On the ninth day of Raleigh Parks Christmas, we headed out to Cary with my friend, Kristina, and her daughter, Lucy to visit Walnut St Park. Wow, what a great park for crawlers and cruisers! Besides the large open spongy surface, there are tot swings, a jungle gym with smaller slides, and an area with balance beams and climbing structures that proved to be so exciting for the non-walkers!
Walnut St Park is run by the Town of Cary and is located at 1420 Walnut St, not far from Cary Crossroads shopping center. Not a surprise, but the main entrance sign is easy to miss when driving on Walnut St, so look for the cross-street of Nottingham Dr.
This park has both a tot play area and an older kid play area that are both very close to each other. Both playgrounds are covered in the spongy surface with the exception of the small sandbox with diggers in the tot area. There are swings, jungle gyms, and a small pavilion in each playground area. The older kid playground also has some amazing climbing structures that were very popular.
If you’re looking to take the dogs on a walk or stroll the kids around, this park has a great paved walking trail. According to the information sign, 2.5 loops around = 1 mile. While walking around the trail, you’ll see many birdhouses, an area dubbed the wetlands, a natural mulch walking trail, and a large 1.5 acre open recreational space. There are many benches scattered throughout the trail and a few picnic tables near the large open field area. Don’t forget to check out the fancy brick “imaginary garden” promenade that cuts through part of the loop. Check out the Town of Cary’s website for information about future phases of the park, which include adding a basketball court.
So, I know I can’t say it enough, but the Town of Cary does a great job with creating playgrounds with the spongy surface, which is so nice for the really small crawlers and cruisers! Ashley and Lucy had a fantastic time roaming through the climbing structures, swinging on the tot swings, crawling from one end of the playground to the other, all the while trying to sneak a taste of the nearby mulch chips! This would be a great park to bring your lunch followed by a romp around the playground.
Thumbs up: playground, walking trail, tot area, nearby pavilions
Thumbs down: somewhat hard to see entrance sign from Walnut St
Entrance sign
Large parking lot
Looking toward the older kid playground
Walking into the park
The climbing structure at the older kid playground
On the sixth day of Raleigh Parks, we visited Fallon Park, which is located just northeast of the Five Points area and not far from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School. Fallon Park is a long and slender wooded area between Royster St and Oxford Rd at 2601 Oxford Rd. A small stream runs off from the nearby Crabtree Creek and meanders through the park creating small pools for splashing and admiring the water creatures.
The lower level of the park has a large open field with a pavilion, picnic tables, and benches. There is also a leaning deodar cedar tree planted almost 40 years ago that immediately grabs your attention. Be sure to walk along the unpaved path in the park, where you’ll cross over bridges, admire the large rocks along the stream, and enjoy the natural setting. On this particular day we passed quite a few people jogging and walking their dogs. On the northern side of the park, there is a gazebo and additional benches and picnic tables. If you continue heading north on Oxford Rd you’ll eventually come to a portion of the Crabtree Creek Trail, which can take you either to Lassiter Mill Park or Kiwanis Park. I’d love to visit this park again in the spring or fall when the trees are in bloom or changing colors.
Thumbs up: natural setting, exploring the stream, neighborhood setting
Wow, I can’t believe we’re almost halfway through our 12 days of Raleigh Parks! On the fifth day, we visited Crowder District Park, which is actually maintained by Wake County. It’s located at 4709 Ten Ten Rd in Apex and there is a lot going on at this park.
Trees, playgrounds, trees, pavilions, trees, trails and more trees! This park has what is essential to a park and that is trees. You’ll find the pavilion areas tucked away with woods surrounding them, but still convenient enough with the nearby parking lots. The amphitheater can only be found by exploring the unpaved trail through the woods. The paved walking trail meanders through the trees along the perimeter of the park and provides ways for exploring the various gardens.
