We are thrilled to share some exciting news—Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park has been voted the #2 Best Sculpture Park in the Nation by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards!
This incredible recognition is a testament to our amazing community, dedicated volunteers, and the lasting legacy of Vollis Simpson’s visionary art. Every single daily vote helped us earn this honor, and we couldn’t have done it without you!
Being named among the top sculpture parks in the nation is an incredible achievement, and we are grateful for every visitor, supporter, and friend of the park who helped us reach this milestone. Vollis Simpson’s whirligigs continue to inspire and bring joy, and this recognition reinforces the importance of preserving and celebrating his extraordinary creations.
Check out the full list of winners on USA Today’s 10Best!
Coverage of our award has already been featured in:
We are honored to stand alongside incredible sculpture parks across the country, and we hope this national spotlight will inspire even more visitors to experience the magic of Wilson’s whirligigs.
To show our appreciation, we invite you to a special Spring Conservation & Thank You Pop-Up Event!
Date: Wednesday, April 9
Location: Whirligig Park, Wilson, NC
Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
Food: Parker’s BBQ Food Truck (CASH ONLY)
Come enjoy lunch and witness a piece of history in action! Our expert conservation team will showcase the beloved “BBQ” whirligig, generously sponsored by Parker’s BBQ. This is a rare chance to see a whirligig up close for restoration while enjoying some of Eastern NC’s finest barbecue.
This pop-up event is our way of saying THANK YOU to everyone who supported us in this journey. Join us to celebrate this national recognition and witness firsthand the artistry and dedication that goes into preserving Vollis Simpson’s incredible legacy.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you—see you on April 9!
The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Project is a partnership of Wilson Downtown Properties, Inc.,
The City of Wilson, Wilson Downtown Development, and the North Carolina Arts Council.
Copyright © 2025. All rights reserved. Homepage designed by Next Level Creative
The Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park Project is a partnership of Wilson Downtown Properties, Inc.,
The City of Wilson, Wilson Downtown Development, and the North Carolina Arts Council.
Copyright © 2025. All rights reserved. Homepage designed by Next Level Creative
