Today marks the third day of our week in Raleigh, North Carolina. We visited one park we’d already been to, as well as a new one. After that, the fun got cut short because my stupid period likes to cripple my spirit, but despite this, I had a great day!
Kayaking at Johnson Lake
After we dropped my sister at gymnastics camp, we went back to Johnson Lake because it’s right by our Airbnb. This time, we rented kayaks and paddled out to the edges of the lake to look for wildlife. Just as we’d paddled under the boardwalk, my sister and I saw and osprey flying, and kind of strangely overhead, so we carefully made our way closer. Seeing the osprey up close(ish) we realized that it was probably hunting for fish where the water is shallower. Just then, a small bird flew out of nowhere and chased it away! Strange, right?
Even though I did run my kayak aground, we saw some more wildlife, like a big family of geese, and the world’s smallest turtle before our hour was up.
Renting a kayak is only $5 at the waterfront center, and you can also get a 2-person kayak for the same price, making it an even better deal!
Pullen Park
What’s better than one park? Two parks!!
Pullen Park is the highest-rated park on tripadvisor, and I can see why that is! Just like all of the other North Carolina parks I’ve visited, Pullen is pristine. The walkways are well marked, and there are tons of trees and colorful flowers everywhere. In the middle is a man-made lake where you can rent paddle boats, and there’s also a carousel, multiple playgrounds, some kiddie rides, and a mini train that runs around the whole park.
We stuck to the walking trails, and then rode the train at the end to see any parts of the park that we’d missed on the walk.
Overall, I’d say that Pullen park is more geared towards little kids, probably in the 2-10 range, and the trails were very short. However, it’s a beautiful place to visit, and I’m glad we rode the train.
Tickets for the train ride were $1.50 per person
Yikes
Just before getting to Pullen park, my period started. For me, this causes debilitating pain and fatigue for several hours, so I wasn’t able to go out and do as much as I’d hoped during the afternoon. We did get to walk around NC State for a bit after dinner, and we hung out around the memorial bell tower, which is super tall and very impressive!
Hopefully, I’ll be feeling better by tomorrow! 🙂
See you then,
WTB