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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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Things to Do in Raleigh, NC - Raleigh 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

Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks

Private transportation

Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour

Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab)

Rockin Raleigh Scavenger Hunt

Durham Dash Scavenger Hunt

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Raleigh

Other Top Attractions around Raleigh

Cultural & Theme Tours

What travelers 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

Raleigh   Travel Guide

10 Best Things To Do in Raleigh

Updated Sep. 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

(32 reviews)

from $ 60.00

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC

(5 reviews)

from $ 14.99

Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour

from $ 33.00

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.  

Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab)

from $ 120.00

Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour

(4 reviews)

from $ 16.00

Durham Dash Scavenger Hunt

from $ 20.00

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

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14 essential things to do in Raleigh

A video store (yes!), a great brewing company and a special chocolate factory make up the best things to do in Raleigh

Raleigh is finally coming into its own. Although the City of Oaks has long been an underrated gem, a recent resurgence of action downtown has created a lively, fun city with countless things to see, eat and do. During the summer, street fairs take over Fayetteville Street nearly every weekend, while local businesses continue to thrive, fueling an unbeatable culinary scene anchored by a bevy of award-winning chefs. In the coming months, Raleigh will be home to two expansive food halls—Morgan Street Food Hall and Transfer Company Olde East—further expanding the city’s downtown appeal. Hop aboard the Raleigh Trolley for a jaunt around town to see all this Southern capital has to offer, from exciting museums to breweries, beautiful parks and theaters. These, ladies and gentlemen, are the very best things to do in Raleigh.

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Best things to do in Raleigh

1.  Dorothea Dix Park

What is it: Want to enjoy the best view of Raleigh’s skyline? You can’t beat the ones you’ll find at Dorothea Dix Park, Raleigh’s largest city park, sprawled over 300 acres.

Why go: The sloping hills are perfect for biking or running (or even sledding during the winter), while the vast green space is the ideal spot for a summer picnic. Starting in 2018, the City of Raleigh’s public utilities department began planting acres upon acres of sunflowers in Dorothea Dix, making it the most Instagrammable spot in the city from mid-June to early July.

2.  North Carolina Museum of Art

What is it: Raleigh’s preeminent art museum, founded in 1947 by the state legislature, is the go-to destination for art in the Triangle.

Why go: There’s never a bad time to visit the North Carolina Museum of Art. Its permanent collection includes breathtaking pieces like the momentous Raqqa II from Frank Philip Stella and Kehinde Wiley’s haunting Judith and Holofernes , in addition to innovative limited exhibits, which have become the norm. In the summer, you can catch a blockbuster film or a big name musical act under the stars in the picturesque pavilion. During the fall, the expansive 164-acre outdoor campus is the perfect place to take in—or take part in—the art.

3.  Video Vortex at Alamo Drafthouse

What is it: This first-of-its-kind experiment brings back the video store, boasting 70,000-plus DVD and VHS titles, all available to rent—for free.

Why go: The addition of Alamo Drafthouse has done wonders for Raleigh’s art scene. Sure, there’s an impressive local beer selection on tap, plus stellar accommodations, a strict no-talking policy and throwback programming—think Hard Ticket to Hawaii and The Warriors —but where Alamo really shines is its Video Vortex. You can find obscure titles to satisfy your strangest cinematic hankering or discover new favorites.

4.  Trophy Brewing Co.

What is it: Crafting and creating local, North Carolina-focused beers in the Triangle since 2012, Trophy Brewing Co. is synonymous with craft beer in this city.

Why go: In a state quickly establishing itself as the mecca for craft beer, Raleigh’s Trophy Brewing Co. still manages to stand out from its peers. They’ve got a brew for every palate, like the crowd favorite Trophy Wife, an American pale ale and its collaboration with local coffee brewers Slingshot, a warm, cozy stout. Plus, its three outposts in town each offer a different vibe, including a rooftop bar downtown, a college-friendly pizza spot on West Morgan and a food truck haven on Maywood.

5.  Videri Chocolate Factory

What is it: Raleigh’s own chocolate factory, Videri is the happiest place in town, bringing the scent of fresh-crafted chocolate to the Warehouse District.

Why go: There’s chocolate, and then there’s Videri. Owners Starr Sink and Sam Ratto have taken special care to avoid any obvious Willy Wonka pitfalls, making this one of the most irresistible spots in town. The shop is steeped in North Carolina history, named after the state motto, “Esse Quam Videri,” which means “to be rather than to seem.”. Usually, you’ll find Starr behind the counter and Sam in the back, doing what he does best: roasting impeccable chocolate. Can’t make it to the shop? You can find Videri collaborations at many local restaurants, or grab a bar or two on your way out of town at the airport.

6.  Red Hat Amphitheater

What is it: There are few Raleigh experiences as quintessential as a summer show at Red Hat Amphitheater is. This 6,000-person venue just off the city’s warehouse district attracts the biggest names in the game—think Arcade Fire, the Revivalists, Arctic Monkeys and more—each summer, making it the go-to spot for summer concerts.

Why go: The views can’t be beat, either, including a spectacular glimpse of the Cree Shimmer Wall, capturing the beautiful City of Oaks. It doesn’t truly feel like summer until you’ve seen a show at Red Hat.

7.  The Raleigh Murals Project

What is it: Over the last couple of years, gorgeous murals have begun to pop up across Raleigh. With the help of the downtown Raleigh mural tour map, you can take your own self-guided walk through the best public art the city has to offer.

Why go: Raleigh is a city of artists, and there’s no greater proof than the Raleigh Murals Project. Check out the “All Are Welcome” mural alongside Poole’s Diner or the “I Believe in Raleigh” work adorning Sola Coffee Café. There are dozens to find, and you’ll likely come across one when you least expect it; no matter where you see it, you’re sure to be awed.

8.  Raleigh Raw

What is it: The spot serves organic raw juice as well as smoothies, coffee and those can’t-be-beat poke bowls in a hip, urban setting.

Why go: Poke is finally coming to the Triangle, but no one serves it quite like Raleigh Raw. Try the faroe monch bowl—you won’t regret it. On Saturdays, a DJ sets the tone working behind the bar, while the sidewalk tables are an ideal place to pass an afternoon.

9.  Pullen Park

What is it: This 66-acre park adjacent to North Carolina State University is a popular spot for visitors throughout the year.

Why go: Pullen goes beyond the traditional park attractions, offering the beloved carousel, train and kiddie boats to all visitors. During the summer, you can rent a pedal boat for a jaunt around the pond or you can hit the East Coast Greenway. In the winter, the park transforms into a wonderland called the Holiday Express, with a train ride, thousands of lights and, of course, Santa ready to listen to your wishes.

10.  The Pharmacy Café

What is it: There’s something positively charming about The Pharmacy Café, located in the Person Street corridor. Just inside the Person Street Pharmacy, which has served the Raleigh community since 1910, you’ll find this quaint, adorable café, offering locally sourced, fresh Southern dishes with a healthy flair.

Why go: This may sound like blasphemy, but the Pharmacy Café makes the best chicken biscuit in town. Plus, the jam bar can’t be beat for a biscuit treat, featuring a rotating selection of house-made jellies and jams. (The lemon curd topping is truly something to behold.)

11.  Raleigh Beer Garden

What is it: Raleigh Beer Garden is putting the town on the map, serving as the current Guinness world record for largest selection of beer at a single location.

Why go: This two-story beer bar boasts nearly 400 separate varieties daily, focusing on local craft beer, including almost 150 from North Carolina. Located in the city’s hip Glenwood South neighborhood on a former grove of pecan trees, Raleigh Beer Garden has transformed the beer scene, creating a low-key, gorgeous destination for beer snobs and newbies to enjoy a pint together.

12.  James B. Hunt Jr. Library at North Carolina State University

What is it: North Carolina State University’s Hunt Library, completed in 2013 on the school’s STEM-focused Centennial Campus, is an architectural wonder.

Why go: From its spaceship-like façade (a resemblance so uncanny that it made for the perfect April Fool’s fodder in 2016) to its impressive collection of futuristic, eye-catching chairs, Hunt Library’s worth a visit. On the first floor, you can watch the library’s hardest working employee, Bob the Bookbot, retrieve books from stock.