This park also has fabulous picnic spots in the grass. Whether it’s by the large open field with backstop or just near one of the playground areas, you’re sure to find a great bit of lawn for resting and eating. There is also a sand volleyball court towards the back of the park and a small pond for taking leisurely walks around or admiring the wildlife.
If you’re looking for education programs, Crowder District Park offers a wide variety for all ages. With the diverse group of gardens on-site and the wetlands area, there is sure to be a program for your family or group. Check out the Wake County Parks website for more information.
Thumbs up: picnic spots, natural setting, walking trail, playground areas
Wow, it’s amazing to think how much the Brier Creek area has changed from when I first moved there almost 9 years ago! I didn’t recognize most of the streets or shopping areas, which may be why I got a bit lost on our way to Brier Creek Park, the park of our second day of Christmas.
Brier Creek Park is located right next to Brier Creek Elementary School. Even though the address is 10810 Globe Rd, you actually enter from Bruckhaus St unless coming by foot, where there are sidewalks galore leading to the paved walking trail inside the park.
Inside this park, you’ll find basic features. There’s a large covered pavilion with nine picnic tables and large grill, public restrooms, two soccer fields, and a small playground for ages 2-12. The playground has a few structures for climbing on and around and a few slides. The surface is made of the spongy material, which is great for the crawlers. Even though it’s a small playground, it’s probably a great place for younger siblings to burn off some energy when the older ones are playing soccer nearby.
Thumbs up: walk ability, pavilion area, large open recreational fields
Thumb down: little shade and landscaping, no swings on playground
On the first day of Christmas, we came across swings, rings, and other things! I’m talking about none other than Laurel Hills Park located at 3808 Edwards Mill Rd near Crabtree Valley Mall. With all the great features this park has, it’s also super easy to access regardless of where you’re coming from in the Triangle area. It’s also very close to Glen Eden Pilot Park and Crabtree Creek Trail on the greenway.
Laurel Hills is mostly known for the All Children’s Playground. This truly is a playground for kids of all ages, even being accessible for kids with disabilities. There is a large tot area with four tot swings, rings, monkey bars, tires for climbing through, and a slide. The tot area also has a slightly spongy surface, which is nice for the crawlers. Just a few feet from the tot area is the older kid playground, which is an enormous wooden, castle-like structure over a sandy surface. It has bridges, towers, tunnels, tires for crawling through, amazing places for hide and seek, slides, and monkey bars. There are 6 swings and the most impressive tire swing I’ve ever seen. Two girls were having the best time on the tire swing as their dad tried to keep up with their laughs and gasps by sending them higher with each swivel! The nearby pavilions, picnic tables, and benches are convenient for keeping a close eye on the young ones as they play.
There has been much talk over the past few years of reconstructing the playground (it’s 20 years old now) but funds have to be raised first. Visit Sassafras All Children’s Playground to learn more about the plans and how you can help.
In addition to the playground, this park also has a large community center used for group rentals, open gym, recreation programs, and other activities. There’s also a large pavilion with picnic tables and charcoal grill. If you’re looking for outdoor recreation, there is a large soccer field, two lighted baseball fields, two basketball courts, and a paved walking trail. The restroom facilities near the pond are very nice and even have a child changing station.
Thumbs Up: All Children’s Playground, tot swings, climbing areas, small pavilions near playground, walking trail, community center, recreational facilities, tire swing, proximity of different playgrounds to each other
Thumbs Down: no sidewalks from Edwards Mill Rd to inside park
A few weeks ago, I went to the Pullen Park VIP Event with my friend, Jason, from southwestraleigh.com. This post originally appeared on southwestraleigh.com, where you can learn more about what a great place South West Raleigh is to live, work, and play.
Excitement was in the crisp Fall air during the Pullen Park preview event on Thursday afternoon and it’s not going to die down any time soon. Children played on swings, adults rode the newly renovated carousel, and the train sounded off when leaving the station. It’d been nearly two years since the amusement area had been open and the smiles say it all – it’s well worth the wait.
