College life is often a whirlwind of classes, assignments and social commitments, making it crucial for students to find places to unwind and recharge. Spending time outdoors offers a refreshing change of scenery and helps reduce stress, improve focus, and boost mental well-being.
For members of the NC State community, finding a quiet, relaxing space on campus can make all the difference in staying balanced amid a busy schedule. With so many beautiful outdoor spots around, it’s easy to find the perfect place to take a break, catch up with friends or enjoy a moment of peace between commitments.
“Court of the Carolinas”
The Court of North Carolina, often called the “Court of Carolinas,” is one of NC State’s oldest and most beloved outdoor spaces, and one of the University’s Hallowed Places. The court dates back to the early 1900s and is recognizable by its majestic oak trees and brick walkways. The court is also surrounded by some of the university’s oldest academic buildings, including the 1911 Building and the trio of Winston, Caldwell and Tompkins halls.
Historically, the Court of North Carolina has served as a gathering spot for various university events, celebrations and student activities. Its name reflects NC State’s ties to the state of North Carolina, as well as the space’s role as a gathering place for the community. In the spring, the lawn often bursts into life with flowers and lush green grass, while in the fall, it’s surrounded by the warm hues of the changing leaves, giving the space a dark academic feel.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Court is also a great functional space for student activities and relaxation. It’s common to see students lounging in hammocks, reading under the trees, or catching up with friends on the lawn. The open space allows for everything from quiet study sessions to casual sports, like frisbee or soccer, making it a versatile place to spend your free time. Grab a quick bite on Hillsborough and snag a spot on the Court to soak up some rays!
Syme Hall
Nestled in the heart of North Campus, Syme Hall offers a hidden escape from the rushes of campus. Syme Hall itself, built in 1916, is one of the oldest residence halls on campus, which provides a picturesque backdrop to the surrounding court. This area is shaded and quieter than some of the more central spots on campus, making it the perfect hidden gem. In the spring, make sure to check out the surrounding flower bushes!
The court is characterized by its tranquil mood, which makes it an ideal spot for a variety of activities. Students often use the space for studying, reading, or spending time with friends. The ample shade provided by the mature trees makes it especially appealing during warmer months, as it offers a cool retreat from the heat.
Mary Yarbrough Court
Tucked behind Holladay Hall, this hidden gem is named after Mary Yarbrough, the first woman to complete a graduate program at NC State. The layout of Yarbrough Court includes cobblestone paths and historic stone benches, preserving the history of the area while maintaining a visually appealing landscape.
The court is a particularly inviting spot thanks to the dense canopy of trees that keeps it shaded and cool even on warm days, making it a popular choice for students looking for a break from indoor study spaces.
With views of the Memorial Belltower just beyond its perimeter, the court gives visitors a beautiful mix of campus landmarks, history and natural beauty. In the spring and fall, the garden beds come alive with color, showcasing an array of native plants and flowers that attract birds and butterflies, which is a sight to behold.
Because of its proximity to the College of Design, Yarbrough Court also attracts art and design students who often use the space as a quiet place for sketching or brainstorming. Even for those not studying design, this Court provides a calming space for everyone to take a breather.
The Corner on Centennial
Outside of the main campus, NC State’s Centennial Campus offers a wide array of outdoor spaces for students to enjoy. One of the most interesting is called “The Corner,” a grassy plaza a down the road from James Hunt Library. Established as part of NC State’s expansion to Centennial Campus, this area was designed to blend the vibrant life of campus with the peaceful ambiance of a natural setting. Centennial Campus itself was developed in the late 20th century to create a collaborative space for academia, industry and government, but over time, places like The Corner have grown into hubs for student life and relaxation.
The Corner functions as both an impressive piece of installation art and a perfect refuge for students wanting a little break. The muti-colored storage containers that decorate the lawn invite campus members to sit down, chat with a friend and just leave stress behind for a while.
In one container in particular sits a working piano, just waiting for a student to come play its keys. Throughout the months, the space is also used as a venue for events put on by NC State student organizations and campus departments. It’s a versatile space that is perfect for your post-class reading or lunch break!
Whether you’re looking for a quiet study corner, a sunlit picnic spot, or a scenic backdrop to unwind, NC State’s outdoor spaces provide a range of relaxing environments that cater to every need. We invite you to explore more campus green spaces using the new NC State Greenspaces Map! Taking time to recharge in these beautiful locations — whether it’s the historic Court of North Carolina, the tranquil Syme Hall lawn, the picturesque Mary Yarbrough Court or the creative ambiance of The Corner — can make all the difference. Next time you’re on campus, step outside, find your favorite spot and let nature work its magic!
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