The Quarry at Grant Park

The Quarry at Grant Park offers Winston-Salem an unparalleled experience by transforming a former industrial site into a truly distinctive recreational space. This 228-acre park combines the intrigue of its rich quarry history with breathtaking natural vistas, making it one of the city’s most extraordinary outdoor escapes. Once an active granite quarry and city yard, the site sat untouched for 25 years before its revival in 2015. Today, it stands as a testament to innovative design and sustainable reuse, blending rugged industrial aesthetics with serene landscapes to create an immersive retreat for visitors of all ages.

Central to the park’s appeal is “The BOOM,” an iconic observation deck set over the striking turquoise quarry lake 150 feet below. The deck offers sweeping panoramic views of the area’s landmarks, including Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock, and the Winston-Salem skyline. From this high vantage point, guests experience the powerful juxtaposition of nature reclaiming an industrial past, turning what was once utilitarian into a vibrant community landmark.

Adding to its uniqueness, the park’s custom mining-themed playground and bridge system seamlessly echo the site’s quarry heritage. Phase 2 introduced a bridge that links the main playground to the observation deck, designed as an interactive adventure with climbing nets, lookout points, and nods to mining elements. The playground structure itself, designed from steel, invites children to explore the past in a tactile, adventurous way, while elements like the 40×80-foot corten shelter provide comfortable spaces for picnicking and events.

Beyond recreational spaces, Quarry Park connects to the city’s greenway system, enabling visitors to journey through a 1.25-mile greenway path that weaves through overlooks and picnic spots. The park’s location offers a rare blend of relaxation and discovery, hosting everything from community events and yoga classes to food trucks and seasonal celebrations. This thoughtfully designed park allows visitors to witness the transformative power of design, combining the best of open space with rich historical resonance.