Pullen Park is located at 520 Ashe Ave, just west of Downtown Raleigh and at the edge of NC State University. The renovations to the amusement center cost more than six million dollars and are part of the 2003 Parks & Rec Bond Referendum. During the renovations, the Pullen Arts Center and Aquatic Center remained open.
Upon entering the park, your eyes are immediately drawn to the new sign extending across the walkway. Near the entrance is the new Pullen Place, serving healthy, local fare at very reasonable prices. Adjacent to the cafe is a large outdoor eating area, restrooms, and the Welcome Center where you can learn more about the park, purchase tickets for rides, or purchase park schwag.
If you head right, you can explore the various playground and climbing areas, swing sets, sand and water play areas, misting fountains, tire swing, and open play areas. The different play areas have guides indicating the ages appropriate for the equipment.
Also in this area is a restored caboose with seating inside for having a picnic. Smaller children can also enjoy a boat ride for one ticket. A must-see attraction is the CP Huntington miniature train ride, which is great for all ages and a beautiful way to explore the park from the perimeter. The views of the park from the train, especially around the lake, are gorgeous.
Another main attraction at the park is the carousel. With over 50 hand-carved animals, it is a Dentzel Carousel housed in a gorgeous new building. Among the animals you can ride are pigs, ostriches, horses, and billy goats, just to name a few. The Wullitzer organ produces music that sets the mood. The Pullen Park emblems outside the building provide a royal touch to the carousel. The weather vein atop the building is unique in that it contains colored glass and animals other than just horses.
Heading from the carousel to the lake, you’ll pass a large pavilion with picnic tables, another restroom building, the pedal boats, and the Andy & Opie statue. Be sure to stroll around Lake Howell, where you can admire the waterfront views, stop for photo ops, or enjoy the fauna. The new bridges are spectacles in themselves, adding a rolling hills feeling to the park.
With so many things to do, see, and hear at Pullen Park, you may not notice the attention paid to the small details. The cedar shakes, green color palette, emblems, new landscaping mixed with mature trees, and stonework are also worth mentioning as it all adds to the atmosphere of the park.
The park’s grand opening was Saturday, November 19 from 10am-6pm. Be sure to also purchase tickets for Holiday Express, where Pullen Park is transformed into a Holiday Wonderland from December 8-11, 4pm-7pm.
Thumbs up: playground area, views around lake, carousel, unique details in woodwork/design, miniature train ride, Pullen Place
Thumbs down: not many, but parking may be tough, especially in the beginning months
Parking lot area
Tunnel for the miniature train ride
Order food from Pullen Place
Outdoor eating area near Pullen Place
Pullen Place features local, healthy fare at reasonable prices
The entrance sign
Time to head inside
Newly landscaped areas near the entrance
Small amphitheater area
Tot swings at the playground
More swings including ones for children with special needs
Ashley trying out the new swings
I love the swings!
So many swinging options
A tire swing…classic park feature
Here comes the train
One of the many climbing areas
Take a kiddie boat ride for only 1 ticket
Guides indicate ages appropriate for the equipment
The jungle gym area with slides and shade
The playground’s spongy surface
Another view of the jungle gym
One of the misting fountains
Another fun climbing area
A spider web climbing area with the train in the background
A small open area near the playground
Another climbing area
The sand area complete with shade
Let’s make music in the park
A fun area for jumping
More of the sandbox area
So much to do in the sand
Another playground area with shade
More tot swings for the wee ones
No park is complete without a see-saw
An old caboose for visiting
Inside the caboose
Several places inside the caboose for having lunch
One of the views from the train ride
Looking towards the lake from the train
Another great view fromt he train
Another view of the lake
Time to visit the carousel
Information about riding the miniature train
The emblem at the train entrance
One of the restroom buildings
Let’s visit the carousel
Information about the carousel
Beautiful new plantins mixed with mature trees
Beautiful leaves changing colors
An inside view of the carousel
Our first carousel ride
One of the hand-carved animals
The ostrich!
