Hanes Park

Imagine a cozy 47-acre green oasis where history meets modern recreation. Hanes Park is more than just a public space; it is a true monument to landscape art, donated to the city of Winston-Salem back in 1919 by industrialist P.H. Hanes Sr. Today, this park in the USA is an essential part of the historic West End district and a favorite meeting spot for locals.

The park's hallmark is its architectural elegance: the main entrance is adorned with a semi-circular crenelated stone wall and classic lamp posts. Strolling further inside, you will find a graceful alley of ten maple trees leading to an elegant footbridge over Peters Creek. Surrounded by weeping willows and open lawns, the park creates an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Beyond its natural beauty, the park offers excellent facilities for active leisure. The grounds include professional tennis courts, baseball fields with grandstands, and modern playgrounds. In 2019, to celebrate its centennial, the park underwent a major renovation, earning a well-deserved award for preserving its historic character and developing the urban environment.

For information about events or to book facilities at Hanes Park, you can use the official communication channels of the city administration.

There is something for everyone in this picturesque spot. Sports enthusiasts can head to the famous tennis courts—there are several of them, and some are located in the historic zone, giving the game a special ambiance. Well-maintained baseball fields and jogging paths that wind through century-old trees are also available for active recreation.

If you prefer a more contemplative experience, be sure to take a stroll along Peters Creek. Here, you can take wonderful photos against the backdrop of the historic stone bridge with its iron lattice railings or relax in the shade of weeping willows. For family leisure, the park is equipped with modern playgrounds, while the open lawns are perfect for playing frisbee or enjoying a quiet read on the grass.

Don't forget to check out the picnic areas—covered shelters allow for a comfortable outdoor lunch even on a sunny afternoon. Many people come here simply for the atmosphere: to admire the flower beds at the main entrance or feed the birds while enjoying the tranquility of this historic district.

Located at 1404 W Northwest Blvd, the park is conveniently situated on the western edge of the historic center. The main entrance is right across from the intersection of Clover Street and West End Boulevard. Getting here by car is easy: simply follow your navigation to the address; parking is available in small lots near the tennis courts or baseball fields.

For those who prefer public transport, the city's WSTA bus system is a great option. The nearest stops are located in the West End Boulevard area, from which the park's shaded alleys are just a few minutes' walk away. You can also take a taxi from the city center—the ride will be quick and affordable due to the proximity.

Residents and guests of neighboring neighborhoods, such as West End and West Highlands, often prefer to reach the park on foot or by bicycle. The grounds can be entered from several sides, including Pilot View Street, Clover Street, and Glade Street, making the site highly accessible for strolls.

The history of this green oasis began in 1919, when P.H. Hanes Sr., head of the famous industrial dynasty and founder of the P.H. Hanes Knitting Company, donated 47 acres of land to the city. This generous gesture was made shortly after the merger of Winston and Salem, a time when the newly formed city was growing rapidly and needed high-quality recreational areas for its citizens.

The Hanes family played a colossal role in the region's development, creating jobs and supporting social initiatives. The gift of the park became a symbol of their care for the residents' well-being. Today, about one-third of the park's territory, including the scenic areas along Peters Creek, is officially listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places as part of the West End Historic District.

In 2019, the park celebrated its centennial. To mark this anniversary, a large-scale renovation was carried out, updating the infrastructure while preserving charming historical elements such as the stone walls, ancient bridges, and classic layout. For its careful stewardship of the heritage, the city honored the renovation project with the prestigious Classic Award.

Visitors typically need between 1 and 3 hours to leisurely explore the grounds. If your goal is a quick walk to see the historic stone bridge and enjoy the view of the creek, 45–60 minutes will be enough.

For families with children or sports enthusiasts, a visit can stretch into half a day. Spacious playgrounds, tennis courts, and cozy picnic areas invite you to relax outdoors, far from the city's hustle and bustle.

The park is open to visitors daily. You can plan your visit at any convenient time throughout the week—the schedule remains consistent.

Opening Hours:

• Monday — Sunday: 10:00 – 20:00

A walk through the park is just one part of experiencing the region's rich culture. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the state's history and see unique landmarks located within a short drive.