13.  North Carolina Executive Mansion

What is it: The governor of North Carolina’s home isn’t a regular mansion—it’s a cool mansion. Steeped in the Queen Anne style, this prominent 1891 home on Blount Street, known as the “people’s house,” is in the center of it all, just blocks from the legislature, the museum park and all the best downtown Raleigh has to offer.

Why go: The Executive Mansion is, frankly, gorgeous. You can take it in from the street but, each winter, you can also get a glimpse inside this historic home, as the governor and his family offer tours inside the home, decked out in its finest holiday garb.

14.  North Carolina State Fairgrounds

What is it: Home to the state’s largest indoor/outdoor flea market and the renowned North Carolina State Fair, the Faigrounds also offer 350 full-service RV sites and space for private and public events on 344 acres.

Why go: Sure, the most notable thing to happen at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds each year is the State Fair, which takes over the complex each October. But the Fairgrounds are a year-round attraction, as well, with regular events and conventions, a weekly flea market ripe for obscure finds and the beloved World Beer Festival, which draws thousands here each summer.

Hungry for the best restaurants in Raleigh?

The 15 best restaurants in Raleigh

Despite the city’s abundance of talented, James Beard award-recognized chefs, Raleigh’s food scene is only just beginning to receive the national attention it deserves, slowly but surely gaining the kind of prominence usually reserved for other Southern cities like Nashville, Atlanta and Charleston. 

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Forbes Travel Guide Stories

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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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Raleigh

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Raleigh, North Carolina was always destined to be the capital of the state. It was named for Sir Walter Raleigh, who established a short-lived English settlement here in the 1580s. But like Washington, D.C., Raleigh was designed from the start as the capital city.

From its founding in 1792, it was called the "City of Oaks," and its leaders ever since have been committed to preserving and maintaining its parks and trees. The result is an attractive and very livable city, where modern glass and steel construction is softened by parks and greenways.

And if that's not enough green space, only a few miles away is the beautiful Umstead State Park , where you can walk or bike on wooded trails or rent a canoe or paddleboat to explore the lake.

Both visual and performing arts are important here, and you'll find art museums and theaters among the most popular places to visit. Raleigh's African American heritage runs deep, and several sites in the city celebrate that legacy, including the Pope House Museum , the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Gardens, and the 35-acre Mount Hope Cemetery.

Discover the best of the city with the help of this list of the top attractions and things to do in Raleigh.

See also: Where to Stay in Raleigh

1. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

2. north carolina museum of art, 3. pullen park, 4. marbles kids museum, 5. north carolina museum of history, 6. walking through historic oakwood, 7. performing arts in raleigh, 8. historic yates mill, 9. jc raulston arboretum, 10. mordecai historic park, 11. north carolina state capitol, 12. william b. umstead state park, 13. pnc arena, 14. neuse river greenway trail, where to stay in raleigh for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in raleigh.

Conveniently located downtown, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is one of the largest natural science museums in the southeastern United States. It has two buildings: one focused on the educational exhibits, and the other focused on the methods behind the science.

In addition to traveling exhibits, the Nature Exploration Center has permanent installations including the Arthropod Zoo; the Living Conservatory; and exhibits that explore North Carolina's coasts, mountains, and local natural history.

The Prehistoric section is the most popular, where you can meet Acro, the only genuine skeleton of an Acrocanthosaurus on display in the world. Those who like to get really hands-on will love the Discovery Room, where you are encouraged to touch and explore everything. The Nature Research Center is where you can learn about the science behind the natural world, from the DNA Investigative Lab to space exploration.

The can't-miss exhibit here, though, is the SECU Daily Planet, a three-story theater that explores the planet earth from the inside out. The museum offers detailed floor maps for self-guided tours, or you can get their app for a digital guide.

Address: 11 W. Jones Street, Raleigh, North Carolina

The galleries at the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) first opened in 1956 as the first state-funded collection. They showcase art from the Renaissance, ancient Greek and Roman sculpture and artifacts, Egyptian burial artwork, pre-Columbian works, and early American art.

The NCMA is also proud to be one of two American museums to house permanent exhibits dedicated to Jewish art. The museum offers guided tours of its galleries and special exhibits and also hosts workshops, lectures, films, and performing arts shows. The museum grounds are worth exploring for their sculptures, gardens, and peaceful reflecting pool.

The African American Cultural Center at North Carolina State is at the Witherspoon Student Center and features exhibits by prominent artists that focus on this rich heritage.

Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, North Carolina

First opened in 1887, Pullen Park was the first public park in North Carolina. The park's 66 acres offer far more than the typical city park. Visitors can take rides on the Gustave A Dentzel Carousel and the C.P. Huntington miniature train . Pedal boats are available to rent for a cruise around Lake Howell, and for the younger mariners, there is a kiddie boat ride.

Kids will also love the huge playground, which includes water play for those hot summer days, and there are often shows in the children's amphitheater . Fans of The Andy Griffith Show will want to pose for pictures with the "Andy and Opie" statue.

The park also has a café, tennis courts, an aquatic center, sports fields, and the Theatre in the Park , as well as many special events throughout the year.

Address: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, North Carolina

The hands-on Marbles Kids Museum should be high on the list of places to visit for families with young children. It is filled with interactive exhibits, including an exploration of music at Tree Tunes; the world of horticulture at Sun Sprouts kid's garden; an energetic time at Kid Grid; and the BB&T Toddler's Hollow, where kids three and under can play and explore safely in a place just for them.

Laminated Picture Maps are available to borrow, so that the kids can plan their day, and parents will be happy to have the choice of eating at their on-site café or bringing their own lunch for a picnic. The Wells Fargo IMAX Theatre at Marbles shows both Hollywood hits and educational films on its 50 by 70-foot screen, keeping everyone in the family entertained.

Address: 201 E. Hargett Street, Raleigh, North Carolina

The North Carolina Museum of History has permanent and traveling exhibits that encompass the state's past. You will find Native American tools, housewares of early European settlers, costumes from the Revolutionary War era, and weapons and military gear from the Civil War.

African American history is featured as well, from the first days of slavery through the arduous fight for freedom and equality. This is also home to the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame, where visitors can learn about native sports heroes and see plenty of memorabilia.

Address: 5 E. Edenton Street, Raleigh, North Carolina

Near downtown Raleigh, the historic Oakwood neighborhood is North Carolina's largest, intact 19 th -century residential district, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places . Many of its hundreds of 19th-century homes have been fully restored to their former glory.

Be sure to stroll past the Tucker House , an impressive Neoclassical Revival-style home. In addition to the architecture, you'll see beautiful gardens surrounding many of the homes.

A walking tour guide can be found at the Capitol Area Visitor's Center , including a map and information about the houses and the history of the neighborhood. Maps and more detailed information can also be found at the Historic Oakwood website.

The Historic Oak View County Park is an antebellum farmhouse built in 1885. It features the Farm History Center, the Cotton Gin House, and the Plank Kitchen. The gardens and orchards are the perfect place to bring your picnic.

Raleigh is home to a wide variety of performing arts venues and organizations. Theater-goers will love the Theatre in the Park at Pullen Park, which hosts several productions each year and is best known for its annual December performance of A Christmas Carol .

The Burning Coal Theatre is located downtown, and the nearby Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts hosts stage plays and musicals produced by the North Carolina Theatre , as well as the work of the North Carolina Opera .

It is also the performance home for the Carolina Ballet and hosts the nationally celebrated North Carolina Symphony . In September, the city hosts the International Bluegrass Music Association's World of Bluegrass .

About five miles south of the center, Yates Mill is the area's last remaining water-powered gristmill, a reminder of an era when 70 of these ground corn and wheat into meal and flour for residents of Wake County. The mill still has its original equipment and operated into the mid-1950s.

On a visit to the mill, open March through November, you can see costumed millers grind corn and learn how the water wheel powered the millstones. Programs, events, and exhibits help preserve the region's agricultural heritage, and the mill sits in a park that includes a 174-acre wildlife refuge and an environmental research center.

Several miles of hiking trails extend around the Mill Pond and into the surrounding park. Two boardwalks provide a place to fish, as rural residents did when the mill was a local gathering place.

