Raleigh is not only the capital of North Carolina, it is also filled with numerous activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you are in Raleigh on business or to explore the various museums and other attractions, you will find a range of hotels to choose from. All of the major hotel chains have branches in Raleigh, letting you stay in familiar accommodations that are budget-friendly, luxurious, or something in between.
1. Hyatt House Raleigh North Hills
Sitting in the vibrant neighborhood of North Hills, the Hyatt House Raleigh North Hills is conveniently located by shopping, entertainment, and dining. There are 137 rooms to choose from, including suites with separate living rooms complete with sleeper sofas plus full-sized kitchens with microwaves, stove tops, and fridges. Residences have one or two bedrooms with a king bed each and one or two bathrooms. Studio guest rooms have minifridges, microwaves, and work spaces plus king beds and Cozy Corner sleeper sofas. Guests are welcome to use the fitness center to get in a workout while on vacation or can use the facilities of the business center. There is a seasonal outdoor pool plus a fire pit, and the property features free wireless internet, a 24-hour guest market, and a pool table. Since the property is geared towards longer stays, there is also a coin-operated laundry on-site plus a borrows program with essentials. Even with your own kitchen in your room, guests are treated to a free breakfast each day with chef-inspired omelets, Greek yogurt parfaits, all-natural sausage and bacon, steel-cut oatmeal, and other items. Dinner or drinks are available at the onsite H BAR.
160 Park at North Hills Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, Phone: 919-363-0771
2. Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Crabtree Valley
This is the newest of the Hilton brand hotels within the area and is close to downtown, the highway, and the airport, so guests have easy access to everything. The spacious guest rooms have Mirra Chairs by Herman Miller, minifridges, microwaves, ergonomic work desks, 47-inch flat-screen TVs with more than3 3 HD channels, and complimentary wireless internet. Rooms have two queen beds or one king bed along with Keurig coffee and tea makers, irons, alarm clocks, lighted vanities in the private bathrooms, and desk-level electrical outlets. Upgrade to a suite for panoramic views, wet bars, living rooms with a fireplace, an eight-seat dining table, and a powder room plus spa tub. Guests are welcome to use the fitness center 24 hours a day or swim at the indoor freshwater pool. You can also borrow a Stay Fit Kit to exercise in the privacy of your guest room. The business center is open 24 hours a day and offers remote printing. Other hotel amenities include a coin laundry, complimentary beverage area, ATM, lounge, luggage holding, and safety deposit box. Get a meal or drink at the Garden Grille & Bar and enjoy American dishes for breakfast or dinner. If you run out of anything, the Pavilion Pantry is also open 24/7.
3912 Arrow Drive, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-703-2525
3. Hyatt Place Raleigh West
Hyatt Place Raleigh West spans six stories and has 132 rooms plus an LEED certification. The hotel is pet-friendly for a reasonable fee and there is wireless internet throughout the property. All rooms have granite countertops in the bathrooms, complimentary toiletries, Hyatt Grand Beds, state-of-the-art work and media centers, Cozy Corner sofas or sleeper sofas, and 42-inch HDTVs. Other in-room amenities include hair dryers, dry bars, cordless speakerphones and voicemail, minifridges, AM/FM/MP3 clock radios, and single serve tea/coffee makers. If you forget something, you can buy or borrow it from Odds & Ends. There is a two-story gallery area with relaxing music, pleasing décor, and aromatic scents. Get in a workout at the 24-hour Stay Fit fitness center, which is complimentary for guest use, or swim in the pool. The day begins with free breakfast that includes cage-free eggs, Greek yogurt, all-natural bacon, and more. When you need a prepared salad or sandwich or hot baked item, visit the “Grab in Go” counter, where you will also find Starbucks prepared to order. You can also buy distilled beverages, beer, and wine at the Bakery Café, or grab something from the 24/7 Gallery Market.
710 Corporate Center Drive, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-233-2205
4. Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown
With a convenient location downtown, Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown is in the Glenwood South District with its nightlife and restaurants. Each of the 126 rooms has an ergonomic chair and work desk, a 32-inch HDTV, and free wireless internet. Other standard amenities include coffeemakers, irons and ironing boards, free movie channels, free local calls, and free weekday copies of USA Today. Opt for a studio suite to also get a sleeper sofa, refrigerator, and microwave in addition to a more spacious work area. Go for a swim in the hotel’s indoor heated pool or get your workout in at the fitness center. The property also has a gift shop, convenience store, safety deposit box, snack shop, and baggage storage. Every morning, guests are treated to a free hot breakfast. On weekdays, you can opt for a Hampton On the Run Breakfast Bag instead if you are in a hurry. Hot coffee and tea are always available in the lobby.
