It didn't start off this way, but Yates Mill Pond Historic Site turned out to be a wonderful activity for the kids. There are no jungle gyms, no swings and no sandbox. It's the site of an historic gristmill, which is incredibly scenic, but not quite the best place to bring a 1 1/2-year old and a 3-year old. In fact, with steep, stone steps and slopes at the mill itself, a very old structure (built in the 1750s), a creek with snakes and a waterfall, I wondered what the heck I was doing there in the first place.
Then, on our way out of the park we stopped at a building so mommy could cool off and take a break, and that's when we found the kids stuff! There was a dress-up station, a coloring area, cranks for the kids to turn and play with and see how the mill used to work and a very friendly, helpful staff. 
Also, over the pond is a long bridge where you can watch the turtles, see a beaver nest and more. We had a great time after my heart stopped racing from the "dangers" of the historic mill trip.4620 Lake Wheeler Road
Raleigh, NC 27603
HIGHLIGHTS:Wonderful education center, beautiful scenery, lots of opportunities to learn and see something new, great bridge over the pond where people can fish and enjoy the pond and wildlife!
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LIGHTS: I was terrified my kids were going to slip and fall on the stone steps, steep slope or run into one of the huge spider webs/spiders or fall in the water (SNAKES, even if they are in the water).
COST: Free!
Thanks for creating this blog. I am now a not stay at the home grandma and I have been to a few of these places and your reviews are on spot. It's nice to get a good perspective about the places I haven't been, even if it's years later. I can't believe no one has posted comments. It might be late but Thank you!
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