Trips in the Triangle: Places to spend a Sunday in Cary

RZ'Nasia Self, Staff Writer

October 30, 2024

A picture of Pullen Park featuring a man blowing bubbles while a group of kids chase after them.

When there is supposedly nothing to do, it’s easy for someone to feel like they wasted their precious weekend. There are tons of things to do on a Sunday afternoon in Cary, and the GH Falcon curated a list for how the day can be filled with multiple forms of entertainment.

Inside of the North Carolina Museum of Art with multiple exhibits for everyone to gaze upon. (RZ’Nasia Self)

North Carolina Museum of Art: The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) is known for its diverse collection of art spanning over 5,000 years with more than 40 galleries to view. The NCMA consists of two buildings to explore: The west building and the east building. The west building focuses on their permanent collections of famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Van Gogh. As for the East building, there is an emphasis on contemporary exhibits, educational programs and special events.

The NCMA features pieces from all over the world including European, American, Egyptian and African art. Beyond the indoor galleries, the NCMA vast Museum Park features sculptures, walking trails and spaces for outdoor installations and performances, making it one of the largest museum parks in the country.

The entrance of Pullen Park, the 16th oldest one in the world. (RZ’Nasia Self)

Pullen Park: Founded back in 1887, Pullen Park takes the title of being the oldest park in North Carolina. The 66.4 acre land features a vintage carousel from 1911, a miniature train, paddle/kiddie boats, playgrounds and picnic areas for families to enjoy.

Located near North Carolina State University, Pullen Park is a rich blend of educational, recreational and historical features like the famous Andy Griffith and Opie Taylor monument. The park has a little bit of everything for everyone to enjoy down to their tennis courts and art centers.

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, a 140-acre natural area located in Cary. (RZ’Nasia Self)

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve: Hemlock Bluffs is one of the few state nature preserves residing in North Carolina, and is home to a vast array of mountain plant species—including the rare population of Eastern Hemlock trees.

The preserve offers well-maintained trails like the Swift Creek Loop and Chestnut Oak Loop. The Stevens Nature Center at Hemlock Bluffs offers educational programs, interactive exhibits and events focused on environmental conservation making it a popular destination for people wanting to know more about North Carolina’s local ecosystem.

The Philip’s Farm has been serving quality farm products to North Carolina for over 100 years. (RZ’Nasia Self)

Philip’s Farm: Phillip’s Farm is a family-owned farm and outdoor entertainment venue known for its seasonal activities that goes well with all ages. In the spring and summer, the farm hosts a farmer’s market with fresh produce, along with other events such as outdoor movie nights. During the fall season, the farm’s features include a pumpkin patch, corn maze and hayrides that are alongside more family-friendly attractions.

Phillip’s Farm also showcases a “Haunted Farm” attraction during October. Many consider Philip’s Farm a popular local spot because it combines agriculture with seasonal entertainment, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors to Cary.

These spots offer the opportunity to fill a Sunday night with enjoyment; instead of feeling like the weekend is being wasted, go take control of it.

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About the Contributor

RZ’Nasia Self, Staff Writer

Rz’Nasia Self is a senior at Green Hope and this is her first year writing for the GH Falcon. She was born in New Haven, Connecticut and spent most of her childhood in North Carolina before moving to Georgia, but she has since moved back to North Carolina. When Rz’Nasia isn’t writing, she’s cooking pancakes, watching Youtube videos or playing Stardew Valley on her Nintendo Switch. Outside of school, she is part of the Letters for Rose organization, where she spends time making letters and art for elderly people. Rz’Nasia is a published writer that has always taken an interest in creative writing, and she hopes to continue exploring that passion.