When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Cedar Hills Park
Why Cedar Hills Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cedar Hills Park is a welcoming and vibrant community park that offers a perfect setting to meet up with friends and enjoy outdoor activities. Spanning over 38.5 acres, the park provides diverse recreational facilities including one of Raleigh's three disc golf courses, multiple courts, playgrounds, and open fields. There is an outdoor picnic shelter equipped with six tables and a grill, making it an ideal spot for casual get-togethers and celebrations. The park is managed by the Optimist Community Center and is open from dawn to dusk, ensuring ample opportunity for visitors to engage in sports, games, or relaxing picnics. These varied amenities make it a favorite locale for families, friends, and sports enthusiasts alike. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and the ease of renting the picnic shelter or sports fields through an efficient online system. Whether you're there for a casual walk, a competitive disc golf game, or a family barbecue, Cedar Hills Park offers a friendly, accessible, and fun environment to connect with others and enjoy nature.
Here's what people think of Cedar Hills Park
As of recent, Cedar Hills Park holds a 4.6-star rating based on 537 reviews.
Visitor reviews of Cedar Hills Park highlight its well-kept facilities and family-friendly atmosphere as prime strengths. Positive feedback often praises the disc golf course as a unique and enjoyable feature, along with the playgrounds and open areas which are perfect for children to run around and socialize. Many reviewers mention the convenience of the picnic shelters and the availability of grills, supporting memorable social gatherings. Maintenance and cleanliness of the park, along with the presence of restrooms, also contribute to a positive experience for users. On the other hand, some negative comments note occasional crowding during peak times, which can limit availability of courts and picnic spaces. A few visitors have pointed out that certain reservations require advance approval and payment, which might not be immediately convenient for spontaneous plans. Despite these minor issues, overall reviews conclude that Cedar Hills Park is a reliable and pleasant venue that fulfills the needs of diverse groups looking for outdoor activities and social meetups, thus earning a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 500 reviews.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nathan Gillespie
Disc golf course is great, lots of fun, beginner friendly. A classic around here. Does get a bit crowded though
Dee Blackley
Good playground!A bit outdated but the huge shady trees make up for it! Lots of benches. Downside can be parking because it's busy with tennis courts and disc golf. Restrooms nearby playground. My daughter loves the swings!
Adam Shick
I consider myself very lucky to live close to this park. The disc golf course is one of the best in the area. There are basketball and tennis courts, a playground, picnic areas, indoor restrooms, and a baseball field.
Jinhang
I went this morning after church. There was a Disk Golf Tournament going on. They said the course was closed until 3:00 PM. When we went back, there were a bunch of groups playing. I never knew so many people played. It was busy. I was impressed with the overall condition and layout of the course. Hole #6 has a water Hazzard and we skipped it. I would recommend this as a great family or friend spot. There's a playground, basketball court, tennis 🎾 courts, and a baseball field in addition to 18 holes. The park closes @ 6;00 PM and I'd say it takes about 2-3 hrs to play all the holes. Plan accordingly. There are multiple lots for parking. You could park on the north west side and only play 12 holes.
Bruce K.
A lot going on at this park which includes two playgrounds (one for 2-5 and one for 5-1) with the one for smaller kids having a woodchip surface. The park has a proper 18-hole disc golf course with concrete tees. Basketball courts with lighting, tennis courts with backboards and a lighted softball field. While walking one of the winding trails, I spotted a number of picnic tables. Some of them have grills. The basketball court looked to be in excellent condition though not lighted. The tennis courts were lighted. Awesome.
Dee Blackley
Good playground!A bit outdated but the huge shady trees make up for it! Lots of benches. Downside can be parking because it's busy with tennis courts and disc golf. Restrooms nearby playground. My daughter loves the swings!
Adam Shick
I consider myself very lucky to live close to this park. The disc golf course is one of the best in the area. There are basketball and tennis courts, a playground, picnic areas, indoor restrooms, and a baseball field.
Nathan Gillespie
Disc golf course is great, lots of fun, beginner friendly. A classic around here. Does get a bit crowded though
Jinhang
I went this morning after church. There was a Disk Golf Tournament going on. They said the course was closed until 3:00 PM. When we went back, there were a bunch of groups playing. I never knew so many people played. It was busy. I was impressed with the overall condition and layout of the course. Hole #6 has a water Hazzard and we skipped it. I would recommend this as a great family or friend spot. There's a playground, basketball court, tennis 🎾 courts, and a baseball field in addition to 18 holes. The park closes @ 6;00 PM and I'd say it takes about 2-3 hrs to play all the holes. Plan accordingly. There are multiple lots for parking. You could park on the north west side and only play 12 holes.
