Plus a 1 Day Sample Itinerary on How to Make the Most of Your Day at Dix Park
Are you looking for the best places to see sunflower fields in Raleigh, NC?
You’re in the right place!
Whether you’re a local or visiting this amazing city, Dorthea Dix Park in Raleigh, NC has sunflower fields that you’ll love!
And you’re welcome to bring your (leashed) furry friend along for the adventure!
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This charming park, (which once was a creepy insane asylum) has a field of approximately 100,000 planted sunflowers and offers plenty of other activities to enjoy solo, with others or with your dog.
Dix park is definitely a spot that needs to be on your NC Bucket list!
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To make this post even more special, I have a special friend to help me show you the wonders of Dix Park!
Meet Rocky!
I’ve partnered with the Orange County Animal Services and their Dog Day Out Program.
Together, we’re giving one of their adorable adoptable pups a fun day out, while showcasing the wonderful dog-friendly sunflower fields at Dix Park.
Plus, you can follow along on a sample one-day itinerary that we journeyed on ourselves, to show you first-hand how you can make the most of your visit!
Meet Rocky! A fun-loving fellow that loves to play fetch, roll around in the grass and give kisses. Rocky is here today to help me tell you everything you need to know before you go to the sunflower fields at Dix Park.
If you’re interested in adopting Rocky or one of his cute buddies, you can check them out here.
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Use This Table of Contents to Help You Get To Where You Want to Go, Faster!
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Weekly Sunflower Bloom Update 2024
Where is Dorthea Dix Park?
Dix Park is located in Raleigh, NC (Central NC) close to Downtown Raleigh, NC State University and Pullen Park.
Neighboring Cities & Towns in Relationship to Dix Park
🚗 Garner: 6 miles
🚗 Cary: 10 miles
🚗 RDU Aiport (Morrisville): 16 miles
🚗 Knightdale: 16 miles
🚗 Fuquay Varina: 17 miles
🚗 Holly Springs: 17 miles
🚗 Wendell: 20 miles
🚗 Rolesville: 20 miles
🚗 Wake Forest: 20 miles
🚗 Durham: 27 miles
🚗 Chapel Hill: 30 miles
There are multiple entrances to to the park, but it’s best to use the address below to put into your GPS.
Address: Use this address for your GPS = 1030 Richardson Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603
Closest Park Entrances
- Hunt Drive off of Western Boulevard
- Blair Drive off of Centennial Parkway
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Driving Directions
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Map of Dix Park
Parking Info
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Do You Have to Pay for Parking?
No! parking is Free at Dix Park.
Where to Park?
Weekday Public Parking
- Gravel lot off Hunt Drive (75 Hunt Dr.)
- Paved lot near the Magnolia Room across from the dog park(1700 Umstead Dr.)
Evening & Weekend Parking
- Any parking lot may be used.
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About the Sunflower Fields at Dix Park
The History
Then
For years, Raleigh Water planted sunflowers at the Neuse River Resource Recovery Facility to make biofuel, but the fields were not open to the public.
In 2018, as a result of a partnership between Raleigh Water and Raleigh Parks., a new sunflower field was created at Dix Park, providing a safe and accessible area for visitors to enjoy.
Now!
This 5-acre “secret garden” quickly became a popular attraction, drawing 30,000 visitors each year and leaving the flowers for wildlife to enjoy in the fall.
A win-win for Everyone!
Other Dix Park Sunflower Facts
The Following in an excerpt from the Dix Park Website at https://dixpark.org/sunflowers
- “Raleigh Water preps the field in spring and plants the sunflower seeds in May.
- In 2024, 80,000 – 100,000 Black Oil Sunflower Hybrid seeds were planted.
- In 2023, 280,000 seeds of the Hunters Select Peredovik variety were planted.
- Raleigh Parks waters and maintains the field as the flowers grow.
- Using a hydroseeder, Raleigh Parks also plants wildflowers along the perimeter of the field.
- The sunflower field serves as a massive pollinator habitat for bees, butterflies and other wildlife.
- During peak bloom, more than 100,000 people from across the City and around the region visit the sunflowers at Dix Park.
- After the bloom is over, the sunflowers are left for birds and other wildlife to eat the seeds throughout the fall.
- In the fall, Raleigh Water clears the field and plants a winter cover crop.”
