Pullen Park - Raleigh, North Carolina - Fun for the Entire Family

Pullen Park sits on 72-acres just west of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. The park is adjacent to the North Carolina State University campus, between Hillsborough Street and Western Boulevard. The park was founded in the late 1880s when Richard Pullen donated farmland to the city of Raleigh with specific criteria that the land would be used as a space for recreational enjoyment.

The park is open to the public and features picnic areas, concession stands and vendors, the Pullen Park Carousel, train rides, and kiddy boats. The park in Raleigh is known for its rides and provides a great deal of family fun and entertainment. The park's carousel was built in the late 1800s and is still running to this day. The cost of a carousel ride is minimal at just one dollar per ride for each child. Over the past thirty years the carousel had undergone significant restoration. The restoration procedures uncovered the carousel's original factory paint. The hand carved animals were also restored and original painting was applied. In 1976 the carousel was added to the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Raleigh Historic Landmark.

In addition to the carousel and numerous swing sets throughout the park, there are also lighted tennis courts, two ball fields, and a lake equipped with paddleboats. Many paths, trails, and bridges provide hours of exploration and hiking time. On the grounds adjacent to the area's attractions is and Aquatic Center and Theatre in the Park. The Pullen Aquatic Center was completed in 1992 and offers an Olympic size swimming pool, a warm water therapy pool, outdoor patio, and locker room facilities. The aquatic facility also offers classes to all ages. The Theatre in the Park is an air-conditioned indoor theatre that is located along the northern end of the park. Year-round programming provides the community with at least four main stage productions, classes, workshops, and administrative arts offices.

A miniature train was added to the park around 1950, and a second train was added in 1971. The C.P. Huntington Train is approximately one-third the size of a normal locomotive. The engine of the train is a replica of the famous Danforth-Cook Locomotive. The train rides have thrilled children for over fifty years and continue to be a popular amusement at Pullen Park.

Parking is free and there are several picnic areas. Visitors can bring their own food or go to the snack stands to make a purchase. During good weather seasons, outdoor music events periodically take place and portions of the park can be reserved and rented for large parties and groups of people. Most areas of the park are well shaded which make for a pleasant time during the hot summer hours.

Due to the central location of the park and vicinity to the college campus, visitors can take in a Wolf Pack sporting event when available. The park provides a great deal of entertainment and variety to match.