raleigh tour guide

THE 10 BEST Raleigh Tours & Excursions

Raleigh tours.

• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Walking Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh

2. Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour

3. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks

4. Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

5. Rockin Raleigh Scavenger Hunt

6. Private transportation

7. Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour

8. Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab)

9. Raleigh Puzzling Adventure

10. Durham City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest

11. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by 3Quest Challenge

12. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Operation City Quest

13. Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Zombie Scavengers

14. Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer

15. Create Your Own Lipstick or Lip Gloss Class Experience in Raleigh

16. Celebrate with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh with Holly Jolly Hunt

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC

Durham Scavenger Hunt: Bricks, Bulls & Beauty

Durham Dash Scavenger Hunt

Polaris Slingshot Type R Rental in Morrisville

Participate in a Fun Scavenger Hunt in Cary by Zombie Scavengers

Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer

Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer

Holly Springs Hustle Scavenger Hunt

Stand Up Paddledboard Rental, Jordan Lake

Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham

Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks

Unique Scavenger Hunt in Durham by Zombie Scavengers

Axe Throwing Training

Chapel Hill Hustle Scavenger Hunt

Wacky Fayetteville Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Fayetteville by Zombie Scavengers

What travelers are saying.

• Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh
• Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour
• Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks
• Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh
• Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab)
• Trolley Pub
• Carolina Touring Company
• Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
• TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park
• Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
• Triangle Food Tours
• Tobacco Road Tours
• Raleigh Walking Tours

Top Tours in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh tours.

• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Walking Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh

2. Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour

3. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks

4. Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh

5. Rockin Raleigh Scavenger Hunt

6. Private transportation

7. Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour

8. Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab)

9. Raleigh Puzzling Adventure

10. Durham City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest

11. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by 3Quest Challenge

12. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Operation City Quest

13. Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Zombie Scavengers

14. Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer

15. Create Your Own Lipstick or Lip Gloss Class Experience in Raleigh

16. Celebrate with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh with Holly Jolly Hunt

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC

Durham Scavenger Hunt: Bricks, Bulls & Beauty

Durham Dash Scavenger Hunt

Participate in a Fun Scavenger Hunt in Cary by Zombie Scavengers

Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer

Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer

Holly Springs Hustle Scavenger Hunt

Stand Up Paddledboard Rental, Jordan Lake

Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham

Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks

Unique Scavenger Hunt in Durham by Zombie Scavengers

Axe Throwing Training

Chapel Hill Hustle Scavenger Hunt

Wacky Fayetteville Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Fayetteville by Zombie Scavengers

What travellers are saying.

• Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh
• Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour
• Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Raleigh by Wacky Walks
• Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh
• Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab)
• Trolley Pub
• Carolina Touring Company
• Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
• TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park
• Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
• Triangle Food Tours
• Tobacco Road Tours
• Raleigh Walking Tours

A Local’s Guide to the Best of Raleigh, North Carolina

• July 27, 2021

Over the past year, travel has largely been paused. While there’s been a lot of downside, the positive is that we’ve all been able to better explore and appreciate our hometowns. With that in mind, I’ve been reaching out to professional travelers and travel enthusiasts about the best of their hometowns.

Craig and Caroline Makepeace are the founders of ytravelblog.com, one of the world’s biggest family travel blogs. After 23 years of nomadic travel they finally decided to settle in Raleigh, North Carolina with their two daughters. They are continuing to show their followers how travel can evolve with your lifestyle by balancing shorter trips with a home life they love. During the pandemic, they created This is Raleigh, a site and community dedicated to sharing the vibrant Raleigh lifestyle they love so much (follow them on Instagram here ).

Here’s their guide to Raleigh, North Carolina.

You’re originally from Australia. Why did you move Raleigh? How long have you lived there? We originally moved in 2004 on a cultural exchange program with Participate Learning. They recruit teachers from around the world to expose US children to other cultures. We were randomly placed in a school near Raleigh.

We instantly fell in love with living in Raleigh and have made it our mission since then to permanently stay. We have lived on an off in Raleigh for almost 10 years and we now have a green card, thanks to our travel blog, and can live here permanently.

Three words to describe Raleigh. Friendly, vibrant, outdoorsy

What’s something that might surprise people about Raleigh? It’s very open-minded, diverse, and welcoming to all.

What are your favorite restaurants in town? Any that are so iconic to Raleigh that it shouldn’t be missed?

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing has the best views of Raleigh from their patio. The views are always paired perfectly with their innovative, seasonal dishes, stylish cocktails, and raveable craft brews.

There is no better place to enjoy a bowl of Moussaka with a chilled ancient Green Retsina wine than from the Grecian themed tree top balcony of Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar . We are obsessed.

Where would you go for a special occasion meal? The Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern as an exquisite fine dining experience in Raleigh not to be missed. One that goes beyond just food to rave about long after to offer a signature experience that incorporates beauty, history, Southern charm, gourmet meals, fine wines, and excellent service.

The restaurant is in the restored 1871 Dodd-Hinsdale House, a Second Empire Victorian home that once characterized every home that lined Hillsborough Street, the Western road to the Capitol.

