Fun and Adventure Awaits At These 5 Great Parks in Raleigh NC

Happy toddler brother and sister hug onto their younger sister while sitting on a porch at sunset before visiting parks in raleigh nc

As a parent, I enjoy taking my family out to enjoy the beautiful parks in Raleigh, NC. They offer a variety of spaces to host a party or a new place for your kids to play. Now that the weather is cooling down, let’s explore a few parks for your next family outing. 

5 Fun-Filled Parks in Raleigh, NC Your Family Will Love

Pullen Park

In 1887, the first public park in North Carolina opened, Pullen Park. You can take a swim, rent a paddle boat, see a play, take an art class, and, a kid favorite, ride the carousel. Playgrounds at Pullen Park are great for kids of all ages! The Community Center offers a variety of classes and events. Take a dip in the Aquatic Center in their Olympic-sized pool. Pullen is one of the best parks in Raleigh, NC, with 66 acres of space to play. 

A happy toddler girl in a white shirt is hugged by mom in a garden

North Hills Park

North Hills Park has over 32 acres of space for your outdoor activities. Kids aged 2-12 will enjoy the playgrounds on site. Enjoy the newest rage sport, pickleball, on 1 of their 6 courts. Play a game of softball or kickball on the youth-sized baseball field. There is a picnic shelter available for rent with a capacity of 60-100 guests. In Raleigh, NC, this is one of the smaller parks with a more intimate environment for your adventure. 

Laurel Hills Park in Raleigh, NC

Laurel Hills in Raleigh, NC is one of the best parks for hosting an event. The highlight of this park is the Sassafras All Children’s Playground. The inclusive playground is ideal for children of all ages and abilities. The community center offers a variety of on-site events for families, such as sports, fitness, music, and movement. There is a large indoor gymnasium for rent with two full-sized basketball courts. Also, you will find a large meeting room, dance studio, and warming kitchen for rent. The park is over 48 acres in total. There is a small pond, picnic shelters, 2 outdoor basketball courts, 2 youth baseball fields, and 1 multi-use field. 

Shelley Lake Park

Shelley Lake Park is the largest of the parks in Raleigh, NC, with over 144 acres for exploring. Take a stroll around the lake on the 2 miles of paved walkway equipped with restrooms along the way. If you enjoy fishing, you can spend an afternoon fishing in the lake. On-site, there are playgrounds and basketball courts for everyone in your family to play. The Sertoma Arts Center offers classes and workshops for all ages.

A happy family of 4 stand by a white fence in a park at sunset while visiting parks in raleigh nc

Jaycee Park

Jaycee Park is one of the most recently renovated parks in Raleigh, NC. Community Center with programs and events for the whole family. Activities include dance, music, sports, arts, and almost everything in between. The center has a full indoor gymnasium, multipurpose rooms for games or meetings, a weight room, and a warming kitchen. Outdoors, there are basketball courts, softball fields, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and a dog run. 

I Hope Your Family Enjoys These Parks In Raleigh NC!

There is no shortage of parks in Raleigh, NC, for your next family event or just heading to the playground. Each park has unique amenities for your friends and family to enjoy a day outdoors or do a community activity. 

Before you head out for your family adventure, let me tell you a little about me. I have been a professional photographer for over 30 years. I offer sessions for maternity, newborn, families, and more at my private boutique studio or on location in the area. Schedule your fall or holiday mini now before spaces fill up!

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