Garner’s location right next to the NC capital city of Raleigh makes Garner a great jumping off point to take advantage of all the activities going on in the city. But as one of the towns that snuggles up to Raleigh, Garner also offers its own share of festivals, concerts and a quaint Main Street. As a Main Street America Affiliate and a NC Main Street community, there are businesses on Main Street owned and operated by local community members who are excited to serve you and the neighbors that surround them. Banks Bed and Breakfast offers a historical stay located right across the from Main St. for a place to rest after a day of exploring.
But Garner also offers lots of places to enjoy the outdoors. Our town has many parks that offer playgrounds, ball fields and trails ranging from easy walking to more vigorous adventures. There are so many parks and trails tucked in and around the town that each one offers its own unique experience. If you are looking for some variety in your outdoor trails and play spaces here are a few to consider.
Some of Garner’s playgrounds are close to Main Street. Two existing spaces and one coming soon, are within walking distance of downtown. An accessible playground right below the Garner Recreation Center located on Main Street is a compact space full of fun. The surface is flat and the equipment allows for all levels of play. This playground is also conveniently located next to a sidewalk loop and playing field. More important it is the closest to Main Street’s coffee shops, tea shops, and a bakery for when you’re ready for a treat. Another playground is located across the street on Garner Road right next to the Senior Center. It offers fun play equipment, a covered picnic shelter and a peaceful Gazebo which is also a great train watching setting. A larger recreation complex called Yeargan Park is opening soon. It is located about a half mile from downtown, across the road and railroad tracks and down the road past the historic Yeargan home. This play space will offer an inclusive playground, covered pavilion, restrooms, ball fields and places to walk and rest. Presently, Yeargan Park is a construction zone, but progress is being made and it is going to be a must see. There are also many smaller playgrounds in neighborhoods tucked all around the town to provide plenty of variety.
Ready for some trail adventures? You can access a winding trail system by hopping on Garner Road and turning down the drive between the Senior Center and Dog Park. Once the road ends you will find parking and a trail head that leads you over wooded small streams and well worn woodland trails. Pay attention as this hike winds around and has many offshoots that can easily distract you from the main trail. Ready to drive for a longer hike? Clemmons Educational State Forest is located a short seven mile drive from downtown. It is home to a pond, picnic area, talking tree trail and a geology trail. You can plan for hikes from a half a mile to 3 miles or combine them to add on to your distance. This forest area is worth the trip and sure to help get your heart rate up if that is what you desire. Or you might choose to stroll with your blanket in hand and find a place to settle by the pond for a quiet and relaxing respite. If you’re looking for a more paved walking experience look no further than either White Deer Park or Lake Benson. Both of these parks provide playgrounds, restrooms, fields and paved walking paths. You can access these parks by driving a quick 2+miles from Downtown Garner. If your dog needs a playground, Lake Benson has you covered as well as another one beside the Senior Center.
This is a very short list of places where you can enjoy Garner’s outdoor recreational spaces. So if being outside is where you find some enjoyment, Garner most certainly offers a lot of variety. Pack your snacks, bring water and come to the town that offers you so much – indoors and out! When you decide to stay in town longer to explore more trails consider staying at Banks Bed and Breakfast www.banksbnb.com as this renovated 1897 home is sure to provide you a comfortable place to recuperate. Also, make use of the downtown calendar of events to discover free concerts and other activities by visiting Downtown Garner Hope to see you at an event or on the trail soon.
Mary