How many sunflowers are planted at Dix Park?
Approximately 100,000 Black Oil Sunflower Hybrid seeds were planted this May in 2024.
Expected Peak Bloom Time
When to Visit?
The Sunflowers were reported as being in Full bloom starting on July 5th, 2024 and are expect to last until the end of July or into early August. However, they do start to wilt and loose blooms towards the end.
Park Hours
Admission to the park is FREE and open from dusk until dawn 7 days a week!
What Time of Day is Best to Visit?
While you can visit any time between dusk and dawn, early in the morning or late in the evening are the best times to visit because the weather will be cooler and you can catch stunning pictures with the sunrise or sunset as well as softer lighting, which is optimal for better photos! of
Also, don’t underestimate the beauty of a storm!
Is it a stormy day?
Be Patient!
Wait it out and then wait for the moment that it clears. You never know what you’ll get!
Check out the photo above that Curt Suneson from Suneson photography caught in July 2024 during a hot, rainy season.
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What to bring
✅ It’s important to stay hydrated! Raleigh is sweltering hot in July, so don’t forget your water bottle!
✅ Protect your skin from the sun and be sure to wear and reapply sunscreen as needed, wear a UV hat and UV sunglasses.
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✅ The scenery is breath-taking! Don’t forget your camera, or a cordless phone charger if you’re using your phone for pictures. There’s nothing worse than a dead battery when you find that perfect shot!
out of all of my phone accessories while traveling, this is by far my favorite!
✅ I love this charging bank that also acts as a flashlight!
🪰 Don’t forget your bug repellent! There’s plenty of creepy crawlies out this time of year.
🥾 Shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty, closed toes shoes if you don’t want your feet to get dirty.
Stay and enjoy your time. Come prepared with snacks or a bring a picnic basket to one of their shady areas or one of their picnic areas.
What to bring for your dog
✅ Don’t be a party pooper and forget to clean up after your pup! Poop bags are a MUST!
✅ A travel water bowl. While they do have water stations at the park, it’s still a good idea to come prepared.
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Pro Tip!
You’ll want to get to Dix Park as early as possible to enjoy cooler temps, & best photo lighting.
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OK! Now we’re ready to dive into the itinerary and explore how you can make the most of a day to see the sunflower fields at Dix Park in Raleigh, NC!
One Day Sample Itinerary
Morning
But first . . . coffee!
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Make an early morning run to Press Coffee, Cocktails, and Crepes only 1.5 miles from Dorthea Dix Park.
They open at 7AM Mon-Fri & 9AM Sat & Sun.
This restaurant brings its beloved European-inspired, Carolina-made menu to Raleigh, featuring classic coffee, scratch-made breakfast crepes, and seasonal cocktails.
Enjoy indoor dining, a large patio, or dog-friendly outdoor seating with QR code ordering.
Open seven days a week
Press is perfect for
breakfast
brunch
lunch
or a daytime cocktail.
I can confidently say their steak and eggs crepe will change your breakfast game forever!
This crepe is a revelation, stuffed with generous portions of tender steak and marinated mushrooms, peppers, and onions that offer a delightful sweet-tangy twist to this savory masterpiece.
Trust me, you won’t look at steak and eggs the same way again.
But the real showstopper?
The eggs.
I’ve never had anything quite like them. Poached to perfection, then fried in panko crumbs, these eggs are pure culinary magic.
I’m head over heels in love!
While you’re indulging, don’t forget to grab one of their excellent coffees and maybe even treat yourself to a daytime cocktail.
My go-to is a mimosa with your choice of juice. It’s the perfect way to round out your visit to Press.
Once you’re done with breakfast it’s only a 5 minute drive to Dix Park.
Once you’ve entered the park you’ll want to follow the signs to the Flower Fields or the Magnoila Room for the main sunflower filed.
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Parking lots closest to the sunflower fields are
- The gravel lot off Hunt Drive (75 Hunt Dr.)
- Paved lot near the Magnolia Room across from the dog park
Before heading to the sunflower fields at Dix Park, make a stop at the new Gatekeeper’s Cottage that recently opened as the Visitor Center on June 1st, 2024.
Built in 1923, it offers a history exhibit, park information, and amenities including an accessible restroom and outdoor classroom.
