Active Adult Trips

Sign-up for the 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.

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.
Additional Information
Trip Registration

2026 One-Day Trips

February - America’s Regional 250th Anniversary Celebration 

In 2026, the inaugural North Carolina First in Freedom Festival will celebrate more than 250 years of our Nation’s story and culture, viewed through the lens of historical eastern North Carolina events and the arts. Local counties, cities, towns, and communities will unite with local historians and historical sites to host events and activities, as well as with our arts and business communities.
Trip Information Coming Soon

March - 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

April - Sanford, NC - Temple Theatre 

Bright Star is a musical about a literary editor and a World War II soldier who discover a secret that changes their lives. The show is set in the American South in the 1920s and 1940s. When Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past—and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives.
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 - Ceder Creek and Gallery

Step into the world of artistry at Cedar Creek Gallery, where creativity and craftsmanship come to life! Showcasing the work of over 250 talented American artisans, the gallery is a vibrant celebration of contemporary craft. Watch skilled onsite potters and glass blowers in action and explore an ever-changing collection of handcrafted treasures, from elegant pottery and dazzling glass to stunning jewelry, intricate woodwork, whimsical garden art, and so much more.
Trip Information Coming Soon

July - Durham Bulls Baseball Game

Get ready for an unforgettable day at the ballpark! Cheer on the famous Durham Bulls at the beautiful Durham Bulls Athletic Park in the heart of downtown Durham. Enjoy America’s favorite pastime with friends as you take in the lively atmosphere, delicious ballpark snacks, and exciting plays on the field.
Trip Information Coming Soon

August - Danville, VA - Casino

Grab your friends and spend an exciting day at the newly opened Caesars Virginia Casino in Danville! Try your luck at slots and table games, share laughs over a delicious lunch, and enjoy the vibrant casino atmosphere together. A fun, thrilling day designed for adults 21+ to relax, play, and make memories with friends!
Trip Information Coming Soon

September - Hamlet, NC

Explore the history of the Seaboard Railroad Depot & Museum. The museum is located in the only Victorian Queen Anne train station in NC, which still serves as an active Amtrak station.
Trip Information Coming Soon

October - Lumberton, NC

Discover the rich culture and enduring spirit of the Lumbee Tribe on an unforgettable journey through Southeastern North Carolina. Follow the winding paths of the Lumbee River to the homeland of the largest Native American tribe east of the Mississippi and explore the stories, traditions, and pride that have shaped this remarkable community. 
Trip Information Coming Soon

November - Jordan Lake, NC: Eco Boat Tour

Sit back and relax as you drink in the sights of nature while gliding across the waters of Jordan Lake.  Enjoy the talk about the lake, the birds, the dam, and its spillway. 
Trip Information Coming Soon

December - 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

Overnight Trips 2025

Myrtle Beach Holiday
December 4 - 6

Get into the holiday spirit with this festive 3-day, 2-night trip to Myrtle Beach! Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach, shopping for gifts, or taking in spectacular holiday shows, this getaway has something for everyone.

• Thursday, Dec. 4 - Depart from the Anne Gordon Center by motorcoach and head to Myrtle Beach, SC, for a fun-filled holiday adventure. The evening begins with a delicious included dinner at The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood Buffet, offering something for every taste. Afterward, enjoy the Holiday Spectacular Legends in Concert, featuring holiday hits from some of music’s most iconic performers. End the evening with a relaxing stay at the Dayton House Resort, located right on the beach.
• Friday, Dec. 5 - Start the day with a hearty hot breakfast in the Rose Room before enjoying holiday shopping at Barefoot Landing. Spend the afternoon unwinding at the resort or strolling the beach. That evening, savor and included dinner at Bubba’s Fish Camp and Smokehouse, followed by an unforgettable show highlighting the soulful sounds of Motown from the 1960s and 70s.
• Saturday, Dec. 6 - Enjoy breakfast at the Rose Room and a leisurely morning by the beach before checking out of the resort. On the way home, stop at Broadway at the Beach for shopping and lunch before returning to Raleigh.

