The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is located in historic downtown Wilson, NC and it has become quite the hub for outdoor events, club meetings, festivals, food trucks, small businesses and even the local farmer’s market.
The city of Wilson has fully embraced these fantastical works of moving art that have captivated so many people and currently you can see them throughout the city at different locations, but you will be able to have the best experience by visiting the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park at 301 Goldsboro St S, Wilson, NC 27893.
The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park makes the perfect day trip from Greenville (42 minutes), Clayton (48 minutes), Raleigh (53 minutes), Wake Forest (53 Minutes), Durham (1 hour and 15 minutes), and Fayetteville (1 hour and 15 minutes).
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What Is A Whirligig?
A whirligig is a moving piece of art which is powered by the wind. These beautiful and unique outdoor art pieces were created by Wilson native Vollis Simpson. Vollis Simpson began building whirligigs shortly before he retired and then continued until six months before he passed in 2013.
These colorful art structures were originally located out on Vollis Simpson’s property right outside of town. I can remember as a little girl my dad packing us up to go see the whirligigs at night. It was magical and even a little eery to see these reflective moving pieces of art that, at the time, were covered in vines and sprinkled amongst the trees.
Vollis Simpson created his whirligigs out of recycled materials. If you look up at a whirligig you will often recognize pieces from bicycles, air conditioners, signs, cars, and lots of different scrap metals. Vollis Simpson added reflective material that way as they move they create a dazzling movement of color. Before the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park was built in 2013 the field where the whirligigs were located was often referred to as “Acid Park”. I’m sure you can imagine why.
Did you know that the Vollis Simpson Whirligig is the official folk art of North Carolina?
These days the whirligigs are kindly cared for by volunteers and the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park partners. You can learn more by visiting their website here.
The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Museum & Gift Shop Admission
While the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is the main attraction I HIGHLY suggest you visit the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Museum and Gift Shop located right across Goldsboro St. Here you can see one of Vollis Simpson’s heaviest whirligig. It depicts two mules pulling a covered wagon and it is made of wood, which makes it very heavy and unique.
At the museum you are encouraged to take a picture in front of a whirligig star. If you use your flash you’ll be able to experience a glimpse into what the whirligigs would have looked like out in that field with only car headlights illuminating them.
At the Whirligig Museum and Gift Shop you’ll be able to learn about future events, volunteer opportunities and purchase a souvenir.
The address for the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Museum and Gift Shop is 230 Goldsboro St. S Wilson, NC 27893.
Have kids? Check out this article “5 Experiences in Wilson, NC that the Whole Family Will Love!”
The Whirligig Festival
I can remember visiting the very first Whirligig Festival in historic downtown Wilson, NC back in 2004. It was small, but fun! And the Wilson Whirligig Festival has only grown since. In 2004 it spanned a few blocks in downtown Wilson, NC, but as of 2023 it engrosses most of the historic downtown area.
The Vollis Simpson Whirligig can be found represented throughout the festival. Many of the vendors sell their version of the whirligigs and the food trucks bring out their best for the festival.
My girls could spend HOURS in the kids area, which includes bouncy houses, bubbles, face painting and a special show. The Whirligig Festival also has a special toddler aged area and a big kid area.
Of course at the Wilson Whirligig Festival one must take a walk around the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park while eating a giant turkey leg and drinking an ice cold lemonade.
The NC Whirligig Festival is November 2-3, 2024.
In the past the NC Whirligig Festival has been extremely cold or extremely hot. One of my tips would be to check the weather while planning your day trip. You are welcome to bring snacks and water for little ones as well.
The NC Whirligig Festival is FREE, but be sure to bring money for food and vendors.
Things To Do At The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park
The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is designed in a way that you can walk in a circle and watch the different whirligigs move in the wind or you can simply sit at one of the many benches and enjoy the view. Either way you’ll be able to take in the beauty of one of North Carolina’s more unique outdoor art installations.
I often times will pack a lunch for my family or grab a lunch to go from one of the many local restaurants close by and have a picnic on the lawn at the Whirligig Park. It’s perfect for stretching legs and running about. We’ve even brought our girl’s bikes for them to ride in the grass and flown kites (stay in the middle and watch your string!).
You must visit the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park at night! It’s a special treat to see the whirligigs perfectly lit up and moving with the stars and moon behind them.
The Wilson Farmer’s and Artisan Market is every Saturday from April through August at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park!
Places To Eat Within Walking Distance of the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park
- The Cardinal Bar and Grill has one of the BEST hotdogs in Wilson!
- Ruckus and Redemption is known for their tasty gourmet burgers and cocktails!*
- Whirlidogs is one of the newer restaurants and we love their atmosphere and mission! Whirlidogs employs adults with disabilities and gives them experience in the workforce. Their hotdogs are pretty good too! I love to add mac n cheese to mine.
- Carolina Cheese Co. is the perfect place if you are craving a salad or a wrap. You can find a variety of gluten free and vegan items on their menu.
- Bill’s Grill cooks up some of our favorite down home southern food.*
- The Corner Deli has delicious gourmet sandwiches that are perfect to share or to eat by yourself.
*These restaurants are apart of the Wilson Social District. Let your bartender or waitress know you are taking your alcohol with you and they’ll give you a special sticker. The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is apart of the Wilson Social District.*
More Things To Do In Wilson, NC
Did you know there is much more to do and see in Wilson, North Carolina. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorites below. This list will make it easier for you to plan your day trip to Wilson. Make sure to stop by the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park while you’re visiting!
- Visit the Imagination Station. This museum is geared towards children ages 5-13. You can visit the North Carolina Museum of the Coastal Plain on the third floor. This history museum explores the extensive history of Wilson, NC.
- Explore the Wilson Botanical Gardens, which includes the Children’s Secret Garden.
- Find a new book to read at the Novel Nest Book Store.
- Visit the Wilson Arts Council art gallery to see local art on display.
- Walk around Historic Downtown Wilson and see the many beautiful murals.
- Visit the Freeman Round House. You will learn about the many ways Oliver Nestus Freeman helped the community of Wilson after World War 2.
- Take a walk at Lake Wilson. The trail is just over two miles long and includes a long bridge over the lake.
- Drink a beer at Casita, the local brewery, located just across from the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park.
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Time To Plan Your Day Trip!
I believe that everyone should experience the beauty of the whirligigs at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park. These beautiful pieces of folk art hold such a special place in my heart. The Whirligigs are a vital piece of Wilson’s identity. They should be treasured and preserved for generations to come.
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