FAQ
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General Details
What are the Park’s hours of operation?
The Park is open 7 days a week, from 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Do you have to have a dog park pass to access the dog parks and what are the hours?
Yes. The dog parks will operate on the same system as other active dog parks across Cary. You can secure a pass online or in-person at guest services.
The Barkyard is accessible 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
How big is the Park?
Downtown Cary Park sits on approximately 7 acres of land and is situated in the heart of Cary, North Carolina.
What is the most exciting feature at the Park?
Well, that’s for you to discover. Bring your whole self, your pup or your family and friends and step into another world.
How many bathrooms are there?
There are 5 individual bathroom areas and 24 total public toilets.
Does the Park have security?
Yes! The Downtown Cary Police Department team is embedded in the Park’s offices. In addition, officers routinely patrol the Park and surrounding areas. There is also overnight security in the Park as well as numerous security cameras.
Where is lost and found?
Lost and Found is in Guest Services. Guest Services is located on the bottom floor of the Cary Regional Library near The Nest. Feel free to call ahead of time to verify if your lost item is there. Guest Services’ number is (919) 653-7180.
Is the Park cashless?
Yes. All of Downtown Cary Park’s points of sale (Market 317, The Bark Bar and Guest Services) are cashless. All cards and contactless payment options are accepted.
Parking
Where can I park when visiting the Park?
There is an accessible parking deck located behind the Cary Regional Library with parking available. Additionally, parking is available in the lot on Charlie Gaddy Lane, at labeled street parking, and at the Town Hall Deck.
See below for more parking options!
Events at the park
How many programs are there annually?
More than 750! And there is truly something for everyone. Look for energizing events from fitness classes and demonstrations to concerts, yoga, book clubs, public art walks, story times, movies and so much more. There are also a handful of larger, signature events throughout the year. Check out our event calendar.
What is the cost of events at the Park?
It is our intent to make all programming as accessible as possible. While the majority of our events are free of charge, there may be occasions when a program or special event requires a fee.
Food + Beverage
Are there food and beverage options at the Park?
Yes. There are two food and beverage facilities. The Bark Bar serves beer and wine as well as non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks. Market 317, located in Academy Pavilion, is a grab-and-go style café that offers delicious wraps, sandwiches, snacks, ice cream and more. Food trucks are also regularly around the Park and at events. Check our calendar for food truck options.
Can I bring food into the Park?
Yes! Pack a picnic and enjoy.
Does the Park have water bottle filling stations?
Yes! There are four bottle filling stations located at various locations throughout the Park.
Who is running the food and beverage facilities?
Cary Park Ventures serves as the Park’s exclusive food and beverage vendor prioritizing local goods and offering fresh seasonal menus. Cary Park Ventures is led by father-son duo John and Mike Cline, who are longtime residents of Cary with extensive experience operating and investing in successful local and regional food and beverage businesses
like The Veggie Wagon (Carolina Beach and Masonboro) and Carolina Crust (Raleigh-Durham).
Can I bring in my own alcohol?
No. Bringing in outside alcohol is not permitted. You may, however, purchase and consume alcohol from participating permitted businesses within the social district.
What is the Downtown Cary Park Social District?
The social district allows individuals to carry alcoholic beverages purchased from a participating vendor in specific social district cups throughout the district. For more, visit carync.gov/socialdistrict.
Rental Information
Are there rentable spaces in the Park?
Yes, there are several rentable areas throughout the Park. A reservation is required and a rental fee will be charged for any activity that involves the set-up of any type of equipment (including tables) or restricts access to a specific area of the Park for Park guests. A reservation and rental fee are also required for filming or photography that will restrict the use of any area of the Park and will use equipment more extensive than a single tripod. Access Cary’s film and photography guide here.
Learn more about rentals here.
Environment
How many existing trees were saved?
36!
How many new plants were planted?
More than 66,000, reaffirming a commitment to sustainability and preservation.
How many new trees were planted?
More than 650 new trees populate the Park. This includes a variety of native and adaptive species.