Additional Information
Trip Registration

Overnight Trips 2026

Philadelphia, Amish Country and the Brandywine Valley 
June 7 - 12

Experience the perfect blend of American history, cultural charm, and scenic beauty on this unforgettable five-night trip. From Revolutionary landmarks to the tranquil countryside, this tour offers a true taste of Pennsylvania’s past and present. Tour Highlights include round-trip airfare from Raleigh, 5 Nights at One Hotel in Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park, Philadelphia City Tour, Independence Hall & the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market, Brandywine Valley, Longwood Gardens, Hershey’s Chocolate World, Amish Farm & House, Amish Family Style Dinner, and the National Constitution Center. 

Trip Informational Meeting

Make sure you register for 1 of the informational meetings where you'll learn all about this incredible 6-day journey, the exciting highlights, and what makes this trip so special. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to get all your questions answered. For questions or to register, contact Carmen Rayfield at 919-996-4734 or carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov.

Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults (1901 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh)

• Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m.
• Monday, Dec. 15, 1:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Feb. 3, 10 a.m.

Additional Information
Trip Registration

Iceland Adventure
October 7 - 12

Discover the land of fire and ice on this unforgettable journey through Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and fascinating history — all while enjoying five nights in one hotel in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital. Tour Highlights include round-trip airfare from Raleigh, Reykjavik City Tour, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle Tour, Strokkur Geyser & Gullfoss/Golden Falls, Thingvellir National Park, South Coast Tour, Skogar Folk Museum, Skogafoss Waterfall, Keflavik & Bessastadir, Viking Ship Museum, Lake Kleifarvatn. 

Trip Informational Meeting

Make sure you register for 1 of the informational meetings where you'll learn all about this incredible 6-day journey, the exciting highlights, and what makes this trip so special. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to get all your questions answered. For questions or to register, contact Carmen Rayfield at 919-996-4734 or carmen.rayfield@raleighnc.gov.

Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults (1901 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh)

• Saturday, Nov. 22, 11:30 a.m.
• Monday, Dec. 15,  2:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Feb. 3, 11:30 a.m.
• Monday, April 13, 2 p.m.

Additional Information
Trip Registration

Asheville, NC and Biltmore Estate for the Holidays 
November or December 2026

This 2 day, 1 night trip is sure to get you into the holiday season with a majestic candlelight tour though Biltmore. Enjoy the self-guided tour as thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candlelight, fireplaces and sparkling lights followed by more holiday spirits outside at Antler Hill Village.  This trip will also include a guided tour of Ashville as well as a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. 
Trip Information Coming Soon

Don't miss out, sign up for the Yearly Trip Registration to get the information directly, or call one of our Active Adult Centers over the phone:

• Five Points Center for Active Adults: 919-996-4730
• Walnut Terrace Center: 919-996-6160
• Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults: 919-996-4720

Possible Overnight trips for 2027

Here are the trips we are looking at for 2027

• Japan by Bullet Train
• Chicago
• West Coast - California, Oregon, or Washington
• Civil Rights Trail
• Winter Holiday Trip - Charleston and Savannah or Charlotte, NC

Social Outdoor Active Recreation (SOAR)

Fall - Day on Falls Lake

Enjoy a relaxing paddle on Falls Lake at Forest Ridge Park. 
Additional Information
Trip Registration

Murder in the Market by Jeane Joyner – Mystery and Suspense

As over 75,000 people converged on High Point for the October market, rumors of a planned disruption began to surface. With vague threats ranging from demonstrations to mass violence, no one knew what to expect. Amid the chaos, Beth and Tomeka, co-owners of Concierge Business Services, find themselves unexpectedly at the center of the storm. As Bryce and Evan get drawn into Beth’s world while preparing for the market, they soon realize that fate has a much bigger role to play than they anticipated.
Additional Information
Trip Registration

Joey: How a Blind Rescue Horse Helped Others Learn to See by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley – True Story

Joey, a blind Appaloosa, was once a show horse, admired for his strength and beauty. But after an injury ended his career, he endured abuse and neglect until a rescue group found him near death. Brought to Hope Reins, a ranch dedicated to helping children heal through caring for rescued animals, Joey’s journey of trust and healing began. Despite the ranch's financial struggles, they took him in, believing in the power of love and hope. Together, Joey and the children would learn that, no matter how broken we are, we are never forgotten.
Additional Information
Trip Registration

Active Adult Programs 2025 Trip Brochure

Frequently Asked Questions and Policies

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

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 Announcements