Also known as the City of Oaks due to its oak trees, Raleigh is one of the best places to live in the Southeast.
Raleigh should be on your list if you plan to move to North Carolina. It’s located in the Research Triangle area, also known as The Triangle.
In Raleigh, many free museums are known to be of excellent quality. As a result, the city is often referred to as the “Smithsonian of the South.”
This article highlights the best and fun things to do in Raleigh, NC!
Where is Raleigh, North Carolina?
The capital of North Carolina and Wake County, Raleigh, is a city located in the Southeast.
It is also the 41st-most populous city in the United States. It is additionally the largest city in the Research Triangle area.
The City of Oaks is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is a municipality that covers over 140 square miles of land area.
According to the US Census Bureau, Raleigh’s population grew by more than 47,000 in 2020.
Raleigh is also part of the Research Triangle, which includes the cities of Durham and Chapel Hill, and is the home of North Carolina State University.
The name of the region refers to the area’s multiple universities.
The RTP, established in 1959, was designated as a hub for research and development in Wake and Durham counties.
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Fun Things to Do in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, North Carolina, is an exciting city with various adventures and fun activities.
Below are the best things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina, for adults, kids, couples, families, and for the weekend!
1. North Carolina State Capitol
In North Carolina, Raleigh is the seat of government. It’s also a great place to learn about politics. In addition, the state’s Capitol is a beautiful building.
One of the best ways to see Raleigh is by visiting the state’s Capitol. This building was first constructed in 1840.
It has been updated over the years, including adding a beautiful dome in 1970.
Although the building’s original design has been changed, it still features the Greek Revival style. This is a great place to learn about the government in North Carolina.
Address: The North Carolina State Capitol is located at1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA.
2. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
The NC Museum of Natural Sciences is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the world around them. This is the largest natural history museum in the Southeast.
One of the best things about Raleigh is its downtown area, which has a variety of attractions.
One of these is the North Carolina Natural Sciences Museum. This facility has a lot of natural science information.
Address: The NC Museum of Natural Sciences is located at 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA.
3. Marbles Kids Museum
One of the best things about Raleigh is the Marbles Kids Museum. This facility is designed to provide children with a fun and educational experience.
It’s about showing them they’re not too old or young to be curious about their surroundings.
One of the museum’s most popular features is its Around Town area, allowing kids to experience different activities.
Address: Marbles Kids Museum is at 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA.
4. Pullen Park
In Raleigh, North Carolina, the outdoors is often a great way to spend time with family and friends.
At Pullen Park, you can enjoy various attractions designed to provide an enjoyable experience.
Pullen Park dates back to the 19th century, one of the best places in Raleigh to visit.
With over 60 acres of land, this park has been designed with the love and care shown to both the residents and tourists of Raleigh.
You can enjoy various activities such as playing sports, watching a movie, or swimming.
Pullen Park has multiple facilities designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Address: The Pullen Park is at 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606.
5. North Carolina Museum of Art
One of the most popular activities in Raleigh is to visit the North Carolina Museum of Art, a cultural institute in the state.
This museum features various art pieces made by some of the best artists in the world.
If you’re planning on spending a weekend in Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Art should be on your must-visit list.
Not only does it have art from North America, but it also features pieces from other countries such as Egypt and Oceania.
Address: The North Carolina Museum of Art is at 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607.
6. North Carolina Museum of History
Many of the stories you’ll learn about North Carolina before it gets given the name “North Carolina” can be found in the museum.
In addition to art pieces, the museum has multiple exhibitions designed to educate visitors about different interesting topics.
In addition to art pieces, the museum has multiple exhibitions designed to educate visitors about different interesting topics.
Some of the fun exhibits that can be found here include the 1920s Drugstore and the workshop of inventor David Williams.
Address: The North Carolina Museum of History is at 5 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
7. Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
One of Raleigh’s most popular activities is visiting the local restaurants known for their impeccable cuisine.
During this tour, you’ll be able to explore some of the best places in the state.
These tours also allow you to explore the different aspects of Raleigh’s history.
So, aside from eating at local restaurants, you’ll additionally get to learn about the city’s history.
Address: The Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours is at 200 N Elm St, Greensboro, NC 27401, United States.
8. Joel Lane Museum House
The Joel Lane Museum House, operated by the Colonial Dames of America, has been in excellent condition. Its exterior features a vibrant yellow color scheme.
Before the museum was established, Raleigh was a much more traditional area.
The home that plantation owner Lane built in the late 18th century helped to create a new era of prosperity in the city.
When you visit the museum, you’ll be able to gain a deeper understanding of Raleigh’s history.
Address: The Joel Lane Museum House is at 728 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27603.
9. The Mordecai House
One of the most historic homes in Raleigh is the Mordecai House, which was constructed in 1785 and has been around for more than 20 years.
The Mordecai House, built by Joel Lane, has been recognized as a National Historic Site. It’s a great educational facility for Raleigh residents.
While it was once a plantation, it’s now a well-kept park and museum. The Mordecai House is also where Andrew Johnson was born.