The Visitor Center is open on weekends from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Once you’ve had your fill of sauntering through the sunflowers and snapping pictures, there’s no need to leave the park yet! There are trails to walk, hammocks where you can lay back and relax, history to learn, art to see, events and vast amounts of scenery to enjoy.
Click here or keep scrolling to find the full list of other things to do at Dix Park, beyond the sunflower fields.
Pro Tip!
Less Crowds & Taller Flowers!
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If you’re planning on seeing the sunflowers fields at Dix Park in Raleigh but want less people and taller sunflowers, skip the main sunflower field that’s across from the dog park and at the Magnolia room picnic area.
Instead, drive around until you find the Oak Room picnic area. There’s a lesser known sunflower field directly across the street with taller flowers and less people.
They also have hammocks under shade trees there too.
You can also access this field through The Grove Trailhead entrance with a small parking lot.
The biggest downfall is that I didn’t see a water station or bathrooms at that parking lot, so plan accordingly!
Afternoon
Now that you’ve worked up a hunger from exploring the sunflower fields, it’s time to grab some lunch.
A picnic at the Magnolia Room Picnic Area or the Oak Room Picnic Area is the perfect place to set up.
If you didn’t prepare for a picnic, no worries! There’s plenty of great dining choices nearby.
Not sure what you want?
My suggestion is to go to the Morgan Street Food Hall, only block away from where you had breakfast at Press Coffee, Cocktails & Crepes.
This isn’t your typical food court. Actually, they don’t identify as a food court, although that’s the way many people see it.
It’s a “new lifestyle dining concept” a dynamic dining experience with a diverse array of local eateries and food retailers.
Whether you’re craving gourmet tacos, fresh sushi, or artisanal ice cream, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Plus, for a fun twist, you can even try your hand at axe throwing with Epic Axe, right inside the food hall.
It’s the perfect spot to relax, refuel, and enjoy a unique slice of Raleigh’s culinary scene.
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When you’re done eating, you can head back to Dix Park and enjoy more of their activities & events or maybe you just want to lounge around in a hammock reading a book, explore art exhibits or play games at the big field or let your dog run around in the dog park.
Check out their events calendar to see if there’s anything going on while you’re there like:
guided walking tours
bird watching
sound baths
and classes or workshops.
Scroll down or click here to see a list of all the different things there are to do at Dix Park.
When you’re satisfied with your time spent at Dix Park, you can go out and explore some of the other fun and amazing things to do in the area.
Scroll down or click here to see a list of some popular things to do nearby.
Evening
It’s now time to wind down your day with some dinner and maybe some entertainment too!
When in Raleigh, it’s almost a crime if you don’t have some good barbecue when you’re in town.
One of the most famous barbecue joints in Raleigh, The Pit, is only 1.5 miles away or a 5 minute drive.
As a Raleigh local and barbecue lover, I can confidently say that The Pit in downtown Raleigh’s warehouse district is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic North Carolina barbecue.
This spot continues the state’s legendary tradition with whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue that’s simply unbeatable.
The free-range pigs are sourced from North Carolina farms, ensuring every bite is packed with local flavor.
The menu goes beyond the classic barbecue offerings, with mouthwatering beef brisket, baby back ribs, barbecue turkey, fried chicken, and even a standout barbecue soy nuggets for vegetarians.
The ambiance is a delightful blend of Southern hospitality and contemporary style, set in a beautifully restored 1930s meatpacking warehouse.
My personal favorites that I highly recommend are the tender brisket, creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy mac and cheese, and perfectly crisp hush puppies.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
When you’re done with your meal, you may want to seek out some fun and a drink. You won’t have to go far.
Just a couple doors down from the Pit is Boxcar Bar and Arcade. Enjoy a drink, play some games, and if you’re lucky you’ll be there during one of their special events or theme nights. Tap your toes to the live music played on the weekends.
Don’t forget to check out the events calendar for Dix Park! Sometimes they have evening activities that you may want to enjoy like:
special classes
workshops
movies under the stars,
yoga
and more!
Or, you can even book a Guided Tour of the Dix Hill Asylum to learn more about the dark history of this, now, beloved park!
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This itinerary is just a sample of how I personally like to spend a day revolving around the sunflower fields at Dix Park.
It may not be exactly your thing, but that’s OK. You can mix and match activities to suit your own personal preferences and desires.