600 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-825-4770
5. Raleigh Marriott City Center
The Raleigh Marriott City Center is downtown and connected with the Raleigh Convention Center for easier access. The rooms feature high-speed wireless internet plus flat-panel TVs complete with premium channels. The plush beds are filled with fluffy pillows and cotton-rich linens. Standard amenities include your choice of one king bed or two double beds, a hair dryer in the marble bathrooms, an oversized chair, an alarm clock, a moveable desk with ergonomic chair and outlets, an iron with ironing board, and an outlet featuring dual voltage adapters. There is also a coffeemaker, a 37-inch plasma TV with premium movie channels, satellite, and cable, plus an iPod dock and radio. Executive rooms add a sofa bed. Swim in the indoor pool that has gorgeous scenic views or visit the fitness center, where you will find all the well-maintained equipment you need. Rooms on the concierge level get access to an exclusive lounge. Get a meal at the Rye Bar and Southern Kitchen, where you will find Southern dishes and an extensive drink menu. You can get your favorite coffee beverage at the on-site Starbucks. Room service is available, so you can enjoy a meal without leaving your accommodations.
500 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-833-1120
6. Aloft Raleigh
Aloft Raleigh is just across from the Bell Tower of North Carolina State University and close to Research Triangle Park and the airport. The property has fast and free wireless internet and is pet-friendly. There are multiple room types, all of which have your choice of two queen or one king bed, free bottled water, a coffeemaker, a minifridge, an ergonomic workstation, Bliss spa amenities, and a 49-inch TV. You can opt for a more spacious room or one with a separate living room. Work up a sweat at the Re:charge gym or go for a dip in the splash pool. When the weather is nice, sit on the outdoor terrace on the second floor. SPG Keyless means you can use the application to unlock your room. At the end of the day, get a cocktail, wine, or beer at the W XYZ bar or play pool at Re:mix lounge. The bar also features occasional live music. Find grab and go food choices at the Re:fuel by Aloft, which is open 24/7.
2100 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-828-9900
7. Courtyard Raleigh Midtown
The Courtyard Raleigh Midtown gives guests easy access to local attractions like the North Carolina Museum of Art and North Carolina State University. The rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi and ergonomic workstations to help you be productive. Rooms also have minifridges and microwaves so you can store and reheat leftovers. Choose from a room with two queen beds or one king, and enjoy other amenities like a sofa bed, hair dryer, shower/tub combination, alarm clock, iron with ironing board, coffeemaker, radio, and 37-inch LCD TV with cable/satellite channels, HBO, and premium movie channels. Some rooms also have private balcony access or separate living rooms plus floor-to-ceiling windows. Stay fit with the fitness center, where you will find free weights and cardio equipment, or go swim some laps in the outdoor pool. Start your morning with a Starbucks beverage and meal at the Bistro, the on-site restaurant serving American cuisine.
1041 Wake Towne Drive, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-821-3400
8. Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel
The Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel combines luxury with North Carolina hospitality for the perfect experience. All rooms have plush bedding, iPod docks, flat-screen HDTVs, irons, hair dryers, coffee/tea makers, high ceilings, Aveda shower amenities, pillowtop mattresses, desks, ergonomic chairs, available safes, and an extra 20-inch LCD TV in the vanity mirror of the bathroom. Larger rooms with sofa beds are available and some guest rooms also have whirlpools or balconies. Guests of the hotel have complimentary access to the adjacent Fitness Connection, with its state-of-the-art facilities. Or you can use the hotel’s indoor pool for some relaxation. The 41Hundred Restaurant is relatively new and perfect for getting a bite to eat from its eclectic menu. Visit the lounge for a house-aged whiskey or craft cocktail. There is also weekly live entertainment and ice cream.
4100 Main at North Hills Street, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 919-571-8773
9. Wingate by Wyndham State Arena Raleigh-Cary
The Wingate by Wyndham State Arena Raleigh/Cary is brand new and offers modern lodging in a convenient location. All rooms have fridges and microwaves to help you store and reheat any food you have on hand. You will also get ergonomic chairs at the large work desks, high-definition TVs, weekday newspaper deliver, blackout drapes/curtains, a coffee/tea maker, Neutrogena toiletries, free local calls on the cordless phone, an iron with ironing board, voicemail, individual air conditioning, hair dryers, a lounge chair with ottoman, and in-room safes that can hold a laptop. Choose from two queen beds or one king or opt for a room with a king bed and sleeper sofa. Relax at the end of the day in the whirlpool or just enjoy the indoor swimming pool. Consider visiting the on-site fitness facility with Precor equipment. The entire property has complimentary high-speed Internet. The business center features a computer station plus free printing and copying. All guests receive a complimentary breakfast in the morning.
