Daffodils at Dorothea Dix Park

Cold rain and clouds consumed most of our February weather in Raleigh. March is here and spring-like weather is trying to make an entrance. But, like a toddler, it can’t make up its mind so we’re jumping between sun, rain, clouds, and chilly temperatures. So, when the sun cleared some clouds away yesterday I quickly headed over to Dorothea Dix Park to walk among the daffodils.

How to See the Daffodils

The daffodils are located behind the Flower Cottage at 2105 Umstead Dr. To get to the area, I parked in the Visitor Parking lot near the intersection of Umstead & Dawkins Dr and walked across the street. While they don’t stack up to the exquisite show of summer sunflowers, the ribbon of daffodils still provide a discreet, but showy display. The daffodils flow gently over the small hills, and pair lovely with the beautiful backdrop of Raleigh’s skyline.

There’s a bench at the top of the hill perfect for taking in the views. When I visited the area, the grounds were still pretty damp from all the rain, so wearing boots might be best.

Upcoming Events

Come for the daffodils and stay for a picnic, walk, or upcoming event. Some of the best picnic spots in the park are near the Big Field (101 Blair Dr) or overlooking downtown near the intersection of Black Dr and Cramer Dr. We love bringing the kids’ bikes and letting them bike down the big hill near Rocky Branch Trail or bike the open flat land in the Big Field.

Some upcoming events include a 5k, taking flight with kites, and adult Easter Egg Hunt:

Dorothea Dix Park 5k (Saturday, March 9th at 9am) – race around Dix Park to raise money for the design and construction of the park; kid races (100m & 400m) start after main 5k race; post-race celebration includes food trucks, beverage vendors, music, and a free Trophy Brewing beer to race participants
Flight Day (Saturday, March 16th from 2-4pm) – bring your kites and other homemade flying machines and spend fun outdoors with the Triangle Y Guides; food trucks, kite vendors and more
Adult-Only Easter Egg Hunt (Saturday, April 13th at 3pm) – bring out your inner kid while you hunt for Easter eggs, jump on inflatables, and play lawn games; ages 21+ only

Finally, don’t forget to check out the Dorothea Dix Park Master Plan approved by Raleigh City Council two weeks ago. It reflects an incredible vision for the future of the park while preserving the park’s connection to the past. Though more planning and funding has to happen before Phase A begins, I’m most excited to see how the creek restoration and Lake Wheeler Rd gateway transforms!