Address: The Mordecai House is at 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
10. North Carolina Executive Mansion
In addition to historical homes, Raleigh also has a variety of other great tourist attractions. One of these is the North Carolina Executive Mansion.
If you’re a real estate lover, taking a tour of the Executive Mansion is a must-do in Raleigh.
This is the home of the governors of North Carolina, who have called it home since 1891.
The Executive Mansion has been called home by several state leaders.
In addition, its fine Victorian architecture and prominent position in Raleigh have made it a well-known historical site.
Address: The North Carolina Executive Mansion is at 200 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
11. Sassool
If you’re a lover of Mediterranean food and are planning on visiting Raleigh, then stop by the restaurant known as Sassool.
This is a must-visit for that craving for Shawarma and other types of food.
This is a Lebanese restaurant that serves a variety of food. Besides the usual favorites, such as labneh and mujadara, this establishment also offers vegan and omnivore options.
Address: Sassool is at 9650 Strickland Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615.
12. JC Raulston Arboretum
The beautiful gardens of North Carolina’s Raulston Arboretum are a must-visit for anyone who enjoys nature. This is a great way to spend some time in Raleigh.
The gardens at the Raulston Arboretum have a wide variety of trees. Some of these include the golden chain tree, the muku tree, and the seven son’s tree.
There are also various other plants that you can see here. Admission is free.
Address: The JC Raulston Arboretum is at 4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606.
13. Stanbury
One of the best restaurants in Raleigh is Stanbury, which offers a wide variety of food and a great dining experience.
This establishment also has a lot of love and support and is known for its unique and satisfying food.
One of this establishment’s unique features is its daily menu changes. This is also great because it allows customers to customize their food.
Address: Stanbury is at 938 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
14. Videri Chocolate Factory
The Raleigh Depot building, located in Raleigh, has been known for its delicious food.
This chocolate factory is one of the best places in the state to get a taste of chocolate.
Besides being delicious, the chocolate made by the Videri Chocolate Factory is also socially conscious.
As a result, they’re able to participate in fair trade practices. After the tour, you’ll want to try as much of their chocolate as possible.
Address: Videri Chocolate Factory is at 327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA.
15. City of Raleigh Museum
The City of Raleigh Museum is a great learning facility in Raleigh. This museum will allow you to explore all that Raleigh has to offer.
Some exhibits that the City of Raleigh Museum has featured include “Silent Killers: The 1918 Spanish Flu” and “America’s Wars: Individual Experience and Memory.”
Address: The City of Raleigh Museum is at 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA.
16. J.S. Dorton Arena
One of the best places to watch significant events in Raleigh is J.S. Dorton Arena, which has been hosting various occasions since 1952 and is one of the most well-designed arenas in the state.
The venue has hosted various events, such as concerts by prominent artists such as Johnny Cash and Led Zeppelin.
If you’re in the area and looking for something to do while in Raleigh, check out the Dorton Arena.
The Dorton Arena is an excellent venue where everyone can feel at home. Even if the event is significant or the performer is massive, the people inside the arena can still enjoy themselves.
Address: The J.S. Dorton Arena is at 1025 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607.
17. Raleigh Little Theater
The Raleigh Little Theater is a community theater that’s located in Raleigh. It’s able to host various community productions.
The people of Raleigh come together to produce these types of shows.
One of the best things to do at night in Raleigh is watch a performance at the Raleigh Little Theater.
To ensure that you’ll be able to catch a show while in Raleigh, take a look at the schedule. It will show you when there are upcoming events that you can watch.
Address: The Raleigh Little Theater is at 301 Pogue St, Raleigh, NC 27607.
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18. Yates Mill
The Yates Mill is one of the best places to visit in Raleigh, County Park. This facility has various attractions, such as a wildlife refuge. Touring this area is a great way to spend a day.
If you’re in the area and looking for something to do while in Raleigh, check out the Yates Mill.
This historic mill was built during the 18th century and has been a part of the local industry since it was restored. The admission fee is between 3 and 5 dollars.
Address: The Yates Mill is at 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA.
19. Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh
One of the best activities people can do while in Raleigh is visit the CAM Raleigh, known for its various exhibits.
One of the best things to do in downtown Raleigh is to visit CAM Raleigh. This facility is known for its various exhibits.
Many of the artists whose work has been featured at this museum include Jonathan Horowitz, Angel Otero, and Chris Bradley. There is so much to see inside this facility.
Address: The Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh is at 409 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA.
20. Raleigh Farmers Market
The Raleigh Farmers Market is a great place to meet other people and get to know the vendors.
This is a place where you’ll be able to interact with the people who are in it.
The Raleigh Farmers Market has everything you’re looking for if you’re in the area and looking for something fresh and beautiful. This is a place where local farmers sell their products.
Address: The Raleigh Farmers Market is at 1201 Agriculture St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA.
21. Tazza Kitchen
The restaurant in Agriculture St. in Raleigh is known for its great food and service.
It’s also able to provide you with a unique dining experience due to its ingredients.
The restaurant features various wood-fired food options to provide a satisfying and unique dining experience. It’s an excellent place to stop for lunch, dinner, or breakfast.
Address: Tazza Kitchen is located at 432 Woodburn Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605, USA.