A Visit to Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park

I’m going to admit something that I’m pretty ashamed of: I’m a native North Carolinian and had never even heard of Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson, NC! Honestly, I would still have no idea if my mom hadn’t read about it in a book and insisted that we go. I’m so glad she did!

A Brief History

Vollis Simpson, a farm machinery repairman, began making these large sculptures just before retirement and continued until just before his death at 94 years of age. His hope was that these would recharge the downtown area. Originally, Vollis’ whirligigs were located about 11 miles outside of Wilson, on Vollis’ farm, and people would come from all over to see these amazing sculptures. These beauties soon became noticed by art collectors and became part of displays at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, and the American Folk Art Museum in Manhattan, New York. (We were also delighted to find one at the rest area just outside of Fayetteville, NC!) You’re now able to view the whirligigs (North Carolina’s official folk art) in Downtown Wilson. If you’d like more details about the history of the whirligig park and Vollis Simpson, click here.

Why you should visit

If the unique history doesn’t appeal to you, then the intricacy and beauty of these whirligigs definitely will! The two-acre Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park houses thirty different whirligigs, the largest collection in the world. In addition, there’s a pavilion that hosts different events, as well as a museum across the street. Poppy appreciated all the open space and loved running up to each sculpture to get a better look. I was in awe of how someone could build something so large and amazing.

The Best Time to Visit

There are several festivals that happen throughout the year, which would be a terrific time to go, depending on your interests. Feast of the East occurs in the Spring and is a fundraising dinner which features a night of live music, delicious food, and drinks. Another event, from late April until mid June, is Gig in the Park Spring Concert Series. This free concert series also has food trucks, kids’ activities, and all proceeds from beverage sales goes to maintaining the whirligigs. The park will host other events throughout the year and can be found on this calendar. If you’d like to go during less crowded times, those would be great as well. We actually went on a random weekday, and had an amazing time. If you’d like to see the whirligigs in action, I’d suggest you checking the weather for a windier day. Trust me, you’ll want to see them in action!

other suggestions for a trip to Wilson

Wilson has several other activities your little one will love. While you’re visiting Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park, head down to the corner and get a sweet treat at Treat Yo’ Self Bakery. It’s an adorable bakery that has amazing sweets. We opted for several different cookies, pastries, and a cinnamon roll. (We actually stopped here for breakfast before we headed to see the whirligigs.) There’s also Imagination Station Science Museum, Wilson Botanical Gardens, and several playgrounds that you could check out.