Ideas for a Graduation trip in the springtime?

I have a family member who's offered to do something for me for my "Graduation Gift" and I really don't know where I want to go or do. We also live in NC and I don't really want to drive far (over like 4.5 hours). Preferably something that isn't too expensive but also is enjoyable and will create memories.

Right now it's planned to go to Busch Gardens in VA but after doing some more research I don't really like that idea. If I was going to a theme park I would probably go with Dollywood in Pigeon Forge TN.