Bruce K.
A lot going on at this park which includes two playgrounds (one for 2-5 and one for 5-1) with the one for smaller kids having a woodchip surface. The park has a proper 18-hole disc golf course with concrete tees. Basketball courts with lighting, tennis courts with backboards and a lighted softball field. While walking one of the winding trails, I spotted a number of picnic tables. Some of them have grills. The basketball court looked to be in excellent condition though not lighted. The tennis courts were lighted. Awesome.
Dee Blackley
Good playground!A bit outdated but the huge shady trees make up for it! Lots of benches. Downside can be parking because it's busy with tennis courts and disc golf. Restrooms nearby playground. My daughter loves the swings!
Adam Shick
I consider myself very lucky to live close to this park. The disc golf course is one of the best in the area. There are basketball and tennis courts, a playground, picnic areas, indoor restrooms, and a baseball field.
Nathan Gillespie
Disc golf course is great, lots of fun, beginner friendly. A classic around here. Does get a bit crowded though
Jinhang
I went this morning after church. There was a Disk Golf Tournament going on. They said the course was closed until 3:00 PM. When we went back, there were a bunch of groups playing. I never knew so many people played. It was busy. I was impressed with the overall condition and layout of the course. Hole #6 has a water Hazzard and we skipped it. I would recommend this as a great family or friend spot. There's a playground, basketball court, tennis 🎾 courts, and a baseball field in addition to 18 holes. The park closes @ 6;00 PM and I'd say it takes about 2-3 hrs to play all the holes. Plan accordingly. There are multiple lots for parking. You could park on the north west side and only play 12 holes.
Bruce K.
A lot going on at this park which includes two playgrounds (one for 2-5 and one for 5-1) with the one for smaller kids having a woodchip surface. The park has a proper 18-hole disc golf course with concrete tees. Basketball courts with lighting, tennis courts with backboards and a lighted softball field. While walking one of the winding trails, I spotted a number of picnic tables. Some of them have grills. The basketball court looked to be in excellent condition though not lighted. The tennis courts were lighted. Awesome.
How to reach Cedar Hills Park
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Why Cedar Hills Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cedar Hills Park with your friends? This vibrant park offers an unmatched blend of natural beauty, recreational amenities, and social spaces making it the perfect destination for groups seeking to connect, relax, and have fun together. Nestled in a central location, Cedar Hills Park boasts a generous 11-acre space that invites friends and family to escape the bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in a welcoming outdoor environment. Whether you’re looking for a lively game on a synthetic sports field, a quiet picnic under shelter, or an afternoon at an interactive splashpad, the park caters to diverse interests seamlessly. Its scenic walking trails also foster casual conversations as you explore nature side by side, while the availability of accessible restrooms and ample parking makes organizing a group meetup hassle-free. The park’s versatility, combined with its positive reputation and high ratings, ensures that every gathering here becomes memorable. The social energy complemented by well-maintained facilities encourages guests to linger longer, fostering fellowship and enjoyment amid a beautiful setting.
What recreational activities does Cedar Hills Park offer to groups? Cedar Hills Park is truly a playground for all ages and interests, featuring a wide range of activities that make it ideal for group events. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the multi-purpose synthetic athletic field equipped with lights to extend playtime into the evening, perfect for friendly soccer or football matches under the stars. Nearby, a multi-use sport court provides a versatile spot for basketball or volleyball games, encouraging energetic group competition. For those who prefer less intense activities, the bocce ball courts offer a social and strategic game that’s fun and accessible even for casual players. Children and families can gather around the play area, which includes modern playground equipment and an engaging interactive splashpad, making it especially suitable for meetups involving kids. Additionally, the park includes picnic areas with shelters that provide comfortable settings for shared meals or celebrations, complete with nearby restroom facilities to enhance convenience during long group visits.
Why is Cedar Hills Park perfect for a group meetup? One of the primary reasons Cedar Hills Park excels as a group gathering spot lies in its thoughtful design that balances activity zones with relaxing spaces to meet varied group needs. The large shelters with picnic tables provide excellent cover from both sun and rain, facilitating outdoor dining and socializing without worries about the weather. The community garden adds an extra layer of interest, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of horticulture or even engage in group gardening projects. The park’s accessibility features, including a permanent ADA-accessible restroom, demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can comfortably participate in all park experiences. Moreover, the park’s walkable trails and proximity to the William Walker Elementary School’s play area extend the usable area for group members who might wish to stroll, jog, or let children explore in a safe environment. Convenient parking access via SW Cedar Hills Blvd and paved trails makes arrival and departure straightforward, reducing common logistical challenges that can disrupt group events.
