"Experience" instead of present for 8 year old girl (Raleigh: chapel, house)

[no kudzu]

Our daughter turns 8 in 2 weeks. When I asked her what she wanted she said she wanted a fun thing for the family to do instead of a gift. She is very close to her sister who is only 4 months younger and they neither one are sports minded or too adventuresome so that leaves out bowling. They don't like large crowds and we would like to stay as close to Chapel Hill as possible. We are kinda new here and haven't been to Kidzu but I'm wondering what else is around that two girls this age would enjoy.

Thank you for your help.

[J_Lurk]

Have you been to the Planetarium? My kids were major fans of the Magic Tree House show there. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center :: Magic Tree House® Space Mission

The Museum of Life & Science in Durham is also a great outing for the whole family. Explore, Connect, Learn, Share | North Carolina Museum of Life and Science

[kelly237]

See what is playing at the Raleigh Little Theater if they like that sort of thing.
They have a lot of plays for children.

[Priorityonecb]

My girls always enjoyed a trip to Build a Bear and lunch at Cheesecake Factory at Crabtree Valley mall.

[toot68]

Set up a tour at the Duke Primate Center to see the lemurs.

[sll3454]

Do they like horses? How about horseback riding?

[Sayantsi]

Originally Posted by sll3454

Do they like horses? How about horseback riding?

This is what i was thinking - a bit cold, but it would be fun.

[sowk09]

Tea party? You could buy her a nice set at a thrift shop/secondhand store. She and her sister could dress up and you could serve them tea, sandwiches, and cookies. Then she'll have the set to play with later on.

[jamangirl]

I think Cinderella the ballet is starting this week at the Progress Energy Center if they are into dance.

[Usedtobe VaNC]

I have seen Carolina Ballet's Cinderella. It is great, the stepsisters are hysterical and it is a beautiful ballet. You could also have lunch/dinner/dessert downtown for a treat.