Moore Square is in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, the state capital and home to a diverse and vibrant population of over 488,000. The park is between City Plaza and Harrington Street, two of the most iconic streets in the city. Moore Square has been integral to Raleigh’s cityscape since its completion in the late 18th century. Its well-manicured lawns and lush shrubbery provide a haven for locals and visitors alike. Despite its long history, the park has not missed a beat in adapting to modern times, offering a wide range of amenities, making it the perfect destination for a day out. Below, we explore the heart of Downtown Raleigh – Moore Square. When first established in 1792, Moore Square was the largest of four public squares in Downtown Raleigh. It was initially owned by Joel Lane, a prominent Raleigh landowner, and it was named after William Moore, Raleigh’s first mayor. Moore made several donations to the square and continued to be a benefactor of Raleigh throughout his life. Even though the property was transferred to the city in 1807, the original owner, Joel Lane, still significantly influenced the development of the square for many years to come. Learn more here.
In the late 19th century, Moore Square underwent a dramatic transformation when William Thomas, a local architect, and civic leader, redeveloped it entirely. This renovation project included the addition of a bandstand, fountain, swimming pool, and several monuments, all of which were intended to beautify Moore Square and make it a more inviting place for citizens to enjoy. In the early 20th century, Moore Square underwent another period of transformation, adding new amenities such as a boxing ring, band shell, and a state-of-the-art skatepark. The park also became a hub of activity, hosting the now-famous Fourth of July fireworks, festivals, and concerts. Moore Square is a hub of activity today, featuring amenities complementing the park’s historic features. These include a playground, splash pad, tennis courts, bocce ball, basketball court, and picnic tables. In addition, the park boasts a walking and biking path, ideal for those looking to explore the downtown area. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Moore Square also hosts a wide array of sightseeing opportunities. Visitors can marvel at the Moore Square Memorial Gardens and be awestruck by the 4th of July Fireworks and other large-scale events. For a real treat, the park is also home to several public artwork installations, including a stained glass dolphin, a Tudor-style arbor, and a colorful fish-filled mosaic. Discover facts about Exploring Fun and Learning at the Marbles Kids Museum.