Let’s take a look at some ways you can change up the activities and restaurants.
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Dog-Friendly Things to do at Dix Park
Trails
Walk one of the many trails, but don’t forget your water! The trails you can choose from are:
Sunflower Field + Loop Trail
Pine Loop Trail
Rocky Branch Greenway Trailhead
The Grove
Dog Park
There a two large sections in the dog park, located directly across from the sunflower fields by the Magnoila Room. One section is for larger dogs, the other for smaller breeds.
Hammocks
Even in the July heat, the hammocks under the shade tress right next to the sunflower fields at both the Magnolia room and the Oak Room/The Grove areas are a treat. Read a good book or just kick back and relax while soaking in the atmosphere.
Kid-Friendly Things to do at Dix Park
Play Area at the Magnolia Room (directly next to the sunflower fields)
There’s a small play area near the sunflower fields next the Magnolia Room picnic shelter.
Gipson Play Plaza
The Gipson Play Plaza project broke ground in 2022 where the old dog park used to be located. You can click here to see the progress on the amazing play space.
Special Events for Kids (Check the Events Calendar for Updates & Additions)
Little Explorers: Snouts and Sniffers
Other Things to do at Dix Park
Take a Tour
Hire a guide to take you on an E-Bike tour through popular trails in Raleigh, or learn more about the dark history of Dix Park by taking a guided tour of the Dix Hill Asylum.
Stone Houses
Newly opened June 1st, 2024. Near the S. Boylan Avenue park entrance, you’ll find the freshly renovated Superintendent’s House, Physician’s House, and Gatekeeper’s Cottage in Dix Park, dating back to the 1920s.
Thanks to the Dix Park Conservancy and SECU Foundation, these historic gems now feature an outdoor classroom and a new accessible pathway leading into the park.
Go On A Treasure Hunt
For ages 13 and up, teams of 2-4 people use a treasure map and clues to solve puzzles and crack a code to unlock your treasure for a prize at the end! Get more info here.
Rent a Bike
Do you want to cruise around the park but don’t want to do it in a car or by walking?
Great news! You can rent a bike! The bike rental station pictured here was just down the road across from the Magnolia Room by the Sunflower Fields and near the new dog parks.
Art Installations
Dix Park Conservancy is ramping up Raleigh’s arts scene with a new initiative to bring international artists to town.
In June of 2024 the program, spotlighting both local and global talents, kicked off with “Attun,” an 18-foot-tall and 150-foot-long sculpture composed of 80 steel cylinders by visiting sculptor Dewitt Godfrey.
As you can see in the picture, Rocky REALLY gets into Art! 😜
Picnic Areas
What better way to soak in the scenery than with an iconic picnic. You’ll be able to find picnic shelters and tables at:
The Flowers Field
The Magnolia Room
The Oak Room
The Chapel
The Greg Poole, Jr. All Faiths Chapel is Dix Park’s charming mid-century modern gem, built in 1955 and renovated in 2020.
Attend workshops, rent it for events, and enjoy its stylish architecture with modern amenities like indoor restrooms, a water station, and public parking.
Harvey Hill
Nestled along the front drive of the historic hospital building, Harvey Field at Dix Park offers a serene, shaded retreat beneath the canopy of mature oak trees.
This 4-acre grassy hillside provides the perfect backdrop for picnics and community gatherings, boasting stunning views of the Raleigh skyline.
Whether you’re looking to relax with family and friends or enjoy a peaceful afternoon, Harvey Field invites you to experience its tranquil charm and picturesque scenery.
Pop-Up Disc Golf
Discover the excitement of Dix Park’s 9-hole temporary disc golf course in the Fall, perfect for players of all skill levels.
Nestled between The Grove and Harvey Hill, the course features a mix of long, open holes and lightly wooded areas, offering a fun challenge for everyone.
Open from September 9 to October 27, 2024,
The course starts near the Rocky Branch Greenway trailhead at Tate Drive and S. Boylan Avenue.
Although it’s not available during the sunflower bloom, it’s a great reason to return to this vibrant park later in the Fall!
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Events at Dix Park
Check the Calendar of Events at Dix Park to see what’s going on during your visit. Plan ahead so you can join in the additional fun! Some events you can expect to find, but are not limited to are:
Bird watching
Yoga in the Flower Fields
Sound Baths in the Chapel
Photography Workshops
Guided Walking Tours
Library Pop-ups
Movies on the Lawn
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Other FAQ
Are There Bathrooms at The sunflower fields?
