1 / 10

Pullen Park Raleigh

4.7

·9k reviews·Raleigh, United States

North Carolina's first public park & 5th oldest amusement park in the US, offering rides, gardens, and family fun.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more ride time

CrowdLow

Loading map...

Pullen Park Raleigh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more ride time

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

North Carolina's first public park & 5th oldest amusement park in the US, offering rides, gardens, and family fun.

4.7

(9k reviews)

"A lovely, clean, and family-friendly place in Raleigh, truly a hidden gem!"

TIP

🎟️ Affordable Attractions

Most rides are just $2 per person, making Pullen Park a budget-friendly family outing .

☀️ Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your meal amidst beautiful scenery. Plenty of open spaces and shelters available .

Quick Facts

Address

520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Carousel

Amusement Area

A classic carousel ride offering a nostalgic experience for all ages. Currently under construction but a beloved feature .

Miniature Train Ride

Amusement Area

Chug along a scenic route through the park on this charming miniature train, a hit with kids and adults alike .

Paddle Boats

Pond

Enjoy a leisurely paddle on the park's pond, offering a unique perspective of the surroundings. Available on weekends and good weather days .

Playgrounds

Various locations

Multiple play areas cater to different age groups, ensuring fun for younger children and older kids .

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Rides

Pullen Park's amusement rides, like the carousel and train, operate on specific schedules and may have limited hours, especially outside peak season. Check the official hours before your visit to avoid disappointment. Tickets are typically $2 per ride, making it an affordable outing for families.

Embrace the Outdoors

This historic park offers beautiful gardens and open spaces perfect for a stroll or picnic. While rides are a draw, don't miss the chance to explore the scenic walking trails and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, especially if you're looking for a peaceful escape.

Best Times

When

Weekday mornings

Why

Fewer crowds, more ride time

Crowd

Low

When

Weekend afternoons

Why

Full ride operations

Crowd

Medium

When

Holiday season evenings

Why

Magical light displays

Crowd

High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌳 Pullen Park🌳 The first public park in NC and the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the US. This was our last stop on our overnight Raleigh adventure. Plenty of fun for all ages. Amusements include: 🚤 Pedal boats 🎠Carousel 🛶 Kiddie boats 🚂 Train 🛝 Playground ⏰: 10am - 6pm 🎟️: $2 per attraction (pedal boats are $7 for 30 minutes) 🗺️: About 10 minutes from downtown Raleigh Things To D...

ashleympalmer_

43 likes • 4.3K views

🎟️ Affordable Attractions

Most rides are just $2 per person, making Pullen Park a budget-friendly family outing.

☀️ Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your meal amidst beautiful scenery. Plenty of open spaces and shelters available.

🚂 Save the date! Holiday Express tickets launch on October 16th. Pullen Park will be magically transformed into a whimsical wonderland bursting with holiday spirit. You don’t want you to miss out on Raleigh’s favorite tradition ! Get ready for the magic!!! This is one of my absolute favorite Christmas traditions in North Carolina !!! 🙌❤️ I have been going to Pullen Park since I was a kid and thi...

raleighwanderlust

30.4K likes • 871.2K views

Pullen Park is a picturesque public park located right here in Raleigh. It is known as one of the oldest and most iconic parks in the state. It spans over 66 acres of beautiful scenery and lush green spaces. Enjoy large open fields, manicured gardens, and towering trees that provide a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. The park’s centerpiece is a scenic pond, where visitors can enjoy paddle boats...

relocatingtoraleigh

1.3K likes • 37.6K views

🚗 Check Parking

Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.

📸 Capture the Magic

Don't forget your camera for stunning garden shots and ride photos.

Ever ridden a miniature train through one of the oldest amusement parks in the US? 🚂 🤯 Right here in RALEIGH, NC just steps from NC State, sits Pullen Park. The perfect place where family fun and local charm come together 🎟️ Dating back to 1887, it’s the first public park in North Carolina and one of the most loved spots in the Triangle. Whether you’re planning a weekend with the kids or just l...

markosunrealestate

1.8K likes • 60K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Affordable Attractions

Most rides are just $2 per person, making Pullen Park a budget-friendly family outing.

☀️ Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your meal amidst beautiful scenery. Plenty of open spaces and shelters available.

🚗 Check Parking

Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.

📸 Capture the Magic

Don't forget your camera for stunning garden shots and ride photos.

🎄 Holiday Express

Book Holiday Express tickets in advance; they sell out fast! +1

What Travellers Say

4.7

(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pullen Park is widely praised as a clean, family-friendly, and affordable gem in Raleigh. Visitors love the charming historic rides, beautiful gardens, and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for both fun outings and relaxing strolls. While some find the playgrounds geared towards younger children, the overall experience is highly recommended for its value and charm.

