Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park
A sprawling 165-acre park in Raleigh, NC, featuring free outdoor art installations, walking trails, and native plant gardens, seamlessly connected to ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 165-acre park in Raleigh, NC, featuring free outdoor art installations, walking trails, and native plant gardens, seamlessly connected to the NC Museum of Art.
"A beautiful park for learning about native plants and enjoying outdoor sculptures."
🚶♀️ Trail Navigation
Trails can be confusing; consider a map or planning your route beforehand.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Sculptures
Throughout the park
Wander through a landscape dotted with captivating outdoor art installations and sculptures, blending creativity with nature.

Singing Swings
Near the museum
Experience the whimsical 'Singing Swings' – a unique interactive art piece that creates music as you swing!

Cloud Chamber of the Trees and Sky
Within the park
Step into this immersive camera obscura installation, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding natural beauty.

Native Plant Gardens
Various sections
Explore beautifully maintained gardens showcasing the diverse native flora of North Carolina, often with informative labels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Art & Nature Escape
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Trail Navigation
Trails can be confusing; consider a map or planning your route beforehand.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors.
🎶 Interactive Art
Don't miss the 'Singing Swings' for a fun, musical experience!
🌿 Learn About Plants
Many plants are labeled, perfect for learning about NC's native flora.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Trail Navigation
Trails can be confusing; consider a map or planning your route beforehand.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors.
🎶 Interactive Art
Don't miss the 'Singing Swings' for a fun, musical experience!
🌿 Learn About Plants
Many plants are labeled, perfect for learning about NC's native flora.
💧 Clean Restrooms
Public restrooms are available in the outdoor art garden area and are well-maintained.
📸 Great Photo Ops
The park offers stunning backdrops for photography, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park for its beautiful blend of art and nature, offering a free and expansive outdoor experience. The well-maintained trails and diverse sculptures are highlights, though some find the trail navigation a bit confusing. It's a highly recommended spot for relaxation, exploration, and family outings.
"Plenty of trails to walk on, I just get tangled up what trail leads where 😵💫 But I know the more I walk on them I'll get the hang of the area. All and all beautiful place to walk around, and there's a café inside the museum for food and drinks, a perfect way to end the walk."
Amanda B
"Comfortable walking, beautiful park for learning about the native plants of North Carolina. I now understand the charm of the magnolia tree, the taste of a mulberry and the steamy heat of a Southern summer day."
Patricia Berry
"Lots of walking trails spread amongst numerous outdoor sculptures. Most good for pedestrians and cyclists. Leashed dogs allowed. Plenty of places to hang out and picnic"
Deborah Oronzio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is easily accessible by car. It's connected to the North Carolina Museum of Art, making it a convenient destination. Parking is available at the museum.
Information on public transportation routes to the park can be found on the GoRaleigh transit website. Check their schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the park has excellent paths suitable for biking, and it's also connected to the Reedy Creek trail system, making it accessible for cyclists.
Yes, ample parking is available at the adjacent North Carolina Museum of Art, which provides access to the park.
The park officially closes at dusk. While some visitors are curious about nighttime visits for stargazing, it's generally advised to adhere to the posted hours for safety and security reasons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, including its trails and outdoor art installations, is completely free.
While the park itself is free, special exhibits, concerts, and films held at the North Carolina Museum of Art may have separate admission fees.
The park is open from dawn until dusk. It's important to check the official North Carolina Museum of Art website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome in the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, making it a great place for a walk with your furry friend.
No advance booking is required for general access to the park as it is free and open to the public during its operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers numerous scenic spots, including the outdoor sculptures, the 'Cloud Chamber of the Trees and Sky,' and the native plant gardens. The 'Singing Swings' also make for fun, dynamic shots.
Drone usage may be restricted. It's best to check with the North Carolina Museum of Art directly regarding their policy on drone operation within the park premises.
Generally, photography of the outdoor art installations is permitted for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and respect the artwork.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
For professional photoshoots, including engagement or wedding photography, it's advisable to contact the North Carolina Museum of Art to inquire about permits or specific guidelines.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The park features a variety of outdoor sculptures and art installations, blending contemporary art with the natural landscape.
The park offers a range of walking trails, from paved paths to more natural surfaces. While many are comfortable for strolling, some can be a bit confusing to navigate.
Yes, there are plenty of places to hang out and picnic in the park, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely outdoor meal.
Yes, clean and well-stocked individual restrooms are available outside in the walkable art garden area, accessible without any purchase.
Absolutely! Children often enjoy the interactive art like the 'Singing Swings' and the open spaces for running around.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park itself doesn't have dedicated food vendors, there is a café located inside the adjacent North Carolina Museum of Art that offers food and drinks, perfect for ending your visit.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics, as there are many suitable spots throughout the park.
Yes, the park is located in Raleigh, which offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes in the surrounding areas. The museum café is also a convenient option.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the sculptures and greenery, making it a full day of affordable family fun. The clean, accessible restrooms in the art garden area are also a convenient bonus for families. It's a great place to burn off energy while experiencing art and nature in a relaxed setting.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To keep costs even lower, pack your own snacks and drinks for a picnic lunch. This avoids the need to purchase from the museum cafe or nearby restaurants. The park offers a rich experience that rivals paid attractions, making it an excellent value for anyone looking to explore Raleigh on a budget.
couples
Consider bringing a picnic basket to enjoy a romantic meal amidst the sculptures or find a quiet spot to simply relax and enjoy each other's company. The interactive art, like the 'Singing Swings,' can add a touch of playful fun to your date. It's a perfect escape for a peaceful and culturally enriching outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Installations
These outdoor artworks are a key part of the park's appeal, offering a unique way to engage with art outside the traditional museum setting. The integration of art into nature encourages visitors to explore different areas of the park, often stumbling upon hidden gems. The native plant gardens also contribute to the aesthetic, with many plants thoughtfully labeled, providing an educational element to the artistic journey. The park's design ensures that art and nature are not just coexisting but are actively enhancing each other's experience.
Navigating the Trails and Natural Beauty
The park is a haven for appreciating North Carolina's natural beauty. You can learn about native plants, understand the charm of local flora, and experience the essence of a Southern summer day. The presence of leashed dogs is also a significant plus for many visitors, allowing them to share the outdoor experience with their pets. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a brisk jog, or a scenic bike ride, the park's natural setting provides a refreshing escape.
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