How can the natural and social environment enhance your meetup experience at Cedar Hills Park? Aside from the many structured amenities, the natural surroundings of Cedar Hills Park provide a soothing and attractive backdrop that enhances any social gathering. Mature trees and well-maintained green spaces create a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation and easy conversation. The interactive splashpad adds a playful, sensory dimension that children love, which in turn allows parents to interact or enjoy some downtime while keeping an eye on the kids. The diversity of spaces—from active sports fields to quiet picnic zones—means groups can split into sub-groups without feeling cramped or disconnected, supporting a dynamic social experience based on everyone’s preferences. Evening lighting extends the usable hours during longer meetups, and the presence of a concessions building means visitors can grab snacks or refreshments without interrupting their flow of fun. All these elements combine to foster a welcoming environment where friends and family can create lasting memories together.
What additional features make Cedar Hills Park stand out compared to other local parks? What sets Cedar Hills Park apart is its comprehensive offering of well-serviced facilities combined with a community-oriented vibe. The presence of permanent amenities such as restroom facilities, lighting for nighttime play, and a concessions building provide all the comforts needed for extended visits without having to leave the area. Its redevelopment, funded thoughtfully through local bonds, reflects the community’s investment in creating a welcoming and modern space. Nearby parks and recreation centers, including Cedar Hills Recreation Center and other local green spaces, complement the park’s offerings, allowing visitors to extend their day by exploring multiple areas. The adjacency to the William Walker Elementary School’s play area available during evenings and weekends further bolsters the park’s role as a means to unite different age groups in a safe, suburban setting. Together, these attributes confirm Cedar Hills Park as a premier choice for those looking to balance active play, community interaction, and relaxation in one accessible location.
Why is Cedar Hills Park an ideal venue for family and friend meetups throughout the year? Whether it's a sunny summer afternoon or a cool fall weekend, Cedar Hills Park’s amenities and natural features make it a versatile year-round venue. The synthetic athletic field with lights means your group can enjoy sports activities even after sunset, a boon especially in shorter daylight months. Covered picnic shelters help shield from light rain or intense sun, allowing your gathering to proceed comfortably without disruption. The splashpad adds a splash of cool relief during warmer months, while the community garden and walking trails offer peaceful enjoyment any time of year. With accessibility features and programmed events at nearby recreation centers available to enrich your experience, the park remains an inviting social hub whatever the season. Its reputation supported by numerous positive reviews ensures that visitors can trust the park’s quality and upkeep, making it a reliable choice for memorable get-togethers with friends and family.
How can meeting at Cedar Hills Park foster stronger connections among your group? Beyond its physical amenities, Cedar Hills Park provides an environment that naturally nurtures social bonds through shared experiences and inclusive spaces. Participating in sports and games together fosters teamwork and friendly competition, promoting positive interaction and laughter. The picnic and shelter areas are perfect for shared meals that enhance social connection and create an atmosphere conducive to deeper conversations. The park’s kid-friendly amenities allow families to relax knowing their children are entertained safely, freeing adults to engage more fully with one another. Trails and open green spaces encourage casual walks and informal dialogues away from the distractions of devices or indoor environments. These experiences combine to make Cedar Hills Park more than just a venue—it becomes a catalyst for meaningful gatherings where relationships can grow and memories are created naturally.
What should groups plan for when organizing a meetup at Cedar Hills Park? For a smooth and enjoyable meetup at Cedar Hills Park, groups should consider the diverse activities and amenities available to make the best use of the space. Booking or arriving early to secure picnic shelter areas can ensure a comfortable base for your group, especially during peak times or weekends. Bringing along sports equipment like soccer balls, volleyballs, or bocce balls can help maximize the active play options offered by the park. It’s wise to pack picnic supplies, snacks, and possibly some portable seating in case of larger groups. Because the park offers concessions, you also have the option to buy refreshments on-site, adding convenience. Considering the permanent and accessible restroom facilities, hygiene and comfort won’t be an issue, but bringing hand sanitizer is always recommended for outdoor meetups. Additionally, planning the meetup during daylight hours or making use of the field’s lights can extend playtime. With these considerations, your group can take full advantage of all Cedar Hills Park offers in a well-organized, enjoyable way.