LeBauer Park | Greensboro

LeBauer Park is a dynamic and multi-use public space located at 208 North Davie Street in downtown Greensboro, North Carolina. Since its grand opening in August 2016, the park has played a central role in downtown revitalization, creating a welcoming, modern gathering place that blends recreational space, public art, gardens, and community programming. It was made possible through a generous $10 million donation by Carolyn Weill LeBauer’s estate and is operated by Greensboro Downtown Parks, Inc. in partnership with the City of Greensboro.

Design and Landscape

LeBauer Park spans approximately 4 acres and is carefully designed to integrate green space with urban energy. Landscape architecture firm Cooper Robertson & Partners, in collaboration with local stakeholders, created a layout that supports both daily use and large-scale community events. The park is bordered by Greensboro’s downtown cultural district, including the Greensboro Cultural Center and the Central Library, making it easily accessible and strategically located for residents and visitors.

One of the park’s most iconic visual features is the massive suspended sculpture “Where We Met” by renowned artist Janet Echelman. The netted aerial sculpture hangs over the Great Lawn and symbolizes Greensboro’s historical connections—particularly its role in the textile industry and as a railway hub. The sculpture is illuminated at night, casting colorful shadows and creating a surreal ambiance.

Key Amenities and Features

1. The Great Lawn

At the heart of the park is the Price/Bryan Performance Place, a 17,000-square-foot Great Lawn that can accommodate over 4,000 people. It includes a stage for performances, movies, and concerts, making it a flexible space for both organized events and casual relaxation.

2. VF Corporation Plaza & Splash Pad

This interactive water feature operates seasonally from May through September and serves as a splash pad for children. It's a popular summer attraction, especially during Greensboro’s warm months.

3. Children’s Play Area

The play zone is creatively designed with modern climbing structures, tunnels, and swings suitable for a variety of age groups. Safety surfaces and shaded seating areas allow parents to relax while kids play.

4. Peacehaven Sensory Space

A unique feature among public parks, this space is designed specifically to support individuals with sensory processing challenges. It includes textured walls, calming colors, and interactive elements that engage touch and sound, offering therapeutic play for people of all ages and abilities.

5. Carolyn’s Garden

Named in honor of Carolyn LeBauer, this tranquil garden features curated landscaping, flowers, and pathways. It provides a quiet retreat within the vibrant energy of the park and is a favorite spot for reading, photography, and contemplation.

6. Downtown Dog Park

This fenced, off-leash dog area is divided for small and large breeds. It’s equipped with waste stations, benches, and shade, encouraging social interaction between pet owners.

7. Outdoor Games

Free-to-use recreational options such as ping-pong tables, foosball, cornhole, and chess stations are available throughout the park, promoting spontaneous play and community interaction.

8. Dining and Food Kiosks

The park hosts on-site food options such as Ghassan’s Fresh Mediterranean Eats and Café Europa, offering a variety of fresh meals, drinks, and snacks. During special events and weekends, local food trucks often line up near the park.

Events and Community Programs

LeBauer Park is one of Greensboro’s most active public venues, offering more than 400 free programs annually. These events are developed in partnership with over 100 community organizations and include:

Live music concerts and performances

Outdoor movie nights

Cultural festivals and food fairs

Yoga and fitness classes

Family art workshops and reading circles

Holiday markets and seasonal celebrations

All events are designed to be inclusive, accessible, and family-friendly, with a strong focus on community engagement and wellness.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Splash Pad: Operates from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (seasonally)

Restrooms: Clean, ADA-accessible facilities are available on site

Parking: Available nearby via street parking and several public parking decks

Pet Policy: Pets are welcome throughout the park but must be leashed outside the designated dog area

The park is fully ADA-compliant, ensuring that all paths, facilities, and amenities can be enjoyed by visitors with mobility or sensory challenges.

Conclusion

LeBauer Park represents a modern model for urban public space—an inclusive, art-infused, and environmentally conscious community hub that invites relaxation, exploration, and cultural connection. Whether you're attending a concert on the lawn, letting kids play in the splash pad, strolling through Carolyn’s Garden, or admiring the illuminated sculpture at dusk, LeBauer Park offers a multidimensional experience at the heart of Greensboro’s downtown.