Address: 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, North Carolina

With one of the largest and most diverse collections of plants for landscape use in the Southeast, the JC Raulston Arboretum is both a tourist attraction and a source of inspiration for regional gardeners.

Plants are collected and evaluated to find those best suited to Piedmont North Carolina conditions and southern landscapes, but for the casual visitor, the gardens are simply a beautiful place to visit at any time of year.

Rhododendron, iris, and wisteria bloom in April, and showy cannas, daylilies, hydrangeas, and dahlias in June. Even in winter, there are camellias in Asian Valley and in the Southall Memorial Garden, and in February, Chinese redbud, pink and white magnolias, squills, and snowdrops bloom.

In addition, there are perennial borders, the Finley-Nottingham Rose Garden, the Swindell Contemplation Garden, a wall garden, a white garden, and other themes.

Address: 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, North Carolina

Mordecai Historic Park preserves the birthplace of Andrew Johnson , the 17th president of the United States. Built in 1785, the Mordecai House is the oldest in the city still standing on its original foundation.

Guided tours are offered on the hour and include the estate and gardens as well as many additional 19th-century buildings such as St. Mark's Chapel; Badger Iredell Law Office; and the Allen Kitchen, which was re-created using descriptions left in Ellen Mordecai's correspondence.

This is also the home base for the Historic Raleigh Trolley , a one-hour narrated tour of the city's historic sites.

Address: 1 Mimosa Street, Raleigh, North Carolina

The North Carolina State Capitol Building is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Greek revival architecture in the United States. Architect David Paton's influence can be seen in the attention to detail in its intricate molding and plasterwork, the cantilevered gallery, and the grandiose Greek elements.

Completed in 1840, the building is one of Raleigh's best-loved landmarks. Up until 1888, it housed all of North Carolina's State Government, but today it only houses the Governor's office. This sightseeing stop is on Raleigh's historic Trolley Tour.

Address: 1 E. Edenton Street, Raleigh, North Carolina

Just outside Raleigh proper, halfway to Durham, is the expansive William B. Umstead State Park . This natural paradise is a web of 13 miles of winding trails that weave around three man-made lakes.

Umstead State Park is popular among hikers, trail runners, cyclists, and equestrians. Fishing is also a top activity, especially at Big Lake, which has canoe and rowboat rentals. During the summer, campgrounds open up for overnight stays underneath the stars.

But perhaps the best secret of Umstead State Park is the art project that lies hidden among the trees. Take the Graylyn multi-use trail to discover a 25-foot fallen red oak tree, whose trunk has been carved by two artists to reveal elaborate pictures of animals, tree branches, and leaves. It is quite the site to stumble upon as you're off exploring the wooded nature trails.

Address: 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, North Carolina

The state of North Carolina loves its sports teams, and Raleigh is no different. When it comes to sports in Raleigh, fans turn to the PNC Arena . This indoor arena is home to the National Hockey League Carolina Hurricanes and the NC State Wolfpack men's basketball team.

The arena has 18,680 seats for ice hockey games and 19,500 seats for basketball. Within the arena are more than 60 suites and 13 luxury boxes, as well as 2,000 club seats. You'll also find a 300-seat restaurant.

The arena welcomes more than 1.5 million visitors per year. It's also the prime venue in Raleigh for major concert tours. It hosts more than 150 events per year.

Address: 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, North Carolina

North Carolina is home to some truly dramatic landscapes, and much of that can be seen along the Mountains-to-Sea Trail that runs across the state. The trail winds its way down from the Great Smoky Mountains and heads to the lowlands of the Outer Banks. A portion of that trail runs through Raleigh, and it's called the Neuse River Greenway Trail .

Raleigh's section of the trail is 27.5 miles of paved trail offering views over the Neuse River. Along the way, travelers will pass through different types of landscapes, with plenty of historical sites along the way.

Address: Parking, lot 1721 Riverview Road, Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh's main tourist attractions, including Historic Oakwood, the State Capitol, and most of the museums, are located downtown. For first-time visitors, this is the best place to stay. Luxury and mid-range hotels are generally found near the convention center, and the prices drop as you head out toward Interstate 440. Sports fans may want to stay to the west by PNC Arena, near North Carolina State Museum. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Attached to the Convention Center, the Raleigh Marriott City Center is ideal for trade show attendees and offers well-appointed rooms with marble bathrooms, coupled with first-class service.
• Just west of the downtown core is the new hip and trendy Aloft Raleigh . Ultra-modern décor and the latest technology are featured throughout the property.
• Nearby, in the North Hill shopping district, is the Hyatt House . The large rooms with kitchens and the seasonal outdoor pool make this a great hotel for families.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The recently renovated DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Raleigh , just a mile west of downtown, features oversize rooms and is within easy walking distance of several restaurants.
• Easily accessible off Interstate 440, beside the large Crabtree Mall, the Hilton Garden Inn offers comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.
• The Hampton Inn & Suites is less than a mile from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, in the trendy Glenwood South District. This hotel offers an evening reception with appetizers, and plenty of restaurants and entertainment venues are just steps away.

Budget Hotels:

• Conveniently located right downtown in an older building with some of the best views in the city is the Holiday Inn .
• A great-value option just two miles to the south is the Red Roof PLUS+ . This hotel has recently been renovated and offers pet-friendly rooms.
• Just over ten minutes to the northwest of downtown is the Candlewood Suites . A good choice for families, this hotel has a variety of suites, all with kitchens.

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Places to Visit in North Carolina: Raleigh is near the state's center, so from here, you can easily visit more of the top tourist attractions in North Carolina . About 2.5 hours to the west is lively Charlotte and to the north, you'll find plenty of things to do in Mount Airy , in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Asheville is a good base for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains .

Places to Visit for Beach Lovers : You'll want to head east for the fabled beaches of North Carolina , many of which you'll find on the beautiful Outer Banks . For information on camping sites here, take a look at our page on the top campgrounds in the Outer Banks .

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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?

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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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Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh

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Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour

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Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Raleigh

Other Top Attractions around Raleigh

Cultural & Theme Tours

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What to See in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill

Sky Noir Photography by Bill Dickinson  / Getty Images  

The Triangle region is a diverse area of North Carolina made up of several cities that have their own distinct personalities including Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill . Whether you're heading to the college town of Durham , where Duke University students attend classes or out to the State Capitol Building in Raleigh, there's plenty to do in this lush mountainous region any time of year.

Visit the Gardens at Duke University

Duke University is set in the heart of Durham. Here, you can stroll the grounds of the West Campus and take in the gothic architecture and the quadrangles of the residential campus. You also won't want to miss the Sarah P. Duke Gardens with its sprawling magnolias, where you can stand under the wisteria-covered gazebo and take in the magnificent formal gardens and koi pond. At Duke University, you could spend the whole day discovering the nooks and crannies of the native plant areas or losing yourself in the colors of the rose circle.

Take a Tour of North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University is located in Raleigh, the state capital. Start your tour at the Bell Tower at Hillsborough and Pullen that serves as a gateway to the main campus. Other highlights on the campus include the Brickyard, Gregg Art Museum, and the Solar House. Also, across Hillsborough street on the main campus is Mitch's Tavern, the oldest bar on the street and place where some scenes from the movie​ ​"Bull Durham" were filmed.

Finish Your College Circuit at UNC at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in the United States and consistently ranks at the top of the list of public universities nationwide. Today, the campus is a mixture of old and new. Visitors should make sure to stop by the Old Well, which is a symbol of the University. Campus lore says students who drink from the well will have good luck. Additionally, the on-campus arboretum is a wonderful place for a springtime stroll.

Browse Local Products at the Raleigh Farmers' Market

The Raleigh Farmer's Market is one of five farmers' markets owned by the state of North Carolina and operated by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. You can wander through 30,000 square feet of North Carolina-grown fresh produce (during the growing season) and plants (from March through October). The Raleigh Farmers Market is where you can find the freshest and widest variety of produce and plants in the area, but you also won't want to miss the market shops offering meats, cheeses, crafts, bakery items, and North Carolina wines. 

