Gene Dillard’s Fantasyland — Attraction in Durham

I discovered Gene’s absolutely fascinating backyard on Google Maps and had to stop by for a visit on my Saturday run! The yard looked even more impressive in person. You can leave a message in the guest book at the front yard. I was super lucky to meet Gene — the artist himself! — who graciously gave me a tour of his yard (after catching me borderline trespassing 😅). My luck continued when his adorable cat showed up and greeted me. Gene said he was a mechanic and never knew he had this creative side in himself until he started this whole project a few years back, initially just as an Easter-themed small sculpture. This visit made my weekend and inspired me to pursue my...

Amazing! A great example of what we are capable of when we find and follow our passion. When friends and family come to visit, I bring them here. Every time I think about this place it inspires me, reminds me of these visits and makes me smile. At first, I couldn't understand how someone could focus so much time and energy on a project like this, on art. Now I understand. It has given me a greater appreciation for art. It gave me the gift of a greater appreciation for life and humanity and I am a little better for having taken it in. Thank...

How can I give this 10, no 20! stars. My mouth, brain, eyes, entire being was dazzled by the glinting magic of this home and its yard creatures. We are calling it the diamond house. No one was home when we FOUND it - no joke - randomly drove down this street. We walked around back and saw what looked like the workshop area.

Look at the wooden door in the back (handle) and the ground- some mosaics there, too. Mr. Dillard -...