Discover Garner through several distinct highlights: parkland at Lake Benson, nature experiences at the White Deer Park Nature Center, and cultural attractions in Downtown’s Historic District. As you plan, consider whether you’d prefer to spend time by the water, enjoy outdoor activities, or take part in events and workshops. This will help you shape your stay around the interests that matter most to you.

Lake Benson and the parks

White Deer Park is set on a 96-acre site next to Lake Benson. Lake Benson Park covers 64 acres, most of which is open space. Lake Benson Park is also home to the Garner Veterans Memorial. The two park names therefore refer to different places and features: White Deer Park by the lake, and the open spaces of Lake Benson Park.

The 365-acre Lake Benson offers opportunities for boating and fishing in the warmer months. The Lake Benson Boathouse is a seasonal facility where Jon boats, canoes and kayaks are available to rent. Fishing from the Boathouse dock is free. When planning your visit, you can choose between the parkland and walking trails on the one hand, and activities on the water on the other. If boating or fishing is important to your stay, check in advance whether your preferred dates fall within the season for this facility.

Trails and outdoor activities

The trail options vary by activity: Lake Benson Park has 1.8 miles of walking trails, while Garner Recreational Park has 2.25 miles of mountain biking trails. This comparison can help you decide whether to focus on walking or mountain biking during your stay.

Garner Recreation Center has an outdoor walking trail and an inclusive outdoor playground. Visitor passes provide access to the open gym areas and the track. Since facilities may change and pass conditions apply, check the current terms before your visit.

Nature experiences at White Deer Park

The White Deer Park Nature Center is home to animals and has a collection of taxidermied specimens and skulls. Hands-on and educational programs are also available. The Nature Center complements the park and water attractions with its collection exhibits and learning programs. Exhibits and program availability may change; check what’s on offer during your visit in advance.

Culture in Downtown Garner

The Garner Performing Arts Center is located in the Historic District of Downtown Garner. It hosts professional music, theater, dance and comedy events. Art camps and art classes for all ages are also available. Its program ranges from stage performances to classes and camps.

The Garner History Museum is also located in the Historic District of Downtown Garner and offers genealogy workshops. For culture enthusiasts, it provides a different option from the events and art classes at the Performing Arts Center, with a focus on genealogy.

Getting here and finding accommodations

U.S. Highway 70 is Garner’s main thoroughfare and connects Interstate 40 with Interstate 95. This road provides a useful reference point when planning your journey. If you’re looking for a hotel in Garner, you can first decide what you’d like to focus on during your stay: time at the lake and in the parks, walking or mountain biking on the trails mentioned above, or cultural attractions in Downtown.

Explore more destinations: Wendell, Knightdale, Raleigh, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina

For the regional travel overview: Wake.