Dorothea Dix Park is the largest public park in Raleigh at 308 acres, and it’s seriously grown in the last few years. We’ve decided it’s time for Dix Park to get its own spotlight from us, starting off with landmarks — we’ll also cover history and what’s coming soon, too.
Major park landmarks
There’s so much to do in Dix Park’s 300+ acres, so we wanted to break down the biggest landmarks + points of interest for your next visit — with the best point of entry, too. Psst... try the online map to get around, too.
Sunflowers Field | Enter from the northern Western Avenue entrance | Every summer, our Instagram feeds are filled with bright yellow blooms from Dix Park, and we’re not complaining. Built on top of a former landfill this beautification project attracts thousands to Dix Park.
Gipson Play Plaza | Enter from either Lake Wheeler Road entrance | Where do we even start? Gipson is the largest adventure playground in the Southeast with something for every kiddo, including a fountain to play in, a sensory maze, and a 91-foot-long mega swing.
Dog Park | Enter from the northern Western Avenue entrance | Have some off-the-leash fun with your pups at this grassy dog park with sections for both small and large dogs.
The Chapel | Enter from southern Western Avenue entrance | This all-faiths chapel isn’t typically used for religious practice; it’s a versatile events space with stunning stained-glass windows and original details from its 1955 construction.
Big Field | Enter from Blair Drive or southern Lake Wheeler Road entrance | This field certainly lives up to its name with 35 acres of wide open grass. In addition to hosting events like Dreamville Music Festival, locals use this field to play, have a picnic, or admire the Raleigh skyline.
Stone Houses | Enter from southern Western Avenue entrance | These recently renovated houses were once part of day-to-day operations for Dorothea Dix Hospital, but now, they act as offices for park staff, a welcome center, and guest restrooms.
Trolls | Not so fast. Artist Thomas Dambo says his one-of-a-kind wooden trolls are meant to be discovered organically. While the park has dropped some hints as to where these trolls might be, we’re not spoiling the surprise.
