10 Best Things to Do in Raleigh

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the state’s most visited museum, for good reason. You can spend hours exploring the impressive collection of permanent exhibits and fascinating hands-on activities spread across 4 floors. Learn about North Carolina’s diverse natural habitats and history at the Nature Exploration Center. You can even touch the bones of a right whale!

Alternately, head to the Prehistoric section to view Acro, the only real skeleton of an Acrocanthosaurus on display worldwide. If you have kids in tow, head straight for the Living Conservatory, which features live animals, including snakes, spiders, turtles, butterflies, and even a 2-toed sloth. Entrance to the museum is free.

Pack a picnic and head to Pullen Park for a fun-filled day. Enjoy the historic carousel, pedal boats out on the lake, iconic miniature train rides, and more. The park also has a cafe, tennis courts, and an aquatic center. Admission to the park is free, but there are fees for some activities.

You can also catch a show at the Theater in the Park, a small performance center located at the northern end of Pullen Park near NC State University’s campus. The black box theater hosts comedy, original musicals, and contemporary dramas. Pullen Park is located a 5-minute drive from downtown Raleigh, but you can also get there on bus no. 300.

The JC Raulston Arboretum, located on North Carolina State University grounds, is a must-see for anyone who loves plants and a relaxing ambiance. The arboretum and botanical garden is home to one of the world's most diverse collections of plants, with over 6,000 species of trees and shrubs from over 50 countries.

You can wander winding paths and discover hidden corners filled with colorful flowers and lush vegetation – stopping at one of the many benches to soak up the scenery. Guided tours (booked in advance) and weekly lectures and workshops are also available. Entrance to the garden is free.

When you visit The North Carolina Museum of Art, prepare to explore over 5,000 years of art from around the world. In the West Building, you can admire ancient Egyptian artifacts, Renaissance-era paintings, and American artworks ranging from the Colonial era to modern-day pieces. The East Building hosts temporary exhibitions, often featuring a fascinating mix of media and contemporary art.

Not only does the museum contain art, but its restaurant, Iris, is also a work of art. Walls adorned with sculptures and floor-to-ceiling windows create an atmosphere like no other. The museum grounds are also worth exploring. You can easily spend an afternoon admiring the beautiful sculptures, permanent art installations, and lush gardens. Entrance to the museum and the surrounding park is free.

A visit to the North Carolina State Capitol Building provides a fascinating insight into North Carolina's history. The historic building dates back to 1840 and is one of the finest examples of Greek Revival-style architecture in the United States. Once home to the State Government, this iconic landmark now only hosts the Governor's office.

You can explore all three floors on a self-guided tour. Take the time to explore the grand facade and the grounds surrounding the building, too. You'll find several monuments, memorials, and a beautiful garden with magnificent oak trees. Admission to the Capitol Building is free.

The State Farmers Market is a must-visit if you want to experience the local food culture of Raleigh. The sprawling indoor market offers a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, meat, cheese, bakery items, nuts, honey, and even fresh apple cider. You can also find specialty shops selling handmade gifts, such as soaps, lotions, and old-fashioned candies.

If hunger sets in after all that shopping, grab a seat at one of the three restaurants preparing delicious meals, including seafood and southern comfort food. The market is located a 10-minute drive from downtown Raleigh. You can also get there on bus no. 21 from Moore Square.

William B. Umstead State Park is a great destination if you're looking for a peaceful escape in Raleigh. It's home to 13 miles of wooded trails and 3 picturesque lakes. Entrance to this 5,579-acre park is free, and you can enjoy many activities here, from hiking and mountain biking trails to trail running, birdwatching, and fishing.

For a different perspective, rent a canoe from the park marina (seasonal) and take to the waters. And if you're an avid birder, you're sure to spot some of the park's 145+ species of birds. The park is a 20-minute drive from downtown Raleigh, making it easy to get there by automobile.

Historic Oakwood is a beautiful tree-lined residential neighbourhood full of history. This 19th-century community was once home to the city's elite, and today it still retains much of its original charm. The streets are lined with cute bungalows and Victorian mansions, many of which have been restored to their former glory.

Visit the Capital Neighborhood Visitor Center and pick up a walking tour brochure. While you explore the neighbourhood, you can discover the fascinating history behind each home and which prominent residents once lived there. Be sure also to visit the magnificent Oakwood Cemetery. Afterward, grab a bite to eat at one of the friendly neighbourhood restaurants. SmokeStacks Cafe and Oakwood Pizza Box are local favorites.

The PNC Arena is a must-visit for sports fans as it's home to the Carolina Hurricanes (ice hockey) and the North Carolina State Wolfpack (basketball) teams. The 19,500-seat venue also hosts major concerts, comedians, and family shows. Previous performances include Kevin Hart, Shawn Mendes, and Guns N' Roses. Visit the arena's website to buy your sports and concert tickets.

While the arena is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Raleigh, public transportation or a rideshare service is the best way to arrive. Note that the stadium (including parking, food, and beverages) is cashless – you can only pay using a credit and debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

The Warehouse District is a vibrant neighbourhood in the heart of Raleigh, a 10-minute stroll west of downtown. Once an industrial area, the district's former red-brick buildings now house an eclectic mix of cafes, breweries, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.

Pop into Flourish Market to pick up some unique gifts or Father & Son Antiques for mid-century items and vintage clothing. Meanwhile, art lovers can view the works at the 311 Gallery or Contemporary Art Museum (CAM). When you need a break, you can grab a bite to eat at some of the area's top eateries – The Pit, Poole's, and Clouds Brewing Raleigh are all popular spots.