Showcasing the extraordinary natural beauty native to North Carolina and the Piedmont, this downtown park balances active programming with a unique botanical experience. Shade gardens, perennial gardens, wetland and aquatic plantings, pollinator gardens, native meadows, and many more plant communities are on display throughout the seasons. A series of outdoor rooms are knit together by multi-dimensional vantage points, including elevated walkways, meandering paths and water features that take advantage of the change in grade across the site. The diverse programmed “rooms” were derived from an extensive community engagement planning process.

Key areas include a plaza that marries a pavilion with marketplace and restrooms with an interactive water feature; a children’s experiential and inclusive play environment that creates opportunities for non-prescriptive play; the great lawn, a flexible gathering place for large community events and concerts; and the gathering house and garden for both special events and quiet contemplation. Active and social recreation areas and courts are placed adjacent to the Bark Bar, a restaurant within the dog park.