Carolina Raptor Center: A Review
The Carolina Raptor Center is one of many amazing things to do in Charlotte with kids. This outdoor museum is a great way to learn about the fantastic large birds that live in the Charlotte area.
Since our family word for the year is “Outdoors” when we get the opportunity to do something fun as a family on the weekends, we are always on the lookout for things to do that keep us outside.
Recently, we decided to head out to the Carolina Raptor Center on a Sunday afternoon. We had a brief visit last summer that was cut short by a sudden thunder storm and we’ve been meaning to head back ever since.
Map It
The Raptor Center is set next to the Historic Latta Plantation in Huntersville, NC.
6000 Sample Rd
Huntersville, NC 28078
Why You Should Take Your Kids
Tall trees shade winding paths spotted with displays of raptors of all kinds: hawks, owls, vultures, eagles, ravens, etc. The area is gorgeous and the birds are magnificent.
We loved it because:
- Natural Environment: The Raptor Center is seamlessly built into the surrounding parks. It’s perfect for little kids to explore.
- Perfect for Animal Lovers: Our family loves animals of all kinds and getting the chance to learn about the local birds in our new home was a fun way for the kids to connect with the area.
- Just the Right Size: Unlike larger zoos and attractions, you can easily visit the Carolina Raptor Center in a short visit. It’s perfect for squeezing in between nap times or for kids who have shorter attention spans.
The Fly Show
This visit we paid extra to be able to sit in on the Fly Show at 1 pm.
Trainers give a presentation on the various raptors and several of their feathered friends take turns flying over your head onto their outstretched arms.
Had I had my zoom lens, this is an amazing photography opportunity but the kids were thrilled and giddy to have the birds so close.
We think it is 100% worth the extra cost and was a highlight of our visit.
Tim and I were amused to find that they’ve added a new display to the grounds since our last visit: Raptors of the Silver Screen.
They’ve built a Harry Potter-like castle and displayed movie posters featuring various raptors.
Signs explaining which variety of owls are owned by the Harry Potter characters are on display as well.
My first thought was how adorable this would be come Halloween time! I’m definitely adding that to my mental list of fall activities to check out.
Our Thoughts
I first published this review on my original blog, Peanut Blossom, in 2014 when my girls were very little. As I update it now in 2026, I can tell you that this simple weekend adventure was one of the more vibrant memory-making activities we did with our kids.
The lessons they learned from the Fly Show that day are things they still mention now, over 10 years later.
If you’re looking for a fun family outing in the area, we cannot recommend this highly enough!
I have a picture of our then 12 year old grandson with his arms outstretched on the golden eagle wingspan. Do you know what the width is of that display so it could give us some idea what our grandson’s wingspan would be. Thanks much.