Prairie Ridge Ecostation image

Prairie Ridge Ecostation

Tourist attraction Park Museum Educational institution Science museum Research institute

One of the Top rated Tourist attractions in Raleigh


Address

1671 Gold Star Dr, Raleigh, NC 27607

Website

naturalsciences.org

Contact

(919) 707-8888

Rating on Google Maps

4.90 (67 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), Closed, Holiday hours
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday: (Easter), Closed, Hours might differ
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: kids (10) play (8)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Nelly R. 6 years ago on Google
    Really cool shaded playground. Definitely one of the top free best place to bring the kids in Raleigh. Only complain is that they don't have any trash cans, so be prepared and bring empty bags to pack any trash that you might have.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Turner-Marie J. 10 months ago on Google
    This was my first time here. I brought my 4 year old son. He absolutely loved being able to just play in nature, get messy, find worms, dig, and do all the things curious kids should do. They have trails we didn’t have time to go down, but they looked fun to explore. We were also lucky enough to come on a storytime day. It was exceptional. They had an activity after the book to engage the children in nature. And the best part is - it's free!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David K. 4 years ago on Google
    A great place to bring the family regardless of age. The nature playspace is perfect for little ones to run around and play. From the sandbox to the camping area to the stage and all things in-between, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained. Plus the hiking trail is just long enough to stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew G. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome easy hike/walk. Kid friendly and very Education-centric. Bring sun protection for the prairie portion. #optoutside.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Thomas S. 2 years ago on Google
    A nice easy trail with plenty of places to wander too. There is also an outdoor playground for kids as well.

  • 5/5 Kerstin N. 2 years ago on Google
    Definitely the best outdoor/nature-based play area I’ve seen in the triangle! Bathrooms available as well.

  • 4/5 Jeremy W. 3 years ago on Google
    I visited during the COVID-19 pandemic, so some things are closed. There are a couple nice walking trails, beside the creek, through a field, and beside a couple ponds. Good for birdwatching and enjoying the outdoors right in Raleigh! Also connects to a Greenway trail in the park. I especially enjoyed the bird feeders and the screened-in building that overlooks the feeders. I would assume once they are back to full operation it would probably be a 5 star place.

  • 5/5 Austin C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great site for all ages, especially kids who are in need of a some NC environmental learning sessions. I hope to bring my son next time and in the spring when all the flowers and such are in full bloom

  • 5/5 Jane G. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to roam & sit by the pond. Restrooms are available. Kids natural play space looks like great fun.

  • 5/5 Jessamyn F. 1 year ago on Google
    What a hidden gem. I’ve known about it for years but didn’t get to go until today and it far exceeded my expectations. Its like going to the Museum of Life and Sciences for kids except it’s free. It feels like one giant Tinkergarten. I just wish it was open on the weekends.

  • 5/5 Cole O. 1 year ago on Google
    Little slice of nature to enjoy with the kids. Has an amazing playground and botanical trails. Excellent little spot for some adventure. Worth spending an evening with a picnic in the trees. You can hear the highway from the park so let's not say it's "peaceful" but a nice change from the city surrounding it.

  • 5/5 Candace H. 1 year ago on Google
    My 2yr old loved hiking the trails!

  • 5/5 Saji P. 6 years ago on Google
    Great place to take kids. Lots of activities and play stations (no not the tech kind).

  • 5/5 Cassandra H. 8 months ago on Google
    We thoroughly enjoyed Prairie Ridge! We did the forest trail first, then went to the play area. I would recommend a change of clothes and baby wipes, plus bug spray. I didn't think about bug spray, but you need it. The play areas are great for kids. They have a large tunnel for them to walk through, sand pit with shovels and toys, mud kitchen with equipment, running water station to explore how water can dam or free flow, a build a ball ramp, slide, chalk easel, and more. It's definitely a place your kids will get tired and play. It is nicely shaded but still hot.


Call (919) 707-8888 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Assistive hearing loop
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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