.
Trip Information Coming Soon

December - Selma, North Carolina: Rudy Theatre Christmas Jubilee

Get into the spirit at a family-friendly theater with a musical journey through your favorite holiday songs and scenes.
Trip Information Coming Soon

Overnight Trips 2025

Utah’s Mighty National Parks
April 27 - May 3, 2025

Discover Utah’s Mighty National Parks on this adventure-packed seven-day and six-night 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.

For trip questions and/or registration contact Carmen Rayfield at 919-996-4734 or carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov
 

• Utah’s Mighty National Parks - Details and Registration
• Register on RecLink for the Adult Programs Trips

Highlights of the Columbia and Snake River
July 20-27, 2025

Explore the highlights of the Columbia and Snake Rivers during this eight-day and seven-night trip. Tour Highlights include 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, Multnomah 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.

Trip cost per person is based on the cabin selection and can be found on the trip flier. Cabin spaces are limited for this trip, so register quickly. For trip questions or if you are looking for a roommate contact Carmen at 919-996-4734 or carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov.

• Highlights of the Columbia and Snake Rivers - Details and Registration
• Register on RecLink for the Adult Programs Trips

Alaska Land and Sea
July 31 - Aug. 11, 2025

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. 

Trip cost per person is based on the cabin selection and can be found on the trip flier. Cabin spaces are limited for this trip, so register quickly. For trip questions or if you are looking for a roommate contact Carmen at 919-996-4734 or carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov.

• Alaska Land and Sea - Details and Registration
• Register on RecLink for the Adult Programs Trips

Athens and the Greek Islands
October 7 - 15, 2025

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.

Relax as you travel between islands on scenic ferry rides and enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that highlights the very best of Greece. Roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations are included, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

For questions or to register, contact Carmen Rayfield at 919-996-4734 or carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov.

Curious about our upcoming adventure to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini? Join us for an informational meeting where you'll learn all about this incredible 9-day journey, the exciting highlights, and what makes this trip so special. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to get all your questions answered. 
Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults 
Tuesday, Jan. 14, 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, Feb. 13, 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 4, 10:30 a.m.

• Athens and the Greek Islands - Details and Registration 
• Register on RecLink for the Adult Programs Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our trip? Check out the FAQ flyer to get your questions answered. 

Policies

Reservation Policy

Trip reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis with payment and completed registration form. Note: Spaces are only reserved when a deposit/payment has been received.

Cancellation Policy

To withdraw from a trip, it must be submitted in writing via letter or email to the Active Adults Program Manager. All day trips follow the Raleigh Parks Refund Policy unless money is incurred by the department. Full or partial refunds are subject to non-refundable expenses incurred by the Department. Multi-Day trip withdrawals follow the tour operator’s cancellation policy. Note: "No shows" for trips will receive no refund.

Payments/Deposits

Deposit and balance due dates for trips will be indicated on each trip itinerary. Registration can be made online thru RecLink, in person or mail in with check or credit card. One-day trips require full payment with reservation. No reservations are held without payment, and "early" registration is not allowed.

Transportation

Charter motor coach or a Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department bus or van. Type of vehicle will be noted on trip itineraries. Smoking/Vaping is not allowed on charter buses or Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources vehicles. Rest stops are made periodically during trips.

Departure Site

All trips will depart from the Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults, 1901 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh 27608, unless otherwise noted.  Cars may be parked here overnight.

Seating

We are unable to reserve seats on vehicles for special needs, such as motion sickness. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis on the day of the trip. Seat rotation may be used on multi-day trips.

Escorts

A full or part-time Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department employee escorts all trips.

Active Adult Program Newsletter