Walk Through the North Carolina Museum of Art

The North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh is the state's premier art destination. Hosting major national touring exhibits, the museum is also home to one of the largest collections of Renoir sculptures in the United States and one of only two permanent displays of Jewish art in an American art museum. The 164-acre Museum Park is home to more than a dozen monumental sculptures, and the grounds feature an amphitheater that hosts three seasons of music, movies, and other programs. Iris, the restaurant located within the museum, is a wonderful place for brunch. Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection and Museum Park is free, but there is a charge for some special exhibitions and programs, such as concerts, films, classes, and performances.

Witness History at the North Carolina State Capitol

The North Carolina State Capitol building in Raleigh, completed in 1840, is one of the finest and best-preserved examples of a major civic building in the Greek Revival architecture style. It contains its original 1840 legislative furniture, constructed by a local cabinetmaker, and is preserved by the State of North Carolina as a historic shrine, offering free admission to guests on weekdays year-round. Similar points of interest near the capitol building include the State Legislative Building and the Executive Mansion.

Go out on the Town at Glenwood South

The Glenwood South District of downtown Raleigh is the hip and trendy home to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. On warm evenings, the streets come to life with crowds of locals and tourists alike, making the neighborhood's al fresco restaurants great for exceptional people watching. The district’s nightlife completed a significant residential boom, with more than 900 new condos and apartments in the development.

Stop by the Nasher Museum of Art

The Nasher Museum of Art is dedicated to global contemporary and post-modern art. A burgeoning private collection supports an ever-changing array of forward-thinking exhibits and multimedia installations from diverse artists, authors, and timelines. The Nasher Museum is located at Duke University in Durham, making it the perfect addition to your trip to the campus.

Relax at the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science

This indoor/outdoor children's discovery museum is appropriate for toddlers as well as teens. Highlights of the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science include the butterfly house, the train ride (for younger children), the native animal habitats of wolves and bears, the dinosaur trails, and the outdoor play areas. The museum also hosts successive hands-on exhibits and special programs throughout the year.

Explore the Shops at the American Tobacco Campus

The American Tobacco Campus is adjacent to the Durham Bulls baseball park and the Durham Performing Arts Center and is also home to five restaurants. The Campus is a registered historic site and makes use of the original American Tobacco Factory built in the 1800s, but the addition of modern buildings has transformed it into a mixed-use development. The area is constantly adding retail and office space and eventually will include 380 residential units as well. The beautifully-landscaped public space is the site of a popular summer music series.

Escape to Nature at Jordan Lake

Located west of Raleigh and south of Chapel Hill and Durham, Jordan Lake is a North Carolina Recreation Area that's one of the largest summertime homes of the bald eagle, the symbol of the United States for more than 200 years. Vast, undisturbed areas provide the perfect home for the bald eagle; there's plenty of fish to eat and a mature forest for roosting. Jordan Lake offers multiple swim and camping areas, and there are limited boat rentals available from Crosswinds Marina.

Take a Hike Through Eno River State Park

For hikers, the 24 miles of trails around the Eno River offer some of the most scenic walks in the area. The Bobbitt Hole Trail is a favorite, leading to a lush spot where water rushes over rocks in the spring, summer, and fall. All trails are blazed and signed, but you can request a park trail map for descriptions and distances at the Park Ranger station or online.

Dribble Over to the Carolina Basketball Museum

 Zeke Smith/Wikimedia Commons

For all the Carolina basketball fans out there, there's no greater destination than the Basketball Museum. Located in the Dean E. Smith Center on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, the museum features artifacts, videos, photos, plus statistical and historical panels that highlight the history of the Carolina Basketball program. The museum includes video tributes to coaches and players as well as interactive presentations highlighting Carolina's 18 Final Four appearances and 17 ACC tournament championships. The museum is open to the general public Tuesday to Saturday, and admission is free.

Take a Walk Down Franklin Street

A number of years ago, Sports Illustrated called Chapel Hill the "Best College Town in America." One of the reasons is that the campus seamlessly flows into East Franklin Street, blurring the lines between school and city. Walk down Franklin Street, and you can peruse the shops or grab a cup of coffee at a local cafe. When the stars come out, this part of town becomes the center of campus nightlife. If you come on a football weekend or basketball game day, you'll be caught up in a swarm of Carolina Blue and highly contagious Tar Heel fever.

Stay Out Late on First Fridays in Raleigh

First Friday is a year-round Raleigh tradition. On the first Friday of each month, museums, art studios, and shops offer extended hours, and all the participating restaurants offer specials. Many of the art venues have live music and the museums host special programming. Look for the First Friday Flags to easily locate participating venues, and a free detailed map and guide will be available at each location.

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Best Non-Golf Things to Do in Pinehurst, NC

P inehurst is a small North Carolina town with a HUGE golfing reputation. While a round of golf here is a bucket list item for many golfers, there is much more to enjoy in the area.

Even if you aren't into golfing, a visit to Pinehurst can be enjoyable and fun. Our detailed guide gives you the  best things to do in Pinehurst , as well as plenty of  restaurant  suggestions .

Where is Pinehurst?

Pinehurst is a town located next to Southern Pines, Aberdeen and Carthage in  North Carolina .

***Be sure to see our guide to the Best Things to Do in Southern Pines , which is next door to Pinehurst.

Located in the Piedmont, it is a very easy drive from many of the state's major cities and population centers, which makes the area a great day trip or weekend destination.

Pinehurst is less than a 2 hour drive from Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham and Greensboro, NC.

History of Pinehurst

James Walker Tufts, from Massachusetts, bought 6,000 acres of land in what is now known as Pinehurst back in 1895. He envisioned creating a health and wellness retreat in the Sandhills of North Carolina.

Tufts wanted to create a New England-style village from the ground up. He hired Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed the gardens at Biltmore Estate , to design a village from scratch to complement the natural surroundings.

While the wellness resort didn't succeed, golf did! 

In 1898, a very basic golf course was created in Pinehurst. The next year, the first golf professional was hired. 

In 1900, Tufts hired Donald Ross to be in charge of the golf program at Pinehurst. At that time, Ross was hired as a very young man, yet he would stay at Pinehurst for 48 years until he died. 

During Ross' time at Pinehurst, he became known as one of the most notable golf course architects in the United States, working on more than 400 courses in the U.S. 

Best Things to Do In Pinehurst

During a stroll in the Pinehurst Arboretum, we started talking to a very nice man. After a while, we discovered that he was the Mayor of Pinehurst, John Strickland! 

I asked Mr. Strickland what was on his must-see list for visitors to the Village. In no order of preference, this is what he told me:

• The Given Library and Tufts Archives
• The Arboretum including its various landscape venues, and the Pinehurst Greenway trail system.
• The Pinehurst Harness Track
• “Old Town” historic district which includes the core Village shopping area and adjoining residential neighborhoods

Not only was it a pleasure to talk with the Mayor of Pinehurst, but we were happy that we had everything on  his  list already on  our  list of things to do!

We have included those destinations, along with a few others, in our list of what to do in Pinehurst.

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

One of the easiest ways to see all of the most popular sites in the Village of Pinehurst is to do a self-guided historic walking tour.

Get a pamphlet from the Tufts Archives library (see below) and follow the suggested routes to walk through downtown and learn about the buildings and architecture. Pinehurst is a National Historic Landmark, so there are lots of unique places to see.

Along the way you will see almost every major attraction in the town, along with homes that have historical significance, such as a house owned by Donald Ross.

The guide gives a great historical background of each location, along with photos.  

Tufts Archives

The  Tufts Archives  are on every must-do list for Pinehurst, and with good reason. The archives tell the story and history of how the Village of Pinehurst was created from nothing but acres of sand and longleaf pine trees.

In addition to the village history, you will also find an extensive historical collection of Donald Ross memorabilia and archives. 

Golfers or architecture buffs will be delighted by seeing the original plans for Donald Ross' golf courses. Just pull out a binder and flip through the golf course designs, many of them hand drawn. 

Around the room you will find over 200 flags from Donald Ross golf courses around the country. The Tufts Archives has more, they just don't have room to display them!

The Tufts Archives are located in the back of the community library. When you enter, you can request a copy of the historic walking tour guide (as mentioned above) from the librarian. Then proceed to the back of the building to enter the Tufts Archives.

The Carolina Hotel

It might be impossible to say that you have visited Pinehurst without visiting  The Carolina Hotel . It is that integral to the town. 

The "Queen of the South" opened on January 1, 1901. Just six years after Tufts made his original land purchase. At that time, it was the largest wood-frame hotel in the state. 

The Carolina Hotel is located just a block or so off of the main town square. It is easy walking distance and definitely should be on your list of things to do (it is also on the historic walking tour).

Wander the halls of the The Carolina Hotel and read about the fascinating history of the area, along with historical photos. 

Take time to rock in a rocking chair on the wide porches!

Women's Exchange

The longest running women’s volunteer organization in the United States is the Federation of Woman’s Exchanges, which was started in the 1830s. The Sandhills Woman’s Exchange was started in 1923 to help the women and families of the then-rural area earn an income. 

Now one of only 15 remaining members of the Federation of Woman’s Exchanges, the  Sandhills Woman’s Exchange sells handmade crafts in a log cabin that was moved to Pinehurst by James Tufts, the developer of the village.

Inside, you will find several rooms filled with crafts made by women in the area. I was especially impressed with the pine needle souvenirs, which are a great gift idea from the area.

In addition to the handicrafts, lunch is served during the week in the historic cabin. 

Village Arboretum

This 35-acre retreat is the perfect spot to walk along nature trails through different garden settings. 

Longleaf pines tower overhead on the wooded walkways. Or explore the wildflower garden with bees happily buzzing in the colorful menagerie of pollinator-friendly plants.

During your stroll, be on the lookout for flowering trees, such as Dogwoods, cherry trees, peach trees, and witch hazel.

It is a short walk from the Village of Pinehurst to the  Arboretum . Or you can make the short drive and park in the parking lot.

Shopping Downtown Pinehurst

There is a boutique selection of stores in the village center, scattered among real estate offices. 

Among the shops you will find local souvenirs, upscale clothing shops, an olive oil store and shops with vintage finds.

Parking is free in Pinehurst which is awesome for visitors. 

Pinehurst Harness Track

From November to May, you can enjoy events at  Pinehurst Harness Track , the leading harness horse training facility, which is part of the area's rich equestrian heritage. The 111-acre track has been training Standardbred horses since 1915. 

It is the oldest continuously operating equine facility in North Carolina. 

While winter and spring have the most events, be sure to check for activities all year long.

Restaurants in Pinehurst

Tavern at the holly inn.

The Tavern at the Holly Inn was one of the best meals we had in Pinehurst! 

Located in the historic inn, the dining room was cozy. Or you can sit outside and watch people walk through the village.

We loved the basket of chips that was served before our meal, much better than bread service at other restaurants and the chips were so good they were addictive!

The Southern hushpuppies appetizer was delicious. I would just skip the ghost chili honey butter (it had no taste or heat in my opinion) and apricot chutney that are served with the hushpuppies. They did nothing to add to the flavor and in fact detracted from the cornmeal goodness.

Southern Hushpuppies

The fish and chips were among some of the best we have ever had anywhere! 

Fish and Chips

French Onion Soup

And you can't skip the blueberry peach cobbler for dessert! It is one of their signature dishes and is on the menu almost year round. It was seriously good!

Drum & Quill Public House

You will find a lot of pubs throughout Pinehurst. One of the most popular, and with good reason, is the Drum & Quill Public House. 

The atmosphere inside this pub is spot on with an old-fashioned Irish pub. 

The bar is housed in a 130-year old magistrate judge's chamber.

Drum is the name of the golf writer Bob Drum, whose son Kevin now owns the pub. Quill represents the pen that Drum used to write about Arnold Palmer. Drum recognized Palmer's talent when he was a 14-year old junior golfer.

Together, Drum and Palmer would create the ground work for golf's Professional Grand Slam, which includes winning the Masters, U.S. Open, The Open Championship at St. Andrews and the PGA Championship.

Agora Bakery

We enjoyed our breakfast at Agora Bakery as much as we enjoyed the atmosphere. 

The large towering white building is a former bank. Go inside and see the bank vault open, before heading to the extensive pastry selection.

Ham and Gruyere Croissant

Classic Liege Waffle topped with Chocolate Chips

Outdoor seating is also enjoyable during the cool weather months.

Agora Bakery is located in the heart of the village square. You can't miss it - and shouldn't!

Carolina Dining Room

One of the most upscale dining options in Pinehurst is the  Carolina Dining Room . 

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, as well as lighter fare in between meals and late at night.

While the dress code is more relaxed than it used to be, you'll still want to check the current policies before arriving at the restaurant. 

Only 16 people can fit inside the small log cabin dining room at the historic Women's Exchange, which makes  lunch  here a highly-coveted event!

Enjoy a casual lunch of sandwiches, soups or quiches inside the cabin. Your meal helps support the charitable efforts of the Women's Exchange.

Pinehurst Brewing Company

One of the few restaurants on our list that is not located in downtown Pinehurst, the Pinehurst Brewing Company isn't that far away and is located close to the Village Arboretum. 

Be sure to get a passport stamp in a Sandhills Pour Tour passport available at the brewery. 

If you are spending time in the area, you can visit all of the locations in the guide. Get all of the stamps and win a prize!

50+ Fun Things To Do In Raleigh With Kids

The great thing about Raleigh is that it’s so family friendly and offers a plethora of attractions for youngsters who need some enrichment in their life!

From amusement parks to bike rides to paddle-boarding on lakes, there are so many fun things to do in Raleigh with kids that you would never run out of options.

To prove my point, I’ve created this ultimate list of things you can do in Raleigh with your children of any age. Whether your kids enjoy museums, playgrounds, going on hikes, or challenging their family members to a round of mini-golf, there is something everyone can enjoy on this list.

We also have a podcast episode on the topic of things to do with kids in Raleigh, which you can find it at the bottom of the post.

Video: Museum of Natural Sciences

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Whilst Raleigh doesn’t have big fun parks in the sense that Orlando does, it does have some pretty great amusement parks and theme parks .

The Historic Pullen Park is one of our favorites, which is the 5th oldest amusement park in the USA (and 16th oldest in the world)! It dates back to 1887 and is most famous for the carousel, which was built in 1900 and is the oldest ride in the park.

It’s probably the most popular of things to do in Raleigh for families who are new to the city and is where all the locals will recommend you take your kids first.

It’s perfect for younger kids because the rides cater to smaller children. As well as ride the historic carousel and iconic miniature train, you can also take paddle boats out on the lake, and let your kids run wild at the playgrounds and have a picnic.

The playground is a favourite of Raleigh kids. Two slides, swing sets, 6 climbing apparatus, a sand pit, and room to run around. 

Read our full review on Pullen Park here. 

• Address: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh
• Website: Click here

2. Play Mini-Golf at Frankie’s Fun Park

Although Raleigh doesn’t have big theme parks like Busch Gardens, Six Flags, or a big sprawling theme park of Carowinds in Charlotte (2.5 hrs away), but it does have Frankie’s Fun Park.

Here you’ll be entertained for hours with go-kart tracks, laser tag arena, batting cages, bumper boats, flight simulators, and an arcade!

One of the things we love to do there is play mini-golf on a warm summers day. They have three courses which makes up 54 holes in total, and it’s only $10 per person and under 3s play for free. That’s hours of fun for only a small cost.

What’s more is that there is no admission price for Frankie’s, you pay per activity, so you can turn up and see what’s available.

• Address: 11190 Fun Park Dr, Raleigh
• Website: www.frankies.com

3. Step Back In Time at Museum of Natural Sciences

If you’re looking for more educational things to do, then don’t miss the Museum of Natural Sciences.

It’s not only a fascinating museum with interactive exhibits that will leave your child in awe, but it’s the largest natural history museum in the Southeast and North Carolina’s oldest and most visited museum.

There are over 4 floors of exhibits, with each room focusing on an area of our natural world; from learning about the human body and our DNA to dinosaur exhibits, and even some exhibits with live animals, there is so much to learn and explore.

They also offer educational programs and have research centers. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are welcome.

Read our review of the Museum of Natural Sciences.

• Address: 11 W Jones Street, Raleigh
• Website: naturalsciences.org

4. Play At Marbles Kids Museum

If you’re in need of things to do in Raleigh with toddlers, then Marbles Kid Museum will be a hit with the little ones!

Catering to kids up to the age of 12, this two leveled kid-focused museum has many kids activities and exhibits that inspire creativity and wonder.

They have dozens of hands-on exhibits and the state’s only 3D-capable IMAX theater. 

• Address: 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh
• Website: marbleskidsmuseum.org

5. Play at Adventure Landing

Similar to Frankie’s Fun Park, Adventure Landing is another amusement park in Raleigh that’s fun for all the family. It’s older than Frankie’s, and has a more nostalgic atmosphere to it.

Fun for kids and adults of all ages, it has attractions like Go Karts, Miniature Golf, Laser Tag, Gaming Arcade, Batting Cages.

It’s also popular for groups and birthday parties, so be prepared for lots of kids running around! Unlike Frankie’s, there is an admission fee, and there are various admission passes on offer. 

• Address: 3311 Capital Blvd, Raleigh
• Website: Raleigh.AdventureLanding.com

6. Bounce Around at Galaxy Fun Park

Tons of indoor entertainment including a trampoline park, ropes course, laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, and soft play area. Closed toe shoes are required in all areas.

• Address: 14460 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh
• Website: GalaxyFunPark.com

7. Go Ziplining at xTreme Park Adventures

Outdoor and indoor attractions including a simulated city for paintball, laser tag & airsoft combat games. Plus zip line, ropes course, rock climbing, an escape room and ATVs. 

• Address: 7460 Wake Forest Rd, Durham
• Website: xtremeparkadventures.com

8. Stroll Through The Park at North Carolina Museum of Art

One of the most popular Raleigh attractions is the North Carolina Museum of Art, and admission to the art museum’s permanent collection and Museum Park is free.

Don’t miss taking a stroll through the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, the 164-acre park and trail system through natural areas that features more than a dozen commissioned works of art.  Read our guide .

Our girls loved attending the annual Art in Bloom Festival at the museum held every March .

• Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh
• Website: ncartmuseum.org

9. Learn About Local History at North Carolina Museum of History

Founded in 1902, it welcomes 80,000+ school groups a year and on display is more than 14,000 years and 150,000 artifacts of North Carolina history. Free admission. Charge for some special exhibits. 

• Address: 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh
• Website: ncmuseumofhistory.org

10. Learn About Sporting Heroes at North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame

If your kids are sports fans, Raleigh is home to the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame museum located on the third floor of the NC Museum of History. Take a self-guided tour and see displays from football, basketball, baseball, athletics, golf, motor racing, Olympics sports and more.

Read our full review here. 

• Website: ncshof.org
• Address: 5 E Edenton St, Raleigh (inside the museum of History).

11. Hike Sal’s Branch Trail (Umstead State Park)

One of the best things about living in Raleigh is the 180-miles of Greenway trails to explore, and many of the trails in Raleigh are kid-friendly. 

If your family loves nature trails through the forest, biking, picnicking, camping, canoeing, and horseback riding, don’t miss Umstead State Park when you visit Raleigh with kids.

This natural oasis surrounds three man-made lakes and is just 15 minutes from downtown Raleigh with access from I-40 and I-70.

We love the 2.8 mile Sal’s Branch Trail is probably the most popular of the Umstead trails and perfect for kids!

12. Explore at Lake Johnson

Lake Johnson is our favorite of the lakes in Raleigh , and we lived on Lake Johnson for four years.

You can walk the awesome 3-mile loop trail, one of our favorite trails. The trail is fully paved, there’s plenty of shaded spots in the warmer months, and nice colors in the Fall. 

We also love getting out on the lake for stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking , and pedal boats, and there’s a small beach area and picnic shelters. 

Read our review: Why Lake Johnson is our favorite lake

• Address: 4601 Avent Ferry Rd., Raleigh

13. Cycle the Lake Lynn Trail

This 2.6 mile paved loop trail is another of our favorite family trails in Raleigh. There’s a nice boardwalk over parts of the lake, and mostly flat with a few small inclines.  Read our full review of the Lake Lynn Trail.

• Address: Lynn Rd, Raleigh

14. Walk the Shelley Lake Trail

An easy 2-mile paved scenic greenway trail loops around Shelley Lake and is popular with locals in North Raleigh.

15. Bike the Art to Heart Trail

We love biking the 6-mile Art to Heart Trail, a point-to-point trail that connects the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) to the heart of Downtown Raleigh (NOT a loop trail).  Read our full review of the Art to Heart Trail.

16. Walk in the Historic Yates Mill State Park

Hiking trails, a 24-acre pond, and the Historic Yates Mill make up this 174-acre wildlife refuge and resource center.

Admission is free, but to tour the mill to learn about the “farm-to-fork” process, witness the corn grinding costs $3-$5 (March through Nov.). 

The Yates Mill Pond Trail is a 0.8 mile moderately trafficked loop trail perfect for families and all fitness levels, and is accessible year-round. Add on to this trail by doing the 1-mile Creekside Trail. 

• Address: 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh
• Website: click here

17. Explore on Bond Park & Lake

Bond Lake in Cary is popular with the locals. The Boathouse has boat rentals for all ages and abilities, including pedal boats, kayaks, and canoes. If you don’t know how to kayak or sail, there is a wide range of classes available including sailing, kayak and canoe lessons.

The 2-mile Bond Park Lake Trail is another favorite of ours, and we have walked it many times with our kids.

It hugs a picturesque lake, and the trail is a mix of paved and unpaved natural woodland setting.

The lake is situated in Bond Metropolitan Park i s the largest municipal park in Cary and covers 310 acres.

It offers plenty of opportunities for many types of recreation including 4.2 miles of trails, a variety of athletic fields, disc golf, a challenge course, playgrounds, boating, kayaking, picnicking and much more.

Read our review of the Bond Lake Trail. 

• Address: 801 High House Rd, Cary

18. Bike the Lake Pine Trail

Lovely 2-mile loop trail around beautiful Apex Lake. Fully-paved trail and mostly flat, plenty of shade, accessible year-round and easy for all ages. And, close to charming downtown Apex . 

• Address: 1808 Lake Pine Dr, Cary
• Website: Apexnc.org

19. Cycle the Neuse River Greenway Trail

This is a 27-mile paved trail stretching from Falls Lake in North Raleigh to the Wake County border in southeast Raleigh, but you can break it up into short sections and along the way are winding boardwalk areas, views of historical sites, and suspension bridges. 

• Address: a good place to start is Anderson Point Park , which has plenty of parking

20. Get into Nature at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

For family-friendly nature trails, Hemlock Bluffs in Cary is a good nature preserve to explore.

Do the 0.8 mile Beech Tree Cove Trail, and then connect with the Chestnut Oak Loop Trail (1.2 miles), and the Swift Creek Loop Trail (0.8 miles).  Read our review of hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve.

• Address: 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary

Press play to stream through our videos showcasing the above mentioned trails. We also have this post on 12 kid-friendly trails in Raleigh with lots of information

21. Run Around at Dorothea Dix Park

While we may not have a river or beautiful beaches at our doorstep, but we have a lot of parks in Raleigh !

Dix Park is the largest park in Raleigh on a whopping 300+ acres with impressive skyline views and a lovely space with wide-open fields, rolling meadows, and tree-lined streets. There’s plenty of space for the kids to run around, play frisbee, ride bikes, etc, plus there are various hammock groves set up amongst the trees if they need a rest.

In the warmer months it plays host to numerous events and festivals, including the field of sunflowers each year. Read our guide to Dix Park.

And they are currently building the Gipson Play Plaza an inviting and inspiring public space for all ages with one-of-a-kind play spaces – including a sensory maze, water play mountain, swing terrace, and adventure playground – works of art, a civic plaza, fountains, and gardens. It’s poised to open in 2025.

• Address: 1030 Richardson Dr, Raleigh
• Website: DixPark.org

22. Laze on the Beach at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Jordan Lake is an outdoor recreation lovers paradise. This undeveloped, 14,000-acre reservoir is the closest you will find to a beach in Raleigh, and while it doesn’t have waves, it does have a lovely, soft golden sandy beach that’s perfect for lazing on.

It’s also a popular place to go boating, fishing, camping, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, and swimming.

Perfect for a day out, or a long-weekend getaway.