What’s your favorite place to get fresh air? Lake Johnson is our favorite place in Raleigh for fresh air and serenity. There is a beautiful 3-mile forested loop walk around the 150-acre lake, with views that sometimes have you thinking you’ve stumbled onto a jungle in Costa Rica. It’s also a wonderful place to paddle, especially around sunset or just after sunrise.

We often don’t get to stay in hotels in our hometown, but let’s pretend: where would you stay in Raleigh? We don’t need to pretend – we have done a staycation in a Raleigh hotel. We love the StateView Hotel . We love this hotel as it’s hidden in a forest on Lake Raleigh on the NC State Centennial Campus and is only 8 minutes from Downtown Raleigh. We love how it offers the forest tranquility Raleigh offers with easy access to city experiences. The restaurant is also very good – don’t miss the beignets for dessert – they rival what you’d find down in New Orleans.

Where’s your favorite place to shop? The Flourish Market in the Warehouse District. It’s a unique women’s + gift boutique store owned by local entrepreneur, Emily Grey. All of their products have a higher purpose for supporting female owned businesses creating sustainable impact. You can shop 60+ cause-based brands and use your purchasing power for good – clothing, jewelry, bags, shoes, greeting cards and more.

  What’s the arts scene like? Anything you think is a must-see/do?

The arts scene in Raleigh is thriving. It’s home to several performing arts centers, including the North Carolina Symphony, Theater, and Opera, as well as the Carolina Ballet.

We have two free top-notch museums that have helped earn Raleigh the nickname “Smithsonian of the South.”  The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest museum of its kind in the Southeast and is the state’s top attraction. And the North Carolina Museum of history where you can learn about some of NC’s iconic figures like Daniel Boone, the Wright Brothers, and Michael Jordan.

A highlight of any visit to Raleigh will be the North Carolina Museum of Art with more than a dozen galleries and a 164-acre park filled with public art installations from international artists, temporary and permanent public art installations by international artists, environmentally sustainable landscapes, colorful and contemporary gardens, miles of recreational trails, and a terraced pond.

For a cool experience, we recommend biking the Art to Heart Trail. It’s 5.5 miles from the Museum to Downtown Raleigh.

Downtown is CAM, the Contemporary Art Museum which features rotating exhibitions of a range of art forms from mixed-media sculpture to solar-powered installations.

Every month, Downtown Raleigh hosts the First Friday Art Walks, showcasing the local creative community, with art, music, food, and retailers.

Not to be missed is Artspace, a former City Market warehouse that is now home to thirty studios for established and emerging artists, who welcome visitors into their workspaces.

Just walking around Raleigh will take you to many colorful murals and public artworks that show the creative Raleigh spirit. And in Raleigh, there is always a festival on celebrating the diverse vibrancy of life!

Let’s talk nightlife. What experience would be worth staying up past your bedtime? Younger partiers would head to Glenwood Ave and bar hop throughout the evening. Now I’m older, we tend to gravitate more to the Downtown city bars.

You will want to stay up past your bedtime for Watts & Ward . You may think you’re entering a tiny underground bar, but once you get past the dingy corridor you arrive at one classy room full of leather seating, vintage artwork, rustic tables, dim lighting and bookshelves full of history. That room leads to another, and then another, and then right down the end another secret room where, on some nights, you’ll find jazz music playing. Hello underground spirit of 1920s America.

To keep the Prohibition theme, head to the Green Light speakeasy just a few swinging kicks away. Look for the green light outside the Architect Bar. Go up the stairs and try to find your way in. I’m not going to spoil the hidden entrance surprise.

Best place for a selfie? The Sunflower Field in Dorothea Dix Park at sunset. You get the most beautiful views of the Raleigh skyline framed by the oak trees this “City of Oaks” is named after. Pack a picnic and make it a special event.

Best day trip? To the beach of course! We love how Raleigh is just over an hour to one of our favorite beaches in the USA: Wrightsville Beach .

As it’s the birthplace of surfing in North Carolina, you’ll find a laid-back, surfie culture here. Expect miles of pristine beach and Intracoastal waterways that offer endless water activities such as swimming, body boarding, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, boating, and surfing

What’s the most quintessential Raleigh experience?

For breakfast, you don’t want to miss Big Ed’s City Market . Founded in 1958, it is old school Raleigh charm and possibly the best Southern breakfast in Raleigh.

As Raleigh is a city focused on the outdoors and our beautiful forest feel, I’d say start by exploring Pullen Park. Located next to NC State University on 66 acres of land, this is the first public park in North Carolina, the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. and 16th oldest in the world. The Park features picnic areas, concessions stand along with several small rides including the Pullen Park Carousel, train, and kiddie boats.

From there you can wander through the historic neighborhood of Boylan heights and enjoy the historical homes and feel. From there you can capture a view of downtown from Boylan Bridge before wandering down into the more modern Warehouse District.

I think that will give you a unique perspective of how this city has evolved into this vibrant, modern city that still maintains its slow paced, historical charm. You can visit many of the places mentioned in this post along this path as well.

