A day at the park in nice weather is always a free activity that is enjoyed by small children. City Park Amusement Area in Burlington, North Carolina, operated by the Burlington Parks and Recreation Department (ci.burlington.nc.us), is one of many city parks with playground equipment, picnic areas, and points of interest to see and take part in, such as the working Dentzel Carousel and miniature train ride. In 2011, amusement rides cost 50 cents per child but park entrance is free and children are welcome to use the playground equipment, tennis courts, and softball fields and watch free concerts and fish in the stream without charge.
The Fourth of July and Halloween in Burlington signal the city-sponsored free fireworks displays held annually at Burlington City Park (ci.burlington.nc.us). Each fireworks extravaganza is free of charge to all who attend, and during Halloween, a safe trick-or-treat gathering, sponsored by local businesses and clubs, is held in conjunction prior to the fireworks display. Free concerts, a costume contest and entertainment are provided.
While boat rentals at the 1,100-acre Lake Mackintosh Park and Marina do require a fee, admission to the park and its shores and trails are open for all to enjoy free of charge. The park was designed and developed in 1991 and is maintained year-round by Burlington Recreation and Parks Department (ci.burlington.nc.us). No swimming is allowed in the 6-mile-long lake, however, there are 100 miles of shoreline from which to fish or explore and watch resident wildlife in its natural habitat.
Cedarock Park is operated by the County of Alamance Parks and Recreation Department (alamance-nc.com) and encompasses the historic Cedarock Farm. Children can explore the restored farmhouse and the antique farm equipment surrounding it or visit the farm animals that are kept on-site. Children who have a valid North Carolina fishing license can fish for free at Burlington's Cedarock Park on the half-acre pond or any stream bank within the park facility. Picnic areas, hiking horseback riding, and mountain bike trails, as well as two 18-hole disc golf courses are open for family enjoyment.