6115 Corporate Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC, Phone: 866-455-2674
The 10 Best Romantic Getaways in Raleigh, NC near me today according to local experts are:
- 1. Hyatt House Raleigh North Hills
- 2. Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Crabtree Valley
- 3. Hyatt Place Raleigh West
- 4. Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown
- 5. Raleigh Marriott City Center
- 6. Aloft Raleigh
- 7. Courtyard Raleigh Midtown
- 8. Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel
- 9. Wingate by Wyndham State Arena Raleigh-Cary
More Ideas: North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh, NC
Dedicated to the history of North Carolina and its inhabitants, the North Carolina Museum of History brings the past to life. As the Museum likes to say, "History Happens Here," with figures such as adventurer Daniel Boone, First Lady Dolly Madison, basketball legend Michael Jordan and many more calling this state home.
Working to bring the past to new generations, the Museum presents ongoing and rotating exhibits, as well as a permanent collection of artifacts highlighting history of the area. The permanent collection houses more than 150,000 artifacts, spanning six centuries, which the Museum then features through the exhibits focusing on specific themes and topics.
The history of the Museum itself dates back to the late 1880s during a visit to Boston by Raleigh resident and publisher Samuel A'Court Ashe. Inspired by the well-preserved history of the northern city, Ashe set about to preserve the story of North Carolina. This inspiration spiraled into a movement, gathering support from Ashe's colleague, Frederick August Olds. Olds began collecting historical items and memorabilia of the state, but more than this, he began collecting stories, as well. By the turn of the century, he had amassed quite a collection, put on display for the public in what was then known as the State Museum.
The Historical Commission took over the collection in 1914, with the mission not only to preserve historical material, but also to teach history of the state. The Museum continued to expand and grow through the next several decades, moving to a purpose built structure in 1939. In 1965, the organization officially changed its name from the State Museum to the North Carolina Museum of History. The Museum would see two more moves until it finally found its current home on east Edenton Street in 1992, in a 55,000 square foot space, replete with shops, storage, auditorium, and conservation lab. With space to house more than a quarter million artifacts, this new space is the future home of more of the past.
The exhibits of North Carolina Museum of History cover a wide range of topics, tales and time periods. Such exhibits include History of the Harvest and North Carolina Sport Hall of Fame. Some focus in on a specific important event that may be outside the state, such as Selma to Montgomery: A March for the Right to Vote, a photographic telling of the 1964 March for African American voting rights which took place in Alabama. Other exhibits focus on the on North Carolina artists, highlighting their work and the times during which they created their art. The Museum has also displayed several exhibits focusing on the Civil War and North Carolina's role in it. Exhibitions can be rotated or may be part of a traveling series. Visitors are advised to check the Museum's website prior to visiting to see what's on during their visit.
The Museum's collections, with more than 150,000 objects, are the tools through which the organization interprets history and tells the story. These include items related to minority communities, the State's colonial history, the Civil War, and even the Wright Brothers' breakthrough contributions to manned flight. This vast collection and its preservation and expansion enable to the North Carolina Museum of History to fulfill its mission to collect and preserve artifacts and historical materials of the state.
Another key component to delivering this mission is education. Conservation Assistance Days, held periodically throughout the year, allow patrons to bring in items of interest for assessment by Museum Staff. Artifacts will be examined, and staff will advise the owners on proper care and conservation of the items. Actions such as this enable the Museum to extend its mission beyond its walls, ensuring proper maintenance of historical items owned by members of the community.
Other educational endeavors of the North Carolina Museum of History include resources for educators, including free museum tours, or fee based tours on specific topics and curriculum. For those looking for learning, but cannot make it to the Museum in person, online materials including videos and podcasts make it easy to engage in history right in the comforts of home. Lectures, symposiums, internship and volunteer opportunities also educate the public while providing myriad ways to get involved with the organization.
The Museum also offers special activities for kids in order to promote learning, keep children actively engaged, and create fun interactions with the exhibits and collections. The Tar Heel Junior Historian Association at the Museum works to attract students in the area to get them involved in meaningful historical projects, such as raising funds and awareness for the restoration of a historical carousel or a forgotten cemetery. This active and meaningful engagement helps to inspire a love for history and preservation in the next generation.
