RDU Observation Park
Watch planes soar at RDU Observation Park! Free admission, live air traffic audio, and a playground make it a unique family and aviation enthusiast sp...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
RDU Observation Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Watch planes soar at RDU Observation Park! Free admission, live air traffic audio, and a playground make it a unique family and aviation enthusiast spot.
"The airplane observation deck was such an incredible experience! The views were absolutely breathtaking."
👂 Tune into the Tower
Bring a scanner to hear pilot-tower communications for an immersive experience.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Pack hats and sunscreen; shade is limited. Consider a portable fan.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elevated Runway Views
Observation Deck
Get up close to 10,000-foot runway action and hear live pilot-tower communications.
Kid-Friendly Play Area
Ground Level
A small 'runway' for kids to play on, a sandbox, and climbing equipment make it fun for little ones.
Picnic and Relax
Picnic Area
Enjoy a meal or snack with a unique backdrop of planes taking off and landing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👂 Tune into the Tower
Bring a scanner to hear pilot-tower communications for an immersive experience.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Pack hats and sunscreen; shade is limited. Consider a portable fan.
✈️ Kid's Runway Fun
Let kids burn energy on the playground's mini-runway.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Enjoy a meal with a view; picnic tables are available.
Tips
from all over the internet
👂 Tune into the Tower
Bring a scanner to hear pilot-tower communications for an immersive experience.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Pack hats and sunscreen; shade is limited. Consider a portable fan.
✈️ Kid's Runway Fun
Let kids burn energy on the playground's mini-runway.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Enjoy a meal with a view; picnic tables are available.
🚗 Free Parking
Parking is available and free for visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise RDU Observation Park for its free admission, excellent runway views, and family-friendly atmosphere. The live audio feed of air traffic control is a unique highlight. Some note limited shade and occasional lulls in air traffic.
"Went during the week and there were a few people out but not at all crowded. I appreciated the seats and bathrooms under the overlook. They have a small “runway” for kids to play on and jungle gym in sand.
There is information about different types of planes that any plane enthusiast would enjoy.
You can hear the controllers communicating to planes which is really nice.
Perfect place to help build understanding for kids when loved ones have to travel away or simply a relaxing way to enjoy airplanes.
If you’re going in the heat bring a fan and a hat- Not a ton of shade."
J M
"The airplane observation deck was such an incredible experience! The views were absolutely breathtaking, with a perfect spot to watch planes take off and land up close. It felt both exciting and relaxing, and the atmosphere was great for families, aviation fans, or anyone just looking for something unique to do. Everything was well-kept, safe, and easy to access. I could have stayed for hours just enjoying the sights and sounds. A truly unforgettable 5-star experience!"
Cortni “Hollywood” Hollywood05
"Great place to take kids and bigger kids to see planes take off and land. Very neat experience with a small area for kids to run like planes on a playground replica of the run way. Wish there was more air traffic in general, quite a wait in between planes on a Saturday afternoon. (The nearby cracker barrel however is direct flight path and they go directly over your head in the parking lot...also really cool!)"
Megan Carrier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The RDU Observation Park is located at Raleigh Durham International Airport. You can use GPS coordinates for 'RDU Observation Park'. Parking is free and readily available on-site.
Yes, parking is free and available at the RDU Observation Park, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Information on public transport directly to the park is limited, but it's best accessed by car due to its airport location.
The park generally offers accessible pathways, and the observation deck provides good vantage points.
The park is typically open from 9 a.m. to sunset daily, but it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or temporary closures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to RDU Observation Park is completely free! You don't need any tickets to enjoy the planes.
There is no entrance fee for the observation deck or the park itself. It's a free attraction for everyone.
No, the park is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, from toddlers to adults.
The observation park is separate from the airport terminals and does not grant access to them. It's for viewing planes from the outside.
Parking at the RDU Observation Park is free for all visitors.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You can watch planes take off and land on the 10,000-foot runway, listen to pilot communications, enjoy the playground, and have picnics.
Yes, there are audio speakers on the observation deck that broadcast live communications between pilots and the control tower.
Yes, there's a dedicated play area with a small runway replica, sandbox, and climbing equipment for children.
Restrooms are available at the RDU Observation Park for visitor convenience.
You'll see a variety of commercial aircraft from different airlines that use RDU, including passenger jets and cargo planes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food vendors directly at the park, but picnic tables are available. You can bring your own food or grab something from nearby airport eateries or local restaurants.
Absolutely! Bringing your own snacks and meals is encouraged, and there are picnic tables available for you to enjoy them.
You can find various dining options within the RDU airport terminals or explore restaurants in the surrounding Raleigh-Durham area. Some visitors enjoy bringing food from places like Chick-fil-A.
While there are no vendors at the park, you can bring your own drinks or purchase them from nearby airport concessions or local cafes.
The park is a great spot for casual gatherings. While there are no formal event bookings, the picnic areas can accommodate small groups.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers beautiful lighting for plane photography. Early mornings can also provide good light with fewer crowds.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be mindful of airport security regulations.
You can capture planes taking off and landing, close-ups of aircraft, and panoramic views of the runway.
Yes, the live audio feed of pilot communications enhances video recordings, making it a dynamic spot for aviation enthusiasts.
A telephoto lens is recommended for capturing detailed shots of aircraft. A wide-angle lens can capture the overall scene.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The dedicated playground with its mini-runway and sandbox will keep younger children entertained for hours. Parents can enjoy watching planes with their kids, and the picnic areas are perfect for a family meal. Consider visiting in the morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Remember to pack sun protection like hats and sunscreen, as shade is limited. ✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
The ability to listen to live pilot-tower communications via speakers is a major draw, offering an immersive experience that goes beyond just visual observation. Bring your binoculars and cameras to capture detailed shots of various aircraft.
Some enthusiasts even bring radio scanners to tune into a wider range of aviation frequencies for an even deeper dive into the world of air traffic control. 📸 Photography Buffs
For videographers, the live audio feed of air traffic control adds a unique dimension to your footage, making it more engaging and immersive.
Remember to be mindful of airport security and regulations while capturing your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Plane Spotting Experience
+1 This feature transforms a simple viewing into an engaging auditory journey, perfect for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. While the park is generally well-received, some visitors note that air traffic can be intermittent, especially on weekends.
Pro Tip: Check the airport's flight schedule or use flight tracking apps to anticipate arrivals and departures, maximizing your viewing opportunities.
Family Fun at RDU
+1 Parents often appreciate that the park offers a safe and engaging environment for their children to explore and play. The park's picnic areas are also a big hit with families, allowing for relaxed meals with a unique backdrop.
It's a great spot for a casual lunch or snack while enjoying the spectacle of aviation. The educational placards can also spark curiosity in young minds about the world of flight. Many reviewers highlight it as a perfect place to build understanding for children when loved ones are traveling. Consideration: While the playground is great, the lack of extensive shade means bringing sun protection is crucial during warmer months.
Photography and Videography Opportunities
Videographers will find the live audio feed of air traffic control particularly compelling. This feature adds an auditory dimension that can significantly enhance the viewing experience and the quality of recorded footage.
Imagine capturing a plane's ascent while simultaneously hearing the pilot's communication with the tower – it’s an immersive experience that many find captivating. Tip: While personal photography is generally welcomed, always be aware of airport security protocols and avoid any actions that could be misconstrued.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit