It starts with an idea, maybe not even fully-formed. It grows into a vision. Mix that with good intentions, lots of hard work, and the will of the community, and you end up with something special.
After a month of entertaining guests, the Gipson Play Plaza meets the criteria of “something special.” Since it’s inaugural weekend on June 6, the play plaza has quickly become a family destination. It welcomed over 100,000 visitors in its first two weeks.
At 18.5 acres, the play plaza is the largest adventure playground in the southeastern United States. It’s play features reflect the diverse geography of our state with features like waterfalls representing Western North Carolina and watermills and boulders of the piedmont.
There’s more to explore beyond the play features. Open lawns invite picnics and relaxing afternoons. Nearby, find shaded tables, grills, a civic plaza, and a convenient grab-and-go market.
Gipson Play Plaza Celebration Recap
Traffic garden
In partnership with Oaks and Spokes, Dix Park is also offering a Traffic Garden. Kid-sized, kid-friendly, and fun, this street network is designed for both good times and a chance to learn. Kids can walk, bike, or roll through a network streets, intersections, stop signs, and bike lanes, all sized just right for kids between the ages of three and 10.
Bring your bike, scooter, or walking shoes and enjoy this pop-up space this summer.
The land on which Dix Park and the play plaza rest have been critical components of Raleigh for more than a century. The realization of that vision ensures that it will continue to be a major part of Raleigh’s future.
Plan your visit: Gipson Play Plaza
