Arts
Invasive Plant Removal Workday
Today · 10am
Apex
The Peak of Good Living
Things to Do in Apex with Kids
Apex lives up to its official motto — this really is the peak of good living for families. The historic downtown is adorable, the community events are next-level (seriously, the Apex PeakFest is a whole thing), and the small-town feel with big-town amenities is exactly what a lot of Triangle families are looking for.
22upcoming events
6+family venues
3local guides
Known officially as the Peak of Good Living, Apex is a fast-growing town in southwestern Wake County that perfectly blends small-town charm with modern family amenities. The walkable historic downtown — complete with local ice cream shops, boutiques, and a beloved hardware store — hosts some of the Triangle's best community events. Apex Nature Park and the Beaver Creek Greenway give families easy access to outdoor adventure, while the Apex Center provides year-round swimming, fitness, and youth programs. Families here enjoy top-rated Wake County schools, a tight-knit community feel, and quick access to Jordan Lake for beach days and kayaking.
Top Things to Do with Kids in Apex
Our favorite family-tested activities and attractions in Apex, NC.
Apex Nature Park
Beautiful park with paved and natural trails, a large playground, disc golf course, and open meadows. The trail system connects to the larger Apex greenway network.
FreeAll ages
Historic Downtown Apex
One of the most charming downtowns in the Triangle. Local ice cream at The Pharmacy, shops, and restaurants along Salem Street. The whole town comes out for PeakFest in May.
FreeAll ages
Apex Community Center & Pool
Year-round recreation center with an indoor pool, gymnasium, and classes for kids. Summer swim lessons and camps are popular — register early.
All ages
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Just a short drive from Apex, Jordan Lake offers sandy beaches, kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing, and hiking trails. The Seaforth and Vista Point areas are best for families.
All ages
Beaver Creek Greenway
Paved multi-use trail running through Apex, connecting parks and neighborhoods. Great for family bike rides, jogging strollers, and after-school walks.
FreeAll ages
Apex PeakFest
Apex's signature May festival taking over downtown Salem Street with live music, food trucks, carnival rides, and a huge kids' zone. One of the Triangle's best annual family events.
FreeAll ages
This Week in Apex
View All Events →Family
FREE
Wednesday Morning Movies at Halle Cultural Arts Center
This Wednesday · 9:30am
237 N. Salem Street Apex, NC 27502, Apex
Arts
Wednesday Morning Movie
This Wednesday · 10am
The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
Arts
On The Steps Concert Series with Shana Tucker
This Wednesday · 7:30pm
The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
Family
$5
Mad Splatter's Home School Happy Hour
This Thursday · 10am–2pm
2016 Creekside Landing Dr., Apex
Arts
SuperFun Saturday
This Saturday · 10:30am
The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
Top Family Spots in Apex
View All →
Free Things to Do in Apex
All Free Events →Family
FREE
Wednesday Morning Movies at Halle Cultural Arts Center
This Wednesday · 9:30am
237 N. Salem Street Apex, NC 27502, Apex
Arts
FREE
Senior Showcase
This Saturday · 3pm
The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
Arts
FREE
Office Hours w/Mayor Pro-Tempore Terry Mahaffey
May 14 · 9am
Apex Senior Center, Apex
Arts
FREE
SuperFun Saturday
May 16 · 10:30am
The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
Guides for Apex Families
Insider tips and local intel for families in Apex
Neighborhood Guide
Best Things to Do with Kids in Apex, NC
A local mom's guide to kid-friendly fun in Apex, NC -- from the charming downtown to nature trails and the best playgrounds.
8 min read
Parks & Playgrounds GuideBest Parks and Playgrounds in Apex & Holly Springs, NC
The best parks and playgrounds in Apex and Holly Springs for families -- top picks for toddlers, big kids, and outdoor adventures.
8 min read
Neighborhood GuideBest Neighborhoods for Families in Cary and Apex
Why Cary and Apex are top picks for Triangle families: school ratings, community pools, and neighborhoods with everything built in.
8 min read
Apex Family Landmarks
Apex Nature Park
Historic Downtown Apex
Beaver Creek Greenway
Apex Community Park
Jordan Lake (nearby)
Apex Center (community rec center)
Neighborhoods to Explore in Apex
Historic Downtown
Charming main street with local shops, restaurants, and community festivals.
Beaver Creek
Shopping and dining hub with trails and the Beaver Creek greenway nearby.
Sweetwater
Popular family neighborhood in western Apex with pools and community events.
Salem Village / Haddon Hall
Established neighborhoods close to downtown with a strong community feel.
Quick Facts for Apex Families
Population
~75,000
School District
Wake County Public Schools
Closest ER
WakeMed Cary Hospital
Nearest Target
Target — Beaver Creek Commons
Library
Apex Community Library (Middle Creek branch nearby too)
The Vibe in Apex
Small-town charm with real community spirit. The kind of place where the whole town shows up for the Christmas parade. Families here love their downtown and their neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best things to do with kids in Apex NC?
- Historic downtown Apex is perfect for a family stroll with ice cream shops and local boutiques. Apex Nature Park has great trails and a playground. The Apex Center offers swimming, gymnastics, and indoor play. Jordan Lake is a short drive for beach days and kayaking.
- What family events happen in Apex?
- Apex hosts some of the best community events in the Triangle — PeakFest in May is the big one, plus the Christmas parade, outdoor movie nights in the park, and regular farmers market. The Town of Apex Parks & Rec runs seasonal programs for all ages.
- Is Apex NC a good place for families?
- Apex has been named one of the best places to live in NC multiple times. It combines small-town character with access to the entire Triangle. Schools are part of top-rated Wake County, and the community is genuinely tight-knit.
Explore Nearby
Family Living at Its Finest
Cary
Cary is where 'family-friendly' isn't just a tagline — it's the entire town's personality.
Growing Up Family-Strong
Holly Springs
Holly Springs is the Triangle suburb that keeps getting better.
Two Towns, One Big Heart
Fuquay-Varina
Fuquay-Varina (locals just say FV) is the Triangle's up-and-comer with serious charm.
The City of Oaks
Raleigh
Raleigh is the Triangle's family powerhouse.