I frequently get e-mails or phone calls asking questions about the number of parks in the area.  Another question has to do with places to exercise or swim.  

The Triangle area prides itself in a large number of both small and large parks.  Some  are owned by the counties making up the Triangle while many are also city managed.  Every park has it's own unique features whether it be lake access, ball fields, soccer fields, walking paths and several even have aquatic centers for family swimming.  One unique feature is a large Greenway System which will eventually connect many of these parks.  I personally live right on a new section of the greenway which runs along the Neuse River. 

City of Raleigh Parks
City of Cary Parks

The YMCA of the Triangle  also brags as one of the largest YMCA systems in the country, all with pools (some multiple) and affordable rates so the entire family can enjoy the amenities.  Competitive swimming/diving is a major activity in the state and especially the Triangle.  North Carolina boasted one of the largest contingincies of swimmers/divers to qualify for the Olympic trials and eight from our state made the trip to London. My daughter swam competively from a young age and while in high school was a member of a swim team that were state champs all four years she was there.