The Quarry at Grant Park

Historic Industrial Site

Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, The Quarry at Grant Park spans a generous 200 acres of public land. At its heart lies a former granite quarry that buzzed with activity from the mid-1920s until the early 1970s.

When the mining stopped, groundwater slowly filled the massive void, creating a 175-foot deep lake with striking turquoise waters. The view often prompts visitors to take photos.

Stunning Vistas

You'll definitely want to check out "The BOOM" - an observation deck that juts out dramatically over the eastern edge of the quarry. From here, you can soak in panoramic views of those incredible blue-green waters below and the Winston-Salem skyline stretching out in the distance. On clear days, you can even spot Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock State Park on the horizon.

The park offers several overlooks, each giving you a different perspective of this remarkable landscape. Many visitors have embraced the tradition of attaching padlocks with names and dates to the fence around the observation deck - similar to those famous "love lock" bridges you might have seen in Paris or other cities around the world.

Park Development

Since opening to the public in August 2017, The Quarry at Grant Park has transformed the former industrial site. The park preserves touches of its mining past while creating spaces for public recreation.

A paved walking trail wraps around the quarry, great for a leisurely stroll while taking in how nature has gradually reclaimed this once-industrial landscape. Around the park, you'll discover educational displays that tell the story of the quarry's history and geology.

Amenities and Activities

Need a spot for lunch? The park includes a spacious covered pavilion ideal for picnicking. The city also hosts various community events here during the year. There's even an outdoor amphitheater naturally carved into the landscape where performances and gatherings take place.

If you're bringing kids along, they'll love the custom mining-themed playground that pays homage to the site's quarry heritage. It features a climbing tower with a slide, built-in trampolines (yes, trampolines!), swings, and a gravel pit complete with miniature excavation equipment where little ones can play at being quarry workers.

You'll find clean restrooms conveniently located beneath the observation deck, and four-legged family members are welcome too - there are waste stations around the park for your dog.

Special Events

Keep an eye out for those rare opportunities to kayak in the quarry waters during special events typically scheduled in spring and fall. These limited kayaking sessions offer a completely different perspective of the quarry that most visitors don't get to experience.

The park's open green spaces make perfect spots for spreading out a blanket, enjoying a picnic, flying kites, or simply lounging and taking in the scenery.

Connectivity

For those who enjoy longer walks or bike rides, The Quarry at Grant Park connects to Winston-Salem's broader greenway system via the Waughtown Connector, linking you to other recreational areas including the Peachtree Greenway and Salem Creek Greenway.

With its blend of industrial history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, this park offers something uniquely different from your typical city green space - making it worth a visit whether you're a local or just passing through the region.