With the Fall season in full effect, it’s a great time to explore a park and see the leaves changing color. Eliza Pool Park near downtown Raleigh is no exception with its vibrant orange, yellow, and red leaves and its large playground and walking trail. Eliza Pool Park is located at 1600 Fayetteville St, just east of South Saunders St and before you get to Wilmington St. According to the plague hanging at the pavilion, Eliza Pool School stood on the site of the park from 1924-1980 and was named after Eliza Pool, who taught in the Raleigh City schools from 1886-1926.
The park has a paved walking trail that surrounds all the park’s amenities. At Eliza Pool Park, you’ll find a sand volleyball court, soccer goals (although the fields have seen better days), a large pavilion, and a playground area with a jungle gym and swings. The walking trail is mostly surrounded by large shade trees, great for having a picnic under and taking in the Fall colors. The sidewalk near the pavilion also has painted games like foursquare, great for the kids to enjoy!
Thumbs up: playground, walking trail, large open spaces, shady spots for picnics, friendly maintenance staff
Thumbs down: condition of soccer field, lack of signs advertising park from South Saunders Street