If you are looking for the ultimate list of things to do in Raleigh, including the best attractions, where to eat and drink, the top festivals and sporting events, arts and cultural activities, and where to shop, we’ve got you covered.
From major events like North Carolina State Fair or Hopscotch Music Festival to hidden gems like the Raleigh Rose Garden or Marbles Kids Museum, there is something for everyone in this amazing city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your perfect Raleigh itinerary today!
The Ultimate Guide To Things To Do In Raleigh, NC – Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting for a few days,
Things To Do In Raleigh NC
There is no shortage of things to do in Raleigh, NC. For history buffs, a visit to the NC Museum of Art is a must. The museum houses a collection of works by Black American artists, as well as a variety of other exhibitions. For sports fans, a tour of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame Museum is a must-see.
The museum features exhibits on the history of North Carolina sports, as well as a variety of interactive displays. And for those who want to learn more about the natural world, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a great option.
The museum features exhibits on the state’s ecology, as well as a variety of live animals. No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be something for you in Raleigh, NC.
Where to Eat in Raleigh
The local food and drink scene in Raleigh has exploded and continues to evolve with innovative restaurants and food halls, award-winning craft breweries, and specialty coffee shops!
Bartaco Raleigh is a restaurant that is upping the vibrancy of Raleigh. 20 local Raleigh breweries are for a great pint (and good vibes).
Ole Time BBQ is a North Carolina barbecue restaurant that takes its barbecue seriously. Barbecue, BBQ, or ‘cue is eaten in restaurants, at college football tailgates, in backyards, and is an essential part of this state’s DNA.
Eastern style barbecue is typically served as a sandwich or a plated dish. Plus with all the traditional Southern sides, or fixin’s as they call them! Sam Jones BBQ is a good ribs place. things to do in Raleigh also include going to the movies, playing golf, visiting museums and parks, and going shopping. There’s something for everyone in Raleigh!
Where to Drink in Raleigh
If you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh, then a visit to one of the many local breweries should definitely be on your list. Raleigh is home to over 20 breweries, so there’s sure to be one that has the perfect beer for you.
From the award-winning Big Boss Brewing Company to the new and exciting Mordecai Beverage Co, there’s something for everyone. And what better way to spend an afternoon than sampling some of the best craft beer that Raleigh has to offer?
So next time you’re wondering what to do in Raleigh, don’t forget to check out our local breweries!
Raleigh’s Breweries:
- Burial Beer Co – The Exhibit
- Clouds Brewing
- Compass Rose Brewery
- Crank Arm Brewing Company
- Funguys Brewing
- Gizmo Brew Works – Brewery & Taproom
- Heyday Brewing
- Little City Brewing & Provisions Co.
- Lonerider Brewing Company
- Lynnwood Brewing Concern
- Mordecai Beverage Co.
- Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie
- Raleigh Brewing Company
- Nickelpoint Brewing Co.
- Raleigh Beer Garden
- Standard Beer + Food
- Tobacco Road Sports Cafe & Brewery
- Trophy Brewing & Taproom
- Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
What to See & Do in Raleigh
As the capital city of North Carolina, Raleigh is a hub of activity and there are plenty of things to do, especially if you enjoy being outdoors. The city is home to a number of parks and greenways as well as the 7-mile Sycamore Trail at Umstead State Park.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, Raleigh also has a number of picturesque lakes and gardens, including Duke Gardens and Pullen Park. And for those who enjoy a good bargain, the city has a number of markets and fairs throughout the year. So whether you’re looking for an adventurous hike or a peaceful stroll, Raleigh has something to offer everyone.
- HIKING THE 7 MILE SYCAMORE TRAIL: UMSTEAD STATE PARK, RALEIGH
- Duke Gardens, Durham
- Pullen Park, Raleigh
- there are 17 WONDERFUL PARKS IN RALEIGH, NC, TO GET TO KNOW
- 12 KID-FRIENDLY TRAILS IN RALEIGH (WALK OR BIKE)
- DON’T MISS THE SHELLEY LAKE PARK LOOP TRAIL
- 3 COOL TRAILS AT HEMLOCK BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE IN CARY, Nc
Historical Attractions in Raleigh | Arts & Culture Experiences in Raleigh
Historical Attractions in Raleigh There is no shortage of historical attractions to check out in Raleigh, North Carolina. The city is home to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of History, and the North Carolina State Capitol Building. All three museums offer a wealth of information about Raleigh’s past and present.
The Museum of Natural Sciences is a great place to learn about the state’s natural history, while the Museum of History provides an overview of Raleigh’s role in the American Revolution. The State Capitol Building is a must-see for anyone interested in politics or government.
Visitors can take a tour of the building, or simply admire its architecture from the outside. With so much to see and do, Raleigh is a great destination for history lovers of all ages.
Festivals & Events in Raleigh
June is a great month for music lovers in Raleigh, with a wide variety of concerts to choose from. Kip Moore, Morgan Wallen, and Marren Morris will all be performing early in the month, while Ben Rector and Rebelution take the stage later in the week.
