Warm weather is here to stay, and summer break is around the corner. This is ideal day trip weather and timing! Just east of Forsyth County, located in the quaint town of Cary, you’ll find Downtown Cary Park. This destination has something for the entire family!
While it’s an easy and less than two-hour drive on I-40, I highly recommend you consider traveling there by train. The station is only a brief walk from the park. Be sure to check out my travel by train article in this issue for travel tips.
Why Visit Downtown Cary Park?
This seven-acre park is a relatively new multi-use space as it opened in November of 2023. From the most unique playground, this innovative space is both fun and beautiful. It’s one of those places you add to your list that you must visit, and once you do, you are already wondering when you’ll be back! It has not only everything you need for a day of entertainment, but goes beyond what you’d want from a park, as well.
Top 5 Things To Do at Downtown Cary Park
There are so many areas to explore in this park, but here are five must-check-out things on your trip:
- The Nest – From huge cardinals you can climb to slides built into the hill, this playground is a true work of art!
- The Bark Bar – Grab a drink and relax among the view. It’s also right beside the dog parks, so you’ll have a space for your canine friends if they join you for the trip.
- Skywalk – Enjoy views of the entire park from 17 feet up when you take a walk along this boardwalk-style pathway.
- Cary Farmers Market – If you visit on a Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, you can also enjoy walking through the local farmers market.
- Downtown Cary & Nearby Businesses – Down the road, you’ll find some great restaurants and spots to combine with your day trip. Highly recommend Esteamed Coffee for a caffeine fix and Academy Street Bistro for lunch! Plus, the Cary Regional Library is right beside The Nest playground and is a great spot to check out.
What to Know Before You Go
Cary Downtown Park is free to visit. However, there are parking fees. Behind the Cary Regional Library is an accessible, public use parking deck. Additional parking is available in the lot on Charlie Gaddy Lane, at labeled street parking and at the Town Hall Deck. Another benefit of visiting by train is avoiding the hassle of parking!
To access the dog parks, you must purchase a day pass online or in person at guest services for $5.
There is a marketplace that sells a variety of snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and ready-to-eat meals. Plus, The Bark Bar serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. You’ll often find food trucks at the park as well.
Downtown Cary Park is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Details to Visit Downtown Cary Park
Distance from Winston-Salem: Less than two hours.
Address: 327 S. Academy Street, Cary, NC
Learn more about Downtown Cary Park: downtowncarypark.com
Instagram: @downtowncarypark and @caryncgov