"Pullen Park is a lovely, clean, and family-friendly place in Raleigh. It's truly a hidden gem! The park's gorgeous gardens and calm atmosphere make it a great spot for relaxing and enjoying nature walks. The variety of flowers and plants is amazing, and the peaceful vibe is perfect for getting away from the busy city life.

The park has a fantastic mix of fun activities like the cute train ride, paddle boating, and the classic carousel — all at very reasonable ticket prices. It's free to enter the park! There are nice walking trails, and you can take a leisurely stroll around the pond. There are lots of shelters and play areas for kids with equipment and clean restrooms. The beautiful flowerbeds and landscaping create a very tranquil environment so close to town.
We've visited this place countless times, and it's about time I wrote a review. The park has always been kept clean.
I highly recommend visiting Pullen Park for a breath of fresh air!"

Raghu G

"This park is so cute. You have a very cheap train ride for the kids. A nice quick loop around the water with a gorgeous fountain at the center and a couple of bridges crossing the water. There is some food and drinks too and a small playground as well. I believe they have paddle boats but only during the weekends and in good weather. Definitely a great place to go alone or with family and pets!"

Omar Othman

"I saved this location in maps to explore one day with my children and all I can say is WOW!! This park is absolutely beautiful! From the ground being well kept and fun to walk around to the different types of parks to play in based on age. We didn't get to experience the paddle boats because we arrived a little later than expected but the train and carousel were a lot of fun and only $2 a person, ya'll!! We're already looking forward to going back again soon... Thank you to all of the staff as well for being helpful and friendly when needed!"

Celia Jennings

What People Like

Affordable rides

Beautiful gardens

Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Playground for younger kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pullen Park is located at 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options, like the Route 305 bus, also serve the area, making it convenient for those without a car.

Yes, Pullen Park is accessible via public transport. The Route 305 bus stops near the park, providing a convenient option for visitors.

From downtown Raleigh, Pullen Park is a short drive or bus ride away. It's also located close to NC State University, making it a popular spot for students and visitors alike.

Yes, Pullen Park offers on-site parking. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during special events. Arriving early is recommended.

Pullen Park is a great destination for walking and biking. There are walking trails within the park, and it's a pleasant area to explore on foot or by bicycle.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Pullen Park itself is free! However, individual amusement rides like the carousel, train, and kiddie boats have a small fee, typically $2 per person per ride.

Most rides at Pullen Park cost $2 per person. Pedal boats are an exception, costing $7 for a 30-minute rental.

Tickets for the rides can usually be purchased at the park on the day of your visit. Some special events, like the Holiday Express, may require advance booking online.+1

Operating hours for the rides vary seasonally and by day of the week. It's best to check the official Pullen Park website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.

Pullen Park hosts various seasonal events, such as the popular Holiday Express train ride.+1 Keep an eye on their announcements for any special promotions or events.

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Pullen Park features a historic carousel, a miniature train, pedal boats, kiddie boats, playgrounds, and beautiful gardens. It's known as one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the US.

Absolutely! Pullen Park is very family-friendly, with dedicated kiddie boats, playgrounds for various ages, and gentle rides like the train and carousel, making it ideal for younger visitors.

Yes, Pullen Park is a fantastic spot for picnics. There are numerous open fields, shelters, and picnic tables available for visitors to enjoy their meals.

Yes, clean restrooms are available throughout Pullen Park, making it comfortable for families and visitors to spend extended periods enjoying the park.

Pullen Park is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours. It's a popular public space with families and park-goers. As with any public park, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Pullen Park has an on-site eatery where you can grab snacks and light meals. Many visitors also choose to bring their own food for picnics.

The on-site cafe typically offers snacks, drinks, and simple meal options suitable for families and park-goers.

Absolutely! Pullen Park is a great place to have a picnic. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages to enjoy in the park's many scenic areas.

Being close to downtown Raleigh and NC State University, there are numerous restaurants and dining options within a short drive or walk from Pullen Park.

Yes, Pullen Park is a popular spot for birthday parties, offering a fun atmosphere with rides, playgrounds, and picnic areas. You can often rent shelters for events.

📸 📸 Photography

Pullen Park offers many picturesque spots, including the beautiful gardens, the historic carousel, the train, and the pond with its fountain. The flower beds behind the playground are particularly lovely.

Yes, Pullen Park is a great location for photographers, offering a mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and fun attractions. The variety of scenery provides ample opportunities for creative shots.

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the rides and attractions at Pullen Park. Capturing the joy of the carousel or the train ride can make for wonderful memories.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or large-scale events, you may need to inquire about permits from the park administration.

The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best natural light for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.