places to visit in raleigh durham

Cities & Regions

Raleigh, durham & the triangle.

You won't find a better range of ways to treat yourself than in the Triangle of North Carolina. This region boasts award-winning inns, hotels and spas, culinary delights for every taste, and cultural experiences including university gardens, art and history museums, and whimsical whirligigs.

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• Acclaimed Hotels & Inns
• Art & History Museums
• Spa Getaways
• Award-Winning & Buzzworthy Chefs
• Vollis Simpson’s Whirligigs

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Municipalities, chapel hill.

• JoCo & Smithfield
• Raleigh Area
• Rocky Mount

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Explore Raleigh, Durham & the Triangle

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Raleigh   Travel Guide

10 Best Things To Do in Raleigh

Updated September 1, 2022

The capital of North Carolina is filled with diversions for all sorts of travelers. For instance, art lovers will appreciate the North Carolina Museum of Art while those with an interest in science might enjoy the North Carolina Museum of Natural

• All Things To Do

Neuse River Trail Neuse River Trail free

The Neuse River Trail (also known as the Raleigh Greenway) is a portion of a nearly 28-mile path that stretches from the Falls Lake Dam in Wake Forest, North Carolina, down to the Wake/Johnston county line in Raleigh. The wide path travels along the Neuse River, across wetlands, through woods and is altogether beautiful, according to many a jogger, dog walker and bike rider.

In fact, the Neuse River Trail caused one TripAdvisor user, who hails from Boston, to consider moving to Raleigh: "This trail is a total delight.  … Locals ride their bikes [and] run their miles with their dogs … Not used to be smiled at by a total stranger … Why haven't I moved here?!"

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences free

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is Raleigh's most popular attraction for several reasons: it's free, its cafe features a menu of tasty and reasonably priced items and it contains plentiful exhibits that recent visitors say interest travelers of all ages. The museum teaches visitors about North Carolina through exhibits like "Coastal North Carolina," which features everything from whale skeletons to seahorse bioramas and the "Living Conservatory," which flutters with butterflies. There is also a wing of the museum dedicated to nature research, and this is where visitors can embrace their inner scientist in "Investigate Labs" or simply watch scientists work in the "Windows on Research" areas. 

Recent visitors "ooh" and "ahh" over the diverse displays and the free admission. One TripAdvisor user was also quite impressed by the museum staff: "I stopped in to ask for someone to answer some questions about preying mantis', these 2 ladies answered my questions and then some."

Pullen Park Pullen Park free

Pullen Park, which sits beside North Carolina State University, has a number of superlatives to its name. Not only is it the state's first public park, it's also the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. and the 16th-oldest operating amusement park in the world. Today, visitors flock to the park for its cheap amusements — $1 for a carousel ride or a trip out on the paddle boats — as well for its lush beauty. Fans of the Andy Griffith Show also like to seek out the bronze statue of "Andy and Opie." There are also playgrounds, sports fields, tennis courts and an indoor aquatic center.

Recent visitors, particularly families, can't say enough about Pullen Park, though some recommend visiting on the evenings and weekdays when it's less crowded.

Popular Tours

Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh

(31 reviews)

from $ 60.00

Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

(938 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC

(4 reviews)

from $ 14.99

North Carolina Museum of Art North Carolina Museum of Art free

The North Carolina Museum of Art's gleaming white galleries, which hang with paintings like Andrew Wyeth's "Winter 1946" and "The Holy Family with St. Anne" by Peter Paul Rubens and Workshop, are impressive in and of themselves. But visitors also highly praise the museum's rotating exhibits, the lovely sculpture garden and the interesting tours and events. The museum's restaurant, Iris, is also an artful place too with its floor-to-ceiling windows and wall sculpture.

One TripAdvisor user, who calls the North Carolina Museum of Art "one of the loveliest spots in Raleigh," also has this to say: "The grounds are a wonderful blend of sculpture, garden and pastoral beauty. Parking is plentiful. Restaurant is imaginative in presentation and menu selection. Collection is always evolving and not overwhelmingly vast."

William B. Umstead State Park William B. Umstead State Park free

In the between the cities of Raleigh, Cary and Durham is the William B. Umstead State Park and its 5,579 acres of wooded trails and picturesque lakes. You can walk, bike, hike and run through it, and you can even take a paddleboat or a canoe out for a small fee. Some travelers are chagrined at its popularity, saying that it's lost some of its delightful seclusion. But most recent visitors highly recommend it.

"At over 5,000 acres, it can be crowded along popular trails close to parking areas," one TripAdvisor user said. "However, go more than a mile up a trail … and it's very quiet. There are dozens of hiking trails, great birding opportunities, several lakes, boating/canoeing, and fishing."

North Carolina Museum of History North Carolina Museum of History free

The North Carolina Museum of History is exactly what its name suggests — a museum about North Carolina's history. Exhibits include the 20,000-square-foot permanent "Story of North Carolina," which traces the state's history across 14,000 years. Visitors will find everything from two full-size historic houses to a life-size replica of the Wright brothers' plane, the "Wright Flyer." Other exhibits focus on themes like sports or the Civil War, and there are a host of temporary exhibits that rotate through the museum. 

Visitors were especially delighted by the museum's preservation of the historic homes, and many say they were enchanted by the stories about the wars and North Carolina's origins.

Marbles Kids Museum Marbles Kids Museum

You might wonder where this children's museum got its name, and the answer is two-fold. One, because the museum founders encourage kids to "use their marbles" (or brains) while they play. And two, because a wall that surrounds the museum is filled with more than 1 million marbles that light up at night. Other than marbles, the museum features exhibits that range from an "Art Loft," where kids can do crafts, paint and sculpt, to a "Power 2 Play" exhibit where children can play with kid-size athletic equipment. There's also a cafe and an IMAX theater.

Visitors to Raleigh with children in tow highly recommend this museum, citing the bottom floor's age-specific diversions as particularly engaging for youngsters. Others advise leaving plenty of time to enjoy the museum's diverse exhibits, and potentially even splitting up a visit here across two different days, noting the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming for the younger set.

Raleigh City Market Raleigh City Market free

Raleigh's City Market, which opened more than a century ago, is an ensemble of shops and boutiques, bars and restaurants, and it's a nice place to meander when the weather is nice. You'll come across everything from eateries like Vic's Ristorante Italiano to businesses like the Dogwood Collective , which sells local clothing brands. Last year, a seasonal farmers market had stalls at the market too, from the spring to the fall.

Recent visitors say that although the selection of shops is small and somewhat overpriced, the salespeople and restaurateurs are affable and their products are excellent.  

Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour

(3 reviews)

from $ 16.00

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks

from $ 10.00

Durham Scavenger Hunt: Bricks, Bulls & Beauty

from $ 12.31

North Carolina State Capitol North Carolina State Capitol free

The North Carolina State Capitol, which was completed in 1840, is the center of activity for North Carolina state government. It also contains a host of curiosities — like its Greek architecture and the fact that the visage of George Washington shows up four times, once in a Roman general's garb — that make for an especially interesting tour. Recent visitors strongly suggest penciling in time for the tour, saying that the docents offer a variety of interesting details about the building and North Carolina's past. In December, the Capitol hosts a handful of festive holiday events, from a tree lighting to an open house.

The Capitol is open for visits Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free guided tours, which many recent visitors highly recommend, are held on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. You'll find the building downtown on East Edenton Street. For more information, visit the website . 

Historic Yates Mill County Park Historic Yates Mill County Park free

The 174-acre Historic Yates Mill County Park is the last remaining water-powered gristmill in Wake County. It's also a nice place to stretch your legs: There are several miles of hiking trails that trace the Mill Pond and extend west of it. And you can also fish from two boardwalks.

Some visitors say that the Historic Yates Mill County Park is the perfect spot to indulge in some fresh air and tranquility. "We found this by 'accident' and it was one of our favorite stops in Raleigh," one TripAdvisor user said. "If you like the outdoors and quiet trails, you should check it out."

Explore More of Raleigh

Best Hotels

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Why Visit Raleigh, North Carolina? An In-Depth Guide

Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a unique blend of Southern charm, cosmopolitan culture, and an array of attractions.

If you’re planning to visit Raleigh, you may be wondering what is there to see and experience? Raleigh doesn’t have the big city attractions like New York City, the thrill rides and Disney characters like Orlando, nor a food scene like New Orleans where every hole in the wall would keep the world’s best French chefs happy.

But it does have a vibrant local community that invites you in to enjoy the many fun festivals and events , it’s ever evolving food and craft brew scene (with a winery even), miles of greenway trails, parks, lakes, urban green spaces, historic neighborhoods and a fun college scene!

In this guide below, we’ll delve into the personality of Raleigh and explore the top reasons why people should visit this thriving, forward-moving capital city.

Excellent location for Getaways

The personality of raleigh.

What is Raleigh known for? Well, it’s known for its welcoming personality and diverse offerings, a city that beckons travelers from all walks of life. Over the past few years, the city of Raleigh, NC has taken long strides out of adolescence and into young adult hipster.

It’s finding a new personality amidst the incredible growth and influx of residents for all over the country, and even the world – hello, we’re Australian!

It still has one foot in its Southern roots , with charm, warmth, and a laid-back way of being. People still have time to stop and talk to you and the pace is magnetically slow moving. Not country slow, but not New York City fast!

With an abundance of green spaces and mild climate, you can be sure you’ll discover an active community. Raleighites like being outside whether it’s to picnic in the parks and gardens, hike or bike the greenway trails, or attend any of the many street festivals and music events held year-round.

As it’s home to some of the country’s most prestigious universities such as NC State (with Duke and UNC just 40-minutes away), the Research Triangle Park , and an emerging tech scene, you can be sure it’s a city that supports innovation and intellectual curiosity, with a mission of “a rising tide lifts all boats” rather than dog eat dog.

Don’t arrive in Raleigh highly strung – well that will unwind soon enough if you are. This is not NYC, Atlanta or California, and we don’t want it to be. Enjoy Raleigh for Raleigh and embrace this gentler, slower, more connected way of being. Enjoy the fact that it’s not a big tourist destination – you’ll have less waiting time, more space, and fewer crowds to battle through.

You won’t be looked at funny if you turn up to places in shorts and a T-shirt, or with a child or pet beside you. But, if you want to turn up in a shirt and tie, you can do that too. There are plenty of options for both.

With a wonderful mix of ages and cultures, Raleigh offers a vibrant lifestyle . One thing that has always struck out to me as we’ve moved back and forth from our home country of Australia, and from visiting many other countries, the people are genuinely friendly here, and, for the most part, people who live here are happy and tend to stay. That’s not to say we don’t have problems – hello poor public transport and a lack of attention to affordable housing!

People who visit here more often than not end up returning – even deciding to live here, they become so enamored by it.

Hey, we’re Australian, have lived in 5 countries, traveled to over 50, are professional travel bloggers , and with our portable business we could live anywhere in the world, and we CHOSE Raleigh. We think that’s saying something!

No matter your age, background, culture, or interests, all are welcome here and you’ll find something to make you smile and enjoy your time. To learn more, see our interesting facts about Raleigh article.

Top Reasons to Visit Raleigh

Fun year-round raleigh festivals & events.

Since Raleigh doesn’t have big name attractions, many people visit for a particular festival or event. What a great reason to plan a trip to Raleigh, as we have many top festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate art, food, music, and more.

The wide variety of events ensures there’s always something exciting happening in the city. Be sure to add in a couple of extra days, so you can explore Raleigh in more depth while here.

A few of our favorite Raleigh events and festivals throughout the year include:

• Dreamville – Now one of the premiere music events in the country, attended by 50,000 each day of the two-day hip hop and rap festival hosted by Fayetteville native and Grammy award winning artist, J Cole.
• IMBA Bluegrass Festival – one of the top bluegrass events in the country, this weeklong festival includes random pop-up shows, bluegrass music awards and a 2-day street festival. 2024 will be its last year, but something is being developed to replace it.
• NC State Fair – the largest event in North Carolina, comes to Raleigh every October, filled with fun rides, agricultural shows, and lots of fried food.
• Art festivals Artsplosure , Art in Bloom , and Spring Daze in Bond Park, Cary are wonderful events to help connect you with local artisans.

Exciting Raleigh Sports Events

Raleigh may not have professional football, basketball, or baseball teams, but we have plenty of action-packed college sports and events year-round. And, we do have one pro-sporting team, though. Ever heard of the Carolina Hurricanes ?

The Canes are one of the best teams in the NHL, Stanley Cup winners in 2006, and apparently some of the loudest ice hockey fans in the league. In 2023, we even hosted the NHL Stadium Series at Carter Finlay Stadium . Raleigh knows how to put on an event!

This region is also one of the best in the country for soccer, especially women’s soccer, and we have our professional men’s North Carolina FC and NC Courage women’s teams have their base at WakeMed Soccer Park. This venue also hosts ACC and NCAA championships each year.

In nearby Durham we have the minor league baseball team, the Durham Bulls , which is always a fun game experience and family night out.

The Triangle region, of which Raleigh is a part along with our neighbors Durham and Chapel Hill, is home to three major US universities and countless smaller ones. You can be sure the personality is young, vibrant, full of good times, and high sporting cheers.

Is there a bigger rivalry in college sports than UNC vs Duke? You can watch or be part of that electric atmosphere right here in the Triangle. We have an abundance of college sporting games to watch live or one of our top sports bars in Raleigh . Read more:

• A Guide to Carter Finlay Stadium
• How to have a great time at the Durham Bulls baseball games
• Reynolds Coliseum Guide.
• A Guide to WakeMed Soccer Park

Urban Forest Playground

Raleigh is often referred to as the “City of Oaks” because of the thousands of oak trees that line its streets, creating a lush and picturesque urban landscape.

Along with all the oak trees you have pine tree forests everywhere, wooded neighborhoods, green spaces and parklands. Whenever we have friends visit, they always remark on how GREEN Raleigh is. When flying into Raleigh-Durham Airport , look out the window and see for yourself!

This natural beauty sets a tranquil and inviting tone for the city. Immersing yourself in the forest of Raleigh will help you to see why there is a slow, happy, calm way of being. Just ask the Blue Zone experts, why this is such an important part of quality living.

We have the Umstead State Park on our doorstep offering many trails, and beautiful parks and green spaces like family-favorite Pullen Park and Dorothea Dix Park . One of our favorite things about Raleigh are the beautiful lakes you can paddle on or walk/ bike around. ( Lake Johnson is our Happy Place ).

The Capital Area Greenway System is made up of 28 individual trails over 100 miles. So, jump on a bike or take a walk and unwind. One of our favorites is the Art to Heart Trail (a 6-mile trail connecting the NC Museum of Art to downtown Raleigh). And we have many beautiful gardens, including the spectacular Sarah P Duke Gardens in Durham .

Use the below guides to help you plan some nature activities while here in Raleigh:

• 25 Raleigh trails for hiking, biking, or running.
• Best places to go stand up paddle boarding
• 15 Top Lakes in the Raleigh region
• 6 lovely gardens in Raleigh to visit

A long history to Explore

The Wake County region was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tuscarora and the Occaneechi , who lived in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. The land around Dorothea Dix Park and Raleigh was used as their hunting grounds for hundreds of years.

That all changed with the arrival of settlers from Europe. From that point of view, Raleigh’s history begins with its formation as the capital of North Carolina in 1792 , due to its central location within the state. It was named after Sir Walter Raleigh , who was an English explorer and sponsor of the Roanoke Island Colony in the late 16th century.

The city grew slowly at first, but it gained importance during the American Civil War when it became a center for Confederate soldiers and supplies.

After the war, Raleigh experienced economic growth and development. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the expansion of industries such as textiles, tobacco, and furniture manufacturing. The city continued to grow and evolve throughout the 20th century, becoming a hub for technology, education, and research.

While not overflowing with historical site experiences, there are some great tours and attractions in Raleigh to experience and learn more about the city’s history. Here are a few attractions to enjoy:

• Guided walking tour of Dorothea Dix Park
• Guided tour of Mordecai Historic Park (where Andrew Johnson was born)
• Black American experiences in Raleigh
• Joel Lane house – the oldest in Raleigh
• Raleigh Historic Trolley tours
• Pope House Museum

Arts & Cultural Experiences

I love seeing how the art scene in Raleigh has blossomed over the past few years. It feels like a new art gallery is opening every month, and more events are held to celebrate our local artists.

We have the outstanding NC Museum of Art , which I feel is Raleigh’s best foot forward. Not only for its collection of art in its beautifully designed glass-walled West Gallery, but for the 164-acre Ann and Jim Goodnight sculpture park . Have a picnic, enjoy its 4.7 miles of trails, attend an event, or see a concert or show in its outdoor theater. During the summer, the sunflower field is just like the museum, colorful, bright, and joyful. And every March is their unique and outstanding Art in Bloom festival.

Other art galleries and museums worth visiting are CAM Raleigh in the Warehouse District, Artspace to see working artists’ studios, Charlotte Russel Gallery in Five Points which showcases local women and minority artists work, and the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University is exceptional.

You can participate in the Art Gallery walk every First Friday of the month to peruse local art and attend fun events downtown. And Illuminate Raleigh during the Holidays brings the streets to life with illuminated art installations.

The Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts stands as a cultural cornerstone in downtown Raleigh. This iconic venue is a testament to the city’s commitment to the arts and entertainment. Renowned for its acoustics and elegant design, it serves as a dynamic space for a diverse range of performing arts, including theater, music, and dance.

It’s home to the Carolina Ballet , NC Opera, NC Symphony, NC Theater, Pinecone and many smaller visiting and local events. At Christmas time, it hosts the popular Dessertery Cafe and Raleigh’s favorite annual A Christmas Carol performance.

And the incredible Duke Performing Arts Center (DPAC) in Durham hosts many visiting Broadway Shows year-round.  

You can see our monthly events post and weekend event guide to see what is playing in Raleigh during your visit.

Free Raleigh Museums

There is a reason Raleigh is known as the Smithsonian of the South. We have many fascinating museums in Raleigh that are mostly free, and some are withing walking distance of each other! These institutions provide engaging and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

Downtown we have the NC Museum of Natural Sciences , the North Carolina Museum of History , including one of Craig’s favorite exhibits, The Sports Hall of Fame ; and the City of Raleigh Museum .

Raleigh is also home to the only Harley-Davidson drag racing museum in the world, founded by world-famous drag racing champion Ray Price located on the second floor of one of the largest Harley dealerships in the U.S.

Live Music & Entertainment

While it cannot compare to Nashville or Austin (there’s always room for this kind of improvement). Raleigh does have an active live music scene.

We absolutely love our summer outdoor venues: Red Hat Amphitheater , the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, and our personal favorite, Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary – this is true piedmont style with the stage in the middle of the forest beside the lake.

PNC Arena hosts live music and comedy acts year-round as well as many smaller venues with Indy music such as the Lincoln Theater (so cool), the Pour House , and the Ritz. We even have intimate Candlelight concerts in historical venues each month .

Raleigh’s music festivals, like Hopscotch and IBMA’s World of Bluegrass , draw music enthusiasts from near and far. You’re not going to find live music at every brewery and bar in Raleigh, but you may find pop ups here and there.

The nightlife in Raleigh has really grown over the years and you have plenty of options. Glenwood Ave South has always been known as Party Street (best for late night partying) and is particularly popular with the younger crowd. East Harget St in downtown Raleigh will draw an older crowd with classy bars like Watts & Ward and the Greenlight Speakeasy.

If laughter is more your thing, Raleigh has a several comedy clubs including Goodnights in the Village District , Comedy Worx and Raleigh Improv in Cary. Check out the following articles:

• Cocktail bars in the Raleigh area
• Sports bars in Raleigh
• Best rooftop bars in Raleigh
• Breweries in Raleigh

Delicious Raleigh Food Experiences

Now, y’all know I love Raleigh, but in wearing my travel professional hat after visiting 40+ states and 50+ countries worldwide, I must be upfront and say, I don’t classify Raleigh as a “foodie” destination!

A foodie destination to me is like San Francisco where every hole in the wall you pass by has the best pho or cannoli you’ve eaten outside of its native country. Or, New Orleans, where French chefs bow down in praise of maintaining the integrity of every dish you eat whether it’s beignets on the street or fine dining in one of The Brennan Family’s restaurants. Yep. A foodie will know they are a NOLA institutional restauranter family.

Or destinations like Seattle and Portland , where every café has a cup of coffee that gets this Aussies nod of approval (Australians are a nation of proud coffee snobs, because we’re the best at it).

And then there’s NYC with every kind of cuisine you could ever hope for in one long street line and all great quality. Ask any New Yorker in Raleigh and they’ll tell you “ I can’t find any good NY bagels or slice of pizza ” I hear it’s the water. I wonder if that’s why the coffee is so different to Australia. We’re all snobs about something!

On an international scale, we think of places we’ve visited like Thailand, Singapore, Italy and France. Places we’d be happy to return to JUST for the food.

Raleigh is not a complete foodie town, yet. We don’t have any Michelin Star restaurants, but we do have James Beard award winning chefs. All this is not to say you can’t have memorable food experiences here. The food scene has improved immensely over the past decade and continues to evolve.

I want to be honest so you’re not disappointed IF you heard the term Raleigh = foodie destination. Personally, when we think of “foodie” destinations in the US, Raleigh doesn’t come to mind!

If you’re traveling to Raleigh for any other reason, I can assure you, you will find high-quality dining experiences . New, innovative, and delicious Raleigh restaurants are opening every month, and perhaps in a few years, Foodie Destination could be Raleigh’s new label. Nearby Durham is also making headway to that Tastiest Town of the South moniker.

Raleigh is a place to eat traditional Southern food like pulled pork BBQ, hush puppies, biscuits, and sweet tea. You can find good, not amazing, Italian, Mexican , Asian , Mediterranean, Seafood, pizza, burgers , bakeries , vegetarian/vegan, cheap eats, and fine dining!

Here are some of favorite Raleigh food experiences you’ll potentially rave about:

• Coffee: We love Fount Coffee , Heirloom , and Jubala
• Best brunches in Raleigh
• Best BBQ in Raleigh
• Where to eat breakfast in Raleigh
• Top vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Raleigh
• Where to find gluten free restaurants in Raleigh
• Crawford and Sons and Second Empire for Date night
• Second Empire date night

Thriving Raleigh Beer Scene

Now, we do rate the craft beer scene here up there with the best in the country, and you could visit Raleigh just to experience its fantastic craft breweries.

We’ve sampled many brews from some of the top beer cities in the U.S. such as Denver, Portland, San Diego and Asheville , and some of our favorite beers and breweries are right here in the city of oaks!

Beer not your thing? Cideries are starting to open in Raleigh with Bull City Ciderworks in downtown Cary, and East Bower in the Iron Works . Plus, you’ll find some cool wine bars , tap rooms, and even a winery here and there!

Here’s a list of breweries in Raleigh area to sip your way through the city! Let us know your favorite in the comments?

Family-Friendliness

It makes the list as one of the best places to live in the US for families, so it makes sense that it’s a family-friendly destination.

As mentioned above, you can generally take your kids anywhere in Raleigh (except for 21+ of course) and never be looked at strangely. Breweries and restaurants often have outside seating areas, kids’ menus, and even play areas set up.

Raleigh has an abundance of parks, playgrounds, indoor play centers, and kid-friendly attractions like the Marbles Kids Museum and Pullen Park ensure that children of all ages have a memorable visit. And nearby we have Wet ‘n Wild in Greensboro and Carowinds Theme Park in Charlotte . Read more:

• 75+ things to do in Raleigh with kids
• Fun things to do in North Hills with kids
• Fun things to do in Raleigh with teens
• Kid-Friendly trails in Raleigh
• How to spend a day in the Village District with kids

“y’all are welcome”

Raleigh’s cultural scene is a melting pot of art, music, and cuisine. It’s incredible to see how much this city has grown and how it embraces other cultures, both domestically and internationally.

But I love how Southern roots are not forgotten and it still thrills me every time I hear that Southern accent.

Raleigh is a progressive city that lives by its moniker “ y’all are welcome, and y’all means y’all. No matter what your interests or proclivities you will find experiences and people to match and make you feel at home here.

Downtown Raleigh has a huge percentage of women and black and brown owned businesses, which is rapidly growing. Black, LGBTQ, and Native American festivals are held each year as are other festivals that celebrate Diwali, Asian and Latina cultures, and many more.

There’s still a lot of work to be done, but the commitment to forward momentum is strong.

Great Towns in the Greater Raleigh area

A visit to Raleigh should not start and end within the city’s borders. “Only 20 minutes” is a common phrase Raleighites will use when talking about getting anywhere.

That’s not just within Raleigh borders, but across the entire Wake County, which is comprised of twelve municipalities, each with their own vibrant personalities, charming downtowns, and things to do.

Drive 20-minutes more and you’ll be visiting other fantastic destinations like Chapel Hill and Durham or Johnston County.

We love having so many cool towns to visit in the Greater Raleigh area. Apex and Cary made our top small towns in the USA – both are booming with modern hipster bars, and restaurants. As is downtown Wake Forest . And the town of Cary just opened a world-class downtown park that is only going to enhance its happening vibe.

North Hills or Midtown is one of our favorite places to hang out. It’s a mini city filled with retail, movie theaters and bowling avenues, some of our favorite restaurants in Raleigh and fun events in the town squares.

