I grew up in Wilson, NC. I’ve watched it go from “Wide Awake Wilson” to “Be Prepared to Be Blown Away,” Wilson. There are so many wonderful memories from my childhood that revolve around places in my hometown of Wilson. Places that are still in operation today. While it still has that small town feel Wilson, NC has been steadily growing and changing in scenery and experiences. If you are visiting family or just passing through I hope you will find this article helpful in exploring family friendly experiences in Wilson, NC.
1. Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park
Vollis Simpson created what is now known as the Whirligig. Whirligigs are made up of many different parts. If you sit and study a whirligig you may be able to see pieces of a bicycle, air conditioner, signage, cars and aluminum buildings. Vollis Simpson began creating these beautiful moving pieces of art right around the time he retired. The Whirligigs were originally placed around his farm, but the City of Wilson created a spacious park where many of the Whirligigs are now displayed.
You can drive around the Vollis Simpson Whirligig park in downtown Wilson, NC to look at all the creative whirligigs or you can park and stay awhile. A windy day will have the whirligigs dancing and jumping about, their colorful moving parts audibly twirling and whirling. It’s a beautiful sight to behold and visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the many whirligigs around the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park.
Learn more about the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park here: https://www.wilsonwhirligigpark.org/
2. The Imagination Station Science and History Museum
The Imagination Station is a Science and History Museum that has been located in Wilson, NC for 30 years. It is home to many exhibits that all ages will enjoy. I have many memories of racing the cheetah (which you can still do!), seeing the albino boa constrictor (he’s still there and much larger than he used to be) and seeing science demonstrations.
The first floor currently has the following interactive exhibits on display: Hidden No More: Shedding Light on the Science Stories in the Shadows, Science on the Sphere, Body-ology, Observation Hive, and the Keva Plank Studio. I highly suggest wearing closed toed shoes as many of these exhibits will have you running, jumping and moving about. The first floor is a great spot for those kids who love to move and explore.
The second floor is home to the Herpeterium where they have many different species of snakes, turtles, lizards and even an alligator. Feeding time is usually around 2:30pm. I suggest calling ahead to confirm this as it does vary. You don’t want to miss the feeding of their many different types of snakes. It’s a must see!
The third floor is home to the History Museum. Currently on display is the exhibit, “What Scare You? Cornbread, Mosquitos and Outdoor Privies.” This exhibit gives you a look back to when the Spanish Flu infected Wilson County nearly 100 years ago. This exhibit has a very personal feel and has many amazing items along with news stories on display.
The Imagination Station Science and History Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9am-5pm. Admission is $6 per person. Children ages 2 and under are free.
If you would like to learn more about the Imagination Station Science and History Museum check out their website here: https://scienceandhistory.org/
3. The Botanical Gardens: The Children’s Secret Garden and STEM Garden
These beautiful gardens are located behind the Wilson Agricultural Center. The Botanical Gardens include The Children’s Secret Garden and STEM Garden along with an herb and vegetable garden which is home to a working beehive.
The Children’s Secret Garden is a beautiful map of garden pathways that lead to multiple kid friendly stations such as a swing, a reading bench equipped with books, musical instruments, a slide and a sprinkler. The Secret Garden is mostly shaded which makes it a perfect Summer spot, but it can be enjoyed during all seasons.
The STEM Garden explores Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in a very hands on way.
Science: Explore science by observing multiple plants including the carnivorous Venus Fly Trap that’s native to North Carolina and also learn how rain gardens work.
Technology: Learn how solar and wind power are harnessed at the weather station.
Engineering: See how a windmill powers a hydroponic farm.
Mathematics: Learn about the Fibonacci Spiral and use Math to calculate the height of a tree.
The Children’s Secret Garden and STEM Garden is a great stop for children of all ages and it’s FREE! Restrooms are available Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. You can learn more here: https://www.wilsonbotanicalgarden.org/
4. Deans Farm Market
If you’re ever in Wilson, NC during the Spring (strawberry season) or Fall (harvest season) you should head down to Deans Farm Market to experience a fun time down on the farm. During the Spring and Fall they have kid friendly activities reflecting the current season from hay rides to picking strawberries or pumpkins.
From the road you can see the Dean Farm Market as the market used to be a tobacco barn that they have repurposed. The Market is open all year and always has an array of farm fresh veggies and fruits. You can find frozen homemade meals in their freezers and local handmade gifts and decor on their shelves. Throughout the year they host vendor events and school field trips. You can find more about Deans Farm Market here: https://deansfarmmarket.com/
5. Lake Wilson
Lake Wilson is home to multiple types of wildlife including deer, geese, ducks, blue heron, water snakes, beavers and even a few pileated woodpeckers. There’s a trail that’s a little over 2 miles long that goes around the entire circumference of Lake Wilson. The trail at Lake Wilson is an easy walk with multiple benches along the way and also includes a large bridge that crosses across the lake. If you decide you don’t want to do the walk you can always sit at one of the many benches or tables close to the parking lot. You will have a beautiful view with minimal walking. It’s a great place to take your kids to play or have lunch. Adjacent to the parking lot there are two docks that include a boat slip and kayak slip for those who may want to explore the lake from the water.
I hope you found Wilson, NC a little more interesting and enjoy exploring a few or all of these kid friendly places. Wilson, NC will always have a special place in my heart.