Conveniently located in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, the North Carolina Museum of History is easily accessible from major freeways. Parking structures are available within two blocks of the Museum. Events and exhibits change periodically, so it is advisable to review the website and calendar of events prior to arrival. Visitors can also access pre-visit materials online, recommended classroom tours, a gallery hunt, tips for analyzing artifacts, and much more. All of this, combined with exciting events and a state full of incredible history, make for an entertaining and educational time at the North Carolina Museum of History.
In addition to its ongoing and rotating cadre of exhibits, the North Carolina Museum of History also hosts a variety of events throughout the year to create engaging interactions for the community. These include such activities as book signings, films, fairs, and concerts featuring local musicians and folk artists. Annual festivals, such as the American Indian Heritage Celebration or the African American Cultural Celebration create engaging ways to interact with history and heritage.
5 East Edenton Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601, Phone: 919-807-7900
More Ideas: Joel Lane Museum House
The Joel Lane Museum House in Raleigh, North Carolina, also known as Wakefield is a historic restored home and museum that is dedicated to exploring and showcasing the history of Raleigh. Named after Joel Lane, who was otherwise known as the ‘Father of Raleigh’ and the ‘Father of Wake County,’ the Joel Lane Museum House is located in the heart of Raleigh and is the oldest home in Wake County.
Built in 1769, the beautifully restored historic house tells the story of Joel Lane and the vital role he played in the transition of North Carolina from a colony to a state and the subsequent establishment of Raleigh as the state capital. The plantation manor house stands on a hill overlooking Raleigh and features beautifully restored examples of 18th-century-period furnishings and historical artifacts, a formal city garden, and a beautifully maintained period herb garden.
After Lane’s death, the property changed ownership several times and in 1927 was purchased by the National Society of Colonial Dames of American to ensure its preservation. The organization continues to operate the award-winning heritage site and house today, which is a Raleigh Historic Landmark as a museum that is open for the public to explore and enjoy.
The Joel Lane Museum House features two beautifully maintained gardens, namely The Formal Garden and the Herb Garden. The Formal Garden can be found behind Joel Lane’s home, and features clipped hedges and brick parterres, as well as a four golden rain trees that create a lovely shaded area. The herb garden is situated next to the kitchen building for convenience and easy access to use when cooking and features an array of herbs and spices, gravel paths and wooden edging.
The mission of the Joel Lane Museum House is to educate the public about the life of Colonel Joel Lane and the role he played in the development of the area from a colony into a state. It also explores 18th-century life in Wake County and encourages visitors to take an interest in the rich history and heritage of the area and how much life has changed.
The Joel Lane Museum House offers several educational programs, workshops, and presentations for both teachers and students. Field Trips include visiting two homes that Joel Lane occupied and exploring how different life was in the 1700s. Tours range from 20 to 45 minutes depending on the children’s ages and involved hands-on activities and immersive presentations that offer a chance to touch and interact with reproduction artifacts. Standard field trip tour highlights include visits to two homes, the formal and herb gardens, the hardware and the grocery store, while specialized tours can be arranged for older students and cover topics such as the design, function and geographical location of the house.
On-Site Presentations are available for adult groups and feature costumed docents bringing the 18th century to life with hands-on history tours and reproduction artifacts to touch and explore, such as baskets and pottery, and clothing. Other topics discussed on these tours include Colonial Schooling: What and Where Did Children Learn? Life Without Electricity - how people cooked and lit their homes, and Gender Roles – the role of the male and female in 18th-century life.
The Joel Lane Museum House is located at the conjunction of West Hargett and St. Mary’s and Streets in Raleigh and is open Wednesday through Sunday. Free on-street parking is available in front of the Museum House on Hargett Street and in front of the Visitors Center on Saint Mary’s Street and the Joel Lane House, and Visitor Center are wheelchair accessible.
The Joel Lane Museum House and the Visitors Center can be rented for special events and functions, such as weddings, receptions, luncheons and cocktail parties with the beautiful gardens creating a perfect backdrop for any occasion. The Museum can offer extra value-added services such as catering, table, and chairs, personnel and tours at an additional cost, all of which needs to be arranged in advance.
Built about 1840, the Visitors Center was a later addition to the side of Joel Lane’s home and today houses a gift shop and administrative offices. The Visitors Center is located at 160 South St. Mary’s Street, Raleigh NC 27603 and this is where all the tours of the Museum begin and end.
160 South Saint Mary’s Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603, Phone: 919-833-3431