Many of the towns in Wake County are becoming their own little trendy hubs and wonderful places to live. Fill out the form below if you’re looking to relocate here and we can help you find the perfect neighborhood for you.

Looking for a Realtor

Are you looking to buy or sell a home and are in needed of a real estate agent in the Raleigh area?  As a Licensed Realtor and referral agent , I can save you the time and stress searching and vetting and connect you to my team of trusted Realtor partners.  Read more here or click the button below to fill out the form and get started.

Raleigh is also ideally located with proximity to the coast (2 hours) and to the Appalachian Mountain ranges, in North Carolina and surrounding states (3+ hours).

This means you can explore a variety of landscapes from beaches to hiking trails. Raleigh is a perfect stop over to any itinerary passing through North Carolina. Whatever reason you are visit Raleigh for, you can easily add in day trips or getaways to the North Carolina mountains and North Carolina beaches , making it a well-rounded experience.

Can you get any better than mountains, city and beach in the one trip? Read more in the following articles:

• Best day trips from Raleigh
• Top Cities near Raleigh to visit (under 8 hours )
• Wrightsville Beach Day Trip Itinerary
• Summer staycation at the luxurious Fearrington Inn, Pittsboro
• Fun getaway to Rocky Mount Mills
• Camping a t Lake Gaston and Kerr Lake

Raleigh, North Carolina, is a city that offers a well-rounded experience to visitors. Whether you’re interested in culture, education, technology, nature, or simply enjoying some good old-fashioned Southern charm, this area has something for everyone.

The diverse personality of Raleigh and its myriad attractions make it a city worth exploring and experiencing. Its attractiveness lies in its slower pace, friendly vibe, and ability to immerse yourself into local culture, enjoying what truly is important in life: good times, connection to nature, and interaction with others.

About The Author

Caroline Makepeace

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The 21 Best Things To Do In Raleigh, According To Locals

Our ultimate guide to North Carolina’s capital city.

• Food & Drink
• The Sounds of Raleigh
• Get Outside
• Raleigh Culture

Mlenny/Getty

Raleigh, Durham , and Chapel Hill may be grouped together into what’s known as North Carolina’s Research Triangle , but each destination has its own distinct personality, attractions, and reasons to visit. The state’s capital, Raleigh mixes your typical city features—tall buildings, museums , dedicated green spaces, and a variety of restaurants and bars—with a decidedly North Carolinian authenticity and quaintness. 

“Raleigh offers the best of both worlds,” says Sarah Shepherd, owner of Heights House Hotel . “It’s a close-knit community, but [it] also has the culture and sophistication of a bigger city.”

Ashley Christensen, chef and proprietor of AC Restaurants —a hospitality group that includes five dining establishments in Raleigh—echoes that sentiment, describing the City of Oaks as “vibrant.” Creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit fuel the city’s growth, and there’s a clear passion for showcasing what the region brings to the table. 

“Raleigh is filled with great restaurants, bars, and bakeries, and is surrounded by lots of really cool agricultural entities—from small farms and ranches to cheese producers, to heirloom grain projects,” Christensen says. Outside of the food world, Raleigh leverages its natural beauty, dedication to learning, and shared history to create one of North Carolina’s most underrated cultural hotspots. 

Thinking of planning a trip to the Research Triangle? Read on to discover the best things to do when visiting Raleigh. 

Get Your Fix of Raleigh’s Finest Food and Drink

Get a table at stanbury.

Jeff Bramwell

“From its neighborhood location to its unassuming atmosphere and amazing food… [Stanbury] is always a win,” says Angela Salamanca, owner of Raleigh’s Centro and Gallo Pelón Mezcaleria . The walk-in-only establishment offers a variety of small plates and cocktails, but the menu changes daily. In many ways, Stanbury reflects Raleigh’s own personality; it’s casual and spirited, but elevated and thoughtful. 

stanburyraleigh.com ; 938 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604; 919-977-4321

Order the Mac and Cheese at Poole’s Diner

Angie Mosier / Visit Raleigh

Southern comfort food can come in many forms, but it’s hard to beat the famous macaroni au gratin at Poole’s, Christensen’s first restaurant in Raleigh. Made with grana padano, Jarlsberg, and white cheddar, it’s a dish that can only be described as indulgent. And yes, it’s worth every bite.  

ac-restaurants.com/pooles ; 26 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601; 919-832-4477

Sip on a Cocktail at Heights House Hotel

Plant & Sprout

Even if you’re not spending the night Heights House Hotel—a restored Italianate mansion from the 1800s—carve out some time in your schedule to visit the property’s bar, known as The Parlor, and its common spaces. “There’s afternoon tea, a great bar, and a mix of contemporary art and period furnishings,” says Paul Baker, Ph.D., the executive director of CAM Raleigh . 

heightshousenc.com ; 308 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603; 919-594-1881

Feast Your Way Through a Food Hall

Brian Strickland / Visit Raleigh

If you, or the group you’re traveling with, can’t seem to make a decision on where to eat, head to one of Raleigh’s spacious food halls. Morgan Street Food Hall, located in the Warehouse District, is home to 20-plus culinary concepts, including handcrafted burger spot CowBar, Oak City Fish & Chips, and Curry in a Hurry. Alternatively, you can head to Transfer Co. Food Hall , which boasts 50,000 square feet of vendors, makers, restauranteurs, and more inside the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shops.

morganfoodhall.com ; 411 W Morgan St Raleigh, NC 27603; 919-307-4481 transfercofoodhall.com ; 500 E Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601; 984-232-8122

Fill Up on Baked Goods at Boulted Bread

Anna Routh Barzin 

Recommended by Christensen (so you know it’s going to be good), Boulted Bread is a craft bakery and stone mill that features an open bakehouse as well as indoor and outdoor seating. “Start your day here with a coffee from locally roasted beans, and the essential Boulted Bread Morning Bun… [made of] fresh croissant dough rolled with cinnamon, sugar, and lemon zest, and then coated in crunchy cane sugar post-bake,” she says. 

boultedbread.com ; 328 Dupont Cir, Raleigh, NC 27603

Tuck into Some North Carolina Barbecue at The Pit

A visit to North Carolina wouldn’t be complete without a plate of barbecue . Raleigh has a few different spots, but Baker recommends The Pit. “My family has eaten there for birthdays, Thanksgivings, and when friends who haven’t tried barbecue before come to town,” he says. “The staff almost provides a tutorial in the Southern tradition of barbecue and the accompanying regional sauces.” His must-try dishes? The brisket and the fried pimento cheese balls.

thepit-raleigh.com ; 328 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601; 919-890-4500

Follow the Raleigh Beer Trail

Visit Raleigh

Craft beer found a welcoming home in the greater Raleigh area. Today, more than 40 breweries are featured on the Raleigh Beer Trail passport , an interactive checklist that allows beer drinkers to earn prizes as they visit participating establishments. Looking to just hit a few of them? Try Little City Brewing & Provisions Co., Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie, or Crank Arm Brewing Company. 

littlecitybrewing.com ; 400 W North St Suite 120, Raleigh, NC 27603; 919-502-7155

neuseriverbrewing.com ; 518 Pershing Road, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27608; 984-232-8479

crankarmbrewing.com ; 319 W Davie Street, Raleigh, NC 27601; 919-324-3529

Pick Up Local Produce at the State Farmers Market 

State Farmers market

Open 363 days per year, the State Farmers Market is the perfect place to go when you want to balance out the heavier Southern food you’ve experienced over your trip. Admission is free, so you can wander the 30,000 square feet of North Carolina produce stands, specialty shops, and restaurants at your leisure. “It’s a really special thing to have access to,” says Christensen. 

facebook.com/StateFarmersMarket ;1201 Agriculture St, Raleigh, NC 27603;

Soak Up the Sounds of Raleigh

Attend one of the state’s best music festivals.

Garrett Poulos / Visit Raleigh

Raleigh has more than 80 music venues and hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year. IBMA World of Bluegrass and Hopscotch Music Festival mark the calendar in September, and J. Cole’s Dreamville Festival is held annually in April. 

worldofbluegrass.org ; 615-256-3222

hopscotchmusicfest.com

dreamvillefest.com

Catch a Show at Red Hat Amphitheater

Southern summers are defined by a few things—like catching lighting bugs, slicing fresh tomatoes for a sandwich, visiting on the front porch until long after the sun goes down, and attending outdoor concerts. “Catching a show at Red Hat Amphitheater is a must. Grab dinner at a downtown restaurant and then stroll on down to catch a great band and one of Raleigh’s best sunsets (especially with the Shimmer Wall just across the street),” recommends Christensen.

redhatamphitheater.com ; 500 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601; 919-996-8500 

Take Advantage of the Outdoors

Explore the city by foot .

David Kuhn / Visit Raleigh

The “best view of the city,” says Salamanca, can be found as you walk over Boylan Bridge; be sure to stop for a quick photo opp too. If the weather is nice, head to the Historic Oakwood neighborhood, where you can admire the area’s 19th-century Victorian-era homes. Pro tip: Download the free walking tour brochure before you go. 

Visit Pullen Park

Keenan Hairston / Visit Raleigh

Pullen Park holds the title of first public park in North Carolina, and it has the distinction of being the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the United States (and the 16th-oldest in the world). Today, it’s a wonderful outdoor space where you can rent a pedal boat, go swimming, ride a carousel, take an art class, and more. Children will also find plenty of fun on the miniature train and expansive playground. 

raleighnc.gov ; 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606; 919-996-6468

Explore the Neuse River Greenway Trail

© Michael Robson / Visit Raleigh

Part of North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail, the Neuse River Greenway Trail grants visitors access to 27.5 miles of paved pathways open for walking, running, and biking . Along the way, you’ll see wetlands, suspension bridges, agricultural fields, and historical and interpretive signs providing more information about the area. 

raleighnc.gov ; 1721 Riverview Rd, Raleigh, NC 27610; 919-996-3285,

North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

Take a Hike at William B. Umstead State Park

Ten miles from downtown Raleigh, you’ll find William B. Umstead State Park. Hiking trails and campgrounds are open to the public, and there’s even horseback riding, if that’s more your speed. Water-based activities include fishing and boating on Big Lake, where you can rent canoes and rowboats.

ncparks.gov ; 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27617

Discover the Past at Historic Yates Mill County Park

Wake County Government

If you’ve previously researched the best things to do in Raleigh, you may have come across images of the Historic Yates Mill, a fully restored and operable 18th-century water-powered mill. Found inside the 174-acre Historic Yates Mill County Park, the mill is free to visit, but you can pay a small fee to take a guided mill tour from March through November. 

wake.gov ; 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603; 919-856-6675

Soak in the Culture 

Experience the north carolina museum of art.

North Carolina Museum of Art / Visit Raleigh

The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCAM) is on the must-see list for most Raleighites. “The exhibits and outdoor grounds are one of my favorite spots in Raleigh—especially ideal for exploring as a family, and introducing to visiting friends,” says Shepherd. The indoor exhibitions, which span thousands of years, and the outdoor Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park are both free to the public. “You can either visit the museum itself, which has an extraordinary collection, or you can take a stroll down the park. Bring a picnic, stay and watch the sunset. It is a real treat,” says Salamanca.

ncartmuseum.org ; 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607; 919-839-6262

Walk the Galleries of the Contemporary Art Museum (CAM)

Baker, who became the executive director of the CAM Raleigh in 2022, notes that the museum includes works from both emerging as well as established artists. Past exhibited works include those of Durham-based photographer Kennedi Carter, the youngest person ever to shoot the cover of British Vogue . The museum goes above and beyond regular exhibitions, though. CAM also plays host to the North Carolina Artists Exhibition, “where visitors can see a juried exhibition of emerging artists from around the state,” says Baker.

camraleigh.org ; 409 W Martin St, Raleigh NC. 27603; 919-261-5920

Explore the Shelves at Liberation Station

Courtney Winter Martin

North Carolina’s first Black-owned children’s bookstore, Liberation Station , recently opened its doors in Raleigh, following a pop-up in 2019. The store aims to “[make] representation accessible and [amplify] Black voices ” by providing books and gifts that display diversity and inclusiveness. “Our 4-year-old son, August, loves books, and we’ve begun building his library of children’s books with engaging stores like Liberation Station. They also house a collection of letters written by Frederick Douglass that patrons can view and learn more about historical and archival documents,” says Baker. 

liberationstationbookstore.com , 208 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601

City of Raleigh

Tour the Pope House Museum 

Over 3,000 Pope family artifacts can be found inside the Pope House Museum. Once home to the only Black man to run for mayor of a Southern capital during the Jim Crow Era, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, the house museum gives visitors a look into one of Raleigh’s most fascinating families. Admission is free, but tours are first-come, first-served. 

raleighnc.gov , 511 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601

Enjoy a College Football Game

Grant Halverson  / Stringer / Getty

Raleigh might be a big city, but it’s also a college town . If you’re visiting during football season, you may be able to catch a game. “Raleigh is home to several collegiate football rivalries including North Carolina State University and UNC (in nearby Chapel Hill) and the longstanding Shaw University and Saint Augustine’s University rivalry,” says Baker. “Tailgating, socializing on fraternity and sorority plots, and bragging rights are all part of the North Carolina football tradition.”

Treasure Hunt at the Raleigh Market or City Market

Raleigh Market

Whether you’re casually browsing or looking for something specific, you’ll find exactly what you need at either Raleigh Market or City Market. The former is located at the historic NC State Fairgrounds, and over 500 vendors participate in the indoor-outdoor shopping flea and antique experience. Boutiques, shops, art galleries, restaurants, and specialty stores line the cobblestoned streets of City Market. If you’re doing a bout of morning shopping, fill up at Big Ed’s, which describes its menu offering as “country cooking at its best.”

theraleighmarket.com ; 4285 Trinity Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607; 919-839-4560 citymarketraleigh.com ; 215 Wolfe St., Raleigh, NC 27601 www.facebook.com/bigedsnorth ; 5009 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609; 919-747-9533

Related Articles

34 Things to Do in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill

Planning a trip to Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill? We've got you covered!

If you've never been to North Carolina, it's worth a trip. From the rolling mountains of Asheville and winding road of the Blue Ridge Parkway, to the heart of the state in the Research Triangle with its museums and delicious foods, to the beaches on the coast that welcome you with miles and miles of quiet sands. No matter what you're looking for, North Carolina's got it.

Today we're focusing on the Research Triangle: Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Let's just get right into it!

Traveling to Raleigh, NC soon? Checkout our travel vlog from our time in Raleigh!

Looking for something specific? Use the links below to jump to a section.

• In a hurry? Checkout the blogpost summary with a quick list of each place listed in this travel guide!

What is North Carolina's Triangle Area?

• Things to do in Raleigh
• Things to do in Durham
• Things to do in Chapel Hill
• Our other travel guides for North Carolina

Maybe you've heard people refer to the "The Triangle" in North Carolina. While many states have areas where multiple cities intersect and form a larger community out of multiple smaller ones, the North Carolina Research Triangle Area is different in that each city is very different but also incredible similar. Let me explain...

There are three cities that make up the Triangle: Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. To start with the similarities, each city is home to a major university that each has a large impact on its individual city, specifically when it comes to basketball. Each of the towns houses a top tier basketball team and there are fierce rivalries between them (especially between UNC and Duke). Everyone has a team and they'll let you know who they're for. Each of the three towns is also very southern in feel. Maybe not so much the politics or traditions, but the friendliness and delicious southern food can all be found in the Triangle Area.

You may have noticed I referred to it as "The Research Triangle" and that's because it's an incredible education and scientific driven community. From the universities to medical and tech companies moving into the area, there's always something new being discovered and, you guessed it, researched.

Let's start with Raleigh. Raleigh is not only home to North Carolina State University (primarily an engineering school), but it's also the state capital of North Carolina. It's the largest of the cities in the Triangle and it's an unusual combination of young and vibrant thanks to the thriving college and young professional scene and serious and political due to it being the base for all government affairs in the state. Personally I'm not much for politics (although I respect them) and I still really enjoyed living in Raleigh.

Up next is Durham. Durham is the more industrial feeling of the three cities. In its past it was a major hub for tobacco. While its tobacco days are in the past its redefining itself as a young, artistic, and vibrant city that still appreciates the past and where it all started. Duke University has called this town home for years and the student population has a large impact on the city as a whole.

The last of the three cities is Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill is definitely the smallest of the three cities which is why I love it. I'm always partial to a good college town! The University of North Carolina is home in Chapel Hill and its beautiful, sprawling campus gives the entire city a feeling of home. It also makes me want to crack open a book at a coffee shop and sit and read for hours on end.

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Things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina

Ah, Raleigh. This was the town we called home when we were dating and it's where we got engaged. This place holds a lot of nostalgia for us and every time we return we enjoy walking down memory lane eating at our favorite restaurants, visiting our favorite hotspots, and catching up with a few old friends.

While the whole Triangle Area is a wonderful place to visit (and/or call home), personally we think Raleigh is the best of the three cities. It certainly has the most to offer given that it is the largest of the three cities, but aside from that it's more diverse in its offerings. here are our favorite things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina!

• Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art

The North Carolina Museum of Art is a great place to visit when in Raleigh. It features an impressive collection of artwork from a variety of different time periods and cultures, including ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and contemporary works. The museum also has a number of interactive activities for visitors to enjoy, such as art classes and workshops.

Bonus: During the summer months the museum hosts a summer concert series and movies on the lawn. Be sure to check the schedule if you're planning to visit during the summer months!

Getting there: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is one of the most popular attractions in Raleigh. It features a wide range of exhibits focusing on natural history, including dinosaurs, mammals, birds, insects, plants, fossils, and more. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the museum's collections up close.

Getting there: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Pullen Park

Pullen Park is one of the oldest parks in Raleigh and it offers plenty of outdoor fun for visitors. There are two playgrounds for kids to enjoy, carousel, as well as a miniature train ride around the park grounds. Other activities include paddle boats on the lake, bike rentals, tennis courts, and more.

Getting there: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• Visit Historic Oakwood Cemetery

Historic Oakwood Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Raleigh and is home to some fascinating gravesites from various wars and conflicts throughout American history. Visitors can take guided tours through the cemetery or explore it at their own pace to learn more about its history and inhabitants.

Getting there: 701 Oakwood Ave, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• Shop at Cameron Village Shopping Center

Cameron Village Shopping Center is one of Raleigh's premier shopping destinations with over 100 stores ranging from high-end boutiques to local shops selling unique items from around town. There are plenty of restaurants located within the center as well where visitors can grab a bite after shopping or just relax with friends over coffee or drinks. We recommend grabbing a cup of frozen custard from Goodberry's on a hot day ( Goodberry's is one of our 35 favorite places to eat in Raleigh! ).

Getting there: 2034 Cameron St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• Checkout Moore Square

Moore Square is located in downtown Raleigh and has a rich history as a gathering place for locals since the 1700s. Today the area is home to Moore Square Market (a farmers market that runs Sundays May-October), regular events, and is surrounded by some of Raleigh's best restaurants.

Getting there: E Hargatt St and S Blunt St | Google Maps

Take a Stroll Through William B. Umstead State Park

William B Umstead State Park is located just outside downtown Raleigh and it offers plenty for nature lovers to enjoy including miles upon miles of trails perfect for hiking or biking along with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities in its forested areas . There are also picnic areas located throughout the park where visitors can stop for lunch before continuing their exploration.

Getting there: 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Catch a Performance at Martin Marietta Center For The Performing Arts

The Duke Energy Center For The Performing Arts is located right next door to William B. Umstead State Park. This venue hosts a variety concerts, plays, musicals, comedy shows, dance performances, lectures, symposiums, film screenings, art exhibitions, family events, festivals, workshops, special events, etc throughout its calendar year.

Getting there: 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Learn About Local History At The North Carolina State Capitol

The North Carolina State Capitol building was built in 1840 and today serves as both an historic landmark as well as one housing various government offices . Visitors can take guided tours through this building which will provide them with insight into both state politics as well as local history.

Getting there: 1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Watch A Game At PNC Arena

PNC Arena is home to both NHL ice hockey team, the Carolina Hurricanes , which the city loves . If you want to feel a part of the community, be sure to catch a lively 'Canes match. PNC Arena also hosts concerts and other events, so be sure to check their calendar to see what's on the agenda.

Getting there: 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Spend An Afternoon At Marbles Kids Museum

Marbles Kids Museum offers plenty for children & families alike ! This interactive museum features multiple exhibit halls filled with hands-on activities designed specifically for kids ages 1-10 such as building blocks & giant bubble makers ! They even have special theme days during certain weeks so be sure check their website ahead time plan your visit accordingly!

Getting there: 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Explore Nature At Lake Johnson Nature Park

Lake Johnson Park provides visitors with access gorgeous wetlands full diverse wildlife such migratory birds & turtles. Here you'll find multiple trails perfect walking & jogging along with canoeing & kayaking opportunities available rent nearby marina. Additionally there's also fishing allowed certain times year depending season so make sure familiarize yourself regulations before heading out!

Getting there: 4601 Avent Ferry Rd, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Grab A Bite To Eat At Morgan Street Food Hall

Morgan Street Food Hall houses over 20 different eateries all under same roof making it great spot grab quick bite eat without having worry about choosing just one. We always recommend a this spot for families and/or large groups where different people might be craving different things. At a food hall everyone is sure to find something that fits their fancy!

Getting there: 411 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• Visit North Carolina State University

NCSU is home to a vibrant student life scene with plenty of clubs, organizations, sports teams, and social events happening year round on campus. Visitors can take a tour or attend one of the university’s many cultural events such as concerts, plays, lectures, films screenings, art shows, etc., which are open to both students and non-students alike! We always recommend people checkout the James B. Hunt Jr. Library (it's pretty cool!) and grab a cup of coffee at Jubala (or favorite!) just across the street from the schools iconic Memorial Belltower .

Getting there: 101 Current Dr, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Take in Some Art at Contemporary Art Museum (CAM)

CAM (Contemporary Art Museum) is dedicated solely to contemporary art from around the world with rotating exhibitions featuring works from emerging artists as well as established ones like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein among many others. Visitors can explore CAM's permanent collection or attend one of their lectures or workshops that cover topics ranging from photography to video art installation pieces.

Getting there: 409 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Enjoy a Concert at Red Hat Amphitheater

This 5,000 seat amphitheater is located right in the heart of downtown Raleigh. During the summer months this venue hosts some of the biggest names in music. Our idea of the perfect summer date night in Raleigh is grabbing dinner at Poole's Diner then walking across the street to Red Hat Amphitheater for a show.

Getting there: 500 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Enjoy Raleigh's Extensive Bike and Pedestrian Greenways

Raleigh is home to miles and miles of paved trails for cyclists and pedestrians alike. One of my absolute favorite things to do in Raleigh is to look at the map , pick a trail, and just start running. The trails have always felt incredibly safe and they're very well maintained. My favorite trails are the Neuse River Trail and the Crabtree Creek Trail.

Discover Raleigh's Greenway System

Learn About Local History At Mordecai Historical Park

Mordecai Historical Park is another great attraction located near downtown Raleigh where visitors will learn about local history dating back centuries. The park features the birthplace of US President Andrew Johnson, who's home is now a museum. Visitors can also catch a trolley tour of the city from this location.

Getting there: 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• See the North Carolina Executive Mansion (the Governor’s Mansion)

Located in downtown Raleigh, the Governor’s Mansion is an iconic landmark in North Carolina and a great place to visit when you’re in town. Tours are available but must be booked at least two weeks in advance.

Getting there: 200 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

• Tour Videri Chocolate Factory

Not only is Videri one of our favorite dessert spots in Raleigh, it's also a fun place to checkout. The shop is a bean to bar chocolate factory meaning that they take the chocolate through the entire process from green bean to chocolate bar right in house. The shop features a self-guided mini tour where you can see the chocolate makers working on everything from roasting the cocoa to making delicate truffles.

Getting there: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps

Things to do in Durham, North Carolina

Located just down the street from Raleigh is the town of Durham, North Carolina. Famous as being home to Duke University, Durham has a colorful history to its present day self as a quaint town with lots to do.

• Visit Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Duke Gardens is a 55-acre botanical garden located on the campus of Duke University in Durham, NC. The gardens feature over 5 miles of walking trails through lush gardens filled with trees, flowers and other plants from around the world. Visitors can take part in guided tours or explore on their own to discover all that Duke Gardens has to offer!

Getting there: 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC | Google Maps

Discover Science at the Museum of Life and Science

Located on a 84-acre campus, Durham's Museum of Life and Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural world. The museum provides interactive exhibits, an onsite butterfly house, and a farmyard where kids can meet farm animals.

Getting there: 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC | Google Maps

Visit Duke University's Chapel

Duke University's chapel is an iconic part of the University's skyline. With its gothic architecture and rich history, it is a must-see for any visitor. The chapel often hosts concerts and other cultural events which would be the perfect way to experience its incredible acoustics.

Getting there: 401 Chapel Dr, Durham, NC | Google Maps

• Explore the American Tobacco Historic District

This district, which was once the headquarters of the American Tobacco Company, has been transformed into an entertainment hub replete with restaurants, bars, shops, and even a theater. It's a great place to explore and soak up some local history.

