Have a Day Out with the Kids at Pullen Park

Most recently updated January 16th, 2022

Even after the State Fair has packed up for the year, we can still take the kids out to Pullen Park in Raleigh to ride some rides and have some fair food!

The 66-acre park is a fun place for all ages, but with a historic carousel,  kiddie boats and a  miniature train, it’s especially fun for younger kids. 

Pullen Park wasn’t really on my radar when I was in “baby jail”, but I wish it had been!

The East Coast Greenway runs along the perimeter of Pullen Park.
The East Coast Greenway runs along the perimeter of Pullen Park.

Established in 1887, Pullen Park is the oldest public park in North Carolina, and is open all year round.

It’s also the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. – and 16th oldest in the world!

Little kids love Pullen Park, but it’s also a beautiful scenic place for grownups to stretch their legs:

    • For hikers and bikers, the East Coast Greenway, a 3,000 mile long system of trails  connecting Maine to Florida, runs through Pullen Park, too.
    • The Rocky Branch Trail, another fantastic trail that connects Meredith College and NC State University to the Capital Area Greenway, also makes it’s way through Pullen Park.

As a seasonal treat, for a few magical days in December, Pullen Park  becomes a wonderland lit by thousands of lights, where kids can visit with Santa and ride the “Holiday Express” train!

The Pullen Aquatic Center, Pullen Arts Center and Theatre in the Park are also located on the park grounds. Continue reading Have a Day Out with the Kids at Pullen Park