Some of the new plantings and stonework around the park
The Pullen Park emblem on the carousel building
Andy & Opie statue
A tribute to the Andy Griffith Show
Breath-taking views of the lake
Looking back towards the entrance
The weather vane atop the carousel
Information about riding the pedal boats
Let’s ride the pedal boats
One of the large pavilions for rent
A huge magnolia sets the stage near the lake
Information about Lake Howell
Looking across the water
One of the bridges
As the sun sets, the trees glow
A gazebo near the water, perfect for a wedding or special event
Another bridge to cross the water
Reflections on the water were beautiful
The bridges create a rolling hills effect over the water
Great views of the bridges from afar
More spectacular colors and views
Calm waters and great views
Even the ditches made for great photos
Another view of the tunnels
A bench you’ll pass on your stroll around Lake Howell
Information about the Holiday Express event
Picnic tables near the cafe
Another view of the entrance
The Welcome Center, where you can purchase tickets or schwag
So, I’ve never had such a relaxing Thanksgiving week in a long time. Our Thanksgiving holiday started by visiting Eastgate Park earlier this week. It was extra special because we were able to spend it with Bill, who took off for the holiday week. With us around I’m not sure it was much of a relaxing vacation for him, but we enjoyed having him around all week.
Eastgate Park is located at 4200 Quail Hollow Dr, not far from North Hills Mall. The parking lot is located on Quail Hollow Dr, but side-street parking is also available on Wingate Dr. After parking in the parking lot, you can head to the left towards Cooper’s Pond. This a small pond with an small overlook area and opportunity for fishing or visiting with the fauna. Around the pond, you’ll also find a cleared path and covered pavilion with picnic tables and charcoal grill. The path this week was covered with large leaves, perfect for great photo ops!
Eastgate Park has an unstaffed community center that is available for rent and commonly used for recreational programs. There is also a large open field with several soccer goals, basketball courts, and tennis courts. We spent a lot of time at the playground area this particular day. This playground is really nice for a few reasons: 1) the spongy surface, 2) the area is fenced in, and 3) both playground areas are near each other and have several swings. Even though Ashley is only 8 months old, she thoroughly enjoyed crawling around on the spongy surface and swinging on the tot swings. I consider both features to be crucial if you have a non-walking child! Babies and mulch just do not mix!
The playground has swings, slides, and climbing areas. There is also a sandbox and musical area in the smaller child playground. Another great feature of this playground are the benches lined around the perimeter. It’s a great place for parents to enjoy watching their children play. Down from the playground is a collection of covered picnic tables and sidewalk games like four square and hopscotch.
Thumbs up: sidewalk access to park, pond area, photo ops, playgrounds, benches near playground
A few weeks ago we headed down to Lassiter Mill Park again to access the nearby greenway via Crabtree Creek Trail for a run. Little did we know that after a mile and half into our run, we would come to Kiwanis Park. It was a nice surprise and a good break from the run, as we weren’t anticipating either!
Following the greenway was a bit tricky in some places. If starting near Lassiter Mill Park, you’ll eventually come to Claremont Rd, where the greenway signs stop. Take a left onto Claremont Rd and then cross Anderson Dr where Claremont Rd turns into Oxford Rd. Stay on the sidewalks and you’ll shortly see the next portion of the greenway on your left, which will lead you straight to Kiwanis Park. Despite the trickiness of the greenway, this has turned out to be one of the favorite running trails in Raleigh. It is super FLAT and the bridges and scenery you pass make the running seem effortless at times.
The Kiwanis Park is located at 2525 Noble Rd just inside the beltline. It has a playground area with a jungle gym, but no swings. There are also several large open fields, mostly used for playing soccer. There is a sand volleyball court, baseball fields, and a basketball court. The nearby community center is not staffed and is available for rent. The large pavilion has several picnic tables and restrooms.