Getting there: 300 Blackwell St #104, Durham, NC | Google Maps

• Attend a Durham Bulls Game

Baseball fans shouldn't miss out on an opportunity to visit the iconic Durham Bulls Athletic Park . Try to catch a game if the season's right, or take a tour of the stadium if it's not baseball season. Visitors of all ages will enjoy this favorite American past time in a city that loves to support their team!

Getting there: 409 Blackwell St, Durham, NC | Google Maps

• Dine at the Durham Food Hall

From seafood to barbecue, the Durham Food Hall has a myriad of dining options for everyone. It is a great place to taste the local flavors and enjoy a meal.

Getting there: 530 Foster St Suite 1, Durham, NC | Google Maps

• Visit the Nasher Museum of Art

Located at Duke University, the Nasher Museum of Art is recognized for its contemporary art collection. The museum hosts rotating exhibits, so there's always something new to see. The permanent collection is composed of over 10,000 works of art and the rotating exhibit fills a 65,000 sq/ft space. No matter if you're there to see the rotating exhibit or the permanent collection, you're sure to have plenty of amazing works to set your sights upon.

Getting there: 2001 Campus Dr, Durham, NC | Google Maps

• Take a run, ride, or walk on the Tobacco Trail

The Tobacco Trail is an idyllic spot in Durham that you should not miss while visiting. This 22-mile trail, built on a historic railroad track, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts providing a peaceful setting for walking, cycling, or running. It's a trail that features natural beauty and historical significance, taking you through lush landscapes and remnants of North Carolina's rich tobacco industry past. Make sure to pack a picnic, as there are several rest spots along the way where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Getting there: Google Maps

Things to do in Chapel Hills, North Carolina

Chapel Hill is the third city in North Carolina's Triangle Area. Home to the University of North Carolina, this is the quintessential college town. From delicious food to beautiful shaded walkways through campus and a vibrant music scene, this little town has it all.

• Visit Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

As one of the oldest and largest planetariums in the United States, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center offers incredible star-gazing opportunities, science exhibits, and interactive displays. A visit here is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Getting there: 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps

• Stroll through the North Carolina Botanical Garden

Experience the rich biodiversity of the region at the North Carolina Botanical Garden . This 1,000-acre garden offers a stunning display of native North Carolina plants and features nature trails, carnivorous plant collections, and more.

Getting there: 100 Old Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps

• Take a Campus Tour at the University of North Carolina

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , one of the oldest public universities in the U.S., offers guided campus tours. It's a great chance to soak up the historic atmosphere and see the famous Old Well.

Getting there: 209 South Rd, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps

• Wander around the Ackland Art Museum

Located on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, the Ackland Art Museum houses a collection of over 18,000 works of art. The museum features diverse exhibitions from Asia, Europe, and America and offers educational programs for all ages.

Getting there: 101 S Columbia St, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps

• Explore the Carolina Basketball Museum

For sports enthusiasts, a visit to the Carolina Basketball Museum is a must. The museum chronicles the history of the UNC basketball program, showcasing jerseys, trophies, and other memorabilia.

Getting there: 450 Skipper Bowles Dr, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps

• Enjoy the Franklin Street Area

Franklin Street is a vibrant area in downtown Chapel Hill known for its array of shops, restaurants, and bars. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal, do some shopping, or catch some live music.

Getting there: Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps

In a hurry? Here's the quick list summary of this travel guide.

Things to do in raleigh, north carolina.

• Enjoy outdoor activities at Pullen Park
• Take a stroll through William B. Umstead State Park
• Catch a performance at Martin Marietta Center For the Performing Arts
• Learn about local History at the North Carolina State Capitol
• Watch a hockey match at PNC Arena
• Spend an afternoon at Marbles Kids Museum
• Explore nature at Lake Johnson Park
• Grab a bite to eat at Morgan Street Food Hall
• Take in some art at Contemporary Art Museum (CAM)
• Enjoy a concert at Red Hat Amphitheater
• Enjoy Raleigh's extensive bike and pedestrian greenways
• Learn about local history at Mordecai Historical Park

Things To Do in Durham, North Carolina

• Discover science at the Museum of Life and Science
• Visit Duke University’s Chapel

Things to do in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Life this post checkout our other travel guides to the carolinas.

• 35 Best Restaurants in Raleigh, North Carolina That Locals Love
• 24 Fun-Filled Things to do in Greenville, South Carolina
• 21 Best Places to Eat and Drink in Greenville, South Carolina
• 9 Weekend Trips from Atlanta, Georgia Worth Taking

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10 Top Raleigh-Durham Attractions By Correspondent Kim Foley MacKinnon

May 29, 2017

Sarah P. Duke Gardens . Credit: Durham Convention Visitors Bureau

From top-notch museums — many of which offer free admission — to a thriving food and craft beer scene, the Raleigh-Durham area will surprise you with its plentiful offerings. Here are some of the area’s most popular attractions.

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences If you spot a giant three-story outdoor multimedia globe, then you know you’ve found one of the state’s most highly regard museums . With more than 25 permanent exhibitions, many of which are interactive; the Nature Research Center, where you can watch scientists at work; and a host of fascinating traveling exhibits, which change every three to six months, learning about the natural world couldn’t be more engaging.

North Carolina Museum of History Start with the museum ’s signature exhibit “The Story of North Carolina” for a comprehensive picture of the state from its earliest inhabitants through the 20th century. Highlights include stone tools dating to 12,000 to 1,000 B.C., a cannon recovered from the pirate Blackbeard’s flagship, a full-size replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer airplane and a host of interactive exhibits.

The museum is also home to the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame , which has more than 200 items representing state sports heroes, such as driver Richard Petty’s stock car and Meadowlark Lemon’s Harlem Globetrotters basketball uniform.

North Carolina Museum of Art With a collection ranging from Egyptian funerary art to contemporary pieces, not to mention 30 works by Auguste Rodin (the most of any museum in the southeastern United States), the North Carolina Museum of Art is a fascinating place to visit.

The permanent collection also includes European Old Master paintings, African and Judaic works of art, sculpture and vase painting from ancient Greece and Rome, and American art from the 18th through 20th centuries. Its 164-acre Museum Park, the largest in the U.S., is home to more than a dozen works of art, gardens and walking trails.

Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University . Credit: Brad Feinknopf/Nasher Museum of Art & Durham Convention Visitors Bureau

Duke University There’s a lot to do and see on this historic 8,500-acre campus, which features 11 different schools, a medical center, a 7,900-acre forest and a 55-acre garden. It’s known for its Georgian and Gothic Revival architecture, so simply strolling along its streets can be a pleasure. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

Also on campus is the Nasher Museum of Art , which displays African, American, European and Latin American artwork and includes pieces by Rodin, Picasso and Matisse.

North Carolina State Capitol Completed in 1940, this stunning Greek Revival-style building, a National Historic Landmark, was once home to all the state government’s office. Today it is partly a museum and partly executive office space.

Capitol highlights include its domed rotunda, the original 1840 legislative furniture and a reproduction of Antonio Canova’s statue of George Washington, who is depicted as a Roman general with a tunic, tight-fitting body armor and a cape. Free guided tours are offered Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Raleigh Beer Garden Officially home to the world’s largest draft beer selection, according to representatives from Guinness World Records who visited in 2015, this is the go-to spot to sample one (or more) beers from a menu boasting 366 options, with 144 from the state.

The enormous restaurant and bar features a rooftop deck, plenty of seating indoors and out and a typical pub menu of burgers and pizzas. If you don’t have a taste for beer, there’s also bar dedicated to whiskeys and bourbons.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens Founded in 1934, this free 55-acre botanic garden spans five miles of allées, walkways and pathways. Meander through four different sections: the Historic Gardens, where you can see Akebono cherry trees, heirloom roses and a koi pool with water lilies; the H.L. Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, a representation of the flora of the southeastern United States; the William Louis Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, with Southeastern Asian plants; and the Doris Duke Center Gardens, with a lovely and tranquil pond. 

Both guided walking tours and trolley tours are available at various times, or you can pick up a map and head out on your own.

Herons Restaurant . Credit: The Umstead Hotel and Spa

The Umstead Hotel and Spa Indulge in a weekend at the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Umstead Hotel and Spa , which is about 15 minutes from Raleigh. With a stunning and serene setting, a world-class art collection, the excellent Five-Star Herons restaurant (which alone warrants a trip here) and a 16,000-square-foot spa , it can be hard to drag yourself away once ensconced in all its comforts.

Pullen Park North Carolina’s first public park , this 66-acre green space in Raleigh offers all sorts of outdoor activities, including running, biking, playing tennis and having a picnic. It also is home to a working 1911 Gustave A. Dentzel Menagerie Carousel, a miniature train and Lake Howell, where on nice days, it’s fun to rent a pedal boat.

William B. Umstead State Park Located among the cities of Raleigh, Cary and Durham, the 5,570-acre William B. Umstead State Park provides an expansive place to enjoy the outdoors. Activities include walking, biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, cycling, boating and more. The rangers also lead a number of guided programs, and a visit to the Exhibit Hall is a good place to learn more about the park.

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27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Raleigh (North Carolina)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 29, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and one of the most impressive cities in all of the American South.

If you’re looking for a great experience in one of the most beautiful places in the United States , you need to plan a trip to Raleigh.

We’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina just for you.

Table of Contents

1. North Carolina State Capitol

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

As the seat of government in North Carolina, Raleigh is an excellent place to visit for political education.

The North Carolina State Capitol is a historic and beautiful sight.

Touring this building is one of the best things to do in Raleigh.

First built in 1840, the North Carolina State Capitol has been updated over the years, such as with its stunning rotunda, installed in 1970.

However, its original Greek Revival design remains.

You can tour this state capitol and learn all about government in North Carolina.

Anyone who wants to have one of the top learning experiences should come to the state capitol in Raleigh.

The capitol is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There’s no charge for admission.

Address:  1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

2. North Carolina Museum of Art

North Carolina Museum of Art

One of the most fun things to do in Raleigh is to go to the North Carolina Museum of Art .

This is one of the finest cultural institutes in the whole state.

This museum brings near absorbing pieces from talented artists all over the world.

If you’re in Raleigh for a weekend, you should definitely come to the North Carolina Museum of Art.

Going to the North Carolina Museum of Art is like going on a globe-trotting expedition.

There’s art not only from North America, but also places like Egypt, Oceania, and more.

Many of these pieces go back thousands of years.

There are also exhibitions such as “The Collector’s Eye” and “John James Audubon’s The Birds of America” that show unique perspectives on different topics.

The North Carolina Museum of Art is one of many reasons why art lovers should come to Raleigh.

At this museum, you can experience so much impressive artwork and learn engrossing stories about the different artists and eras.

The North Carolina Museum of Art is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m, Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is free for the permanent collection, but things like exclusive exhibitions and classes are charged.

Address:  2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA

3. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

zimmytws / Shutterstock

Downtown Raleigh is full of amazing attractions.

One of the biggest is the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences .

Here, you can come in contact with tons of wonderful information about nature.

When you come to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, you’ll be able to grasp so much more about the world around you.

There isn’t a natural history museum bigger than this in the entire southeast.

They make the most of it, with exhibitions regarding fascinating topics such as the age of the dinosaurs, the tropics, and even a butterfly room.

There are also experts around who can help to further visitors’ understanding of complex topics.

This is especially great if you’re coming with your children and want to tap into their natural sense of curiosity.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences shows just how extraordinary our world is.

Because of the curators’ tireless efforts, you can find a much closer connection to the plants and animals.

This museum is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

There’s no charge for admission, but you’re welcome to donate.

Address:  11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

4. North Carolina Museum of History

There are so many great stories to be learned about North Carolina, and much of this information goes to before it was given that name.

At the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh, you can get a very generous helping of history about this state.

Through information both visual and oral, you can come away feeling like an expert on North Carolina.

The North Carolina Museum of History is full of exhibitions that will have you expressing audible awe based on the incredible artifacts that have been shared, many of which date back for millennia.

Fun exhibits can be seen here, like the “1920s Drugstore” and inventor David Marshall “Carbine” Williams’s workshop.

Coming here is what to do for anyone with any kind of interest in the past.

Time spent at the North Carolina Museum of History is time well spent.

You can have lots of fun seeing all the exhibits and investigating North Carolina many backstories.

his museum is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Address:  5 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

5. Marbles Kids Museum

Marbles Kids Museum

If you’re coming up to Raleigh, North Carolina for a weekend with your children, you should come to the Marbles Kids Museum .

This is one of the most fun Raleigh attractions.

Not only will you and kids be giddy with excitement, but you can also get a lot of learning done as well.

Marbles Kids Museum is all about showing that you’re never too young nor too old to be curious about your surroundings.

Some of the best parts of the Marble Kids Museum, located in downtown Raleigh, are “Around Town,” which gives kids a chance to simulate experiences like driving and going to school.

Also, “Treetunes,” an introduction to music, and “Sun Sprouts,” which teaches all about gardening.

Adults can have a great time at Marble Kids Museum as well.

Just being able to watch your children being astonished by how much wonder they have to uncover is thrilling.

You won’t be losing your marbles if you go to the Marbles Kids Museum.

This is one of the most enjoyable family outings in all of Raleigh.

This museum is every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $7 for everyone except for children under one, who get in for free, and military members, who get in for $6.

Address:  201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

Planning a road trip around North Carolina? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Charlotte  & things to do in Wilmington, NC !

6. Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours

Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours

Hearing about some of the Raleigh culinary offerings will have you licking your lips in anticipation.

One of the best things to do in Raleigh is going on one of the Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours .

These tours bring you through some of the finest culinary establishments in all of North Carolina.

By the end of the tour, you might be lamenting not having all these places back home.

These walking tours are also a great way to get out and really get a sense of what Raleigh is all about.

On these tours, you don’t just get to try delicious food.

You also get to jump into different aspects of the city’s history.

Tour available are the Raleigh Downtown Dinner & Drinks Tours, Raleigh Downtown Tasting Tour: Foodies, Food Shops, and Food Halls, and Raleigh’s Downtown Speakeasies: The Craft Cocktail Tour.

Going on Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours is one of the top options for anyone who considers themselves to be a true foodie.

Tours are also operated in cities such as Durham , Asheville , and Charlotte .

On these weekend tours, you and your palate can have an amazing time.

7. Pullen Park

gurezende / Shutterstock

The outdoors are especially great when you’re in Raleigh, North Carolina.

At Pullen Park , which includes indoor and outdoor attractions, you can enjoy lots of neat attractions for unwinding and entertainment.

Pullen Park goes back to the late-19th century, and it continues to be one of the best places to visit in Raleigh.

With more 60 acres of land, this park, near downtown Raleigh, has been designed with lots of love for the city’s residents as well as tourists.

You can have a picnic, play some sports, see a performance at the theater, or go for a swim at the aquatic center.

You can also go for a stroll, taking in all of the joys of the environment.

Some of your best experiences in Raleigh can be had at Pullen Park.

This has been a prime location for fun for more than a century.

Pullen Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA

8. Joel Lane Museum House

LEE SNIDER PHOTO IMAGES / Shutterstock

Before the Joel Lane Museum House , Raleigh was a much more rustic area.

Plantation owner Lane having his house built here in the latter half of the 18th century helped to usher in a new era of prosperity for Raleigh.

When you come to the Joel Lane Museum House, you’ll be able to gather an even greater sense of Raleigh fascinating history.

Operated by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of North Carolina, the Joel Lane Museum House has been kept in remarkable condition.

The heavily yellow color scheme gives it a distinct look on the outside.

You can also take tours that are chock full of cool information.

When you’re at the Joel Lane Museum House, you can really start to see how Raleigh got off the ground.

Touring this historic place is one of the top things to do in Raleigh.

The Joel Lane Museum House is open from Wednesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, $4 for students (from elementary school to college), and free for children six and younger.

Address:  728 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA

9. JC Raulston Arboretum

Belight / Shutterstock

Thousands of amazing plants can be seen at the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, North Carolina.

This is one of the most fun things to do in Raleigh if you love nature.

Your eyes, nose, and hopefully more will be enchanted by all of the natural gems that are able to thrive at the JC Raulston Arboretum.

As you’d hope, there are lots of incredible trees at this arboretum.

Among these are the muku tree, the golden chain tree, and the seven-son’s tree.

Other plants you can see here include the twin-flowering abelia, the blue baneberry perennial, and the ‘Twisted Tongue’ agave.

Tours, offered on Sundays from March to October, give an even deeper understanding.

At the JC Raulston Arboretum, there are more beautiful plants than you could ever dream of seeing.

This is one of the best tourist attractions in all of Raleigh.

This arboretum is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. from April to October and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November to March.

Admission is free of charge.

Address:  4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA

10. The Mordecai House

Another fantastic and historic home in Raleigh, North Carolina is The Mordecai House .

This home was completed in 1785. It’s been around longer than any other home in the entire city.

Now a National Historic Landmark, The Mordecai House gives visitors one of the best educational opportunities in Raleigh.

While the Mordecai House, built in part by Joel Lane, was a plantation centuries ago, it’s now a very lovely museum and park.

Mordecai Square Historic Park is a great place to wander about.

This home is also where President Andrew Johnson was born.

You can also have fun with transportation by riding one of the Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours, commencing and concluding at the Mordecai House.

Checking out The Mordecai House is one of the coolest things to do in downtown Raleigh.

You tap into a supremely interesting part of Raleigh history and see some amazing sights along the way.

If you’re looking for fun places to go to in Raleigh, you should definitely visit The Mordecai House.

Address:  1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

Looking for more places to visit in North Carolina ? Be sure to read our lists of fun things to do in Boone, NC  & things to do in Fayetteville, NC !

11. Stanbury

Great Raleigh restaurants like Stanbury give you a dining experience that doesn’t stop with the food.

This place has not only a great menu, but it’s also furnished with lots of love.

When you come to Stanbury, you can count on cleaning your plate and looking all around in total wonder of all there is to see.

The food at Stanbury is familiar enough to be satisfying but daring enough that you don’t feel like it’s something you could just get anywhere.

One of the coolest things about this place is that each day’s menu is different from the one before it.

The design is also quite fabulous, including the open kitchen construction.

Stanbury is definitely one of the top places to visit for food in Raleigh.

You can get food and drinks that are both beyond magnificent.

This restaurant is open from Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  938 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

12. North Carolina Executive Mansion

Jill Lang / Shutterstock

Raleigh is full of historic estates that are fit for a king.

The North Carolina Executive Mansion is one of the most enticing of these tourist attractions.

If you love elaborate real estate, one of the most enjoyable activities in Raleigh is touring the North Carolina Executive Mansion.

This is the place the state’s governors have called home from 1891 and on.

More than two dozen state leaders have called it home since its founding.

Residing here is a badge of honor, not only for it signifying one’s political power but also for its fine Victorian architecture.

Going on a tour of the Executive Mansion puts you near generations of greatness.

If you want to see this mansion, you should start planning today, as tours must be scheduled at least two weeks ahead.

The Executive Mansion has been called “the most beautiful governor’s residence interior in America” by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and we hope you’ll see why.

Address:  200 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

13. Videri Chocolate Factory

Videri Chocolate Factory

Inside the long-standing Raleigh Depot building is one of the most mouthwatering environments in the whole state.

The Videri Chocolate Factory has been satisfying all kinds of sweet tooths.

Chocolate fanatics have to find time in their Raleigh trip for a tour of the Videri Chocolate Factory.

On this tour, you can see how some of the finest chocolate in the south is produced.

Not only is Videri chocolate delicious, but it’s also socially-conscious, as they take part in fair trade practices.

When the tour is done, you’ll want to get your hands on as much chocolate in the shop as possible.

The Videri Chocolate Factory is one of the most comforting Raleigh attractions.

This company and the city has so much love for this product.

Tours must include at least ten people and cost $20 per person.

Address:  327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

14. City Cemetery

City Cemetery of Raleigh

It’s not one of the more fun Raleigh attractions, but a chance to visit City Cemetery isn’t one you should forego.

This is a massive and magnificent cemetery.

Whether you have anyone who you specifically want to pay your respects to, City Cemetery gives you quite a lot to take in.

Going back to the end of the 18th century, City Cemetery is enclosed by a fence made of iron.

It’s also divided into different areas, including one for black deceased that’s largely comprised of slaves.

More information about the cemetery and its story can be gathered through guided tours.

The afterlife is a mystery, but at City Cemetery, the dead can be given a truly noble resting place.

City Cemetery is one of the most interesting places to visit in the entire state.

This cemetery is open 24 hours a day.

Address:  17 S East St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

15. Sassool

Sassool – Raleigh

If you love Mediterranean food and are coming to Raleigh, you have to make a stop at Sassool .

This is one of the best places to visit for those who devour hummus, shwarma, and other delights.

Biting into a falafel is rarely as good as it is at Sassool.

This is also a Lebanese restaurant. You can find classic Lebanese concoctions like labneh and mjadarah.

There are plenty of items on this menu without meat, making it a great place to visit for omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans.

Should you want to pick up some things to take back, you can go to the adjacent grocery.

Sassool is one of the best parts of Raleigh in terms of showing cultural diversity.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  9650 Strickland Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615, USA

Interested to explore outside of Raleigh? Why not check out some of the things to do in Cherokee, NC  & some of the things to do in Greensboro, NC ?

16. City of Raleigh Museum

City of Raleigh Museum

Another great learning establishment in Raleigh is the City of Raleigh Museum .

Coming to this museum, you get to find all about Raleigh and what makes it tick.

Its location is also especially interesting, as it’s in the notable Briggs Hardware Building.

Thousands of items related to Raleigh can be seen at the City of Raleigh Museum.

This museum has also played host to some very cool exhibitions.

Some of these include “Silent Killers: The Legacy of the 1918 Spanish Flu” and “America’s Wars: Individual Experience and Collective Memory.”

Visiting the City of Raleigh Museum is one of the most satisfying activities you can enjoy when in Raleigh.

It’s very heartening to know that the people of Raleigh have a museum that preserves their history as well as the City of Raleigh Museum.

This museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Address:  220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

17. Raleigh Farmers Market

Kevin Oliver / flickr

The farmers market is a beloved tradition in many cities, and Raleigh is no exception.

When you want to mingle with vendors and other customers in a marketplace that will have you looking everywhere in excitement, you’ll want to come to Raleigh Farmers Market .

It has everything you’re looking for if you love things that are fresh and beautiful.

Farmers from the area promote their most tempting fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and other goods at this farmers market.

Should you need ingredients for a meal while in Raleigh, this is where to come first.

You can also pick up awesome artisanal goods here, such as soap.

Lots of fun can be had to browse all the different parts of the farmers market.

The Raleigh Farmers Market is a great place to visit both during the week and on the weekend.

It’s definitely one of the top farmers markets in the south.

Stock up on goods at this farmers market, because it might include some of the freshest and most delicious produce you’ve ever come across.

It’s open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  1201 Agriculture St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA

18. J.S. Dorton Arena

Jeff Zehnder / Shutterstock

A great place for seeing big events when in Raleigh, is at J.S. Dorton Arena .

Around since 1952, Dorton Arena is one of the most well-designed event spaces in the state.

No matter how large the crowd or how big the performer is, Dorton Arena feels like a close-knit environment that everyone can enjoy themselves at.

Something really cool about Dorton Arena is how it’s roof is there aren’t any steel posts that block your vision, due to the roof having a suspended design.

Events such as concerts, athletic competitions, and even the state fair are hosted here.

Artists like Led Zeppelin and Johnny Cash have headlined at Dorton Arena.

If you’re seeking out what to do while in Raleigh, you should see what’s happening at Dorton Arena.

Just the experience of being at this venue is a lot of fun.

There could even be something awesome occurring there this weekend.

Address:  1025 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA

19. Tazza Kitchen

Tazza Kitchen

Tazza Kitchen is a great place to visit for adults and kids looking to have a romantic evening out in Raleigh.

This restaurant satisfies the stomach without breaking the bank.

Regional ingredients help to make the dining experience even more special, as you can really sense all of the freshness.

Tazza Kitchen is in the planned community of Cameron Village.

It started in Virginia but has branched out into other areas of the southeast.

No matter where you go, you can count on a greatly satisfying menu of wood fire-prepared foods as well as fantastic drinks.

It’s a terrific place to stop in for breakfast, lunch, or brunch.

Eating at Tazza Kitchen is a very good choice for dining in Raleigh.

Just about everyone can find something they like at this restaurant.

Tazza Kitchen is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and then from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

It’s also open on Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on Monday from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  432 Woodburn Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605, USA

20. Raleigh Little Theater

Cgb628 [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

At the Raleigh Little Theater , you can see the people of the city come together for community theater productions that demand as much applause as possible.

Guests of all ages can find something they like at the Raleigh Little Theater.

The Raleigh Little Theater was started in 1936.

In the last few years alone, it has hosted shows such as “SPAMALOT,” “Charlie Brown Christmas” and “The Tempest.”

Catching a performance at Raleigh Little Theater is one of the most fun things to do at night.

There’s always going to room for live theater venues, but that’s only if people do all they can to keep them around.

This theater is such a rightfully venerated cultural site.

Take a look at the schedule to see if there are any shows you’ll be able to catch while you’re in Raleigh.

You can count on seeing some high-quality entertainment.

