Virginia Pearson Empie Park

A Green Oasis in the City

Nestled in Wilmington, North Carolina, Virginia Pearson Empie Park spans a generous 32 acres of recreational bliss. This peaceful space functions like the neighborhood's outdoor living room - a place where people gather while offering plenty of room to spread out and do your own thing. If you're looking to break a sweat or simply enjoy some fresh air, this park has a little something for everyone.

Serve, Volley, Repeat

The Althea Gibson Tennis Complex is a highlight of Empie Park, with 24 hard courts and lights that let you play well into the evening. The complex includes a welcoming clubhouse where you can catch your breath between sets and connect with fellow tennis enthusiasts. Local players and school teams frequently make use of these well-maintained courts, which have earned a reputation for their quality playing surfaces.

In recent years, some courts have been transformed to welcome the growing pickleball craze - a thoughtful adaptation to changing recreational trends. Just a heads up: during prime hours, you might need to exercise a bit of patience waiting for your turn to play, as these courts can get quite popular.

Beyond the Racquet

Not a tennis fan? No problem. The park's basketball court comes equipped with lights for those spontaneous evening games when the day just isn't long enough.

Families with energetic little ones will appreciate the spacious playground that's thoughtfully fenced off from the parking area for added safety. Kids can zoom down slides or soar on swings, including special parent/child swings for the youngest visitors. The playground offers plenty of room to run wild, but on scorching summer days, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more shade coverage.

For those who prefer a slower pace, the bocce ball courts and horseshoe pits offer perfect options for casual competition and conversation.

Four-Legged Friends Welcome

Dog lovers, rejoice! The fully fenced dog area is divided into separate sections for large and small pups, ensuring that your Great Dane won't accidentally flatten someone's Chihuahua. Thoughtful touches like water stations and waste disposal facilities keep the area clean and comfortable for everyone.

The natural surface of sand and pine needles gives dogs a pleasant terrain for play, while the shade trees overhead help keep them cool. You'll typically find a friendly crowd here - both the human and canine variety - making it a great spot to socialize your furry companion.

Take a Stroll

One of Empie Park's hidden treasures is its connection to the Gary Shell Cross City Trail. This paved path is excellent for walking, jogging, or cycling, seamlessly connecting you to other parts of Wilmington when you're in the mood to explore beyond the park boundaries.

The walking trails winding through the park offer peaceful routes for your morning jog or evening constitutional. Plug in your favorite playlist or simply enjoy the ambient sounds of nature as you make your way around the grounds.

Gathering Spaces

The park's expansive green areas provide ideal settings for impromptu picnics or casual frisbee games. When you're planning something a bit more organized, the shelters with picnic tables can be reserved for birthday celebrations or family reunions.

Clean restrooms and plentiful parking round out the conveniences that make visits here hassle-free. Throughout the year, the park hosts special events like Founders Day, and fitness enthusiasts can join Zumba classes held three times weekly.