The Doobie Brothers and Flume will also be performing, and fans of Robert Plant & Alison Krauss will not want to miss their show at Koka Booth. For those looking for something a little different, Cody Johnson and Kid Rock will both be performing at Coastal Credit Union. Finally, the North Carolina Symphony Summerfest will be celebrating Juneteenth with a special concert at Koka Booth.
No matter what your taste in music is, there is sure to be a concert in Raleigh that you will enjoy.
Sports in Raleigh
Sports have always been a huge part of the Raleigh community. From high school teams to professional leagues, there’s always something going on for fans to enjoy. However, one type of sporting event that has been gaining popularity in recent years is esports.
Esports are competitive video gaming events that can be watched by spectators just like any other sport. And Raleigh is home to one of the best esports teams in the country: the Triangle Esports.
The Triangle Esports are a professional esports organization that fields teams in a variety of games, including Overwatch, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. In addition to being one of the top teams in the country, the Triangle Esports also host a number of events throughout the year that are open to the public.
So if you’re looking for something new and exciting to do in Raleigh, be sure to check out the Triangle Esports.
Shopping in Raleigh
Downtown Raleigh is the perfect place to go shopping, with a variety of small retailers to support. Logan’s One Stop Garden Shop is a great place to find all your gardening needs, while Escazu Chocolates offers delicious handcrafted chocolates.
For clothing, House of Swank Clothing has a great selection of clothing for men and women, and Unleashed is a great place to shop for all your pet needs.
In addition, the Pop-Up Shops on Martin St offer a variety of unique items from different vendors, and Ealdwine is an upscale men’s store worth checking out. No matter what you’re looking for, downtown Raleigh has something for everyone!
Is Raleigh NC a good place to live?
Raleigh is consistently named one of the best places to live in the United States.
It’s the people and welcoming Southern community, the college town vibes and facilities, the greenspaces and oak trees, the thriving restaurant scene, the endless craft breweries, the culture, the climate, the top schools, the solid economy, the affordability, the family-friendly atmosphere, the entrepreneurial spirit, and being central to other great East Coast destinations.
If you are thinking about moving to Raleigh, North Carolina you’re not alone. We’ve always said “Raleigh is America’s best kept secret”, and there are so many interesting facts about Raleigh. Living in Raleigh is an experience unlike any other. Come see for yourself why Raleigh is one of the best places to live in America!
FAQs
What is Raleigh NC best known for?
What is Raleigh North Carolina famous for?
It is the only state capital to have been planned and established by a state as the seat of state government, and it is the largest city in a combined statistical area known as Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill (the Research Triangle Region).”- Google
Is Raleigh NC worth visiting?
-”Raleigh, N.C., is a booming metropolis that offers a big city feel with Southern charm. It’s a smart, modern-meets-historic destination that has a lot to offer and no matter what path you choose on your visit, we know you’ll be energized by the fired-up cultural heartbeat fostered by passionate minds of Raleigh”- Google
How far is Raleigh NC from the beach?- “Raleigh to Wrightsville Beach is a 2-hour drive (132 miles) straight down I-40 and if you’re wondering what is the closest beach to Raleigh NC, this is it”- Google
What food is Raleigh known for?
”Chocolate Chess Pie at the Angus Barn. This simple southern sweet is famous from coast-to-coast and has won numerous national awards.
Macaroni and Cheese from Poole’s Diner. When you walk into Poole’s Diner, there is no doubt that you’ll see most tables with an order of this classic comfort food.
Fried Chicken and Waffles at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey. Chicken and waffles may sound like an odd combination, but you don’t know what you’re missing until you’ve tried Chef Ashley Christensen’s version.
The Dirty South at Chuck’s. This is one of the best burgers you will ever eat topped with chili, crispy onions, local cheese, slaw and mustard. Be prepared to get messy.
Crack Fries at Market Restaurant. Hand-cut fries tossed in truffle oil and sprinkled with asiago cheese. Need we say more, we guarantee you’ll be addicted.”- https://www.visitraleigh.com/
How many days do you need in Raleigh?
– “Raleigh, North Carolina, is worth the visit! The city’s highlights can easily be enjoyed during a three-day visit. For those who want to extend their visits, day trips to neighboring Durham and Chapel Hill make for great options. Enjoy the southern hospitality!”-Google
Weather-
Wake County, in the heart of North Carolina, offers a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Raleigh, N.C., experiences generally moderate temperatures during spring and autumn. Spring temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s °F. Fall high temperatures average in the 70s.-Google
Thank you “https://thisisraleigh.com/living-in-raleigh-nc/”
Final thoughts
Raleigh, NC is a great place to live. It consistently ranks as one of the best places to work, raise a family and retire. The cost of living is reasonable and there are plenty of things to do in the area. If you’re looking for a new place to call home, Raleigh,NC should definitely be at the top of your list.
