The square is named after Abner Nash, a former Governor of North Carolina.
The park underwent a significant renovation in the mid-1990s to restore its 19th-century design elements.
It is one of only two remaining original squares from the 1792 Raleigh master plan that retain their public use.
The North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Memorial features a bronze statue of a firefighter carrying a child.
The park’s elevation and central location make it a common site for archaeological survey due to its continuous use since the city's founding.
Nash Square is one of Raleigh's original five public squares established in the 1792 city plan. The park encompasses a full city block and is characterized by its mature oak tree canopy and structured pedestrian walkways. It features several commemorative monuments, including the North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Memorial and the 1906 Confederate monument, which was removed in 2020. The site serves as a frequent venue for public gatherings and community events in the downtown district. Its landscaping maintains a historical layout designed to facilitate cross-city foot traffic. The park is surrounded by historic landmarks and modern municipal buildings.
The elevated central walkway area provides a clear line of sight toward the surrounding historic downtown architecture.
Bring a blanket or book to enjoy the shade provided by the large, historic oak trees.
Visit during a weekday lunch hour to see the park filled with local downtown workers.
The park is well-lit at night, but it is best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility of monuments.
Assuming there are public restrooms on-site; plan to use nearby coffee shops or municipal building facilities instead.
Public park rules apply: keep pets on a leash, pack out all trash, and refrain from disturbing the monuments.