Address:  301 Pogue St, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA

21. Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh

James Willamor / flickr

Coming to The Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh, better known as CAM Raleigh , is one of the nicest activities for those who love art that can be interpreted in all kinds of ways.

Experiencing it is one of the most fun things to do in downtown Raleigh.

You could come to CAM Raleigh and then come back a year later and it could look completely different.

That’s because the exhibitions are regularly rotated.

However, there’s always something worth checking out at CAM Raleigh.

Some of the artists who’ve had work shown at this museum include Angel Otero, Jonathan Horowitz, and Chris Bradley.

There are plenty of amazing things to see at this museum.

It’s open on Thursday and Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It can also be visited on Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment.

There’s no admission charge at the museum either.

Address:  409 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA

22. Yates Mill

Paul Brady Photography / Shutterstock

There are lots of reasons to come out to Yates Mill County Park , including a wildlife refuge.

However, the biggest might be the eponymous Yates Mill.

Touring this attraction is a very good way to spend a day.

If you’re in or near Raleigh, you should see Yates Mill.

This is a mill that goes back to the 18th century.

Thanks to its restoration, it continues to be a part of the local industry.

You can go on tours like the Corn Grinding tour to get a comprehensive education on mills and how they operate.

A visit to Yates Mill makes for a great entry into your travel diary.

The park is open every day from 8 a.m. until sunset.

Tours are available during specific hours and by appointment.

It’s between 3 and 5 dollars for admission.

Address:  4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA

23. Morgan Street Food Hall

If you want to be bowled over by dining options, you should come to Morgan Street Food Hall .

This is a fairly new complex with more than a dozen great eateries to choose from.

Part of the city’s Warehouse District, Morgan Street Food Hall appeals to all sorts of taste sensibilities.

The name and concept of Morgan Street Food Hall might make you think of a food court, but it’s much more refined than that.

If you know of a food court with options as fine as Cousins Maine Lobster or Iyla’s Southern Kitchen, please let us know.

Morgan Street Food Hall covers so much ground when it comes to dining.

With so much stuff to do in this city, you’ll want to find quality places to refuel.

Morgan Street Food Hall brings all kinds of places together to give visitors a superb dining experience.

Take a look at the great restaurants located here.

Address:  411 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA

24. Clemmons Educational Forest

Clemmons Educational Forest

You don’t have to be in school, or even indoors, to get some learning done.

There are multiple educational forests in North Carolina, and one of the finest is Clemmons Educational Forest .

You and your companions can learn all kinds of great things about nature when visiting this forest.

Established more than 40 years ago, Clemmons Educational Forest lets you work your body by providing hiking trails and your mind by including informative exhibitions.

There are also lessons provided by rangers.

You can reward yourself for all the learning by eating at one of the many designated picnic areas.

So many things to see and learn about being in nature.

Clemmons Educational Forest gives you wonderful access to this kind of knowledge.

It’s open from Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Address:  2256 Old U.S. Hwy 70, Clayton, NC 27520, USA

25. Go Ape Treetop Adventure

Alexander Sobol / Shutterstock

One of the most riveting experiences in the city is at Go Ape Treetop Adventure .

This attraction, located at Blue Jay Point Country Park, brings you high above the trees.

You can go through all sorts of scenarios and have a blast no matter what.

Some of the things you can do at Go Ape! include canopy tours, ziplining, and a Log Swing.

You need to make sure to pay attention to all the safety instructions.

After all, it only takes a little bit of horseplay or carelessness for a fun experience to turn sour.

Outdoor entertainment like Go Ape Treetop Adventure is a joy of coming to this city.

You can here with your family and be all smiles when all is said and done.

For nature thrills, come to Go Ape.

Address:  3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614, USA

26. Pope House Museum

Pope House Museum

During the age of segregation, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, a black man, did something incredible: he ran for mayor.

He was the only black male to vie for such a position in the south during that time.

Today, the city honors his legacy with the Pope House Museum .

When planning your trip to the city, you should visit the Pope House Museum.

Restorative care has made it quite beautiful, as it goes back to the early 20th century.

There are also lots of amazing artifacts and tours.

On the Pope House Tour, you can learn about how impressive of a man Dr. Pope was.

Tours are available at Pope House Museum every Saturday.

You could come down this weekend and have an excellent time.

American history is not complete without touching upon African American history, and the Pope House Museum is an essential part of a Raleigh visit.

Address:  511 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

27. Jose and Sons

Jose and Sons

An excellent place to go to at night is Jose and Sons Bar & Kitchen .

This is a very welcoming Mexican restaurant with some southern flair in the mix as well.

This family establishment is a top-notch place to fill your belly up at.

Jose and Sons has a menu you’ll want to read up and down.

Among the menu options are classic Mexican fare like tacos and huevos rancheros.

You can also see the southern influence coming out in dishes like their “Smokey shrimp ‘n grits.”

The flavor profiles are so well-thought-out at this restaurant.

You might have to do everything in your power to stop yourself from asking for the chef’s recipe.

Raleigh is one of the best places to travel to in part because of all the great food.

Jose and Sons should be visited if you love Mexican and/or southern cooking.

Address:  327 W Davie St #102, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To Raleigh

Fun is all around you when you come to Raleigh.

This city has tons of attractions that appeal to adults, children, and everyone in between.

When you come here, you’ll get southern hospitality and incredible urban developments.

With museums that are great for learning and restaurants that are great for eating, it’s hard to ask for anything more.

Start planning for a trip to North Carolina’s capital today.

You’ll hopefully find it’s a place that you want to come back to very soon.

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• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
• North Carolina Museum of Art
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• Umstead State Park
• JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University
• Neuse River Trail
• Historic Yates Mill County Park

The Best Things to Do in Raleigh, North Carolina

Are you looking for the best sights and attractions in the Triangle? Don’t miss our list of the top things to do in Raleigh!

Raleigh is the second-largest city in North Carolina after Charlotte and is located southeast of Durham.  It is known as the City of Oaks thanks to the prevalence of beautiful oak trees that line the city streets. As the state capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is home to an astonishing array of museums and the Raleigh-Durham area is home to many great universities. The area is a mecca for cultural activities and vibrant neighborhoods and the perfect destination for people who love to explore diverse and multicultural cities.

Raleigh makes an excellent weekend getaway or is a great addition to a road trip of the southeast of America.  It is less than two hours from Wilmington, three hours from Charlotte , and just over four hours from Charleston . 

We know that planning a trip is not always the most enjoyable part of vacation so we have put together a travel guide full of fun things to do in Raleigh to help get you started!  Below you will find our list of things to do and see in Raleigh NC! 

Explore Raleigh with Let’s Roam

If you want a really unique and fun-filled way to explore some of the wonderful things that Raleigh has to offer, don’t forget to grab our Downtown Raleigh Scavenger Hunt .  This will have you laughing your way through the city streets as you attempt to solve your next clue in a race against your friends, coworkers, or family. 

Get to Know the Area

As with many major US cities, Raleigh is made up of a variety of interesting neighborhoods and suburbs and has been combined with other cities to form a large metropolitan area. The result is a fantastic blend of places with unique histories and identities and sometimes it feels like you are lucky enough to get to visit three wonderful places during one trip!

Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh is compact and walkable and has a youthful energy.  There is a lot of green space downtown and, of course, it isn’t called the City of Oaks for nothing! Throughout the downtown area, you will find historic neighborhoods, vibrant street art, locally-owned shops, restaurants, and bars as well as breweries and swanky cocktail lounges.  Some of our favorite spots include Morning Times , a split-level coffeehouse that serves up some of the best coffee in the city, and Garland where you can get delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients and a unique Indian/Asian fusion. 

Everything in Downtown Raleigh is easily accessible either on foot or on the free R-LINE circulator bus. It is also a great place to cycle. This means that you can leave the car at the hotel and fully immerse yourself in the city (and try all of the delicious craft beer that you want!)

Warehouse District 

The Warehouse District is located within Downtown Raleigh and consists of six blocks of converted industrial buildings.  The Warehouse District’s days as an industrial area are long gone and it is now full of art galleries, restaurants, and innovative businesses.  While you are there, try to visit the Morgan Street Food Hall where you can try a huge variety of local food options or grab a locally produced craft beer in a laid-back environment. 

If you are looking for something sweet, head over to Videlri Chocolate Factory .  This boutique chocolate factory proudly displays all of its chocolate-making equipment and you can take a self-guided tour of the factory floor to see the miracle that is chocolate production from start to finish.  It is a great place to learn something new and sneak in a few samples of the factory’s wonderful creations.  There is an outdoor patio where you can relax at the end of your tour 

Glenwood South District

Although Glenwood South District may not have the big attractions that Downtown Raleigh and the Warehouse District do, it is still a place that you will want to spend a few hours exploring, especially if you are a foodie or culture vulture.  In Glenwood South, the streets are overflowing with restaurants, nightlife options, art galleries, and interesting shops.  Many of these are located in the district’s former warehouse buildings which adds an aura of chic-ness to everything. While you are in Glenwood South, make sure to stop by the Raleigh Beer Garden which has more than 350 beers on tap and holds the records for the world’s largest beer selection.  This place is heaven for beer lovers and you can find some incredibly unique concoctions there which are pretty much impossible to find anywhere else. 

The Triangle

The Raleigh – Durham – Cary metropolitan area is fittingly referred to as the “Triangle” and it is easy to visit all three places during one trip.  As mentioned, each city has played its own role in North Carolina’s history and this has shaped a unique character and charm.

Cary was founded in 1750 and was an important stop on the North Carolina Railroad which spurred the development of the city.  Today, it is a treasure trove of historic sites including the Carpenter, Green Level,  and Cary Historic Districts, the Ivey-Ellington House, and Nancy Jones House. 

It is one of the fastest-growing towns in the southern United States and has a plethora of restaurants, shops, and parks. The recent growth explosion has led to an influx of new businesses include a brewery, bars, bakeries, coffee shops, and more.  It is a lovely spot to spend a day during your trip to Raleigh and since it is so close to Raleigh, it could even be used as a base when visiting the area. 

Cary hosts an array of cultural and art festivals throughout the year so make sure to check the city’s schedule of events before you go and book accommodations well in advance just in case.  Cary is located about 20 minutes west of Raleigh.

Located about 30 minutes north of both Raleigh and Cary, Durham is the home of Duke University as well as world-class museums, spectacular gardens, and delicious eateries.   It is also a wonderful place for hiking and biking and active travelers will love the American Tobacco Trail which runs for nearly 23 miles along an old railroad bed. The Wake County government offers interesting and educational programs focusing on the history and natural environment of the area. It is an amazing place to lose yourself in nature, especially since you don’t really have to worry about losing the trail!

Visit the Landmarks

Raleigh is overflowing with historic sites and important landmarks.  From historic homes to North Carolina’s state capitol, there is a lot to see! If this is your first time visiting the Raleigh-Durham area, you may want to start the visit by checking out the history museum. This will help give you a great base knowledge on the historical sites located in the region as well as the fascinating array of people who have lived in North Carolina. The best part is that it is free to enter.

North Carolina Executive Mansion

The North Carolina Executive Mansion is the official residence of the Governor of North Carolina. Built in 1883, the mansion ion is also considered a meeting space, historic site, and event space.  The house is one of the best examples of Queen Anne-style of Victorian architecture in North Carolina.  It is possible to tour the mansion during select times of the year.  Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance through the Capital Area Visitors Services.  If you know your travel dates and really want to visit the mansion, it is a good idea to book your tour as soon as possible to avoid any potential disappointment.

North Carolina State Capitol

Located right in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, the North Carolina State Capitol is one of the city’s most important landmarks. It was completed in 1840 and has been the seat of government ever since.  It is a great example of Greek Revival architecture and it has been restored to its mid-19th century appearance with breathtaking results.  It is just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside and we highly recommend visiting it. It is possible to take a self-guided tour of the Capitol building where you can learn more about the North Carolina state government and the history of this beautiful building.

As the first building constructed for the higher education of African-American women in the United States, Estey Hall was truly groundbreaking when it was built in 1874.  Women were able to study home economics, religion, music, and art in the hall and it was also their dormitory. The beautiful brick building is located on the campus of Shaw University and is the school’s oldest surviving building.  It was closed as a dormitory in 1970 and has been used as office space since then.

As Raleigh’s main indoor arena, the PNC Arena hosts many of the city’s biggest events including Carolina Hurricanes ice hockey games, concerts, conferences, and more.  The arena is about a 20-minute drive from Downtown Raleigh and is close to the North Carolina Museum of Art and Museum Park. It is a great spot to watch a concert or see a show and can easily be combined with a trip to the art museum and museum park for a fun-filled day of culture!

Hit the Museums  

For being a relatively small city, Raleigh has a great variety of museums to check out.  Many of them offer interesting education programs, special events, and summer camps which provide wonderful opportunities to learn more about subjects that you are passionate about or even spark an interest in something new! Whether you love art, can’t get enough of history, or are traveling with young kids and basically do whatever they want, Raleigh has something for all ages and interests. Many of the museums have free admission which is like the icing on the cake!

North Carolina Museum of Art

As one of the best art museums in southeastern America, the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) showcases art from over 5,000 years of history.  The museum is divided into two buildings, one holds the permanent collection while the other hosts the museum’s rotating exhibits.  In the West Building, you can see works of art from antiquity to the present day including American, African, Egyptian, and European art including sculptures, paintings, and photographs.  There is also an extensive sculpture garden featuring works by Rodin.  Even if you have been to the museum in the past, it is always worth visiting again as the temporary exhibits are always impressive and thought-provoking.  The museum also boasts one of the biggest museum concert venues in the United States so make sure to check the schedule to see if there is anything interesting when you are there.

Next door to the museum, you can find the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park.  The Museum Park is the largest museum art park in the United States covering an impressive 164 acres of land.  Within the park, there are trails and monumental public art installations that are designed to show the connection between art, people, and nature.  You can visit the park on foot or bike and if the weather is nice, it is a nice spot to throw down a blanket and have a picnic or take a power nap! In the summer, the museum hosts movie screenings, concerts, and performances ranging from dance recitals to poetry slams.   It is also one of the city’s most popular places for Instagram photos so make sure to keep your phone handy to catch the perfect shot!

Admission to the museum and art park is free and if you get hungry, you can use the money that you saved on tickets to pop into the onsite restaurant which specializes in American cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. Sounds like a pretty fantastic day (and night) at the museum!

North Carolina  Museum of History

North Carolin has a rich history and one of the best places to learn more about the state’s ups and downs is the North Carolina Museum of History .  Located in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, the museum takes visitors through 14,000 years of history.  History comes to life through the use of historic artifacts, multimedia presentations, hands-on,  interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids, dioramas, and two life-size historic houses.  Highlights of the museum include items salvaged from Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge, a full-size replica of the first successful heavier-than-air powered aircraft, the 1903 Wright Flyer, and a lunch counter that was used as the site of a sit-in during the Civil Rights Movement.

The museum pays special attention to some of  North Carolina’s most legendary people such as Daniel Boone, Michael Jordan, Flora MacDonald, Charlotte Hawkins Brown, and First Lady Dolley Madison.  There is also a North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame where you can see items from your favorite North Carolina athletes.  There is free admission and there really is something for everyone here. 

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Located right across the street from the history museum, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is southeastern America’s largest natural history museum.  Spreading across four floors, the museum has Nature Exploration Center where you can check out exhibits focusing on prehistoric North Carolina, find out what it is like to be a bug, meet a sloth, and see the world’s most complete Acrocanthosaurus dinosaur.   There is also a Nature Research Center where you can learn about the weather, fossils, and space and come face to face with fish, reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies.  Like Raleigh’s other museums, the Museum of Natural Sciences is also free to enter and a must-visit for science lovers!

Marbles Kids Museum

Located in the Moore Square District of Downtown Raleigh, the Marbles Kids Museum is an interactive and innovative museum where kids are encouraged to use their “marbles” (Seriously, how great is that name?).  Spread out over two fun-filled floors, the museum features a wide variety of hands-on exhibits and is aimed at children 10 and under.  At the children’s museum, kids learn through play and they have the opportunity to go on a jungle safari, practice their future professional skills as a news reporter, architect, artist, or pirate…….ok, maybe piracy shouldn’t be a future profession, or dress up as a jungle creature.  All of the activities in the museum are designed to help stimulate emotional, intellectual, social, and physical development. 

The museum also has an IMAX theater showing interesting documentaries and a cafe in case you need to grab a bite to eat or a much-needed coffee.   Make sure to allow yourself at least two hours to get through all of the exhibits and activities because we all know how painful it can be to drag an unhappy kiddo out of a museum. 

Pope House Museum

The Pope House Museum is located in the former home of Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope.  Pope, who was mixed-race, ran for mayor of Raleigh in 1919 despite threats of violence and rampant discrimination and was the only African-American man to run for mayor in a major southern city during the horrific Jim Crow era.  This courageous man serves as an inspiration and role model for overcoming adversity and a visit to the Pope House Museum gives an interesting look into his life.  His house is still furnished with many of his personal belongings and you can tour the house by appointment. 

City of Raleigh Museum

Located on Fayetteville Street in the historic 1874 Briggs Building, the City of Raleigh Museum is dedicated to telling the Raleight’s fascinating 200-year history.  The Briggs Building still has many of its original features which makes it the perfect setting for this trip back in time.  During your visit, you can learn more about the experience of local residents during World War II and the Civil Rights Movement and see artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries.  Admission to the museum is free.

The City of Raleigh Museum also hosts the Fayetteville Street Walking Tour every Saturday afternoon.  This stroll down “North Carolina’s Main Street” tells you about the stories behind the street’s historic buildings.  It is an interesting way to spend an afternoon learning more about this interesting little street and the surrounding neighborhood.

CAM (Contemporary Art Museum) Raleigh

This non-collecting contemporary art museum is located in Raleigh’s Warehouse District. CAM Raleigh showcases work by local and national living artists.  The exhibits are always changing and there are frequent special programs and events making no two trips to the museum the same. CAM is located in an early 20th-century produce warehouse and is a strong reminder of the revitalization that the district has experienced. 

Gregg Museum of Art & Design

Part of NC State University, the Gregg Museum of Art & Design “sparks creativity and encourages exploration.” The Gregg Museum has a permanent collection of more than 35,000 items including ceramics, design and decorative arts,  Native American art, apparel, and pieces created by self-taught artists. The museum features around six new exhibitions per year so there is always something new happening at the Gregg. 

Joel Lane House Museum

Located just west of the Warehouse District stands the Joel Lane House Museum .  The house was built in 1769 by Joel Lane using enslaved labor and is the oldest house in Raleigh. It was once called the “best house for 100 miles” and was the site of many historic events. Although Lane is known as being both the “Father of Raleigh” and the “Father of Wake County” (he must have been pretty busy!), strangely, very little is known about him.   

Although the man behind the house is a bit of a mystery, you can take guided tours of the property and learn what little there is known about Lane as well as what life was like on a North Carolina plantation during the late 18th century. Tours are available Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Immerse Yourself in the Performing Arts

As the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is home to the North Carolina Symphony, North Carolina Opera, and the North Carolina Theater. It is THE place to get a bit of a cultural fix in the Southeast and what better way is there to spend an evening than getting all dressed up to see world-class talent in a beautiful theater?

North Carolina Symphony

With more than 175 performances held around the state throughout the year,  the North Carolina Symphony certainly knows how to keep busy! The symphony offers tickets at special prices for students, and young professionals making performances a bit more accessible to everyone and it is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. 

North Carolina Opera

As the region’s main opera company, the North Carolina Opera has a full line-up of some of the world’s most famous operas.  The performances are all outstanding quality and generally take place at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts located right in Downtown Raleigh. This makes it easy to squeeze in a show after a day of sightseeing.  

North Carolina Theater

As Raleigh’s home for Broadway musicals, the North Carolina Theater brings the bright lights of Broadway to North Carolina.  The professional theater group performs six Broadway shows per year and it is the perfect way to see some of your favorite shows without having to travel to New York.  The theater website has a full list of the shows coming up so if there is something that you really want to see, you may actually want to schedule your trip to Raleigh around the performance schedule!

Explore the Parks

The Raleigh/Durham area is surrounded by parkland with many options for outdoor activities and other fun things to do. Thanks to Raleigh’s moderate weather, it is possible to enjoy the great outdoors all year long! Whether you are looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or a deep dive into a pristine forest, there is something for everyone here!

Dorothea Dix Park

Covering more than 300-acres of land, Dorothea Dix Park is the largest park in Raleigh and is located on the edge of downtown.  Here, you can find meadows and fields where you can frolic and play, tree groves that provide a lovely spot to relax in the shade, and a great series of events held throughout the year including live music performances, outdoor yoga, and art exhibitions.  There is also a dog park so you can bring your furry friends along. 

Pullen Park

Established in 1887 and designed as the first public park in North Carolina, Pullen Park has been a source of family fun for nearly 135 years. The park is home to an old-school amusement park that is the 16th oldest amusement park in the world. The park proudly boasts the Gustave A. Dentzel Carousel built in 1911, an authentic train car, a kiddie boat ride, and a miniature train.  Within the park, you can also find tennis courts, a baseball field, pedal boats, and an aquatic center.  It is a good idea to allow around 2-3 hours to visit all of the attractions in the park and if possible, try to come on weekdays as the weekends can get very busy.   Admission to the park is free and you can purchase tickets to individual rides.  Pullen Park is located adjacent to North Carolina State University just west of Downtown Raleigh. 

JC Raulston Arboretum

The magnificent JC Raulston Arboretum is located at North Carolina State University and is one of the country’s most acclaimed gardens.  It has one of the biggest collections of landscape plants in the Southeast with more nearly 6,000 different perennials, annuals, shrubs, vines, and trees coming from more than 50 countries around the world. During a visit to the arboretum, you can stroll through stunning themed gardens and be transported to far-away lands.  You can also join a guided tour specially designed for families   Admission is free of charge and this is one of the best places to spend a beautiful day in Raleigh. 

William B. Umstead State Park

Formerly known as the Crabtree Creek Recreational Demonstration Area, the William B. Umstead State Park is a fantastic spot for hiking, running, cycling, and horseback riding in the park’s 5,000 acres of forests, as well as canoeing on the park’s three man-made lakes. It is also a great place for camping if you want to spend a night sleeping under the stars.  There is a visitor center in the park where you can learn more about what there is to do while you are there and get detailed information about the park’s hiking trails.  The park is only a 15-minute drive from Downtown Raleigh but feels like it is in a different world!

Historic Yates Mill County Park

Stretching across 174-acres of land, the Historic Yates Mill County Park is home to hiking trails, Wake County’s last 18th-century gristmill, and an adjoining pond. More than 70 similar mills once operated near Raleigh yet the Yates Mill is the only one to survive until today.  Hiking trails crisscross the park and there are picnic areas where you can stop to grab a snack.

Lake Johnson Park

Spread out across 300-acres of land, Lake Johnson Park features a beautiful lake, two miles of unpaved paths, and a three-mile greenway loop that is part of the larger Walnut Creek Greenway Trail and is great for walking or biking.  There is a 700-foot long boardwalk spanning the lake and nearby, you will find a boathouse, picnic shelters, and a small beach.  Although swimming is not allowed, it is possible to rent paddleboards or small boats and go fishing on the lake. 

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

The Falls Lake State Recreation Area is a collection of access points along a 12,000-acre reservoir.  With more than 300 different campsites, the park is one of the best places to catch some Zzzzzs under the stars, and during the day, you can head out onto the lake for a day of swimming, paddling, fishing, or boating.  There is also a wide array of hiking trails nearby if you prefer to keep your feet on solid grounds. 

Plan Your Getaway(s)  

There are many cool places located within a few hours’ drive from Raleigh that are definitely worth checking out.  From charming college towns to national parks teeming with wildlife, one of the best things about visiting Raleigh is being able to leave it!

Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is located less than 40 minutes from Downtown Raleigh and is the home oft hee the University of North Carolina.  A charming college town, Chapel Hill has been called “America’s Foodiest Small Town” and has oodles of restaurants to choose from.  In fact, Franklin Street, Chapel Hil’s main drag, alone has more than 200 bars, restaurants, shops, and other small businesses which makes it a fantastic place for an afternoon stroll or an evening out at the bars.  While you are there, you can also explore the beautiful UNC campus or check out Southern Village, a newly built town that serves as a great example of “New Urbanism”   There are also many historic places to see,  vibrant street murals, and walking tours where you can learn more about this adorable little town. 

Fayetteville

Fayetteville is another interesting city with a rich history. Located just over an hour from Raleigh, Fayetteville has played an important role in American military history, including the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.  As a result, there are many interesting historical sites to see there. 

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Just over three hours from Raleigh, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is located in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. The wildlife refuge is home to black bears, red wolves, woodpeckers, American alligators, and migratory birds. While you are there, try not to miss the Murphy Peterson Wildlife Drive . With over 15 miles of road, there are plenty of options to choose from and many opportunities to spot wildlife.  The park also offers guided tram tours during the summer and fall. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Raleigh

If you want a really unique and fun-filled way to explore Raleigh, check out the Downtown Raleigh Scavenger Hunt . 

There are many fun things to do in Raleigh. Highlights of the city include the North Carolina Museum of Art, the Marbles Kids Museum, and Lake Johnson Park. Read the Best Things to Do in Raleigh for more!

Absolutely! Raleigh has some amazing museums on offer with lots of hands-on exhibits for kids as well as a plethora of parks. Read the Best Things to Do in Raleigh for more kid-friendly ideas.

Featured Products & Activities

Top Things to Do in Raleigh, NC - Raleigh Must-See Attractions

Things to do in raleigh, explore popular experiences, tours in and around raleigh.

Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh

Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks

Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

Private transportation

Rockin Raleigh Scavenger Hunt

Durham Dash Scavenger Hunt

Polaris Slingshot Type R Rental in Morrisville

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Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Raleigh

Other Top Attractions around Raleigh

What travellers are saying

• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
• North Carolina Museum of Art
• Pullen Park
• Marbles Kids Museum
• Umstead State Park
• JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University
• Neuse River Trail
• Historic Yates Mill County Park

THE 10 BEST Raleigh Sights & Historical Landmarks

Raleigh landmarks.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Architectural Buildings
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Glenwood South
• Depot Historic District
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. North Carolina Museum of History

2. PNC Arena

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (11)

3. Historic Yates Mill County Park

4. Mordecai Historic Park

5. North Carolina State University

6. Historic Oakwood Cemetery

7. North Carolina State Capitol

8. James B. Hunt Jr. Library

9. Historic Oakwood

10. Reynolds Coliseum

11. Joel Lane Museum House

12. Quail Ridge Books

13. Executive Mansion

14. Carter Finley Stadium

15. Historic Oak View County Park

16. Memorial Bell Tower

17. City Market

18. Lassiter Mill

19. J.S. Dorton Arena

20. North Carolina Presidents Monument

21. Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral

22. Videri Chocolate Factory

23. Acorn in Moore Square

24. Melrose Knitting Mill

25. Meredith College

26. Sacred Heart Cathedral

27. Glenwood South

28. Legislative Building

29. Walnut Creek Softball Complex

30. Boylan Bridge

What travelers are saying.

• Historic Yates Mill County Park
• North Carolina State University
• Mordecai Historic Park
• North Carolina State Capitol
• North Carolina Museum of History
• Videri Chocolate Factory
• Historic Oakwood Cemetery

a travel and style blog

Touring the Triangle: A Long-Weekend Travel Guide for Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina

I nearly titled this post “Troubles in the Triangle,” because it was a rollercoaster of a trip.

Not because anything really went wrong in the cities themselves, but because our flights home kept getting canceled, doubling our trip length.

But despite moments of panic at the thought of incurring unexpected expenses and trying to handle accommodations and car rentals, we ultimately chose to embrace our extra time in the area and to spend a couple of days as we might if we lived in Raleigh.

And while we probably would have structured our itinerary a little differently if we knew in advance that we were visiting for six days, we still enjoyed the freedom that more time allowed and took full advantage of slower-paced days.

Today I’m sharing photos and info about the places we visited in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area. You’ll note much of this list is Raleigh-heavy thanks to the location of our Airbnb , though we did spend a little time in each of the three main cities. If you’re headed there as well, here’s what we can recommend after our visit:

RALEIGH + DURHAM SIGHTS + ATTRACTIONS

Hit the Markets

We visited both the Durham Farmer’s Market  and the Moore Square Market in Raleigh (as opposed to the large State Farmer’s Market, which we visited in Charlotte ), and I was definitely impressed with the selection (and Liege waffles ) in Durham and the relaxed nature of the small market in downtown Raleigh.

North Carolina Museum of Art

We could have easily spent all day at the North Carolina Museum of Art , inside and out. There are two full wings of permanent and rotating exhibitions and the grounds outside feature sculptures and trails. This would be a perfect place to hold a picnic with friends on a beautiful day!

Pullen Park

Pullen Park is the oldest public park in North Carolina and the fifth-oldest amusement park in the country. This would make a great family outing or get-together location for a large group. We loved seeing all of the excited faces waiting in line to ride the carousel and mini-train!

Alamo Drafthouse

We don’t typically go to the movies, and certainly not while we travel (really, it’d been more than a year or two since seeing our last film in theatres), but Alamo Drafthouses are always a fun experience. It was nice to beat the midday heat in this old strip-mall location with a B movie and a local beer!

Catch a Concert at Red Hat Amphitheater

We always like to see which musical groups are playing when we travel, and the Red Hat Amphitheater is a popular venue in Raleigh for larger acts. We managed to snag last-minute tickets to The Raconteurs ‘ show (but there’s no photo evidence, thanks to the use of Yondr cases!). Pro-tip: eat and drink to your hearts’ content before the show, as the prices at the venue are steep.

City of Raleigh Museum

I wandered into the City of Raleigh Museum because I was looking for postcards. I found some, and a lot of information about the state’s capital city. The venue is small and unassuming, but that’s what makes it so refreshing.

WHERE TO EAT IN THE TRIANGLE

Poole’s

We almost didn’t go to Poole’s . After all, it’s the place to dine, and the prices were steeper than we were looking to pay on a more budget-focused trip. But after a filling late lunch, we figured we’d just go to try their famed mac and cheese and call it a night. But as we were swayed into ordering a drink and burrata, we still wound up with a $60 tab.

To be honest, we just stopped by both Morgan Street Food Hall and Transfer Co. Food Hall without purchasing anything as we had recently eaten. Sometimes these places can feel a tad generic, but as I mentioned in my post on Amsterdam , food halls are great if you’ve only got one day in a city.

Zweli’s

Zweli’s is purported to be the only Zimbabwean restaurant in the U.S., so we had to visit! We enjoyed our meals immensely, noting the common themes comfort food around the world presents: warm, filling, and served in bowls.

Raleigh Raw

I would eat at Raleigh Raw every day if I could (but we had other places to visit, so we only ate here twice). And can I just say, there’s definitely a missed opportunity here – why wouldn’t you name this place “Rawleigh?” (I’m available for hire for naming businesses and also writing greeting cards, if you’re looking for someone). The Khaleesi acai bowl is the way to go!

Taquería el Toro

You can pretty much tell how authentic a Mexican restaurant is by how they answer the phone. The staff at Taquería el Toro answered in Spanish, so I knew we were in for a treat. These are easily some of the most authentic tacos in the Southeastern United States, and the grocery store adjacent to the restaurant is worth a stroll as well.

MoJoe’s Burger Joint

Michael was craving a burger, and boy was it a burger he got at MoJoe’s Burger Joint . There are lots of ways to customize your burger if you so choose, but don’t skip the pimento cheese!

Bida Manda has an incredible rating on Google Reviews and for good reason. Laotian food isn’t something we can find in our hometown, and here it is done well and is approachable. Go at lunch for better prices (it’s not the cheapest meal), and expect to be full all day from their curries.

Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque

I know – everyone says to go to The Pit (yet somehow, everyone also says don’t go to The Pit), but we ended up at Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque in downtown Raleigh. The establishment has been serving up Texas-style brisket and NC-style pork since 1938, and we figured it had to do something right to stay in business that long. It didn’t blow our minds, but it offered a little something for every meat-eater.

The Raleigh Times

The Raleigh Times was there for us when no one else was. Not many places are open for a late dinner on a Wednesday – well, other than places we’d already been – so we joined the crowd ( minus Obama ) for some Belgian beer and tacos and salads.

The Original Q Shack

The Original Q Shack is a little bit of a drive from Raleigh or Durham but is clearly popular with locals! As always, we think sharing a platter is the way to go when eating at a BBQ restaurant.

THE TRIANGLE’S BEST COFFEE + SWEETS

Videri Chocolate Factory

Videri is probably already on your list, but just in case it isn’t, I’ll list it here! You can get your coffee from Black & White Coffee Roasters and sweet fix here at the chocolate factory. They weren’t working during our visit, but if you happen to time your stop right, you can watch the workers making some delicious chocolate!

Boulted Bread

Of all the places we visited in the Triangle, Boulted is the place I miss the most. It was located within a seven-minute walk from our Airbnb and has some of the best bread I’ve ever had (and trust me – I’ve eaten a lot of bread). I think about those chocolate croissants daily (is that weird?) and we’re currently rationing out slices of their Blue Emmer from our freezer.

Heirloom Coffee, Tea + Sake

We popped into Heirloom looking for something sweet as it was late at night, and Heirloom delivered. A mochi doughnut was fried to order and it hit the spot .

Jubala Coffee

Jubala really cares about its coffee, and it seems customers are encouraged to linger over a cup. We took ours to-go (with a Liege waffle, can you tell we’re a little obsessed?), but it would be a great place to hang with friends or get some work done.

Maple View Farm

On a whim we ended up at Maple View Farm for ice cream, thinking it would just be a quick stop for a scoop. Boy, we were wrong! Everyone was there, and we waited in line for a long time, watching the sun start to drop and the cows in the distance before finally making it inside for a scoop (thank you, cows!).

BREW Coffee

The Raleigh location of BREW Coffee was a nice place to top off our energy levels and hang in the A/C while we figured out our next spot. We loved their wall of mugs, where we even spotted one from our Alma Mater!

Morning Times

We spent several hours upstairs at The Morning Times in downtown Raleigh getting work done on our laptops. Upstairs is well-suited to working remotely, with plenty of tables and outlets.

Two Roosters Ice Cream

Two Roosters uses local milk in their ice creams, and they seem to have fun experimenting with flavors . One of my favorite aspects of small ice cream shops is the lack of “overrun” or air whipped into the ice cream. It makes for a dense, rich experience!

Bittersweet

Although it’s technically also a bar, we stopped at Bittersweet on our last evening to satisfy our chocolate cravings on the way home. The whole menu looked amazing, but the chocolate chip ice cream sandwich won our vote!

lucettegrace

At this point, it’s almost embarrassing how much of a sweet tooth I have, but the pastries at lucettegrace were too pretty to pass up.

RALEIGH & DURHAM BARS + BREWERIES

I hung out at Ramblers for a bit one afternoon while Michael walked back to pick up our rental car (it was hot out ), and enjoyed a local beer on draft. As a reward, I picked up a six-pack of their many NC beers for him to enjoy later at our Airbnb.

Brewery Bhavana

The beers at Brewery Bhavana aren’t classified by the style of beer – they’re classified by the feeling they evoke. Hang at the bar, walk around the bookshop to find your new favorite book, or perhaps create your own bouquet to bring to someone as a gift!

We visited Apero ( now closed ) for its namesake – an aperitif one evening before dinner. The small establishment serves up a short list of cocktails, wines by the glass, and small plates. The burrata was delicious, as was the vermouth on tap!

Gallo Pelón Mezcalería

You can’t expect us to skip over a mezcal bar, can you? We visited Gallo Pelón one night for cocktails and antojitos. The nachos seem the best value by far if you’re looking to pair something with your strong drink (you will, promise!).

Ponysaurus Brewing

The website alone made us want to visit Ponysaurus ! Even if you don’t get a chance to visit, you’re sure to see their beers on tap around town.

Crank Arm Brewing

You don’t have to be bike-confident to enjoy the beers at Crank Arm Brewing . They have a great outdoor space, too, if the weather is nice.

Flying Saucer Emporium

Well, we didn’t finish 200 beers to get our names on the ceiling at the Flying Saucer Emporium , but we did enjoy both local and imported beers on tap! This would be a great place to please a crowd of beer lovers.

Upstairs from Virgil’s Taqueria is Level Up ( now closed ), a small arcade bar that happens to serve beer and tacos (and it was where we consoled ourselves after learning our flight home was canceled a second time). The tacos are just alright, but the atmosphere is nice and chill.

Boxcar Bar + Arcade

An arcade bar without a chill atmosphere is Boxcar Bar . At least for the location in Raleigh, that is. It felt like everyone and their dog were inside, drinking local beers and playing a variety of arcade games, old and new.

Trophy Brewing

We didn’t go a day without seeing someone wearing a Trophy Brewing tee while in Raleigh, and we finally decided to pop into the location downtown. We weren’t ready for food when we arrived, but the menu looked delicious!

SHOPPING IN RALEIGH & DURHAM

I honestly can’t remember how I came across Indio , but I’m glad I popped in! The shop is located within the cute Brightleaf Square and features many local designers like Pamut Apparel .

Vert & Vogue

I do remember where I first saw Vert & Vogue : on the Garmentory website, which is one quick tool I use for finding unique shops when I travel. I fell in love with a few Wwake designs while in the shop, as well as some gorgeous earrings by local darling Peppertrain .

Port of Raleigh

Oh man – I hope you have space in your bag! Port of Raleigh ( now closed ) has so much for the houseware-obsessed, even from places like Utilitario Mexicano , which was such a delight to find as we love to visit them in Mexico City !

Little Boho Valley

This shop is a little less my style, but I’d be remiss to not mention Little Boho Valley ( note : relocated to Pittsboro). It’s a cute, funky little shop with a very hippie-aesthetic (incense smells and all!).

Edge of Urge

I only stopped by Edge of Urge for a moment, but I had to stop myself from trying to pick up local items from their beauty and wellness section. There are lots of cheeky items to be found in the store as well!

Art of Style

Walking into Art of Style ( now closed ) felt a lot like walking into my own closet – almost every garment in the shop is black!  Staff are friendly, and you’ll likely find a number of things you’ll want to take home with you.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: NC TRIANGLE

Chances are you’ll arrive at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) on a domestic flight, as there are limited direct international flights available to and from RDU. The airport is located midway between the two cities, which is pretty helpful if you haven’t decided which city to make your home base yet. Raleigh edged Durham out for us slightly (though there is a lot going on in downtown Durham!), and we picked an Airbnb that was within walking distance of downtown Raleigh. Ultimately, this ended up being a lifesaver for us as the host offered multiple rooms, so we were able to book a different room within the same house as we dealt with canceled flights. Frankly, it’s the first place we’d look to stay on a return trip to Raleigh as the prices are very reasonable and it’s so close to the city center (it’s a great base if you’re attending a concert at the Red Hat Amphitheater – close enough that you can hear the music acts once you step outside, but far enough that the noise doesn’t carry indoors).

You should note that the Triangle covers a large portion of the map – so expect to rent a car if you’re looking to visit more than one city. Like most places, it’s best to approach your itinerary by neighborhood to avoid losing valuable travel time to shuttling back and forth between the cities. Unfortunately, public transit in the area wasn’t sufficient for our visit, and wasn’t worth even bothering to try; locals will continue to reiterate that a light rail between Raleigh and Durham is in the works.

As far as safety goes, we never felt unsafe while in the area. That being said, a few locals mentioned that there are high crime rates in the area and there is a noticeable presence of unhoused people in downtown Raleigh. I always advocate for not letting fear keep you from traveling, but just making sure to keep your wits about you and practicing your “city smarts.”

With more time in Raleigh and Durham

Since we expected to be in the Raleigh area for just three days, we weren’t prepared to do many outdoorsy activities – and that I regret! There are many lakes in the area and several botanical gardens, too. Further afield lie both the mountains and the beach. Who says you can’t have it all?

Enjoyed this post? You may also like:

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• Weekend Travel Guide: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
• The Sweetest Winter Holiday Weekend Getaway Guide: Johnson City, Tennessee
• Checking In: A Review of Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City, Tennessee
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Have you spent time in the Triangle? Which city is your favorite?

2 Comments on “ Touring the Triangle: A Long-Weekend Travel Guide for Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina ”

GIrl this guide is FIRE! You cover literally all the things you want to know and made it skim-able for those in a hurry! Thanks so much for this guide

There are a surprising large number of outdoor activities to do in the Raleigh area, and if you are willing to go to outskirts too there are LOADS! Glad you enjoyed this amazing area! Thanks for your list, really highlights the beauty we have here 😀

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55 Fun Things to Do in Raleigh, North Carolina

Known to many as the “City of Oaks” because of its huge forested natural parks, Raleigh, North Carolina, has many enticing reasons to visit.

Exploring the hugely popular North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences will be top of many people’s lists, as well as being wowed at one of the outstanding art museums.

A tour of the city’s bustling farmers’ markets and food halls is a must-do before sampling the world’s largest beer collection at Raleigh Beer Garden.

Wandering the streets of the alluring Oakwood neighborhood, with its well-preserved 19th-century houses, is one of the essential things to do in Raleigh for history lovers. Next, take time to tour the historic North Carolina State Capitol Building — as well as the birthplace of a United States President at Mordecai Historic Park.

Sports fans can enjoy the buzz of a college football game as they cheer on NC State University’s Wolfpack at Carter-Finley Stadium. Of course, there are also many opportunities to get out in the fresh air, as you check out the city’s parks and nature preserves. What will you choose to do first?

1 – Get uplifted at the North Carolina Museum of Art

With a collection that spans over 5,000 years of human history, the North Carolina Museum of Art is a must-see for art and culture fans. Founded in 1947, the museum was the first to use public funds to purchase art in the United States.

Its collection includes European and American art, including a significant collection of paintings from the Renaissance to the 19th century. It also has art from Ancient Egypt. Classical Greek and Roman sculptures and pottery, African Art and Ancient American pieces.

The museum sits in a 160-acre park with art and sculptures to explore as well as wooded trails and spaces for performing arts. Definitely check this out during your time in Raleigh.

2 – Ride the pedal boats at Pullen Park

Home to one of the top five oldest amusement parks in the country, Pullen Park has been entertaining Raleighites for generations. The rides are great for younger kids and adults alike and include pedal boats and kids boats, a carousel and a miniature train.

There’s much more to Pullen Park than its historic amusement rides though. This 60-acre city park has playgrounds, an indoor swimming pool, a community center and sports fields. You can also find the Pullen Arts Center here which offers classes on painting, jewelry and pottery making and much more.

You can also check out the historic Theater In The Park located in the Ira David Wood III Pullen Park Theatre. It hosts year-round theatrical productions and plays as well as drama classes. You’ll find a lot to do in Pullen Park for the whole family.

3 – Visit a tropical rainforest at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Spread over 300 square meters and three floors of exhibitions and laboratory spaces, North Carolina’s Museum of Natural Sciences brings the natural world to life. Here visitors can explore the earth in the time of dinosaurs or virtually venture to the farthest reaches of the known Universe.

The museum’s two locations in Downtown Raleigh include the Nature Exploration Center and Nature Research Center which are packed full of dioramas and interactive exhibits to pique your curiosity and answer the big questions in life.

The museum has a miniature zoo with bugs, fish, invertebrates and reptiles and a living conservatory that replicates the environment of a tropical rainforest, It even has a resident two-toed sloth.

4 – Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

One of the easiest and best ways to explore the city is on one of its unique trolley tours. Hit up Raleigh’s major sites and landmarks from the comfort and elegance of an old-fashioned trolley car. Explore the city and learn its history on these fantastic guided tours.

Join one of the themed events to visit the sights that interest you most, including the city’s haunted history and hidden history. Visit an abandoned baseball park and hospital as well as the underground tunnels and remains of the old trolley system.

Historic Raleigh Trolley will start you on your way, with its fun, eye-catching vehicles that hearken back to the early days of this unique transportation system.

You’re sure to get the best Raleigh trip experience on these privately run tours of the city.

• bus tours in Raleigh

5 – Take a selfie on the Boylan Bridge

The Boylan Bridge has long spanned the railway between Boylan Heights and Downtown Raleigh. This iconic bridge is a great place to stand and admire the Downtown skyline or even snap some photos.

The Boylan Bridge was one of the first constructed bridges that crossed the North Carolina Railroad and there have been a number of previous bridges on the same site. The first was built in the late 1800s and was made primarily out of wood.

It was demolished in 1913 to be replaced by a steel truss bridge, which was itself replaced by the current concrete and steel bridge in the 1970s.

Check out this historic railway bridge during your time in Raleigh and take a selfie in front of the iconic Raleigh skyline as a souvenir of your time in the city.

Directions in Google Maps

6 – Soak in the views at Blue Jay Point County Park

Blue Jay County Park has a ton of great activities to try and outdoor spaces to explore. Hike the extensive trails and gardens, which are part of the NC Mountains to Sea Trail, or try your hand at fishing in Falls Lake.

There are traditional and natural playgrounds for kids to enjoy as well as events including camps and educational workshops. There are even open playfields where you can toss around a ball or frisbee or kick back and enjoy a picnic in the fresh country air.

7 – Tour the North Carolina State Capitol

For a long period of time in the colonial era, North Carolina was without a fixed seat for the government. This changed in 1792 when the site, which is now Fayetteville Street was decided upon.

The original State Capitol building was a much more modest affair than the one that currently exists. The first structure was built in red brick before it was greatly extended in the 1820s. It finally opened as the State Capitol Building in June of 1840.

The North Carolina State Capitol is now home to the State Governor’s office. Admission to the building is free of charge and self-guided tours are available every day except Sunday.

8 – Try Soul Yoga at the Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh

Visual arts fans should definitely check out the Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh during their time in the city. The museum has no permanent collection so visitors may see different exhibitions on display each time they visit the city.

Its focus is primarily on bold works by living artists and has displayed pieces by Angel Otero, Leonardo Drew and Marilyn Minter. The museum building is a converted warehouse from the early 20th century which blends a traditional brick structure with modern steel and glass to create an attractive new space.

As well as gallery spaces the Contemporary Art Museum also hosts live music performances, educational classes and yoga classes which take place surrounded by inspiring artworks.

9 – Savor some candlelight concerts

When you’re tallying up the various musical offerings in town, be sure to check out the Candlelight Concerts series!

It’s an unforgettable event that is at once intimate and epic, with a roomful of candles providing a beautiful backdrop for some stunning musical performances.

While classical music is often on the docket, the series is also known for presenting more contemporary and familiar works reimagined in a symphonic format.

If you’re a modern music fan, you can listen to the sweet sounds of Adele, Beyonce, Taylor Swift, or Coldplay, recreated in a new auditory form.

And if movies are more your scene, you can soak up the sounds of anime scores, or a stunning program of songs from the extensive Warner Bros catalog.

Grab some tickets and enjoy!

• candlelight concerts in Raleigh

10 – Play at Frankie’s of Raleigh

Those looking for an all-in-one amusement arcade and theme park experience should definitely check out Frankie’s of Raleigh . This place has it all from the best traditional games and attractions such as bowling, mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages and bumper cars to cutting-edge immersive games. A trip to Frankie’s is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Raleigh.

The park has some action-packed thrill rides including the hang gliding-style Windstarz, where you get to control the up and down motion as you spin around and around. Those with a head for heights can explore its four-story rope trail or take time to cool off on the bumper boats.

The park has traditional arcade games too, as well as a bunch of virtual reality immersive games and rides. Team up to fight off hordes of zombies with Hologate or try out the Hyperdeck which combines VR with wind, heat and movement for the ultimate immersive gaming experience.

11 – Experience college football at Carter-Finley Stadium

It’s still college football that draws the biggest crowds in Raleigh and for that, you have to check out the impressive Carter Finley Stadium .

Home to the NC State Wolfpack Football Team, the arena opened in the mid-1960s and has grown to include a seating capacity of 58,000.

The stadium is known for its dedicated and rowdy Wolfpack fans so it almost goes without saying that game day is a big deal around here. It has been recently renovated and is considered one of the finest football stadiums in the country with an atmosphere and facilities to match.

This is an absolute must for sports fans when visiting the city and even out-of-towners will find the enthusiasm for the home team is contagious. Go Pack!

• Carter-Finley Stadium tickets

12 – Sample the city’s gastro-scene at the food halls

If you’re looking for the best street food and diverse global flavors, the city has some very cool food halls to check out. If you love great food, and who doesn’t? This is one of the most fun things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Morgan Food Hall is a fun and vibrant place to eat with around 20 vendors selling mouthwatering snacks and desserts. Here you can find crepes and waffles, tacos, wood-fired pizzas, kebabs, curries and much more. There are also traditional southern flavors, lobster dishes and even fish and chips on the menu.

The fun doesn’t stop there though. Over the other side of town is the Transfer Co. Food Hall which offers more delectable dishes for the tasting. Here you can try artisan stuffed bagels, burritos, oysters and amazing Indian street food dishes and wash it all down with a craft brew from the super-cool Burial Beer Co.

13 – Explore WRAL Azalea Garden

The WRAL Television Studios on Western Boulevard are surrounded by impressive and beautiful gardens and are home to a wide selection of azalea varieties. Created as a service to the local community from the station’s founder in 1959, WRAL Azalea Gardens has long been a sanctuary of green in the Downtown city environment.

Though famed for its azaleas, the garden also has many other types of plants including camellias, hydrangeas, palms and vines. Each year in late Summer, the garden gives away 5,000 azaleas to hundreds of non-profit organizations in North Carolina as a positive way to beautify the surrounding communities.

The gardens are free to enter and open to the public year-round from dawn until dusk.

14 – Delve deeper into the region’s roots at the North Carolina Museum of History

Discover the fascinating story of the region at the North Carolina Museum of History . Uncover a past filled with pirates, gold rushes and aviation history in a series of fun and educational exhibitions.

Many people are aware that it was in North Carolina that the Wright brothers made their momentous first flight back in 1903. The area’s history is way older though and has been the site of human habitation for 14,000 years including the eight recognized indigenous tribes of NC.

Learn about some of the state’s most famous residents including the notorious pirate Blackbeard, the gunsmith David Marshall Williams, commonly known as Carbine, as well as North Carolina’s biggest sports stars, it’s all here.

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15 – Witness history come to life at the Joel Lane Museum House

Joel Lane House is the oldest surviving home in Wake County and the city of Raleigh. It was built by enslaved laborers in the 1760s and played host to some significant meetings in the state’s history.

Owned by the founding father of Raleigh and Wake County, Joel Lane, the house was once described as the finest in the area. Visitors can tour the formal garden and herb garden to see plants that would have been common to homesteads in the 1700s such as medicinal herbs, grapes, figs and apples.

The house is decorated with furniture and practical items that would have been widely available in the era that it was built. The museum puts on educational open house events with live actors as well as lectures throughout the year. This is a great way to step back in time to the 18th century at the birthplace of the city of Raleigh.

16 – Catch a basketball game at William Neal Reynolds Coliseum

Located on the NC State University campus, William Reynolds Coliseum is home to many of the university’s sports teams, known collectively as the Wolfpack.

On any given day, visitors can witness both men’s and women’s college basketball, volleyball, wrestling and gymnastics.

William Reynolds is also one of the college’s major event spaces and has hosted addresses by a number of former presidents including Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and Barrack Obama.

The arena has also held concerts by well-known international artists including Elton John, The Rolling Stones and Louis Armstrong.

This is the place to be to see the brightest rising stars in North Carolina college basketball. You can check out the website to see what’s on.

17 – Uncover the city’s hidden gems on a scavenger hunt

If you’re searching for fun ways to explore the city and get the most out of your visit, a scavenger hunt is a great way to do that.

Download the app and gather together your team, or go it alone if that’s your style, for an enjoyable brainteasing adventure across the city.

Follow clues and decipher puzzles to find your way around the city. Take photos and complete challenges in these fun immersive exploration games.

You can even check your points against others on the leaderboard to see how you compare. This is definitely a great team activity for families or friends to get you out and about in Raleigh.

• scavenger games in Raleigh

18 – Relax at Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve

Founded in 2005, the Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve , is the city of Raleigh’s first official nature preserve. It was left to the city by its namesake, a renowned local doctor, under the strict condition that it should be a space for nature and education.

This is a great place to visit with kids and visitors can find natural history displays and crafting tables in the park’s education center. In the spirit of exploration and education, visitors can also loan backpacks stuffed with fun activities for children as well as binoculars and even kites to fly within the park.

There are hiking and wildlife watching trails to explore, native plant gardens and several nature play areas where children, as well as adults, can build a fort or fairy house, explore a natural maze and play in a teepee. This is surely something everyone can enjoy!

19 – Discover African-American history at Pope House Museum

The only African-American house museum in the state of North Carolina, Pope House Museum offers a glimpse into the life of Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope. During the Jim Crow era when racial segregation was legal in the southern states of the US, Dr. Pope was the only African-American to run for the position of mayor in a southern capital city.

The Pope House Museum features more than 3,000 artifacts related to the life of Dr. Pope, considered one of Raleigh’s most interesting public figures. These include original furniture and artifacts such as his father’s freedman papers, his medical bag from the Spanish-American war and his voter registration card.

The museum is open on weekends and admission is free. Visitors can take a guided tour but it is necessary to book in advance.

20 – Try all the beers at Raleigh Beer Garden

With the impressive claim of offering the world’s largest selection of draft beers, where else would you go for a cold brew in the city but Raleigh Beer Garden ? With over 350 beers on tap, you are quite literally spoiled for choice in this unique and casual restaurant bar.

Try the latest in local microbrew IPAs or sample the best of imported wheat beers from Europe. The food menu is not as extensive but is jam-packed with modern comfort food brunch and lunch dishes to ready your stomach for sampling some more tasty beers.

This is a great place to start your evening if you’re thinking of sampling Raleigh’s nightlife. Raleigh Beer Garden is just a stone’s throw from the Downtown area and its many bars and restaurants.

21 – Hike on the Capital Area Greenway

If you love to be outdoors, either hiking, running, cycling or nature watching you’ll definitely want to check out the Capital Area Greenway Trails . Exploring this network of open public spaces and pathways is surely one of the most fun things to do in Raleigh for outdoors people.

With 28 trails covering over 100 miles around the city, there is sure to be one you’ll really love. Though most of the trails are less than 5 miles in length, there are longer routes for the more ambitious explorer.

The Neuse River Trail is the longest and extends to over 27 miles over boardwalks, wetlands, historic sites and wide-open countryside.

Some of the nicest short routes are the 2-mile hike around Lake Johnson and the Simms Branch Trail which runs from the Abbots Creek Trail to the Durant Nature Preserve.

22 – Delve deeper into the city’s history at the City of Raleigh Museum

Documenting and preserving the city’s history since 1993, The City of Raleigh Museum is an interactive museum that is jam-packed with artifacts, photographs and literature related to the growth and ever-changing face of the city.

The museum is located in the historic building on the city’s busy Fayetteville Street which was once occupied by Briggs Hardware. It has information on important points in the city’s history including Sir Walter Raleigh, the town’s namesake, exhibitions on slavery, and even a diorama of the city.

The oral history booths are a great addition and allow visitors to discover more about the city from the perspective of the people who have lived here. If you’re looking to discover more about the history of North Carolina’s capital, this is the perfect place to start.

23 – Catch the Carolina Hurricanes at the PNC Arena

From sports fans to songbirds and everyone in between, any kind of visitor will find something to enjoy at PNC Arena!

The massive venue is most famous as the home of the Carolina Hurricanes , a live-wire NHL team whose matches are always exciting.

But even if you’re not watching some teams duke it out on the ice, you’re likely to find a spectacular event on the calendar!

Check out some thrilling basketball games, including home games for the NC State Wolfpack, the renowned men’s college team.

Want some non-sporty options? You’ve got it!

Headlining comedy acts, show-stopping concerts, and epic conventions FIX are just some of the diverse programs that fill the space on any given day.

They even host monster truck rallies!

• PNC Arena tickets

24 – Visit North Carolina Executive Mansion

The official residence of the Governor of North Carolina and their family, North Carolina Executive Mansion was built in the 1880s and has since housed 28 of the state’s governors.

Also known as “the people’s house” its redbrick facade and the extensive use of locally produced materials led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to claim it one of the most beautiful governor’s houses in America.

Visitors can take a free guided tour of this historic North Carolina residence and its extensive five-acre flower and vegetable gardens.

25 – Try laser tag at Adventure Landing

Another of the city’s fun amusement parks, Adventure Landing is the place to be for lively indoor and outdoor group activities. Try your hand at mini-golf on the park’s 18-hole course or go head-to-head with friends on the curvy quarter-mile go-kart track.

Brush up on your swing in one of the batting cages or fight to the end with a game of laser tag in the indoor battle arena. Gather up your friends and family for this beginner-friendly laser battle game and remember, only one person can emerge victoriously.

Adventure Landing is also home to a “Mega Arcade” with over 75 interactive games to try out, there is something here for everyone.

26 – Step back in time at the Historic Yates Mill County Park

The extensive Yates Mill County Park is home to the area’s only surviving water-powered mill. The mill was in operation for over 200 years from the colonial era all the way to the early-20th century when it was used to grind wheat and corn.

Historically, the mill pond was an important meeting point and recreational space in the days before major towns were developed in the region. When the community was just a scattered selection of homesteads and farms, people would gather here to fish and picnic by the edge of the water.

It’s still a popular place to visit by Raleigh locals and the park extends to about 170 acres. Here you can hike the trails, picnic and fish to this day and also explore the landscaped gardens and even take a tour of the historic wooden mill. This is the ideal place to grab some fresh air in the North Carolina countryside.

27 – Check out the historic J.S. Dorton Arena

Located on the grounds of the North Carolina State Fair , the J.S Dorton Arena has been at the heart of public events since its construction in 1952.

Its iconic elliptical shape and innovative cable-suspended roof, which was the first in the world, is a popular local landmark that has made it onto the National Register of Historic Places.

It has hosted many sporting events in its 70-year history and has been the home grounds of the ECHL hockey team, The Raleigh IceCaps, as well as the Carolina Cougars basketball team.

More recently, it hosted professional indoor football but has also been used for Roller Derby and NWA Pro-Wrestling.

Before the construction of Walnut Creek Amphitheatre, it hosted major touring music acts including Ray Charles, The Supremes and the Jimi Hendrix Experience.

28 – Sightsee in style with a pedicab tour

Looking for another great way to see the city sights?

Then be sure to book a pedicab tour during your visit!

If you’ve never seen or ridden in one of these vehicles before, you’re in for a treat; consisting of a bike with seats attached to the back, it’s the perfect way to enjoy your surroundings at a slower pace.

Settle into the cozy cushions, and let your guide/power pedaler convey you through town, stopping at various historical and cultural treasures along the way.

Best of all, the itinerary is customizable, so you can plan a route packed with all of your must-sees!

And if you feel like showing off a bit, there’s even a karaoke option, where you can pass the time between sites by belting out your favorite tunes.

• pedicab tours in Raleigh

29 – Indulge yourself at Videri Chocolate Factory – Chocolate Bean to Bar

If one business is actively trying to be the most fun thing to do in Raleigh, it’s Videri Chocolate Factory .

As if seeing the production of artisan chocolates and sampling all the delicious flavors wasn’t enough, the company creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for the casual observer.

The factory is open to the public to come and witness the handmade magic that goes on behind its doors.

Those with a sweet tooth should definitely pay a visit to enjoy the sights and smells of these lovingly prepared sweet treats. Taste the variety of products made here, preferably with a coffee or soft-serve ice cream.

30 – Sit a while at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Gardens

These leafy memorial gardens were developed in 1975 and were the first public park in the country to be dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Home to a life-size sculpture of the civil rights hero, the garden aims to promote peace and community cohesion as well as a pleasant place to relax in Downtown Raleigh.

The garden is also home to a 12-ton granite monument that commemorates the lives and achievements of notable local civil rights pioneers. It’s a great place to escape from the bustle of the city and even has a covered event space with a grill and seating for 130 people.

Take some time while you’re in Raleigh to stroll through this tranquil and picturesque park and remember Dr. King, one of the country’s foremost voices for unity, equality and peace.

31 – Play and learn at Marbles Kids Museum

If you’re looking for educational and fun things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina with kids, Marbles could be the ideal place. This popular local kids museum blends play and exploration to create an engaging fun environment that children will love.

With tons of activities and events going on throughout the year, including summer camps, sensory play times, princess tea parties and NASA space telescope viewings, there is something to capture the imagination of every young mind here.

There are over 15 full-time exhibits to explore and an IMAX Theater that shows everything from educational documentaries to the latest superhero movies. Kids will really love this place.

32 – Explore Juniper Level Botanic Garden

What started as just over two acres of abandoned tobacco fields in the 1980s has extended to one of the region’s finest plant collections, Juniper Level Botanic Garden. The facility now covers 28 acres and is run as a research and display garden.

The extensive collection includes over 60 varieties of agave, 80 varieties of ginger, 300 species of fern and much more. Juniper Level is a great place to pick up some rare or specialist plants but is also an ideal spot to escape the city and enjoy the fantastic landscaped areas.

The garden hosts horticultural classes based on the knowledge acquired from decades of research in the field. It also has a Center for Mindfulness and Oneness which offers retreats and classes. Take a look at the website to see what classes are available. Juniper Level is open to visitors from Friday to Sunday each week.

33 – Enjoy a treetop adventure at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

Ever wanted to explore the treetops on a series of dizzying rope bridges, ziplines and Tarzan swings? Go Ape at Blue Jay County Park is just the place for you.

With a bunch of challenging tree crossings suspended in the forest canopy, you’ll find all the thrills of a woodland adventure right here in the park.

Strap on your harness and traverse rope bridges and platforms, the highest of which reaches 50ft. Explore 41 different obstacle challenges and hurtle through the forest on super-long ziplines.

The full treetop adventure course takes between 2-3 hours to complete and is suitable for ages 10 and upwards.

Younger kids will enjoy the Treetop Journey which is a shorter course that offers all the fun of the full experience but not quite as high. This is a day out all the family will love.

34 – Wander through a creepier world on some ghost tours

Any city with such a long history is not without its spooky side; and if you go out at night, you can learn all about it on a ghost tour!

Head out on a fascinating, frightful excursion into the eerier side of the capital’s past, including some of its most famous (or infamous) deceased residents.

Learn compelling tales about booze-smuggling politicians, strange specters with peg legs, and even potential witches lurking around the area!

Along the way, you’ll also get to take in some of the most famous buildings in town, from boisterous community bars to stately mansions packed with their own bizarre secrets.

While you don’t have to be a believer to join the tour, you just might become one after hearing some of these anecdotes!

• ghost walking tours in Raleigh

35 – Tour the James B. Hunt Jr. Library

North Carolina State University’s cutting-edge facility, the James B. Hunt Jr Library was built with the express purpose of supporting the latest research and its students’ progress. This modern and colorful glass-walled library building is quite a sight to behold.

It is the university’s second main library and features traditional study and learning rooms, as well as more unconventional spaces and interesting viewpoints throughout the building. It houses a video game testing laboratory and the latest technological devices to try out and experiment with.

Its huge warehouse-style storage facility uses a bookbot to help pick individual books from the library’s collection of 2 million volumes. The innovative library has public areas which are open to self-tour by individuals and small groups.

36 – Walk the streets of Historic Oakwood

One of the nicest areas of the city to explore by foot has to be the Historic Oakwood Neighborhood. It is home to some of the best-preserved examples of 19th-century houses and buildings in all of North Carolina.

The neighborhood includes hundreds of homes in a wide variety of different styles and sizes and provides a glimpse into the way the city looked nearly 200 years ago.

In December each year visitors can try the Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour which visits up to a dozen houses in the area. Visitors get the opportunity to see Queen Anne, Victorian and Craftsmen architectural styles up close.

The Historic Oakwood Cemetery is also worth exploring while you’re in the neighborhood. The burial ground is 150 years old and is the final resting place for many high profile individuals, including Confederate Army generals, basketball players, governors, senators and congressmen.

37 – Pick up groceries at Raleigh Farmers Market

A trip to the Farmers Market is surely one of the top things to do in Raleigh on everyone’s list. It is, without doubt, one of the best places to pick up fresh foods and products in the city.

Here you will find locally-produced fruits and vegetables and high-quality meats and cheeses from the surrounding region.

The market is housed in a 15,600 square foot indoor space that has boutique stalls selling everything from soaps and lotions to old-fashioned candies, baked goods, North Carolina souvenirs and gifts and some of the state’s finest wines.

If you’re on the lookout for home and garden furnishings, check out Market Imports for fountains, furnishings and pots. You can also pick up breakfast while you’re here as there are a number of restaurants and cafes inside the market that serve freshly prepared dishes all day.

38 – Go rock climbing at Triangle Rock Club – Raleigh

Fancy pushing your boundaries with an adrenaline-inducing adventure sport?

Triangle Rock Club is a great place to start. This well-established rock climbing facility has over 7,000 square feet of bouldering terrain and a freestanding 30-foot climbing wall, so whatever type of climbing you’re into, you are well catered for here.

Though the club’s climbing walls draw a lot of attention it also promotes general fitness and has daily classes teaching various types of yoga as well as strength training and HIIT courses.

First-timers can take classes to learn the basics of rock climbing and discover what style they enjoy the most. whether tricky bouldering problems or scaling the dizzying heights, you will find plenty to excite and challenge you at Triangle Rock Club.

39 – Explore and learn at Clemmons Educational State Forest

If you’ve never heard of an educational state forest before you may be wondering how does it differ from a State Park?

Though a state park is primarily concerned with the preservation of a particular habitat, an educational state forest is managed for various uses including timber harvesting.

At Clemmons Educational State Forest , visitors can discover all about the complex interconnected relationships in the forest, from the plants that grow there to the creatures that inhabit it.

The park has lots of trails and routes to discover as well as picturesque places to picnic and barbecue.

Clemmons includes woodland areas of pine and hardwood, streams and wetlands and meadows. You can also find informative exhibits explaining the importance of every organism in the managed forest.

40 – Laugh your heart out at Raleigh Improv

No town’s arts scene is complete without a dose of comedy, and if you’re in the looking for fun in the capital, Raleigh Improv is sure to keep you snickering!

While it’s a relative newcomer to the area, the club has quickly earned its way into the hearts of townsfolk and tourists alike, offering some of the best improvisational work around.

Although they book plenty of fantastic touring talent, the space is also known for its homegrown talent, with a perpetually growing troupe of locals coming out to strut their stuff.

You’ll be amazed at the speed and precision with which these performers spin random ideas into fully functional comedy gold!

• Raleigh Improv tickets

41 – See the birthplace of a US President at Mordecai Historical Park

The oldest house in Raleigh in its original location, Mordecai House was constructed in 1785 by the city’s founder, Joel Lane, as part of one of the largest plantations in Wake County. It was remodeled in the 1800s by William Nichols, who also redesigned the State Capitol building.

Mordecai House has strong connections to some of the most prominent families in the city’s history and, being a plantation house, slavery too. The park has a visitor center and offers tours of the house daily where you can uncover its history and view original furniture and household artifacts from the mid-1700s onwards.

The birthplace of the 17th U.S President, Andrew Johnson, is also located on the grounds of the park. Visitors can learn about the former president’s childhood and his meteoric rise from poverty to the most powerful person in the country. There’s a lot here for history fans to discover!

42 – Spot wildlife at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

In the nearby town of Cary, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a great space for spotting native wildlife and unusual plant species. Home to Eastern hemlock tree varieties, the park is just a stone’s throw from the bustling high street.

Here visitors can explore up to three miles of mulched wooded trails and boardwalks. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, lizards, snakes and the rare glimpse of foxes. The park also has the Stevens Nature Center which provides interactive and educational exhibits on the local wildlife.

43 – Play Sherlock in an escape room

If you’re looking for a unique and fun group challenge to take in Raleigh, why not try an escape room challenge? These interactive and immersive games will test your puzzle-solving skills and powers of deduction to the extreme.

Play the part of the master detective in a Sherlock-themed challenge at Raleigh’s Room 5280 or join a CSI squad to solve a suspicious death at The Tower Escapes ‘ Castle of Loches.

Work together as a team to decipher clues and crack all the puzzles within the time limit. Try the different themed rooms and choose what kind of adventure you would like to take.

These escape rooms are one of the best things to do in Raleigh for those looking to test their problem-solving and sleuthing skills and are also a really fun group activity.

44 – Smell the flowers at JC Raulston Arboretum

Nature lovers will really enjoy a trip to the JC Raulston Arboretum . Founded in the 1970s as part of the North Carolina State University, the internationally renowned garden has grown from eight to ten acres and features an exceptional collection of plants.

Named for its founder JC Raulston, who was a NC State University lecturer and prominent horticulturist,  The arboretum has a number of landscaped gardens with exotic and native plants. Visitors can explore gardens created different environments and seasons in mind.

Discover colorful and fragrant butterfly gardens, model gardens that show the intelligent use of landscaping in smaller spaces and serene Japanese gardens. This place is a must-see for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers.

45 – Take the chequered flag at Rush Hour Karting

Looking for some high-speed thrills or a fun thing to do in Raleigh as a group?

Rush Hour Karting could be just the thing for you. Hit the track and race go-karts at speeds up to 40 mph through a series of turns, chicanes and hairpin bends.

This high-speed kart track is suitable for adults and youths, and is all indoors so you can race whatever the weather.

This is not your average amusement park go-kart track. You need to use all your skill to race these 200cc karts around the Grand Prix-style track if you want to win that chequered flag.

You never know, if you are really good you might make it onto the leaderboard list of all-time greats!

46 – Take a picnic at Dorothea Dix Park

There’s always some kind of event happening at Dorothy Dix Park . Whether it be a drive-in Valentine’s day movie or a music festival such as Dreamville, curated by local hip hop artist J Cole. You need to put this place on your list of essential things to do in Raleigh.

But it doesn’t end there. This community park also hosts picnics and get-togethers, art installations, pop-up museums and much more.

There’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular places to visit for Raleigh locals. In the summer, months be sure to check out the huge flower fields with their displays of sunflowers and daffodils.

The park is also great for your four-legged friend and has an off-leash area where your dog can bound, skip and play to his heart’s content. There’s so much to see and do in this exciting city park.

47 – Dine and play at Kings Bowl-North Hills

One of the city’s best places to go if you’re looking for great quality food and entertainment all in one spot.

Kings Bowl has all the classic comfort food favorites you know and love, including delicious pizzas, burgers, tacos and wings as well as a selection of salads, sandwiches and desserts.

You can also check out its range of classic bar games, including bowling, billiards, darts, air hockey and even retro-arcade game favorites. If you’re looking for an easy-going place to eat and have fun, Kings Bowl could be just what you need.

48 – Take a shopping spree at Raleigh’s best malls

If you’re looking for a little retail therapy while in the city or just want to take some time out from sightseeing, why not visit some of the best local malls for a shopping spree?

Crabtree Valley Mall is a great place to visit if you’re looking for the biggest high street names. Here you can find major clothing brands such as Hollister, Foot Locker and GAP, cosmetics by Lush and Sephora and electronic items from Apple Store. There are also book and record stores and over 30 restaurants and eateries.

An upmarket shopping center, Midtown’s North Hills offers visitors a range of shopping, dining, entertainment and accommodation options. The open-air development has many boutique stores selling clothes and accessories as well as spas, restaurants and cafes, services, a super-modern 60,000 square foot gym and a cinema complex.

49 – See a musical at Raleigh Little Theatre

One of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the country, Raleigh Little Theatre has been entertaining locals and visitors alike since 1936. This vibrant community theater puts on almost a dozen productions each year as well as educational programs for youths and adults.

The theater has three performance venues including two small indoor theaters and a large outdoor amphitheater that can seat up to 1700 guests. It hosts a variety of performances including comedies, musicals, dramas and even sensory-friendly performances so everyone gets to enjoy a night at the theater.

Through the summer months you can check out the outdoor movie screening series and, if you’re lucky, you might be there for one of the theater’s costume sales to pick up some fun, vintage clothing and accessories.

You can also check out the Raleigh Rose Garden which is located just behind the theater and has year-round displays of roses and perennials.

50 – Play interactive golf and party at Drive Shack

Eager to play golf but you also want to drink a beer? No problem, you can do both at Drive Shack . You’ll be pro in no time as you work on your swing in these interactive indoor golf simulators.

The facility has a three-level driving range where you can practice your swing using traditional tailor-made clubs to hit authentic golf balls into the range.

With the latest technology, you can track your ball and know all the information such as launch speed and peak height.

Drive Shack also offers an extensive food and drink menu, cutting-edge arcade games and a program of social events. Whether you’re a professional golfer or just want to smack things and have fun, this place is custom-made for everyone to have a great time.

51 – Relax a while at Moore Square

Located in the center of the historic district of the city, Moore Square is right at the heart of the action. This shady tree-lined area is home to many of the city’s most popular events and attractions including weekly markets, summer festivals such as Movies in the Park and the Long View Center.

Take some time to relax in this four-acre green space which sits at the center of the Moore Square Historic District. It has plenty of benches to rest on and an interactive water feature. There are also some small cafes and eateries in the park itself including the aptly named Square Burger.

There are a number of vendors who take up residence in the park each Sunday selling snacks, art, plants and locally produced foods. Definitely take the time to check out this city center park while you are in Raleigh.

52 – Delight your senses with fine dining at Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern

Located in the restored Dodd-Hinsdale House built in the 1870s — the restaurant offers both a historical and gourmet dining experience surrounded by Second Empire Victorian architecture.

Tour the house and see its beautiful staircase and interior design. Discover its various rooms which have become a favorite venue for bridal showers, weddings and birthday parties.

You can choose the Chef’s Table option where you have a five-course meal paired with wine in the kitchen — interacting with the chef and crew as they prepare your food.

And if you want to continue your adventures in fine dining, you’ve come to the right place!

Tuck into some sea scallops or short ribs at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern , or take a trip across the Atlantic with a bite at Saint Jacques French Cuisine .

You can also try some world-class steaks (plus cigars, if you partake) at The Angus Barn, or enjoy the decadent, New Orleans-inspired flavors at Rey’s Restaurant .

53 – Go Camping in William B. Umstead State Park

Sitting between the cities of Raleigh, Durham and Cary, is the William B. Umstead State Park . This huge natural space is home to many pathways which pass through dense woodland and alongside a number of lakes.

Its extensive trails are a favorite spot for local cyclists, hikers and runners, eager to escape the city. It has three man-made lakes, the largest of which is the imaginatively titled Big Lake. Fishing is welcome in all of the lakes and surrounding tributaries and there are also opportunities to hire kayaks and canoes in the park.

For those who really like to make the most of the outdoors, the park has some primitive campsites as well as fireplaces and picnic shelters which make the perfect weekend getaway in the warm summer months.

54 – See a concert at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre

In the summer months, one of the best places to see live music in the city is Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek . This picturesque outdoor venue has the capacity for 20,000 people to enjoy concerts in comfort.

First opened in 1991, Its stage has been graced by some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, David Bowie and Lauryn Hill. It has hosted huge festivals such as Ozzfest, Vans Warped Tour and the Charlotte Blues Festival.

Snacks and drinks are available on site but visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic blankets, binoculars and cushions for maximum comfort. Check out the venue’s website to see who’s performing during your time in Raleigh, NC.

