Nash Square
A shaded, landscaped urban oasis in downtown Raleigh, featuring art installations and a memorial, perfect for a peaceful break.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and serene start to the day
Nash Square
Best Time
Quiet and serene start to the day

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A shaded, landscaped urban oasis in downtown Raleigh, featuring art installations and a memorial, perfect for a peaceful break.
"Such a beautiful Park, It was nice and cool on that hot day, Clean and full of friendly squirrels."
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the unique squirrel sculpture and the 'Raleigh Roots' mural for great photo ops!
🌳 Seek Shade
The mature trees offer fantastic shade, perfect for escaping the heat on a sunny day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Squirrel Sculpture
Central area of the park
A unique and charming squirrel sculpture, a local favorite for photos and a symbol of the park's natural elements.

Firefighter Memorial
Near the park entrance
A poignant monument honoring fallen firefighters, offering a moment of reflection and historical significance.

Lush Greenery and Shade
Throughout the park
Enjoy the mature oak and magnolia trees providing ample shade, creating a cool oasis in the heart of the city.

Raleigh Roots Mural
Nearby building
A vibrant mural celebrating Raleigh's icons, including a depiction of Nash Square itself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating Downtown Raleigh
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the unique squirrel sculpture and the 'Raleigh Roots' mural for great photo ops!
🌳 Seek Shade
The mature trees offer fantastic shade, perfect for escaping the heat on a sunny day.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Ideal for a quiet walk or meditation, especially during off-peak hours.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
City parking lots are free on weekends; street parking can be tough.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the unique squirrel sculpture and the 'Raleigh Roots' mural for great photo ops!
🌳 Seek Shade
The mature trees offer fantastic shade, perfect for escaping the heat on a sunny day.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Ideal for a quiet walk or meditation, especially during off-peak hours.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
City parking lots are free on weekends; street parking can be tough.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as you explore this urban green space.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nash Square is praised as a beautiful, clean, and well-placed park offering a cool, shaded escape in downtown Raleigh. Visitors appreciate the art installations, including a notable squirrel sculpture and a firefighter memorial, and find it a safe and relaxing spot for strolls and picnics. Some reviews mention the presence of homeless individuals, but overall, it's considered a valuable urban green space with potential for future enhancements.
"Such a beautiful Park,
It was nice and cool on that hot day,
Clean and full of friendly squirrels, and a really tall sculpture of a of a squirrel holding an acorn you should really go see that and get a picture beside it, it was really cool. The statue of the fallen soldiers was really formative as well. Such a great family park!"
Felicia Martin
"Well placed park in central Raleigh with plenty of seating and trees to provide shade. Be sure to spend some time reading the memorial to fallen heroes. The park is large enough to stroll even if the city has an event drawing large crowds. Remember that city parking lots are free during the weekend as parking on the street can be difficult to find."
Ed H
"Beautiful park within a city. Very clean and has a safe feel to it. Enjoyed our walk and there are benches to sit and relax."
Jennifer Valerio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nash Square is located in downtown Raleigh. You can reach it by car, public transport, or ride-sharing services. If driving, be aware that street parking can be limited, but city parking lots are available and often free on weekends.
Yes, Nash Square is accessible via various public transportation routes serving downtown Raleigh. Check the GoRaleigh website for specific bus routes and schedules.
Street parking is available but can be difficult to find. Many visitors recommend using nearby city parking lots, which are often free on weekends.
While generally considered safe during the day, some visitors note that the park can attract homeless individuals in the evenings. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings if visiting after dark.
Absolutely! Nash Square is centrally located and within walking distance of many downtown Raleigh attractions, including Moore Square and various restaurants and bars.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nash Square is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy.
Nash Square is generally open from dawn until dusk, like most city parks. Specific hours may vary, but it's typically accessible throughout the day.
No advance booking is required. Nash Square is a public space open to everyone.
While not a primary event venue, Nash Square can be a pleasant spot to relax during city events. Check local listings for any specific activities.
Yes, Nash Square is perfect for a short break or a quick stroll. You can easily enjoy its highlights in under an hour.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique squirrel sculpture is a must-capture! Also, the firefighter memorial offers a more somber, reflective shot. The 'Raleigh Roots' mural nearby is another great backdrop.
The park's mature trees and art installations can provide lovely natural backdrops for portraits, especially during the golden hour.
Yes, photography of the art installations, like the squirrel sculpture, is generally permitted for personal use.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for photos. Early mornings can also be peaceful and less crowded.
For personal use, photography is usually fine. Commercial photography might require permits, so it's best to check with Raleigh Parks and Recreation if you plan a professional shoot.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Nash Square offers paved walkways, benches for seating, and ample shade from mature trees. It's a well-maintained urban green space.
Yes, with its benches and shaded areas, Nash Square is a pleasant spot for a picnic lunch.
Public restrooms are not typically a prominent feature of smaller urban parks like Nash Square. It's advisable to use facilities elsewhere before or after your visit.
Visitors often report seeing friendly squirrels in Nash Square, adding to the park's charm.
Absolutely! It's a convenient downtown spot for a peaceful lunch break or a moment of solitude amidst the city bustle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Nash Square itself does not have dining facilities. However, it is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes in the Warehouse District.
Parkside, a landmark restaurant and bar, is located directly across from Nash Square. Many other eateries are within walking distance in the downtown area.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great way to enjoy the park. There are benches and open spaces to relax.
The downtown Raleigh area, including the vicinity of Nash Square, has many coffee shops. You'll find several options just a short walk away.
The area around Nash Square offers a diverse range of dining options, from comfort food at Parkside to various other cuisines in the downtown core.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and History of Nash Square
The park's history is also tied to the urban development of downtown Raleigh. It's situated in the Warehouse District, an area undergoing revitalization. The construction of the new East Civic Tower, which will house city hall, is taking place across from Nash Square, signaling ongoing changes to the surrounding cityscape. Despite these changes, Nash Square remains a cherished green space, offering a moment of respite and a connection to the city's heritage.
Experiencing Nash Square: A Local's Perspective
While the park is generally well-regarded, some reviews mention that it can attract homeless individuals, a common occurrence in many urban parks. However, the park is also noted for its potential for future remodeling to enhance its appeal as a relaxing downtown spot. The presence of friendly squirrels adds a touch of wildlife charm, making it a pleasant place for families. Overall, Nash Square is seen as a valuable, well-maintained urban oasis that offers a peaceful retreat for those in the heart of Raleigh.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit