Need a city getaway with Southern charm, museums, and green spaces? Head to Raleigh! North Carolina’s capital blends vibrant arts and culture, historic sites, and a booming culinary and brewery scene. Whether you're exploring museums or biking the greenways, Raleigh offers a welcoming mix of city energy and natural beauty.

Raleigh, NC Highlights:

  • Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art: Renowned for its outdoor park, sculpture trails, and global art collections.
  • Wander through Pullen Park: Ride vintage amusement rides, paddle boats, and enjoy playgrounds in one of the oldest parks in the U.S.
  • Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Family-friendly and interactive, this is one of the Southeast’s top science museums.
  • Catch a show at Red Hat Amphitheater or Duke Energy Center: Enjoy concerts, symphonies, and Broadway shows downtown.
  • Stroll Historic Oakwood: Walk tree-lined streets and admire beautifully preserved Victorian homes and gardens.

Best Time to Visit Raleigh, NC

The best time to visit Raleigh is in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for mild temperatures, blooming azaleas, and outdoor festivals. Summers can be warm and lively, while winters are generally mild and uncrowded.

How to Get to Raleigh, NC

  • If you are traveling by car: Located at the intersection of I-40 and I-440, Raleigh is easily accessible from major Southeast cities.
  • By Plane: Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is just 20–25 minutes from downtown and serves major U.S. cities.
  • By Train: Amtrak provides rail service through Raleigh Union Station, connecting to Charlotte, New York, and beyond.

Where to Stay in Raleigh, NC

  • The Umstead Hotel and Spa – Luxury resort in nearby Cary with serene gardens, a spa, and fine dining.
  • Guest House Raleigh – Stylish boutique inn in a restored 1880s home, steps from downtown highlights.
  • AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown – Trendy hotel with a rooftop bar and easy access to Glenwood South nightlife.

Best Things to Do in Raleigh, NC

Wander Masterpieces Indoors and Outdoors at the North Carolina Museum of Art

Wander Masterpieces Indoors and Outdoors at the North Carolina Museum of Art

© North Carolina Museum of Art

The North Carolina Museum of Art started out with 74 paintings donated by local businessman Robert F. Phifer and is one of the best things to do in Raleigh.

Today, the museum has an impressive permanent collection that includes major European Renaissance paintings, Egyptian funerary art, sculpture and vases from ancient Greece and Rome, American art and international modern art, pre-Columbian and Oceanic art, and so much more.

More than a dozen oversized art pieces are located in the museum’s park. The establishment also hosts numerous temporary exhibits, lectures, classes, performances and concerts. The museum aims at inspiring teen’s creativity through online courses in Art of Game Design, Art of Fashion, and several other programs through the North Carolina Virtual Public School.

2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-839-6262

Dive Into Dinosaurs, Space, and Science Wonders at the Museum of Natural Sciences

Dive Into Dinosaurs, Space, and Science Wonders at the Museum of Natural Sciences

© North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

There is no better place to get up close and personal with nature’s secrets than among whale skeletons, dinosaurs, a two-story waterfall, or live animals. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest natural history museum in the Southeast and one of the top Raleigh, North Carolina attractions. The museum showcases a range of permanent collections and regularly changed special exhibits, live shows, and nature films for all ages. The museum’s goal is to offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about nature and science and their place in it.

More than a million people visit the museum’s huge campus every year. The museum’s various rooms can be rented for an unforgettable birthday party any kid would love.

11 West Jones St., Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-707-9800

If Revolutionary Stories and Southern Heritage Inspire You, Explore the Museum of History

If Revolutionary Stories and Southern Heritage Inspire You, Explore the Museum of History

© North Carolina Museum of History

Opened in 1902, the North Carolina Museum of History features an artifact collection that consists of more than 150,000 items.

The Museum has a large 55,000 square foot gallery that houses permanent and temporary exhibits, a research library, a number of classrooms, and a large, well-equipped 315-seat auditorium. One of the main permanent exhibits is The Story of North Carolina, the largest exhibit ever produced and displayed by this Museum.

Using items of everyday life, the exhibit traces the everyday lives of North Carolina inhabitants, covering more than 14,000 years of history. This multimedia exhibit includes not only fascinating artifacts, but it also displays dioramas, several presentations, and interactive activities. If you are looking for things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina with kids, this is a great place to learn about history.

The Museum also shares its treasures through a number of traveling exhibits. Online exhibition is a part of the distant education program.

5 East Edenton Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-807-7900

Savor Raleigh’s Best Bites and Local Flavors With Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours

Savor Raleigh’s Best Bites and Local Flavors With Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours

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Don't miss the opportunity to experience Raleigh’s culinary delights in a truly unique way. Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours' knowledgeable local guides take you on a walking tour of some of the best downtown restaurants and food shops.

The chefs will tempt you with their signature dishes and favorite drinks, all the while sharing a bit of the town’s history and architecture with you. You better bring your appetite.

Public afternoon and evening tours are available on weekends, and private and corporate tours can be organized any time (Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours Facebook, 919-237-2254).

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Step Back Into Colonial Life at the Joel Lane Museum House

Step Back Into Colonial Life at the Joel Lane Museum House

© Joel Lane Museum House

The locals call the Joel Lane Museum House “the birthplace of Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina.” Plantation owner Joel Lane built his house in 1769 in, for that time, a rural area of North Carolina.

During his time, Joel Lane’s plantation manor was considered “The Best House for 100 Miles.” It has been faithfully restored and is now an important historic site that takes visitors back to very different times. The House is owned by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of North Carolina.

It hosts frequent events such as lectures, videos, and guided tours, and it can be rented for special occasions. Imagine having a birthday bash in the elegant Museum House gardens!

Address: Joel Lane Museum House, Visitors Center at 160 South Saint Mary’s Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-833-3431

Indulge in Bold Flavors and Ever-Changing Menus at Stanbury

Indulge in Bold Flavors and Ever-Changing Menus at Stanbury

© Stanbury

Stanbury is a hip, modern neighborhood restaurant located in a charming old building in the Mordecai neighborhood not far from downtown. The décor and ambience are sure to make you feel welcome; upon entering you’ll see wooden tables, a large bar, and a bustling open kitchen where all the magic happens.

The main restaurant room is often packed with happy customers: word about Stanbury’s outstanding food has gotten out. The menu changes daily and features dishes made with fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients.

You’ll notice that the chefs have taken an adventurous approach to American classics. Stanbury is famous for its imaginative cocktails, but the bar is also well stocked with a good selection of wines and beer. The restaurant also has an outdoor patio for al fresco dining.

938 N Blount St, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-977-4321

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Smell, Taste, and Explore Sweet Creations at Videri Chocolate Factory

Smell, Taste, and Explore Sweet Creations at Videri Chocolate Factory

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At Videri Chocolate Factory, you can get some of the best chocolate in North Carolina. The factory operates from the historic Raleigh Depot building, which still has most of its industrial charm – you can see the exposed brick and ductwork.

You will also be able to watch the entire chocolate making process. Stop by the shop where you can stock up on chocolate for later or you can relax on their lovely outdoor patio. If you are looking for things to do in Raleigh to satisfy your sweet tooth, this is a great place to visit.

The factory is the brainchild of three true chocolate lovers – Sam and Starr Ratto and Chris Heavener. They are committed to fair trade and purchase their cocoa beans and sugar from farms in Central and South America.

The resulting chocolate is organic, pure, and free of any additives or chemicals. Try Blueberry and Dark Chocolate or the Strawberry Anise Ganache. After a trip to Videri, you will never see chocolate in the same way.

327 W. Davie Street, Sweet 100, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-755-5053

Wander Through Lush Gardens and Rare Blooms at JC Raulston Arboretum

Wander Through Lush Gardens and Rare Blooms at JC Raulston Arboretum

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Strolling through the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University is a delight for all your senses. Whether you are enjoying the shade in the Asian Valley or breathing in the sweet of aroma of annual and perennial blooms in the Color Trails garden, you will wish to have more time to explore.

JC Raulston Arboretum features one of the most diverse and largest collections of plants adapted for landscaping in the Southeast. The Garden has also been recognized as one of the best teaching gardens in the Southeast.

In fact, many of the gardens are designed and maintained by students and volunteers. Garden also hosts symposia, lectures, family events, summer camps, and other events for the entire family.

4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, Phone: 919-515-3132

Enjoy Mediterranean Delights and Fresh-Baked Pita at Sassool

Enjoy Mediterranean Delights and Fresh-Baked Pita at Sassool

© Sassool

Sassool is an authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese cafeteria-like eatery and market where you can pick up a quick piece of pita on the go, or you can relax and really enjoy the rich flavors at one of their outdoor tables.

An attached Mediterranean grocery sells authentic spices, dried fruits, seeds, and nuts. And, of course, they have fresh pitas, breads, and desserts like baklava that will have you coming back for more. If you are looking for romantic date night ideas in Raleigh, this is a great place to visit. If you aren’t familiar with Lebanese cuisine, try a sampler platter.

You’ll get a taste of hot grilled kabobs with labneh and kalamata olives in a hot whole-wheat pita, everything bursting with flavor. Sassool serves many vegetable dishes, and is heavenly for vegetarians.

9650 Strickland Rd, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-847-2700

If Fresh Produce and Local Treasures Excite You, Stroll Through the Raleigh Farmers Market

If Fresh Produce and Local Treasures Excite You, Stroll Through the Raleigh Farmers Market

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Raleigh Farmers Market is not to be missed. You will find everything here: fresh seasonal produce from all over the country, cheeses, meats, baked goodies, crafts, picture frames, candies, soaps, lotions, and, of course, N.C. wines.

There are 75 beautiful acres to explore, and about 225,000 square feet are covered and climate controlled.

There are also several restaurants where you can eat, rest, and replenish energy.

You won’t want to miss some of the special events organized at the Farmers Market, including Watermelon Day on July 30, Weekend Gardener Show in August, Sweet Potato Day in September, and so many others. Check their calendar, because something new is happening all the time.

1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-733-7417

More Places to Eat in Raleigh, NC

  • Beasley’s Chicken + Honey – Southern comfort food done right, from James Beard–nominated chef Ashley Christensen.
  • Brewery Bhavana – A unique combo of dim sum, craft beer, bookstore, and floral shop in one elegant space.
  • The Pit Authentic BBQ – Eastern North Carolina barbecue served with traditional sides and local brews.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Hopscotch Music Festival (September) – A genre-spanning music festival with local and national acts across downtown venues.
  • North Carolina State Fair (October) – One of the largest fairs in the country with rides, food, and live shows.
  • Artsplosure (May) – Raleigh’s official art festival featuring artists, installations, and performances downtown.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Raleigh, North Carolina:

  • Durham (25–30 min) – Tour Duke University, eat at award-winning restaurants, and explore the American Tobacco Campus.
  • Chapel Hill (30 min) – Visit the University of North Carolina and stroll through Franklin Street’s shops and cafés.
  • William B. Umstead State Park (20 min) – Enjoy hiking, biking, or fishing in this peaceful urban escape.
  • North Carolina Museum of Art Park (10–15 min) – Outdoor trails filled with large-scale sculptures and installations.
  • Historic Yates Mill County Park (15–20 min) – Step back in time at this restored 18th-century gristmill with scenic trails and a pond.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Q: What can visitors do in Raleigh?
  • A: Visitors can explore the city's parks, visit diverse museums, dine at great restaurants, and go on unique family adventures during their weekend trip to Raleigh.
  • Q: What attractions are there for art lovers in Raleigh?
  • A: Art lovers can spend a morning at the North Carolina Museum of Art, which houses works of art from around the world.
  • Q: What other activities can visitors enjoy in Raleigh?
  • A: Other fun things to do in Raleigh include food tours, pottery classes, and chocolate factory tours.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and beautiful blooms. The Umstead Hotel and Spa – A luxurious retreat surrounded by nature. Visit the JC Raulston Arboretum – Enjoy vibrant spring flowers and scenic walking trails.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, perfect for outdoor activities. AC Hotel Raleigh North Hills – A modern stay in the heart of a shopping and dining district. Explore Pullen Park – Ride the carousel, paddleboat on the lake, and enjoy family-friendly fun.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage. The Longleaf Hotel – A stylish and cozy boutique hotel downtown. Attend the North Carolina State Fair – Experience thrilling rides, delicious food, and live music.
Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures with festive holiday events. Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel – A comfortable and centrally located winter retreat. Visit Downtown Raleigh’s Holiday Express – Enjoy holiday lights, train rides, and seasonal treats.

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