A Walk Among Giants: My Adventure Finding the Trolls at Dix Park, Raleigh
I’ve always loved Dorothea Dix Park. There’s something special about this place — it’s Raleigh’s green heart, where city life slows down, the skyline hums quietly in the distance, and you can just breathe for a while.
Every July, I make my annual pilgrimage to see the sunflower fields in full bloom. It’s one of those things that never gets old — golden waves of petals stretching across the field like sunshine you can walk through.
But what makes Dix Park even more fascinating to me is its past. Long before it became Raleigh’s most talked-about outdoor space, it was the site of the Dorothea Dix Hospital — a mental health facility that operated for more than a century.
My mom actually worked there years ago as a transcriptionist, typing up doctor’s notes in the old brick buildings that still stand today.
Walking through the park now, it’s hard not to think about that transformation. The grounds that once echoed with the quiet footsteps of hospital staff are now filled with laughter, festivals, food trucks, art, and life. It’s beautiful, really — seeing this land reborn into a place that continues to heal, just in a different way.
And just when I thought Dix Park couldn’t possibly get better, it did.
Now we have Thomas Gambo’s Trolls at Dix Park right here in Raleigh!
How Many Thomas Gambo Trolls are There in the World?
There are only about 170 Thomas Gambo Trolls currently on exhibit around the world. NC has about 19 Trolls and Dix Park is home to 5!
From Sunflowers to Swings: Dix Park Keeps Getting Better
First came the Gipson Play Plaza — a dream playground for kids and the kids-at-heart. I caught myself saying (and maybe pouting a little), “Where was this when my kids were little?” It’s imaginative, colorful, and full of joy. Even without young ones of my own these days, I still love walking through, watching families laugh and climb and splash. It’s impossible not to smile.
And then came the trolls.
The Troll Hunt Begins
When I heard that a family of giant wooden trolls had moved into Dix Park, I didn’t waste a second. My middle daughter and I laced up our sneakers, packed a few snacks, and set out to find them the very first weekend they were open to the public. (Oct. 24th, 2025)
Thomas Dambo
If you haven’t heard of Thomas Dambo, he’s a Danish artist known for building massive troll sculptures out of recycled wood. His trolls live all over the world — from mountains to beaches to forests — and now, right here in Raleigh.
Part of the fun is that it’s a scavenger hunt. These trolls aren’t lined up for you to spot from the parking lot. You have to go looking for them. And honestly, that’s half the magic.
The first one we found took our breath away — towering, whimsical, and made entirely out of what most people would call trash. But what really caught my heart was one of the mama trolls. Her tail stretched out so long across the ground that one of her baby trolls was attached right to it — like it was riding along for the adventure.
Kids were walking along the mama’s tail, arms out for balance, giggling as they tried not to fall off. It was the most joyful thing to watch. You could tell the trolls were doing exactly what they were meant to do —
pulling people closer together
inspiring play
laughter
and connection.
More Than Just an Exhibit
These trolls are more than just an art installation — they’re an invitation.
They summon us to have fun, to explore, and to remember what it feels like to be curious again. Each one is built from recycled materials — old pallets, scraps of wood, and other discarded pieces — reminding us that beauty can come from what we overlook or throw away.
But their message goes deeper than recycling.
They invite us to reconnect — with nature,
with each other,
and with that part of ourselves that used to run barefoot through the woods looking for adventure.
That day with my daughter, I saw it happen. We talked more than we had in weeks. We laughed at the silly clues and made wrong turns. Finding each troll felt like uncovering a secret — and for a couple hours, it was just us and the world around us.
That’s what these trolls do best — they turn a walk in the park into something unforgettable.
Want to Find Them Yourself?
I won’t spoil the exact locations (because what’s the fun in that?), but I’ll give you a few hints to get you started:
- Two trolls are near the Flower Fields, where the sunflowers bloom every July.
- Two are tucked behind the Dog Park, hidden in the woods if you know where to look.
- And one is near the metal cylinder art — you’ll know it when you see it.
Pack some water, wear good shoes, and make an afternoon of it. You don’t need tickets — it’s free to explore, and the trolls are waiting year-round.
Where to Eat Nearby
All that exploring works up an appetite. Here are three nearby spots worth stopping for:
1. Press Coffee, Crepes & Cocktails – One of my personal favorites. Whether you’re starting your troll hunt or winding down after, grab a latte with some foam art (they’re gorgeous) or treat yourself to a crepe. My go-to is the Nutella-banana, but their savory ones are just as good.
2. The Pit Authentic Barbecue – When I’m in the mood for comfort food, this is the spot. Their brisket melts in your mouth, and the hush puppies? Let’s just say you’ll want seconds.
3. Trophy Brewing & Pizza – For something laid-back and local. Grab a slice, a craft beer, and recap which troll was your favorite. (Mine’s still the mama with her baby riding on her tail.)