• Address: 280 State Park Rd, Apex
• Website: ncparks.org

23. Visit the Playground at John Chavis Memorial Park

John Chavis Memorial Park is a public park that spans 28 acres near Shaw University in the South Park neighborhood of downtown Raleigh.

It features an historic carousel, a children’s playground, splash pad, community center and outdoor track. 

It also features rubber safety surfacing and areas for ages 2 to 5 years and 5 to 12 years, plus adult exercise equipment, a skywalk climbing feature, and nature play elements.

• Address: 505 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Raleigh
• Website: Raleighnc.gov

24. Jump on the Splash Pad at Moore Square Park

This four-acre urban green space in the heart of downtown is one of our favorite spots in Raleigh to visit with kids because they love running on the splash pad in the summer.

There’s a large grass area that hosts many family-friendly events such as movie nights and block parties.

There’s also a playground with a slide, a cafe, and surrounding the square are many family-friendly restaurants, cafes, galleries, and the Marbles Kids Museum. 

25. Go Kayaking at Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Falls Lake is a North Carolina State Park in Wake and Durham Counties.

The 12,410-acre Falls Lake is the focus and offers a range of outdoor experiences including camping, boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking.

There are five beaches that you can swim from and there are several boat ramps where you can launch your own boat, kayak or SUP.

Over towards The Beaverdam, there’s a network of mountain biking trails if you’re kids are a bit older and need more adrenaline.

Wake Rack offer kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals on Falls Lake. They’re unique in that you can order your kayak online, and collect it from a locker or from a nearby convenient store, and take it to your nearest lake. They have inflatable options if you don’t have a roof rack.

• Address: 13300 Creedmoor Rd, Wake Forest
• Website: ncparks.gov

26. Go Back In Time at Mordecai Historic Park

Mordecai Historic Park may not be the most exciting place to visit for toddlers and young kids, but if your kids are learning about the economic boom in the  17th and 18th centuries at school, then this would be a great place to take them to bring history to life.

It was once the site of the largest plantation in Wake County, and now home to some of N.C.’s most extraordinary treasures, including the Mordecai House (1785) the oldest house in Raleigh on its original location.

It’s known as the birthplace of 17th President Andrew Johnson. You can read more about the Mordecai Historic Park guided tour .

• Address: 1 Mimosa St., Raleigh

27. SUP at Lake Raleigh Recreation Area

Lake Raleigh is a hidden gem located on NC State University’s Centennial Campus. We have walked the lake trail here many times and love going stand up paddle boarding here.

And it’s a nice small lake for fishing on the bank or in a kayak. 

Read our review of Lake Raleigh. 

• Address: Main Campus Drive

28. Picnic at Apex Community Park

Another park we love is the 160 acre Apex Park, centered around beautiful Apex Lake, which offers picnic areas, playgrounds, fitness and nature trails.

There’s also athletic fields, tennis courts, volleyball and basketball courts, plus fishing and kayaking allowed on the lake. 

• Address: 2200 Laura Duncan Rd, Cary
• Website: apexnc.org

29. SUP in Lake Crabtree County Park

Another great place to take a stand-up paddle board is Lake Crabtree. Located on 215-acres adjacent to a 520-acre lake, the park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

It has more than 16 miles of trails, plus playgrounds, catch-and-release fishing, and seasonal boating and kayaking/paddle boarding. It’s also a great spot to see the sunset. 

• Address: 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville

30. Sassafras All Children’s Playground (Laurel Hills Park)

One of the most popular and best playgrounds in Raleigh is Sassafras, a colorful and engaging playground with different areas to play including a zip line, swings, slides, monkey bars, and things to climb on and explore.

It’s very well maintained and a popular park to take young children. It’s the perfect place for them to run around and play and make new friends.

• Address: 3808 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh

Roanoke Park is a hidden gem playground in Raleigh and a quaint little park in a nice neighborhood setting.

It’s suitable for ages 2-12 and has wood-chip surface. Also, the Tot Cart parking lot has donated toys, scooters, and bikes for the children to use.

To search all playgrounds in Raleigh, click here or use the park locator app. 

32. Enjoy Farm Fun at Phillips Farm, Cary

One of the most well-known farms in the Triangle area that families love is Phillips Farms, located in Cary. They’ve really expanded it into a fun park for kids of all ages. Their Family Fun Zone  has activities that include toddler town, hayrides, cow trains, giant games, apple slinging, and a fun and fast giant slide.

During the Spring they have their popular Shop & Play Saturdays featuring a market, family fun and MORE! They partner with local farmers and artisans to showcase their offerings.

And Fall is their hugely fun season with pumpkin patches and a corn maze included in the Family Fun Zone and a spooky Halloween zone at night.

There’ll be food trucks including Dampf Good BBQ, and Local Donuts.  Watch our video .

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There are many trampoline parks in Raleigh, so you’re never short on options!

One that we like is DEFY Apex & Raleigh , a fun indoor trampoline park with various jumping and climbing equipment including a ninja obstacle course, trapeze, super tramps, foam pits, battle beams, dodgeball and angled tramps.

Launching Pad Trampoline Park also has a massive main jump court with walled trampolines, 2 regulation dodge ball courts, 3 basketball dunk lanes, a large foam pit, a Jousting Pit, and Rope Ladder Pit.

Urban Air Adventure Park is a large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, spin zone bumper cars, dodgeball, sky rider coaster, ropes course, climbing wall, and tubes indoor playground. 

Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a space to move, create and be yourself with freestyle jump, sly slam, ultimate dodgeball, foam zone, sky hops, sky joost, wall climbs and much more!

One of the newer rock climbing and indoor adventure parks we’ve discovered is OC Aerial , which is like a combination of a trampoline park and ninja course. It has a climbing wall, zip lines, rope courses and more. It’s a playground for adults as well as kids!

34. Play at the Fantasy Lake Adventure Park, Wake Forest

Kids are guaranteed to love the Fantasy Lake Adventure Park in Wake Forest. Our tween keeps asking us when we will go back. It is quite pricey, but for many families, the experience is worth it.

This 100-acre park features a 65-acre lake that is sectioned off for an inflatable water park filled with tramps, slides, and obstacle courses.

You can also kayak, paddleboard, and scuba dive here. It really is fun for all the family. If you can make it work in your budget, reserve some of the beach chairs or cabanas. Because it’s also nice to lie down and relax and enjoy the beautiful views while the older kids relax.

Rad our guide to downtown Wake Forest for more ideas while you’re exploring this area!

35. Escape The Room at an Escape Room

If your kids are a little older, they might enjoy an Escape Room! Game On Escapes is one of the newest escape room venues in the Triangle.

It features 5 escape room games: Trapped in a Jungle, the Sorcerer’s Mistake, Rest Easy Motel and Blind Eye. 

Room 5280 is a real life adventure game designed for groups of friends, families, co-workers and strangers. 4 escape rooms in the heart of downtown Raleigh.

36. Climb Into The Canopes at Go Ape Tree Tops

At Go Ape you can take on various tree top obstacle courses and ziplines, depending upon your age and your comfort level for adventure (and heights). 

Their courses are created to deliver adventure, fun, and a sense of accomplishment and perfect for families. Read our full review.

• Address: 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd, Raleigh
• Website: GoApe.com

37. Zip Line at TreeRunner Adventure Park Raleigh

With over 100 exciting obstacles and zip lines, five difficulty levels, seven different aerial courses, and five different Junior Park trails, there is plenty to explore, located in North Raleigh.

• Address: 12804 Norwood Rd, Raleigh  
• Website: TreeRunnerParks.com

38. Go Indoor Rock Climbing

The Triangle Rock Club is a hit with our kids, they even went to a week-long summer.

Triangle Rock Club indoor climbing center offers rope climbing, bouldering, kids programs, fitness classes, yoga, pilates and more.

They have two locations, Raleigh and Morrisville. 

• Address: 6022 Duraleigh Rd, Raleigh & 102 Pheasant Wood Ct, Morrisville
• Website: TriangleRockClub.com

39. Go BMXing

Yes, there is a BMX track in Raleigh!

Capital City BMX is a bicycle motocross race track is located at the Lions Park and BMX racing is open to boys and girls who can ride a bike. 