55 – Catch an orchestral concert at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Home to the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra, Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts is the city’s main venue for ballet and dance performances, orchestral concerts and theatre.

The center includes five performance spaces in its complex, including the Meymandi Concert Hall which is the headquarters of the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra . The orchestra performs here regularly during its busy schedule of 300 yearly concerts.

Visitors can also see a range of Broadway musicals, dance shows and live shows here on any given night. The center’s largest concert venue, the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, sits at the southern end of Fayetteville Street and has an elegant Greek-revival facade that you can’t miss.

How to get to Raleigh?

Raleigh-Durham Airport hosts plenty of international and domestic flights, and offers the chance to get started on your next trip that much quicker.

And if you want to make the whole thing easier on yourself, book a transfer service !

These convenient, private options will transport you to and from the city at a reasonable price, eliminating some of the usual stress of arriving in a new city.

Where to stay in Raleigh?

Hyatt Place Raleigh Cary combines classy decor with a great set of amenities, whether you want to grab a bite at the snack bar, get some reps in at the gym, or simply lounge around the beautiful outdoor pool.

And at Hilton Raleigh North Hills , you can spend your days hanging around nearby sites like the Capitol building, the Museum of Natural Sciences, and the PNC Arena, then wander back to unwind on the gorgeous sundeck.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Crabtree provides a free breakfast and shuttle service, as well as close proximity to plenty of museums and shopping areas.

And at Hyatt House Raleigh/Rdu/Brier Creek , you’ll have a little haven just outside of the city, where you can swim, dine, or sip delicious cocktails to your heart’s content.

Meanwhile, Best Western Plus Raleigh Crabtree Valley Hotel provides a nice option for those that want to be close to town or the local malls, while still enjoying some in-house amenities like the gym and business center.

• best hotels in Raleigh

Where to go next?

When you’re ready to keep exploring, you’ll find dynamic cities waiting to greet you around every corner – and some are relatively close by!

Just a couple of hours west and south, Charlotte boasts a quirky cultural scene and fantastic culinary options, with craft beer breweries, historic mansions, exciting amusement parks, and even a NASCAR track to keep things interesting.

And if you keep going north, you’ll end up in Virginia, which boasts quite a few great towns of its own.

Check out the lively arts scene and history-soaked streets of Richmond , or the excellent restaurants, beautiful views, and fascinating naval culture of Norfolk .

And of course, sun worshippers will thrill to the sands of Virginia Beach , which offers plenty of museums, outdoor activities, and fantastic musical venues to go with its famously picturesque shores.

Final thoughts

Simultaneously cutting-edge and wonderfully old-fashioned, this capital has coolness to spare!

You may be surprised at all of the different things to do in Raleigh, but you’ll quickly realize that it’s no ordinary town.

Packed with political power and laidback locals, it offers a trip like no other; so head on over for some of that famous Southern hospitality!

45+ Fun Things to Do in Durham NC for Couples & Nearby

Looking for Fun Things to Do in Durham NC for Couples?

Welcome to Durham, NC, the perfect urban retreat for couples looking for a blend of culture and relaxation. Here, you and your partner can explore historic sites, savor diverse culinary delights, and catch a game or a show. 

Durham offers a unique mix of activities that cater to any couple’s interests. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk in nature or an evening of vibrant downtown entertainment, you’ll find lots of fun things to do here as a couple.

Fun Things to Do in Durham NC for Couples

So much fun to explore; let’s dive into all the things you both can do while in Durham.

1. Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Address: 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC 27708

Step into the serene world of the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a jewel among public gardens in the United States. Celebrated for its exquisite landscape design and superior horticulture, it’s a place where couples can meander through vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways. 

Admission is free, offering a picturesque escape every day of the year. With over 300,000 visitors annually, the gardens showcase a tapestry of natural beauty that’s been part of the Duke University heritage for generations.

During the summer, enjoy the Music in the Gardens concerts. Tucked behind the Doris Duke Center, it’s a perfect setting to lounge on the grass with your picnic blanket, fostering a warm, intimate atmosphere. 

Hours of Admission: The gardens welcome visitors daily from 8 a.m. until dusk, all year round, with free admission. Parking on the university grounds is $2 per hour. It’s advisable to arrive early, especially when we have beautiful weather and during weekends, as these peak times often mean the parking lot reaches capacity quickly.

2. Enjoy a Wine Class at Brunello Wine Bar

Address: 123 Market Street, Suite A, Durham 27701

For couples looking for an intimate and educational outing, the Brunello Wine Bar presents an enticing opportunity. Their wine classes offer you a chance to connect over the love of wine, traveling from the romantic vineyards of Italy to the historic cellars of Georgia, all from the comfort of Durham. 

Whether you’re toasting to Valentine’s Day with Italian vintages or cooling off with summertime whites, these sessions are tailored to create lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for each other’s company and fine wine.

3. Nasher Museum of Art

Address: 2001 Campus Dr, Durham, NC 27705

Celebrating creativity that springs from the earth and human experience, the Nasher Museum of Art presents an array of stories, songs, and artworks that provoke thought and exploration. It’s a place where couples can share in the appreciation of artistic achievements and the complex narratives woven into each exhibit.​ Admission is free for everyone .  

Hours of Admission: Monday: Closed

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Thursday: 10 AM to 9 PM

Sunday: Noon to 5 PM

Closed on certain days around the Holidays.  Make sure to check their website . 

4. Duke Lemur Center

Address: 3705 Erwin Rd, Durham, NC 27705

The Duke Lemur Center is a renowned sanctuary on the campus of Duke University, dedicated to the conservation and study of lemurs. It boasts the most diverse population of lemurs outside Madagascar, with 14 species of lemurs totaling over 200 animals altogether. The Center offers a range of tours that provide an intimate look at these fascinating creatures. However, it’s important for visitors to book these tours in advance since the DLC doesn’t accommodate walk-ins to ensure the safety and health of the lemurs. 

5. Durham Central Park

Address: 501 Foster St, Durham, NC 27701

A vibrant urban park that serves as a nucleus for community life and culture in downtown Durham.  The park is equipped with amenities such as illuminated fields, a skatepark, picnic areas, a playground, a community recreation center, public restrooms, and a drinking fountain.  Stop by the Durham Food Hall while you are in the area. 

During the summer, make it a date night at the Rock The Park, a free summer concert and movie series; just bring your own chairs. 

6. Museum of Life and Science

Address: 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704

Museum of Life and Science is a sprawling 84-acre wonderland that sparks imagination and creativity through its science and nature experiences​​. It’s a place where curiosity leads to discovery, encouraging visitors to play, learn, and ask questions. 

While you are here, make sure to check out the Butterfly Conservatory, the Dinosaur Trail, and the Aerospace exhibits, which showcase significant NASA artifacts. As an AZA-accredited zoo, it’s also home to a variety of animals like red wolves and lemurs, making it a delightful and educational outing for couples.

Hours of Admission: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm (holidays may change availability). Admission starts at $23 per adult and $18 per child (3-12); under two years old are free. They also have free parking available. 

7. Duke Homestead

Address: 2828 Duke Homestead Rd, Durham, NC 27705

Duke Homestead Historic Site offers couples a glimpse into the 19th century, featuring the original home, farm, and factory of the Duke family from 1852 to 1874. Here, you’ll also find the Tobacco Museum, where you can explore the legacy of the tobacco industry, which shaped Durham and the nation. 

This landmark celebrates the Duke family’s early life and the birth of their globally recognized tobacco enterprise post-Civil War​​. It’s a significant slice of Durham’s history, providing an authentic and educational experience for visitors interested in the roots of American industry and agriculture.

Hours of Admission: Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Admission to the grounds and museum is free of charge; donations are welcome. 

Guided tours are $2 per adult and $1 per child (ages 5-12) and for seniors (65+)

8. “Major” | Durham Bull Bronze Sculpture

Address: 211 W Parrish St, Durham, NC 27701

Major the Bull stands as a bronze sentinel in the heart of downtown Durham, a 2,000-pound, 10-foot testament to the city’s spirit and tenacity. Created by local artists Michael Waller and Leah Foushee, Major was commissioned in memory of George Watts Hill, a World War II veteran and a long-standing bank president, and has been a downtown icon since 2004. 

The sculpture embodies the strength of Durham, a city with deep roots in the tobacco industry symbolized by the bull since the 1800s. It’s a fun place to stop while you’re out exploring the downtown area.

9. Duke University Chapel

Address: Duke University Chapel

The Duke University Chapel, a striking example of English Gothic architecture, stands at an impressive 210 feet on campus. Although its design doesn’t replicate any specific cathedral or church, its grandeur and stature fulfill James B. Duke’s vision of a central towering church influencing the lives of Duke students. 

The Chapel, designed by Julian Abele, a renowned black architect, was the first planned building and the last constructed on the west campus of the university. Since its dedication in 1935, the Chapel has been a sanctuary open to all, hosting ecumenical services and significant university events. Photography of the Chapel is permitted for personal use, provided it does not disrupt events or disturb others enjoying the space.

The nearest public parking is the Bryan Center Parking Garage, located at 125 Science Drive, with a standard rate of $2 per hour. 

10. West Point on the Eno

Address: 5101 N Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27704

West Point on the Eno, a 404-acre city park on the Eno River, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical exploration. Come enjoy a picnic, hike through the wooded trails, or paddle on the river.

The park features the working West Point Mill, 1850’s McCown-Mangum House, and the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography, stepping stones to Durham’s past. 

Hours of Admission: Open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk

11. Eno Rock Quarry

Address: 4950 Howe St, Durham, NC 27705

Eno Rock Quarry, a former source of stone for Interstate 85 in the ’60s, now serves as a secluded summer spot within Eno River State Park. This 4-acre, 60-foot-deep pool is a short 0.8-mile hike from the parking lot via the Cabelands and Eno Quarry trails . The quarry is open year-round; swimming is not recommended due to potential hazards.  

12. Durham Performing Arts Center

Address: 123 Vivian Street, Durham, NC 27701

The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) is an ideal destination for couples seeking a memorable night out. With its modern design and intimate atmosphere, DPAC creates the perfect setting for enjoying a live show together. 

Couples can experience a wide range of performances, from dazzling Broadway musicals to top-tier concerts, comedy shows, and more, offering a shared experience that caters to any taste or interest.

Before your performance, stop into Littler for a lovely dinner before your show; it’s a six-minute walk to the performing arts center.   Another great option is Bull City Ciderworks , which is a similar distance if you are just looking for drinks before or after the show. Lastly, for some light bites and drinks, check out The Waiting Room .  

13. Durham Bulls Athletic Park

Address: 409 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701

Couples looking for a fun outing can head to a Durham Bulls baseball game for a quintessential American pastime experience. With the 2024 schedule announcing 75 home games, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch the action. 

Special events and themed nights add an extra layer of excitement, making every game a unique experience. The Durham Bulls Athletic Park, known for its vibrant atmosphere, is the perfect spot to enjoy America’s favorite pastime together. 

Looking to grab some food before the game, head across the street to Mellow Mushroom, Boricua Soul, Ekhaya, or Seraphine in the American Tobacco Campus.

14. Al Buehler Trail 

Address: 3001 Cameron Blvd, Durham, NC 27705

The Al Buehler Trail is a popular spot for a picturesque walk or jog, offering a 5k (approximately 2.9 miles) loop with gentle hills that’s frequented by families and dog walkers alike. The trail is noted for being well-maintained and features quarter-mile markers and lovely bridges along the route. Porta potties are available for convenience near the parking lot, making it a comfortable outing. 

Open from 5 am to 8 pm daily, the trail provides ample opportunity for couples to enjoy a scenic, active date in nature. Please note about the parking on site: there is a gravel lot for the Al Buehler Trail, which the public can park on weekends and weekdays after 5 pm, but you need a permit on weekdays before 5 pm. 

15. The Carolina Theatre

Address: 309 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701

The Carolina Theatre, with its storied past, stands as a testament to Durham’s rich history and cultural evolution. Founded in 1926, the theater has journeyed from a segregated institution to one that celebrates diversity and inclusivity, proudly displaying the stories of those who fought for change at this historic venue. 

The main stage, Fletcher Hall, is perfect for enjoying a live performance or a concert in a close, personal setting. The cinema wing offers a cozy ambiance for film enthusiasts to catch a classic or contemporary movie. Special events like film festivals provide unique date night experiences. 

16. Boxcar Bar + Arcade

Address: 621 Foster St, Durham, NC 27701

Here, you will find an eclectic mix of over 80 arcade games, a full bar with an impressive selection of 24 American craft beers on tap, and a menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, among other offerings. Enjoy their patio with fire pits, perfect for an evening hangout. Live music and outdoor games make it a prime spot for couples to enjoy each other’s company in a fun-filled setting.

17. Pump Station Trail

Address: 3860, 3998 Rivermont Rd, Durham, NC 27712

The Pump Station Trail , nestled along the Eno River, is a hidden gem perfect for couples seeking a peaceful hike with a touch of history. This over 1-mile loop trail can be a little tricky to find for newcomers; access is via Rivermont Rd off Cole Mill Rd, with two trailheads available to choose from, one just east of the bridge and another larger area to the west. The trail offers a serene walk through the woods and an opportunity to explore the ruins of the old Durham Pump Station.

18. Bennett Place

Address: 4409 Bennett Memorial Rd, Durham, NC 27705

At Bennett Place, history comes alive, offering couples a rich experience where learning, contemplation, and natural splendor intertwine. Renowned as the location of the American Civil War’s largest Confederate troop surrender, Bennett Place invites guests on both guided and self-guided journeys through its meticulously restored farmhouse, kitchen, and smokehouse. 

Hours of Admission: Open from Tuesday to Saturday, with free admission and donations appreciated; couples can explore at their own pace or join hourly tours starting from 10 am, with the last one at 3 pm. 

19. Cameron Indoor Stadium

Address: 115 Whitford Dr, Durham, NC 27708

Cameron Indoor Stadium is an iconic sports arena located at Duke University. For couples, attending a game at Cameron Indoor Stadium can be an exhilarating experience. They can join the sea of blue, sharing the thrill of competition and the unity of cheering on the Blue Devils. 

Even when there isn’t a game, visiting the stadium offers a chance to walk through a piece of basketball history and feel the echoes of the past.

20. Museum of Durham History

Address: 500 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701

This museum offers an immersive journey into the city’s past. With free admission, it’s an accessible space to delve into the tales of Durham’s people and places, fostering a sense of curiosity and connection to the city’s rich history. 

Hours of Admission: Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and on Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm, with extended hours for Third Fridays.

21. American Tobacco Trail 

Address: Parking lot, 6319 Fayetteville Rd, Durham, NC 27713

The American Tobacco Trail, a rails-to-trails project, runs for over 22 miles through the Triangle region of North Carolina. This path, once a railroad corridor, is now a paved 10-foot-wide trail that welcomes a variety of users. 

The trail is 11 miles long and easy to access within the Durham section; it offers a peaceful escape into nature. The trail stretches from downtown Durham, beginning at the corner of Morehead and Blackwells streets and ending at Jordan Lake, the Chatham County line. 

22. Explore the American Tobacco Campus

Address: 300 Blackwell St #104, Durham, NC 27701

You can enjoy a romantic meal at one of the many restaurants offering both classic and new culinary delights. The campus is a hub for entertainment, hosting concerts and special events throughout the year, perfect for a couple seeking a night out. With its rich blend of historic and modern spaces, the campus itself is an inviting backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a memorable date night in the heart of Durham.

23. Enjoy Coffee and Crêpes at PRESS Coffee Crêpes Cocktails

Address: 359 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701

Inspired by European-style coffeehouses, the name PRESS Coffee Crêpes Cocktails should give you a good idea of what you can expect to find at this charming and ever-popular restaurant. In addition to their wide array of crepes, you can also choose from a number of salads and sandwich options. Their menu changes throughout each season based on peak growing seasons and what is available.

For drinks, you can expect to find a wide variety of coffees and teas, cocktails, beer, wine, and more.  They are open from 7 am – 6 pm on weekdays and from 9 am – 3 pm on weekends.

Breweries in Durham NC

Durham has some great breweries to choose from; let’s dive in.

Ponysaurus Brewing Co

Address: 219 Hood St, Durham, NC 27701

Discover Ponysaurus Brewing Co., a haven for unique beers and a lively atmosphere featuring a blend of traditional and inventive brews.

Fullsteam Brewery

Address: 726 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, NC 27701

Fullsteam Brewery is Durham’s oldest craft brewery and offers a “plow to pint” experience with beers crafted from local produce in a community-centric tavern, embodying Southern traditions and agricultural heritage.

Hi-Wire Brewing

Address: 800 Taylor St #9-150, Durham, NC 27701

Hi-Wire Brewing delights with 20 unique taps of their beers, engaging games, and a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by 360° murals and a spacious patio. They also have local collaborations for food delivery available.

Bull City Burger and Brewery

Address: 107 E Parrish St, Durham, NC 27701

Bull City Burger and Brewery offers a sustainable, farm-to-table dining experience in downtown Durham with locally sourced beef and produce paired with a variety of house-brewed, seasonal beers.

Durty Bull Brewing Company

Address: 206 Broadway St #104, Durham, NC 27701

Explore innovative brewing with their distinct selection of Lagers, Hazy IPAs, and Hard Seltzers. This brewery distinguishes itself in the local beer landscape with its unique offerings. Their welcoming taproom is the perfect setting for relaxing and savoring these inventive creations.

Tobacco Wood Brewing Co

Address: 2500 Meridian Pkwy, Durham, NC 27713

Tobacco Wood Brewing Co. in Durham is NC’s first female and veteran-owned brewery, providing a lively gastropub ambiance and a diverse selection of craft beers since 2018.

Flying Bull Beer Company, Inc

Address: 752 9th St, Durham, NC 27705

Flying Bull Beer Company offers unique brews and guest ciders with a beer garden for social gatherings, lively events, and a dog-friendly policy.

Clouds Brewing

Address:   Brightleaf Square, 905 W Main St #22, Durham, NC 27701

Clouds Brewing in Durham’s Brightleaf Square offers a German-inspired menu with 50 beer taps and craft cocktails, plus weekly specials and trivia nights for a festive experience.

DSSOLVR 

Address: 630 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, NC 27701

DSSOLVR is the newest brewery on the list; they have a diverse selection of beers and fermented drinks, with a focus on local ingredients and community engagement, bringing a unique, creative vibe to the area.

Things to Do Near Durham NC for Couples

There is already so much to do in Durham, but here are some great places to check out just outside of the area.  

Lake Crabtree County Park

Address: 1400 Aviation Pkwy, Morrisville, NC 27560

Just a short drive from Durham, Lake Crabtree County Park is a scenic escape for couples looking to enjoy nature together. With picturesque trails for hiking and biking and a tranquil lake perfect for boating or fishing, it’s an ideal spot for a romantic day out. Pack a picnic, explore the great outdoors, and unwind in this beautiful setting. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lake Crabtree County Park offers a lovely backdrop for making memories.

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

Address: 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27518

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve offers a serene retreat for couples. Wander hand-in-hand through shaded trails, admire the unique stand of Eastern Hemlock trees, and relax by the soothing streams. It’s a perfect natural sanctuary for a peaceful date, just a short journey from Durham.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport Observation Park

Address: W International Dr, Morrisville, NC 27560

Raleigh-Durham International Airport Observation Park provides a unique date experience. Couples can watch planes ascend and descend against the sky, discuss travel dreams, and enjoy the thrill of aviation up close. With picnic areas and an observation deck, it’s a fun and unconventional way to spend time together just outside of Durham.

Spa Day at The Umstead Hotel and Spa

Address: 100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary, NC 27513

A Spa Day at The Umstead Hotel and Spa is the epitome of indulgence for couples in need of pampering. Nestled near Durham, it offers a luxurious experience with tranquil treatments, soothing saunas, and relaxation lounges. Together, you can enjoy couples massages and facials and unwind in an atmosphere of serenity and sophistication. It’s the perfect retreat for reconnecting and rejuvenating.

North Carolina State Public Farmers Market

Address: 1201 Agriculture St, Raleigh, NC 27603

The North Carolina State Farmers Market is a delightful destination for couples to explore together. Just a short drive from Durham, it’s bustling with fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious eats. Stroll through rows of vibrant stalls, sample seasonal fruits, and discover artisanal goodies. It’s a refreshing way to connect and enjoy the bounty of North Carolina, perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon date.

Historic Yates Mill County Park

Address: 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603

Historic Yates Mill County Park is a charming step back in time for couples near Durham. It features the last operable water-powered gristmill in the county’s park system. Meander around the picturesque millpond and explore the scenic trails.

Enjoy a tranquil outing amidst the park’s natural beauty. It’s a peaceful, historic setting for couples seeking a quaint and educational experience.

Annual Events in Durham NC 

You’ll find no shortage of great events here in Durham; here are some to check out.

Kwanzaa Celebration | January 1, 2024

Kwanzaafest in Durham, presented by the African American Dance Ensemble, is an annual event celebrating African-American culture. It focuses on values like unity and faith, featuring community feasts and gatherings. The festival culminates on January 1st, highlighting the Kwanzaa principle of Imani (Faith) and fosters a sense of community, culture, and progress.

Hayti Heritage Film Festival | March 7 – 9, 2024

The Hayti Heritage Film Festival, held in early March each year, is a prominent Black Southern film festival. It focuses on reclaiming and celebrating the cultural narratives lost during the Great Migration. The festival is dedicated to using storytelling to enrich culture and community, offering an inclusive, intergenerational space that emphasizes authenticity and community connection.

Bull City Food & Beer Experience | April 7, 2024

The Bull City Food & Beer Experience, is an annual festival in Durham that celebrates its rich culinary and brewing scene. The event showcases a variety of local restaurants and breweries, offering attendees a taste of the region’s diverse flavors and a vibrant atmosphere for food and beer lovers.

Full Frame Documentary Film Festival | April 4 – 7, 2024

An international event focusing on nonfiction cinema. Each spring, it draws filmmakers and film enthusiasts from around the world to experience nearly 100 films, engaging discussions, and panels. This intimate festival, spanning a few city blocks, encourages community and dialogue among filmmakers, industry professionals, and the public​.

Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival | TBD Spring 2024

A vibrant celebration of African and African American history, culture, arts, and traditions. This family-friendly festival offers an array of live music, arts and crafts, community resources, and traditional food and showcases local talent, creating a rich cultural experience for all attendees.​ 

Festival for the Eno | TBD July 2024

The festival showcases over 65 artists across four stages, offering a diverse mix of contemporary and traditional entertainment from both established and emerging artists. Additionally, the festival features interactive elements like “Learn to Play” workshops, organized jams, a musical instrument petting zoo, “make and take” activities, and more! 

OUTSOUTH Queer Film Festival | TBD Summer 2024

Since its inception in 1995 in Durham, the OUTSOUTH Queer Film Festival has grown to be the Southeast’s second-largest LGBTQ+ film festival. Originally titled “A Salute to Pride,” it was renamed the North Carolina Gay + Lesbian Film Festival before adopting its current name in 2019. The festival is renowned for its wide variety of short films, documentaries, and features that explore and celebrate LGBTQ+ life and culture. As a Signature Event in Durham, it unites audiences with a global showcase of LGBTQ+ stories, offering both sophisticated and captivating filmmaking.

CenterFest Arts Festival | TBD Fall 2024

Since 1974, the CenterFest Arts Festival by the Durham Arts Council has become a hallmark of fall in Durham. As the city’s foremost fine arts festival, it features a wide array of visual arts, local performances, and crafts, including ceramics, paintings, and jewelry. Alongside the artistic displays, the festival offers live music, dance, street performances, a kids’ zone, and food vendors. Set in Durham’s historic downtown, it not only showcases art but also integrates the local community and businesses, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

Pride: Durham | TBD Falls 2024

A vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s history and activism across Durham and North Carolina. The event continues the tradition of NC Pride, highlighting a culture of creativity, progressive ideals, and collaboration. It focuses on affirming and supporting LGBTQ+ identities and families, creating welcoming and inclusive spaces. The festival fosters strong community connections, and champions love in various forms, making a significant, positive impact in a complex political environment.

Durham Art Walk Holiday Market | TBD Nov 2024

The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market is a lively event that marks the start of the holiday season in downtown Durham. It’s a weekend filled with the works of local artists, live music, and a mix of dining and shopping in the city’s walkable center. Perfect for art lovers and families, the market is a seamless way to shift from the autumnal atmosphere to the cheer of the holidays.

Christmas by Candlelight at Duke Homestead | December 1 & 8, 2023 (Sold out for 2023)

“Christmas by Candlelight” at Duke Homestead is an enchanting evening event that recreates an 1870 Victorian Christmas, as celebrated by the Duke Family. Visitors can enjoy candlelit tours, complete with live Christmas music, dance, and traditional treats. The historic setting comes alive with costumed interpreters, who depict the Duke family’s life during their pivotal shift from tobacco farming to manufacturing, offering a historical journey back to the post-Civil War era.

​​Where To Stay in Durham NC

AC Hotel Durham – The AC Hotel by Marriott in Durham merges sleek, contemporary design with the comfort couples crave. Each room is a retreat featuring sumptuous beds and high-end amenities, complemented by complimentary Wi-Fi. Active guests will appreciate the round-the-clock gym, while the lounge offers a spot for intimate evenings over tapas and local drinks. The added perk of bike rentals invites guests to venture out and discover Durham’s charm at their own pace.