Even though you can get to the park by car, why not make this a greenway/park/brunch adventure with the kids! 1) Run/walk 1.5 miles with the stroller on the greenway to the park, 2) let them burn up some energy on the playground while you rest from your run/walk, 3) then run/walk 1.5 miles back followed by 4) yummy brunch at Nofo at the Pig!
Thumbs up: flat portion of greenway, scenery along greenway, playground, open fields at park, recreational sports
Thumbs down: signage along parts of greenway, no swings on playground
This post originally appeared on southwestraleigh.com, where you can learn more about what a great place South West Raleigh is to live, work, and play.
Method Road Park is a busy park with several recreational and community activities going on, despite the small footprint you see from the road. Method Road Park is located at 514 Method Rd, just inside the beltline, near the intersection of Beryl Road and Method Road. There is a large community center building with indoor basketball courts and bleacher seating. The Method Pioneers Building is nearby and available for rent. The center has information about programs for all ages. Here are a few to highlight:
Method Halloween Festival (Oct 28, 5-7pm, ages 6-11)
Free English classes for beginning students (Oct 27-Dec 8, Thursdays, 6:30-8pm)
Daily open gym times (call (919) 831-6066 for hours)
Haunted Mordecai Lantern Tour (Oct 29)
Foster Grandparent Program
If outdoor activities is what you’re looking for, this park has plenty to offer. There are lighted tennis courts, a basketball court with bleachers, baseball fields, a large open multi-purpose field with soccer goals, a large pavilion with picnic tables, and oodles of shady spots and benches for picnics. The old playground area near the front of the park is getting a major facelift. The new playground area will have several swings, a large jungle gym with slides, unique seating, and fun activity equipment. The playground is currently being renovated and should be finished within the next few months.
This would be a great park to bring your mommy/baby/toddler groups for playtime followed by lunch or a great place to bring the older kids for open gym, flag football, or kickball. Visit raleighnc.gov for more information about Method Road Park.
So, a few weeks ago when my mom came into town I wanted to do a picnic lunch in the park, but wanted to have food from a new (to us) place and explore a new park. After some quick online surfing we decided on take-out from Nofo at the Pig followed by a trip to Roanoke Park Playground. Both ideas turned out to be absolutely fabulous!
Roanoke Park Playground is located southeast of Five Points at 1500 Cherokee Dr. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood in the median between W Aycock St, Cherokee Dr, and Greenwood St. This was a part of the Five Points area I had never been to and quickly fell in love with the homes and the nearby shops.
On one side of the park is a large open field perfect for a pick-up game of flag football, kickball, or volleyball. There are numerous shade trees along the perimeter, which gave us ample of shade for our picnic lunch. There’s also a small pavilion with picnic table, but having a baby in the prime of her crawling meant we were having lunch in the grass!
After lunch, we followed the wooden path to the other side of the park that contains the playground area. Along the way we passed a large wooden deck with built-in benches. There are two swing sets complete with tot swings for the little ones. The jungle gym has several slides and climbing areas atop a mulch base. The sand box area has a few diggers and other play equipment. We were also shocked to see numerous riding cars sitting in the toy corral area. It was welcoming to know that neighborhood toys could sit in a park and go without being stolen. After some more research on this park, I learned that the neighborhood partnered with the City a few months ago to fund some of the toys you see in the park. At the far end of the park there’s also a full-size basketball court.
This park was so delightful that I packed a picnic lunch and visited it again the next day with my husband, baby, and dog!
Thumbs up: shadiness, peacefulness, swing sets, open fields, friendliness of neighbors
On the ninth day of Raleigh Parks Christmas, we headed out to Cary with my friend, Kristina, and her daughter, Lucy to visit Walnut St Park. Wow, what a great park for crawlers and cruisers! Besides the large open spongy surface, there are tot swings, a jungle gym with smaller slides, and an area with balance beams and climbing structures that proved to be so exciting for the non-walkers!