Temporary restrooms are places at both of the field entrances. For additional bathrooms, and Accessible indoor bathrooms can be found at the Dix Park Visitor Center.
Is Dix Park Accessible?
Dix Park is currently undergoing changes and their aim is to make it accessible. However, some areas are better than others and the results will be ever changing. Get up to date accessibility information about Dix Park here.
Can I Walk Through the Sunflower Fields?
You can walk through the sunflower fields on the designated paths.
What Should I Wear?
The fields are a mix of dirt, grass and some rocks—please wear closed-toe shoes for your safety.
Does My Dog Have to Stay on a Leash?
Pets are OK to brink to the Park and the Sunflower Fields, but the must be leashed at all times.
Can I Pick the Sunflowers to Take Home?
No. The sunflowers are for everyone to enjoy and then are left for nature to reclaim after they fade. Please do not pick them for yourselves.
What is Not Allowed
- Do not pick or cut the flowers. They are meant for everyone to enjoy and for nature to reclaim.
- Do not eat the sunflower seeds – the sunflowers are planted on a former landfill. That’s just nasty!
- Pet’s must be on a leash at all times.
- Outside alcoholic beverages may not be brought in.
- No Smoking or vaping is allowed.
- Weapons are not permitted on the grounds.
- Littering is prohibited. Please bring a trash back to store your disposables or use a bin provided by the park.
- You may use a drone or arial photography on the Big Field only. They are not permietted anywhere else.
Other Nearby Attractions
Activities and Tours in Downtown Raleigh
Use Roadtrippers.com to Find Sites & Attractions and even Hotels Near Dix Park
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for $5 off if you want to upgrade to an advanced plan.
Where to Stay Near Dix Park
Dog Friendly Hotels near Dix Park
Budget:
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Raleigh Downtown – NCSU/Conv Center
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Raleigh Downtown – NCSU/Conv Center offers convenient accommodations only 1.24 miles from Dorthea Dix Park, and is also near North Carolina State University and Raleigh Convention Center, featuring free in-room WiFi and self-parking.
The hotel boasts a 24-hour front desk, free parking, and amenities such as laptop-friendly workspaces and premium-channel flat-screen TVs in all 133 rooms.
Guests appreciate the helpful staff and clean rooms.
1 pet under 80 lbs is allowed.
Mid Range:
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Raleigh SW NC State, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Raleigh SW NC State, an IHG Hotel, is just 2.45 miles from Dix Park and offers a range of amenities including free to-go breakfast, an indoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.
Guests can enjoy a spa tub, gym, and business center, with complimentary self-parking available.
The hotel is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs (up to 75 lbs, maximum 2 per room) for an additional fee of $30 per pet, per night, and includes service animals at no charge.
Luxury:
The Casso, Raleigh, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The Casso, Raleigh, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is conveniently located just 0.87 miles from Dix Park, offering amenities like an on-site restaurant, 24-hour gym, and free in-room WiFi.
The hotel welcomes 2 dogs (up to 25 lbs) for an additional fee of $100 per stay, providing food and water bowls.
Guest reviews highlight the prime location near Dix Park, North Carolina State University, the Red Hat Amphitheater, and the Raleigh Convention Center.
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That’s a Wrap!
After a sun-soaked, flower-filled day at Dix Park, you’ll find there’s truly nothing quite like the experience.
Whether you’ve marveled at the golden sea of sunflowers, explored the scenic trails, or enjoyed a playful day with your furry friend, Dix Park is the perfect oasis in the heart of Raleigh.
From the enchanting sunflower fields to the vibrant activities, there’s plenty to keep you busy, entertained or to provide you with peace and relaxation.
So, pack your sunscreen, leash up your pup, and head to Dix Park for a day that promises both adventure and relaxation.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll even fall in love with one of the adoptable dogs from the Orange County Animal Rescue, just like Rocky, who made our day extra special.
Or check with your local Shelter
Remember, the best time to visit is in July and possibly into the 1st week of August, during peak bloom, so mark your calendars and prepare for a pet-friendly, picture-perfect outing.
Here’s to making unforgettable memories at Raleigh’s charming Dix Park! 🌻🦮
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