The Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park at the NCMA

If you haven’t had a chance to see the new, updated addition to the North Carolina Museum of Art, the gorgeous weather we are enjoying in the Triangle should give you the perfect excuse. The Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park is the perfect energy-burn for rambunctious kiddos who have spent lots of time indoors over the last couple of months.For those who remember the old, cramped parking lot at the NCMA, you are in for a pleasant surprise! There is a ton of parking available now, and beautiful walkways into the park are never far from your car.

The Ellipse is a favorite spot for little ones and grown ups alike; it’s a perfect place to blow some bubbles, kick a ball around, picnic, or just lay back and imagine shapes in the clouds rolling by. Sidewalk chalk is also a popular activity![caption id="attachment_1177" align="aligncenter" width="370"]

The Ellipse[/caption]

The walkway down through the Gyre rings is a great place to pull a wagon or push a stroller. The view across the vista is amazing. Many people roller blade or bike, although keep in mind that the hill might be a little too steep for kiddos who want to ride their own bicycle or tricycle.

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The perfect hill to roll down! [/caption][caption id="attachment_1199" align="alignnone" width="300"]

Lowe's Pavilion, an "art-as-shelter" project is accessible to visitors.[/caption][caption id="attachment_1209" align="aligncenter" width="266"]

Kids seem drawn to the vibrant colors of Wind Sculpture II; they love exploring the wavy curls.[/caption]Make sure to bring paper and crayons, because sprinkled throughout the park are 14 metal plates with etchings of nature that make beautiful plate rubbings.[caption id="attachment_1215" align="aligncenter" width="277"]

A Closer Look by Tim Purus[/caption]The Pond Project, a 5 acre stormwater retrofit and landscape project, is definitely worth a walkaround. There are usually lots of little birds, ducks, and geese to be seen, and a beautiful little overlook called The Turning Point to walk out on and enjoy the view across the water.[caption id="attachment_1224" align="aligncenter" width="656"]

Did I mention the gorgeous views?[/caption]

Take Note:

When bringing bigger children, make sure to stop by one of the museum buildings for a bathroom break before heading off on your adventure; there are no outdoor facilities in the museum park.Leanne Powell, 2017