Where to Stay
If you’re coming from out of town — or just want to make a weekend of it — here are some great options close to Dix Park:
Budget: Ramada by Wyndham Raleigh – Clean, comfy, and affordable. Perfect for a quick trip without cutting into your travel budget.
Mid-Range: Longleaf Hotel – This stylish retro-modern spot feels like a hidden gem in the city. It’s a local favorite with a cool outdoor patio for evening drinks.
Luxury: The Casso Raleigh, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel – For something a little more boutique and upscale, The Casso offers elegance with an artistic edge — fitting for a weekend inspired by giant recycled trolls.
Why This Exhibit Feels So Important
Every time I go to Dix Park, I’m reminded why I love it so much.
It’s not just a pretty space — it’s a living, breathing piece of Raleigh that keeps finding new ways to bring people together. From sunflower fields to the Gipson Play Plaza to now the trolls, each addition makes the park feel more alive.
Standing under one of those trolls, I couldn’t help but think about how full-circle this all feels. The same place where my mom once worked typing medical notes is now a space where families gather, children play, and art invites us to explore. It’s proof that places — like people — can grow, heal, and evolve in beautiful ways.
An old mental health facility recycled into a trendy park = Wood and other trash recycled to make the Troll exhibit.
I love it when art mirrors reality!
If you haven’t been yet, go. Take a friend, a kid, or just yourself. Wander. Search. Laugh. Let the trolls remind you what it feels like to be part of something big, wild, and wonderfully human.
Because at Dix Park, the magic isn’t just in the art — it’s in the way it makes you feel.
These trolls prove that even the things we once tossed aside — wood, worries, or a weary mood — can be reimagined into something unexpectedly wonderful.
🌿 Best Times to Go & What to Bring
If you want to make the most of your troll hunt at Dix Park, timing is everything (and packing a few small things helps, too).
🕓 Best Times to Go
- Morning or late afternoon: The lighting is gorgeous, the park is quieter, and the trolls look even more magical with sunlight filtering through the trees.
- Weekdays: If you want that peaceful, fairytale vibe without a crowd, weekdays are your best bet.
- Spring and fall: Raleigh weather is ideal — not too hot, not too chilly, and the trails are beautiful.
- Summer evenings: Perfect for catching that golden-hour glow (and maybe seeing the skyline as the sun sets).
- July bonus: If you visit in July, you’ll catch the famous Dix Park Sunflower Fields blooming nearby — it’s like two magical adventures in one. 🌻
🎒 What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a good bit — it’s part of the fun.
- Water: Especially in warmer months. There’s shade, but you’ll still want to stay hydrated.
- Camera or phone: These trolls are photogenic from every angle — you’ll want pictures!
- Bug spray: You’ll be wandering through wooded trails, especially when searching for the mama troll.
- Picnic blanket or snacks: There are plenty of open grassy spots to relax after your troll hunt.
- Leash (for pups): The park is dog-friendly, and they’ll love exploring the trails too.
- A sense of curiosity: It sounds cheesy, but trust me — that’s the secret ingredient for enjoying this experience.
Quick FAQ
🌀 Quick FAQ: Visiting the Trolls at Dix Park
Where is Dix Park located?
Dorothea Dix Park sits just outside Downtown Raleigh at 1030 Richardson Drive. You’ll find plenty of open space, art installations, and views of the skyline — all just minutes from the city center.
Is parking free?
Yes! Parking at Dix Park is completely free. There are multiple lots around the property, including near the Gipson Play Plaza and the Flower Fields.
Is the park dog-friendly?
Absolutely. Leashed pups are welcome throughout the park, and there’s even a dedicated dog park where your furry friends can run free. (Shamley gives it four paws up!)
Is it kid- and stroller-friendly?
Yes! The park has wide, paved paths in most areas, and the Gipson Play Plaza is perfect for kids to burn off energy before or after troll hunting. Some troll trails wander into grassy or wooded spots, so a stroller with good wheels helps if you’re bringing little ones.
How much walking is involved?
Expect to walk about a mile or two if you’re hunting for all five trolls. They’re spread across different areas of the park, but that’s part of the fun — it’s a mini adventure!
Can I bring my bike?
You sure can. Dix Park is very bike-friendly, and you can even rent bikes right on the property if you don’t have your own. It’s a great way to cover more ground while enjoying the scenery.
Are the trolls open year-round?
Yes, the trolls are a long-term installation, so you can visit any time of year. Spring and fall are especially nice when the weather’s cooler, but there’s no bad season for a troll hunt.
Does it cost anything to see the trolls?
Nope! The trolls are completely free to visit — one of the many reasons I love this park.
Are there restrooms nearby?
Yes, there are restrooms at the Gipson Play Plaza and other key areas of the park.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure! A picnic blanket isn’t a bad idea either — there are plenty of spots to sit and relax once you’ve found them all.
Any other tips?
Bring your camera or phone — these trolls are photogenic! Early morning or late afternoon light makes for the best photos. And if you’re visiting in July, the sunflowers in bloom near the Flower Fields are a bonus photo op.
Let’s connect on Socials!