JB Duke Hotel – At the JB Duke Hotel , luxury meets academia on the grounds of Duke University. This AAA Four Diamond hotel offers guests a sophisticated stay with the charm of nearby historic and cultural hotspots. With amenities like free parking, a fitness center, and multiple dining venues, comfort is guaranteed. The accommodation, ranging from plush suites to special bridal rooms, is designed with elegance and convenience in mind. Perfectly poised between the serenity of campus life and the energy of downtown Durham, the JB Duke Hotel is an oasis of modern luxury. 

Hilton Garden Inn Durham – Nestled near the bustling 9th Street district, the Hilton Garden Inn offers a prime spot for visitors to Durham. It’s a haven of modern comfort with state-of-the-art rooms, dining options for both breakfast and dinner and a casual lounge to unwind. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the complimentary fitness center, while everyone can enjoy the indoor heated pool. Positioned for convenience, it’s a stone’s throw from Duke University, Duke Medical Center, and vibrant downtown locales, ensuring a stay that’s as relaxing as it is convenient.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott – SpringHill Suites Durham Chapel Hill provides a cozy stay with essential amenities like free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and an indoor pool. Comfortable rooms with TVs and kitchenettes ensure a relaxing visit. Conveniently offering free parking, this non-smoking hotel caters to families and is a short drive from local eateries and sites.

Downtown Bull City View | Poolside Luxury Suite – Discover the allure of Bull City in this chic VRBO getaway that frames enchanting poolside and city views. This snug abode accommodates three with a plush king bed and a multifunctional couch. A sleek kitchen awaits your culinary exploits, while secure access codes and complimentary parking for one car add to the convenience. Experience Durham with ease and style.

Charming Forest Retreat | Walk to Eno River | Close to Duke & Downtown – Jjust 10 minutes from Duke University. It offers easy access to nature trails and features comfortable living spaces, including a loft and two private decks with forest views. Equipped with sleep number beds, a full kitchen, and smart TVs, it’s perfect for families, visiting scholars, or medical visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. Amenities cater to small pets and guests desiring a cozy, private experience close to Duke and downtown Durham.

Durham NC: FAQs

Where can I propose in Durham?

Sarah P. Duke Gardens would be perfect; this iconic garden is a slice of paradise with its lush landscapes and colorful blooms, offering serene ponds and intimate benches perfect for a quiet, picturesque proposal amidst nature’s artistry.

Is Durham NC worth visiting?

Yes, Durham has a rich blend of history, academia, and Southern charm. From innovative dining and lively arts to historical landmarks and lush gardens, it provides a unique and diverse experience.

What is Durham NC, famous for?

Durham is famous for Duke University’s academic prestige, historical contributions to civil rights, Research Triangle Park’s technological and scientific advancements, a dynamic culinary scene, and rich tobacco heritage. It’s a city where education, history, and culture converge.

Is downtown Durham walkable?

Downtown Durham is highly walkable, with wide sidewalks and a compact layout. It’s easy to explore the vibrant streets, local shops, historic sites, and restaurants all on foot.

Which is larger, Raleigh or Durham?

Raleigh is larger than Durham, both in terms of population and geographical area and serves as the capital of North Carolina.

What is a fun fact about Durham, NC?

A fun fact about Durham, NC, is that it was the location for the filming of the classic baseball film “Bull Durham,” which showcases the city’s deep-rooted love for the sport and its iconic minor league team, the Durham Bulls.

How far is Durham, NC, from the beach?

Durham, NC, is approximately 130 to 160 miles from the beach, with a drive time of about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the destination. The closest beach to Durham is Wrightsville Beach.

Final Thoughts

As the sun sets on our exploration of Durham, it’s clear that this city is a treasure trove of things to do. From the luscious greenery of Durham Central Park to the tranquil paths of Eno River State Park, couples can find countless ways to create shared moments that turn into lasting memories. 

The city’s cocktail bars, with their sophisticated spirits and cozy corners, offer the perfect backdrop for toasting to love, while the rooftop views from The Durham Hotel invite you to gaze not just at the skyline but into each other’s dreams.

Whether you’re sipping Cheerwine sangria at Mateo or whispering sweet nothings across a candlelit table at Vin Rouge, it’s clear that Durham is a city to enjoy. So here’s to finding love, seeking adventure, and making memories in the Bull City. May your visit be as enchanting and enduring as the city itself.

The post 45+ Fun Things to Do in Durham NC for Couples & Nearby appeared first on Explore More NC .

• solar eclipse

Greyhound bus routes offer views of 2024 solar eclipse in Indiana, Illinois, Texas

CHICAGO -- The 2024 solar eclipse path of totality crosses several states, and Greyhound is offering special routes for the best view of the celestial phenomenon.

The overall path of totality crosses multiple states where Greyhound operates, including Illinois, Indiana and more.

There are eight hand-selected routes the bus company says offers the best views of the eclipse, with some tickets starting as low as $15.49.

Here are Greyhound's hand-selected eclipse viewing routes and times (all in Central Time):

• Detroit, Mich. to Toledo, Ohio: 7 a.m. - 8:05 a.m., starting at $15.49
• Pittsburgh, Penn. To Cleveland, Ohio: 8:40 a.m. to 11 a.m., starting at $29.49
• Chicago to Indianapolis, Ind.: 8 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., starting at $29.99
• Louisville, Ky. to Evansville, Ind.: 10:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m., starting at $44
• Nashville to Evansville, Ind: 10:15 a.m. to 11:50 a.m., starting at $36.99
• Memphis, Tenn. to Jonesboro, Ark.: 10:15 a.m. to 11:50 a.m., starting at $17.49
• Oklahoma City, Okla. to Dallas: 6:25 a.m. to 11:25 a.m., starting at $21.49
• Houston to Austin, Texas: 11:25 a.m., starting at $21.99

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to greyhound.com .

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The Best Places to Retire in North Carolina

Consider these affordable North Carolina communities to live out your retirement years.

The Best Places to Retire North Carolina

Getty Images

The cost-of-living and affordable housing, along with beautiful attractions, is what draws retirees to the Old North State.

The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and Atlantic Ocean beaches draw many retirees to North Carolina. You could spend your retirement years taking classes at a major research university, immersing yourself in the performing arts or rooting for your favorite professional sports team.

The affordable cost of living and low housing prices mean relocating to North Carolina could help improve your retirement finances. Many of North Carolina's most beautiful attractions, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, cost nothing at all.

Consider these retirement communities in North Carolina:

• Winston-Salem .
• Raleigh and Durham .
• Asheville .
• Greensboro .
• Charlotte .
• Fayetteville .

1. Winston-Salem

Median monthly mortgage cost: $841 Median monthly rent: $834

The Yadkin Valley's rich soil and mild climate make this an ideal place to grow grapes for wine. Retirees can stroll through the scenic vineyards or swirl and sip the latest vintage with friends.

"Our weather is wonderful because we do have seasonal change with beautiful foliage in the fall, a moderate winter with just enough snow that we get excited and enjoy our snow days, early spring," and a long summer, says Kim Myers, owner of Laurel Gray Vineyards and Yadkin Valley Wine Company in Hamptonville. "The lifestyle in the Yadkin Valley is still rural and slow-paced but studded with small towns and beautiful vineyards."

Once a center for the tobacco industry, Winston-Salem's economy is now more diversified. The city is home to many well-known companies, including the first Krispy Kreme and HanesBrands, yet it's still affordable to live in this wine-producing region.

2. Raleigh and Durham

Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,159 Median monthly rent: $1,230

The research triangle is named for the three research universities in the Raleigh and Durham area: Duke University , North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill . The universities generatean educated workforce and frequently partner with industry to foster innovations.

"The result is a concentration of highly educated and productive individuals for whom a world-class cultural mecca has come into being," says Nortin Hadler, an emeritus professor of medicine and microbiology/immunology at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and author of "Rethinking Aging." "The retirement communities take advantage of educational opportunities in retirement and have access to a respected center for the performing arts."

North Carolina residents age 65 and older are eligible to audit courses tuition-free at NC State University. Duke University even has a continuing care retirement community near campus. The universities also provide health care services at Duke University Hospital and UNC Hospitals .

Median monthly mortgage cost: $756 Median monthly rent: $743

Hickory's housing prices are considerably lower than many other parts of North Carolina. The affordable homes in Hickory can help retirees live well on a very modest retirement income.

"Being right in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Hickory residents can be in the mountains in about 30 minutes, and if you want to visit a bigger city, Asheville and Charlotte are both just an hour away," says Deaton Smith, a certified financial planner and president of Thayer Financial in Hickory. "We are also a city that supports the arts between the Western Piedmont Symphony, Hickory Museum of Art and Hickory Choral Society, to name just a few."

4. Asheville

Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,029 Median monthly rent: $1,008

Asheville is a scenic mountain town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city is an ideal base to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville is noteworthy for its innovative food and beverage scene that uses locally sourced ingredients in creative ways.

The area often attracts artists, writers and musicians looking to be inspired by the natural beauty and interact with other creative people. "Asheville is a thriving small city with a dynamic cultural life," Hadler says. "For retirees seeking life in breathtakingly beautiful mountains, Asheville is no longer a secret."

5. Greensboro

Median monthly mortgage cost: $848 Median monthly rent: $900

Greensboro is a considerably more affordable part of North Carolina than Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham, but it also provides convenient access to these larger metro areas.

"Retirees are drawn to Greensboro because of its centralized location and because it's a midsize city with a small-town feel. It has many of the great amenities and diversity of a larger city but without the congestion and costs," says Matt Johnson, a certified financial planner and founder of Defining Legacy Financial Advisors in Greensboro. "The cost of living in North Carolina in general is lower than the national average, and even compared to the other major metro areas in the state, Greensboro is an affordable place."

6. Charlotte

Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,066 Median monthly rent: $1,147

While not the most affordable part of North Carolina, Charlotte may feel affordable to many people relocating from other parts of the country. "Retiring in Charlotte and North Carolina is attractive for older adults due to the overall lower cost of living," says Julian Montoro-Rodriguez, a professor of sociology and gerontology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Many people relocate to North Carolina’s largest city for job opportunities, and seniors could find options to work in retirement. Charlotte is a center for the banking industry and is home to Bank of America's corporate headquarters. Retirees interested in volunteer work can contribute at the city's many museums and performing arts venues. Professional sports fans will find a lot to love about Charlotte, including the Hornets, Panthers and Checkers.

7. Fayetteville

Median monthly mortgage cost: $888 Median monthly rent: $988

Located in the Sandhills of southeastern North Carolina, Fayetteville has designated itself as a “military sanctuary community,” which makes it especially appealing to retired military personnel.

“Fayetteville, N.C., is a wonderful place for seniors to enjoy their golden years, thanks to its welcoming mix of amenities and services,” says Esther Cromwell, founder and CEO at Avendelle Assisted Living. “Fayetteville and its surrounding areas provide a blend of affordability, where cost of living is below national average, making your retirement savings stretch further.”

Cromwell says Fayetteville also has top-notch health care facilities, and veterans have easy access to benefits and health care at Fort Bragg. The city also has plenty of parks, museums and events during warmer weather. “Fayetteville offers the perfect blend of comfort, care and vibrant community life for seniors. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive,” Cromwell adds.

Thinking about retiring in North Carolina? Find a local financial advisor now.

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Tags: retirement , real estate , moving , North Carolina , housing market

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visitRaleigh insider

The best historic sites to visit in raleigh, n.c..

Thursday, February 20, 2020, 9am by visitRaleigh

Founded as the new state capital in 1792, Raleigh, N.C., is a natural playground for history lovers. Read about and visit these 20+ sites to kickstart an experience through the area's past and present stories, sites and people.   

Historic homesteads

Pope house museum.

Built in 1901, the Pope House Museum offers a glimpse into the life of one of Raleigh’s most intriguing citizens, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope. Dr. Pope was one of the first graduates of the Leonard School of Medicine at Shaw University and the only African American man to run for mayor of a Southern capital during the Jim Crow era. Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh , the Pope House features original furnishings and many historical artifacts that give insight into this remarkable man and his prominent family.

Visit: The Pope House Museum is open on Saturdays from 10am-3pm with free admission. Tours start at the top of each hour with the last tour at 2pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Tate Hill (@tatehill2) on Apr 13, 2019 at 1:32pm PDT

Joel Lane Museum House

Plantation owner and early settler Joel Lane sold 1,000 acres of his plantation to the state of North Carolina for the establishment of a capital city in 1792. The oldest home in Wake County, Lane's 18th century manor house is widely known as the birthplace of Raleigh. In late 2019, documents were uncovered that revealed the original house was likely painted a vivid red color, instead of the soft yellow that has been on display for many years (work to re-store the original color is in progress!). 

Visit: Guided tours are provided by costumed docents, with offerings that vary by season. See website for current details . 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by RDU Baton (@rdubaton) on Sep 18, 2017 at 10:19am PDT

North Carolina Executive Mansion

Completed in 1891, the North Carolina Executive Mansion is the official residence of the Governor of North Carolina, but also serves as a meeting space, historic site and an elegant event location. The Executive Mansion is one of the state’s finest examples of the Queen Anne style of Victorian architecture and was once described by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt as “the most beautiful governor’s residence in America.”

Visit: Executive Mansion and Garden tours are only offered for groups of 10 or more on Wednesdays and Thursdays, March 18-June 11. Individual visitors can plan to visit during the annual holiday open house in Dec. 

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Haywood Hall House and Gardens

Discover what family life was like from the earliest days of North Carolina’s statehood through the 1970s with a trip to Haywood Hall House and Gardens. John Haywood, the state’s first elected treasurer, built this Federal-style frame house in 1799. While the Joel Lane Museum House holds the title of oldest house in Wake County, Haywood House is one of the oldest houses at its original site within the city limits of Raleigh.

Visit: Guided tours are offered on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 11am-3pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Erin (@emariabennett) on Nov 26, 2019 at 12:14pm PST

Heck-Andrews House

As one of the city’s clearest and most well-defined examples of the Second Empire architectural style, the Heck-Andrews House was one of the first houses in Raleigh to be constructed after the American Civil War. It was completed in 1872 and occupied until the late 1980s. Since then, the house, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, has undergone one exterior renovation completed by its previous owners, the State of North Carolina.

Visit: Currently, the house is under another renovation by its current owners, the N.C. Realtors Association. Visitors can swing by to snap a picture of the exterior and historical marker out front.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Kevin Peterson (@thesarcasticpessimist) on Oct 12, 2017 at 5:40am PDT

Historic Oak View County Park

Historic Oak View County Park is a historic farmstead that preserves and celebrates Raleigh’s agricultural heritage. Founded in 1829, Oak View was expanded to encompass more than 900 acres. Today, the 27-acre site includes historic buildings and grounds that offer a glimpse into the successful farmstead and the different families who lived and worked there over the years. Come tour exhibits which include the Greek Revival-style Main Farmhouse (circa 1855), the Cotton Gin House (circa 1900), the Farm History Center and Plank Kitchen (circa 1825).

Visit: Oak View accepts reservations for guided tours for all ages. If you’d like to tour the park on your own, ask a staff member about free, self-guided activities. Grounds are open 8am-sunset, seven days a week. Buildings are open Mon.-Sat., 8:30am-5pm; Sun., 1-5pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Wake County Parks (@wakegovparks) on Oct 2, 2014 at 1:52pm PDT

Mordecai Historic Park

To get a sense of what life was like during the period of Raleigh’s founding, head over to Mordecai Historic Park. Located just a mile from the State Capitol, this site was once the largest plantation in Wake County. Visit the Mordecai House, built in 1785, and stroll through a 19th-century kitchen garden based on documentation left by Ellen Mordecai in her memoir and letters. The site also has a few fascinating historic outbuildings include the birthplace of the 17th U.S. president, Andrew Johnson.

Visit: Park tour admission ranges from free (children 6 and under) to $5. One-hour tours begin every hour, with the last tour at 3pm. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun., 1-4pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Sara Robertson (Turner) (@sararobertsondesign) on Nov 19, 2016 at 12:09pm PST

Historic parks and gardens

Historic yates mills county park.

Spend time at Historic Yates Mill County Park to escape your daily grind. As the last remaining gristmill in Wake County, Yates Mill was once an important economic and social center for residents of the county—not solely a place to grind corn and wheat into flour, but a public gathering place and entertainment spot for scattered rural populations. Fully-restored and -operational, the mill is now the centerpiece of a historic park where visitors can explore what 18th-century, rural life was like through educational programs, events and exhibits.

Visit: The park is open daily, 8am-sunset. Visit the A.E. Finley Visitor Center daily, 8:30am-5:30pm. Mill tour hours are limited and vary seasonally. 

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Pullen Park

Since 1887, Pullen Park has been a magical place for family fun. It has the honor of being North Carolina’s first state park, and with a beautiful, operating carousel on-site built in 1911, the park is the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. Bring everyone over for the day to enjoy paddle boats on Lake Howell; carousel, miniature train and other amusement rides; playgrounds, tennis courts, walking paths, playing fields and much more.

Visit: Admission is free, but there is a ticket fee to ride the carousel, train and kiddie boats. Ride tickets are $1 each, and each ride requires just one ticket per person for every ride. Free history tours of the park are given on Mon., Wed. and Fri., 11am and 2pm. 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Clear Cut imaging (@clearcutimaging) on Dec 30, 2019 at 8:44am PST

Raleigh Little Theatre  and Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden

Why not add a little bit of drama to your Raleigh trip by catching a show at Raleigh Little Theatre? Since its inception in 1936, Raleigh Little Theatre has been offering audiences a unique combination of local talent, quality entertainment and intriguing history. The theater itself is a charming example of early modern classical style and flanking the theater campus is one of the city’s most precious natural gems—the Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden. Breathtakingly beautiful in full bloom, the garden, which was dedicated in 1951, boasts 1,200 roses of 60 different varieties as well as other seasonal flowers.

Visit: Raleigh Little Theatre produces multiple productions each season. Tickets ranges from $8-30. The Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden is open to the public free of charge seven days a week.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Michaela McDuffie (@micshea99) on Sep 19, 2019 at 3:47pm PDT

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Gardens

The nation’s first public park solely devoted to Dr. King and the civil rights movement is also located right here. Gardens of trees, shrubs and flowering plants encircle a bronze statue of King, depicting the civil rights leader in his doctorate clergy robe. Bonus features at the memorial gardens include a granite water monument which honors the area’s civil rights pioneers as well as a walking path constructed of 2,500 named bricks recognizing state and national supporters.

Visit: Free admission. Hours: Daily, sunrise-sunset.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Raleigh Parks and Recreation (@raleighparks) on Jan 21, 2019 at 6:45am PST

Moore Square

Since 1972, Moore Square has been a place of gathering, reflection, entertainment and recreation for Raleigh citizens and visitors. It has played a significant role throughout Raleigh’s history and was placed on the national Register of Historic Places in 1983. Recently transformed by an extensive remodel, Moore Square now boasts a fast-casual dining spot, Square Burger; a small splash pad; two open lawn areas for concerts, movie nights and other events; a shaded “treehouse” area for kids with a slide and theater-style seating; and a visitor center.

Visit: The Square is open to the public daily, 6am-11pm, with few exceptions. Check out the events calendar for upcoming programs and events.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by visitRaleigh (@visitraleigh) on Aug 11, 2019 at 6:37pm PDT

Historic institutions

Leonard medical building.

Established as the fifth African American medical school in the nation, Leonard Medical School was the first to offer a four-year curriculum. Founded in 1881, the school trained 400 black physicians, most of whom went on to serve patients in the rural South. The Leonard Medical Building—a twin-turreted, Romanesque Revival-style structure located at Shaw University—is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is designated a North Carolina Historic Landmark.

Visit: Now known as Leonard Hall, the building houses classes and administrative offices. Visiting hours are by appointment only.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Discovering Black History (@discovering_black_history) on Mar 16, 2017 at 4:57pm PDT

Built in 1874, Estey Hall is the nation’s first dormitory for women on a co-educational campus and is Shaw University’s oldest surviving building. It remained a women’s dorm until 1968, closed in 1970 and was reopened in recent years as office space. A pivotal stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail , Estey Hall was once home to Ella Baker—an alumna credited for creating the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee .

Visit: Estey Hall is open Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Kandace Harris (@kaleighgurlprof) on Nov 20, 2018 at 9:07am PST

Saint Agnes Hospital

Found in 1896 on the campus of Saint Augustine's University , Saint Agnes Hospital served as the only hospital and training school for African Americans between Atlanta and Washington, D.C., for nearly half a century. The 3-story, nine-bed facility also served as a training school for African American nurses, which was accredited by the American Medical Association in 1937. Although the roof is now gone and vines cover most of the stone structure, Saint Agnes still stands tall and inspires the imagination of many a visitor.

Visit: The facility is currently closed; renovation plans are underway. Visitors can view the structure from the outside and imagine the hospital as it once was.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by 👑 (@its_lgrant) on Sep 15, 2019 at 10:25pm PDT

North Carolina State Capitol

The North Carolina State Capitol is one of the finest and best-preserved examples of Greek Revival-style architecture in the Unites States. Officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, the Capitol gives visitors an exciting opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of North Carolina politics and Raleigh as a capital city. Each year, more than 100,000 visitors take part in free tours, educational programs and events at the Capitol and surrounding Union Square.

Visit: The Capitol is open to visitors for self-guided tours Mon.-Sat., 9am-5pm, and is closed on most major state holidays. Guided tours take place on Sat. at 11am and 2pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Devin Clark (@dyyymondaerials) on Nov 20, 2019 at 11:54am PST

Historic Oakwood Cemetery

Oakwood Cemetery, with its winding roads, glistening stream and towering oaks, provides a tranquil final resting place for more than 28,000 residents. For 150 years now, the cemetery has told the stories of generations: families who formed Raleigh, soldiers who honored our country and the people of today who chose to rest among its historic oaks. It’s also an excellent example of Victorian landscaping and mortuary art.

Visit: It’s free to enter and tour the cemetery. Daily hours are from 8am-6pm except during the winter when they change to 8am-5pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BlushandBlaze (@blushandblaze) on Oct 24, 2018 at 7:44am PDT

City of Raleigh Museum (COR Museum)

The COR Museum examines and interprets the history and heritage of our great city with the goal of “persevering Raleigh’s past for its future.” Located in the historic 1874 Briggs Building on downtown Raleigh's Fayetteville St. , the museum opened in 1993 when city residents created the first exhibits. Today, the museum attracts numerous visitors with a collection of more than 5,000 historical items while also offering special exhibits that change periodically throughout the year.

Visit: Admission is free, but a recommended donation of $5 for adults can be placed in the donation box located in the gift shop. Walking history tours down Fayetteville St. take place every Sat. afternoon. Museum hours: Tues.-Sat., 9am-4pm; Sun. 1-4pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Friends of COR Museum (@cormuseumfriends) on Jan 1, 2020 at 8:33pm PST

Beyond Raleigh

The fuquay-varina museums complex.

Travel a half an hour southwest of downtown Raleigh to explore the fast-growing town of Fuquay-Varina , which boasts unique shopping, great restaurants and a booming brewery scene. History buffs can also dig into the town’s mineral springs history with a visit to the Fuquay-Varina Museums Complex. Explore treasured artifacts among the site’s four museums—the First Fuquay Post Office, “Squire” Ballentine Schoolhouse, a log cabin playhouse and the Centennial Museum.

Visit: Guided tour reservations are available and encouraged. Admission is free. Hours: Wed., 1-4pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Fuquay-Varina Downtown Assoc. (@fvdowntown) on May 4, 2019 at 6:15am PDT

Wake Forest Historical Museum

Head due north of downtown Raleigh to Wake Forest to discover the rich past of this town at the Wake Forest Historical Museum, where a whopping collection of more than 15,000 pages of documents, 5,000 photographs, 1,000 books and hundreds of artifacts are on display. The museum also offers engrossing guest speakers and annual Old Campus Treks.

Visit: The Wake Forest Historical Museum is part of 4-acre campus which includes gardens, pathways, an old well and the Calvin Jones House. Admission is free. Hours: Tues.-Fri., 9am-noon, and 1:30-4:30pm; Sun., 2-5pm; other times by appointment.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by RDU Baton (@rdubaton) on Aug 8, 2017 at 9:29am PDT

Page-Walker Arts and History Center

A complete restoration in the 1990s converted the old Page-Walker Hotel in downtown Cary into a living resource for visitors and citizens. Today, the Page-Walker Arts and History Center is alive with classes, events, concerts, social gatherings, historical and fine arts exhibitions. Like so many other sites in the Raleigh area, the center is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and houses the Cary Heritage Museum . Stop in to take a self-guided tour of the facility and to learn more about the town’s history, the history of the Page-Walker and the story of its restoration.

Visit: Group tours can be arranged by reservation only. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10am-9:30pm; Fri., 10am-5pm; Sat., 10am-1pm.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Wayfarer99 (@wayfarer99) on Aug 22, 2015 at 11:34am PDT

Header photo: David Short

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The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is the official and accredited destination marketing organization (DMO) for all of Wake County.

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