• Address: 516 Dennis Ave, Raleigh
• Website: ccbmx.org

Daniel Dhers Action Sports Complex is another BMX track that was founded by pro BMX rider Daniel Dhers.

This is the largest action sports facility in the world with more than 37,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor riding terrain. Facility includes beginner area, pump tracks, foam pit, resi quarters and viewing areas. 

• Address: 171 Tradition Trail Suite 301, Holly Springs
• Website: ddasc.com

40. Play Games at BoxCar Arcade

A popular bar by night, children allowed if accompanied by a parent before 8pm on weekdays and 7pm on weekends .

Hundreds of arcade-style games, including 70+ classic arcade cabinets, 12+ pinball machines, and 175+ console games. 

It’s the perfect rainy day activity!

• Address: 330 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: TheBoxCarBar.com/raleigh

41. Play Old School Video Games at Dave & Buster’s

Dave and Buster’s is a great place to find fun arcade games for kids, especially for kids 5 and up.

It also has lots of old school video games for adults to enjoy. It does get busy on the weekends and has lots of TV screens for watching sports.

It’s also not known for food, more for the fun!

• Address: 1105 Walnut St, Cary
• Website: DaveAndBusters.com 

42. Go Bowling at Buffaloe Lanes Bowling

Buffaloe Lanes Bowling is a family-friendly bowling alley with no-alcohol, 32 bumper lanes, party and game rooms, and bumpers that come up and down automatically for each bowler if needed.

• Address: Raleigh , Cary and Garner .
• Website: BuffaloeLanes.com  

43. Bowling At Kings Dining & Entertainment, North Hills

Kings is an upscale bowling lounge and our favorite place to go bowling in Raleigh. If you do have to wait for a lane, there’s also a gaming area with pool (billiards), ping pong tables, foosball, and dart boards. 

There’s a decent selection of food with burgers, wings, fries, sandwiches, pizza, and tacos. Check out these other things to do with kids in North Hills.

• Address:  141 Park at N Hills St, Raleigh
• Website:  Kings-de.com

44. Attend the NC State Fair

The most iconic of thing to do for families in Raleigh is attend the NC State Fair, which takes place every year in October.

Here you can indulge in rides, music, animals, and all the greasy fair food you can imagine.

Raleigh locals flock to the annual North Carolina State Fair every year as it’s always a laugh and full of enjoyment. Read our guide to the NC State Fair .

• Address: 4285 Trinity Rd, Raleigh
• Website: NCstatefair.org

45. Visit GalaxyCon Raleigh

Another festival in Raleigh that’s fun for kids is the three-day Galaxy Con, which for fans of pop culture, superheroes, science fiction, anime and more will love!

It’s held annually at the Raleigh Convention Center in July.

• Address: 500 S Salisbury St, Raleigh
• Website: GalaxyCon.com

46. Get Creative at Artsplosure

Raleigh’s original and longest running arts festival, Artsplosure, is held each year.

This two-day family event features 175 juried visual artists from across the US showcasing works in ceramics, glass, fiber art, jewelry, metal, painting, photography, wood and more. 

There are many workshops and classes for children throughout the event.

47. Check Out Spring Daze and Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival

The Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival in Cary puts local artists and craftsmakers in the spotlight.

There are more than 300 artists from 16 states attending the festival, plus there’s multiple stages of live music, a beer garden and plenty of food trucks. IT’s one of our favorite festivals for it’s beautiful lakeside venue immersed in the forest at Bond Park.

48. Watch the Krispy Kreme Challenge

Another fun annual event in Raleigh is the Krispy Kreme Challenge, which was started by NC State University students and now happens every year.

This is a 4-mile fun run, from NC State campus to Krispy Kreme, where you can consume 12 doughnuts, and then run back.

While it may not be a run that younger kids could do, it’s fun to watch! Our girls did it with us when they were 9 and 13 – and we walked for most of the way. They LOVED the donut break! Plus, proceeds go to the UNC Children’s Hospital. 

49. Attend Falling For Local

Autumn lovers and families will love the Falling For Local festival at Dorothea Dix Park every October.

Featuring live music, local makers and vendors, craft beer, food trucks, games for kids, hay rides, free pumpkins and more!

50. Check Out World of Bluegrass

A festival we love to visit every year with our kids is the IBMA World of Bluegrass , the largest FREE urban bluegrass festival in the world.

This two-day event in downtown Raleigh includes five blocks and six stages of music, plus food trucks. Read our full guide to the World of Bluegrass Festival here.

2024 is your last chance to visit with the kids, as Raleigh will no longer be hostig it. Stay tuned though as another music festival is rumored to be taking its place.

51. Watch the Raleigh Christmas Parade

The Raleigh Christmas Parade is the largest such parade between Atlanta and Washington, D.C., and marches through downtown Raleigh and features marching bands, dancers, classic cars, superheroes and Santa Claus. 

If you’re looking for things to do around Christmas time, don’t miss this! Kids absolutely love it and come from near and far!

52. Attend a Carolina Hurricanes Ice Hockey Game

Raleigh is home to the Carolina Hurricanes ice hockey team who play in the PNC Arena Going to a live game is awesome and one of our favorite things to do in Raleigh for sports fans. Go Canes!

• Address: 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh
• Website: NHL.com/hurricanes

53. Cheer on the NC State University Wolfpack

Raleigh is home to NC State University, and going to a game in any sport is always fun.

The Wolfpack compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the atmosphere is always electric! I highly recommend you go and watch a game at least once in your life.

Read our guide to Carter Finley Stadium .

• Website: GoPack.com

54. See the World Famous Durham Bulls Baseball

For baseball fans, the legendary Durham Bulls Minor League Baseball team of the Triple-A East and the Triple-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays play just 30-minutes up the road in Durham.

It’s a top family night out. Don’t miss their fireworks! Check this REEL of all the fun

We also like going on July 4th , for a fun family friendly celebration.

The Carolina Mudcats is also more of a local team that play out at Five County Stadium in Zebulon. It’s smaller than the Durham Bulls, but just as family friendly and fun. See schedule here .

• Address: 409 Blackwell St, Durham
• Website: milb.com/durham

55. Watch the National Women’s Soccer League team play

Women’s soccer is a BIG deal in North Carolina, and the North Carolina Courage is a professional women’s soccer team who are also based at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, and they compete in the NWSL.

It’s another must-see sporting event to go to with your kids, especially if you have daughters, as watching women play professional sports is always inspiring! You can also watch the North Carolina FC team play here (the men’s professional team!)

• Address: Soccer Park Dr, Cary
• Website: NCCourage.com

56. Test Your Swing at Drive Shack

Ok Raleigh, we think this is one of the most fun activities in Raleigh with kids, even if none of you play golf.

For us it’s more about having a hit and a laugh. Drive Shack is a three-story interactive golf driving range that combines physical targets to aim for with augmented reality and virtual games.

Read our full review of Drive Shack Raleigh. 

• Address: 6901 Play Golf Wy, Raleigh
• Website: DriveShack.com

57. Check Out State Farmers Market

Considered one of the nation’s best, the Raleigh Farmers Market boasts 75 acres of indoor and outdoor vendor space where you can sample and shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and gift products from farmers across the state. 

• Address: 1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh
• Website: www.ncagr.gov

This flea market at the State Fairgrounds offers one of the most unique and entertaining shopping experiences.

Each weekend, over 600 indoor and outdoor vendors showcase an incredible range of items, from high-end antiques to power tools and everything in between. Read our guide to 11 farmers’ markets in Raleigh.

• Website: TheRaleighMarket.com

Map Of Things To Do In Raleigh

Raleigh with Kids Podcast Episode

Need more inspiration for things to do in Raleigh with kids? Here’s our podcast episode where we talk about some of the best things we like to do with our two kids!

For those who may prefer watching a video of us podcasting, we filmed that for you too, which you’ll find on  YouTube each week .

Now it’s your turn , what would you add to this list? Leave us a comment below with any of your own suggestions on what to do in Raleigh with kids! 

About The Author

Craig Makepeace

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Historic Sites in Raleigh, N.C.

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No matter if your interests lie in visiting historic neighborhoods, preserved antebellum plantations or buildings that have an unexpected story to tell, take a day to explore some of the Raleigh, N.C., area historic sites listed here.

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