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Playgrounds & Parks

Looking for the perfect place to let the kids run wild, soak up some fresh air, or catch up with friends in a more informal setting? 


Check out our Little Locals NC-approved parks and playgrounds across the Triangle, from shaded hideouts in Cary to creekside trails in Durham, each one has a little something special. 


These are the places we keep coming back to, because they're easy, fun and feel a little like magic. 

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Browse all playgrounds & parks

Kids Together Playground @ Marla Dorrel Park

Kids Together Playground @ Marla Dorrel Park

This inclusive and shady playground in Cary is perfect for those looking for a calm, nature-immersed playground experience.

Star Rating

City

5

Cary

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

55-acre botanical gardens with lush foliage, walking trails, picnic spots and picturesque backdrops.

Star Rating

City

5

Durham

Sassafras All Children's Playground @ Laurel Hills Park

Sassafras All Children's Playground @ Laurel Hills Park

This massive playground features soft rubber spaces and a variety of activities for kids of all sizes, plus a community center and paved walking trail.

Star Rating

City

5

Raleigh

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Playground

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Playground

Built entirely with natural materials, this small nature playground is unlike any other in the Triangle, and connects to miles of hiking trails.

Star Rating

City

5

Cary

Apex Community Park

Apex Community Park

A traditional playground, agility course, 2-acre paved lake trail, plus nature hiking trails makes this one of the best shaded parks for beating the summer heat.

Star Rating

City

4

Apex

Lazy Daze Playground at Fred G. Bond Metro Park

Lazy Daze Playground at Fred G. Bond Metro Park

Cary's largest park with diverse amenities and a beautiful lake with boating activities.

Star Rating

City

4

Cary

Cedar Falls Park

Cedar Falls Park

This versatile park offers the perfect blend of sports, leisure and fun, with multiple sports fields, a playground, wooded areas, and open spaces perfect for picnics.

Star Rating

City

4

Chapel Hill

Duke Park

Duke Park

This shady park features a large playground, picnic shelters, a dog park and creek access.

Star Rating

City

4

Durham

Pullen Park

Pullen Park

NC's first public park, with a huge playground, vintage carousel, pedal boats, and more.

Star Rating

City

4

Raleigh

Recent blogs on our favorite Triangle Playgrounds & Parks

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About Little Locals NC

Wander freely. Wonder often.
Your go-to resource for screen-free family adventures across North Carolina, based out of the Triangle. Uncover the magic of childhood and create lasting memories with us. 

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