The other historical area you may wish to visit to gain this story of Raleigh is the Oakwood/Mordecai area. Connecting the two neighborhoods is the revitalized Person St. Once a place of derelict buildings now houses unique local boutique stores, breweries, bars, and upscale restaurants. On the corner of this street is the wonderful and unique Raleigh City Farm, a nonprofit urban farm connecting you to regenerative agriculture. Why not volunteer for their Wednesday Wine & Weeds evening?

And if you are visiting in Sept/Oct, you will want to experience the annual Wide Open World of Bluegrass .  The festival features the best performers and musicians in the national and international bluegrass scene each year. Streets are blocked off and you’ll find free music all over the city, as well as delicious food, a BBQ cook-off, an arts & crafts market and many other activities for all ages

We also have a Uniquely Raleigh checklist sharing the best experiences, food, restaurants, cafes, bars, and breweries that help tell the Raleigh story.

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This Post Has 8 Comments

I really liked living in Raleigh and have always missed it. Wrightsville Beach was our favorite getaway. It was so close and had the charm that only Southern beaches do.

Add…..NC STATE, a world class engineering university is part of the research triangle. Partners with Duke and NCU Chapel hill. BASKETBALL is the sport in this area and a tradition of excellence. Full disclosure, I am a graduate of NC STATE…..BSEE, MEE 1968. Now BSECE, MECE.

Raleigh is two hours (without traffic) from Wrightsville beach.

Thank you! This was so helpful!

THANK YOU for so much awesome information, Watts Bar looks so cool – excited for our visit 🙂

Love the info – visiting Raleigh this weekend.

This blog is awesome! Thank you for this, I totally agree Big Ed’s is totally a Raleigh essential experience

This is a great list! Totally agree about Wye Hill! Great view and vibes

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Raleigh travel guide

Raleigh tourism | raleigh guide, you're going to love raleigh.

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and home to a number of universities. Named after Sir Walter Raleigh, it has a handsome Downtown and a great food and music scene. The city is home to some excellent museums and galleries and the large student population helps to create an exciting nightlife.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Raleigh

Raleigh is home to some great museums, such as the City of Raleigh Museum and the North Carolina Museum of History.

2. Pullen Park

Pullen Park is an excellent nature park, complete with boat rental, hiking trails, fairground rides, and a lovely miniature railway.

3. Historic Sites

The city boasts many fascinating historic sites, such as Yates Mill County Park, Mordecai Historic Park, and Historic Oakwood.

4. Performing Arts

Raleigh has a number of good performing arts venues and organizations, such as Theatre in the Park and North Carolina Opera.

5. The Nightlife

The city has a great selection of bars and clubs, such as Noir and Goodnight's Comedy Club.

What to do in Raleigh

1. north carolina museum of natural sciences: great fun for kids.

Regularly ranked as one of America's best museums, the Museum of Natural Sciences is educational and entertaining in equal measure. You may have to dodge a few school parties here and there, but it's worth it. Installations telling the story of NC's natural world, with dinosaur skeletons, aquariums, cinemas and much, much more. In truth, there's so much here that a day might not be enough, but it's free to enter, so feel free to go back another day.

2. Pullen Park: More than Meets the Eye

Located just west of Downtown Raleigh, the 66 acres of Pullen Park offer a blend of family fun and tranquility. Kids will adore the carousel (made in 1900 by an Italian master craftsman) as well as the kiddie boats and model train, while grown-up kids tend to enjoy the pedalos on the park's lake. With an Olympic-sized pool, an air-conditioned theater center and ceramics and art workshops at the Pullen Art Center, it's much more than a park -- it's the hub of Raleigh's community.

3. North Carolina Museum of Art: A Cornucopia of Visual Delights

Tucked away in western Raleigh near the University, the NC Museum of Art first opened its doors in 1956. Since then, it has accumulated a fantastic collection which spans all of the world's continents and more than 5,000 years of history. Highlights include bronzes by Rodin and a fantastic collection of Dutch and Flemish masters, but there's something for all art lovers here. And the museum's amphitheater is also a wonderful summer concert venue, so make a day of it with a unique fusion of art and music.

4. North Carolina State Capitol: The Heart of the Tar Heel State

This is where everything gets done in Raleigh. The Capitol is an elegant building at the heart of the city which dates back to 1840. It might not host the legislature any more (that's moved opposite the Natural History Museum), but it's still where the Governor works. These days, the Capitol Tour provides a vivid peek into how the state's government functioned for over 100 years and also includes a meticulous reconstruction of how the State Library would have looked in 1856.

5. JC Raulston Arboretum: The Rose of Raleigh

As you'll know if you visit the Museum of Natural Sciences, North Carolina has some majestic plants, and the JC Raulston Arboretum is the place to see them. Raulston himself was a pioneering horticulturalist and the arboretum was opened in his memory after a fatal car crash in 1996. It's a fitting memorial, extending over 40,000 square meters. Overload your senses with fragrances in the Paradise Garden or the Klein-Pringle White Garden, settle down for a rest in the peaceful Japanese Garden or wander through the many zones, taking in a plethora of colors and smells.

Activities & attractions in Raleigh

Where to Eat in Raleigh

The Armadillo Grill on Glenwood Avenue is excellent for Mexican, while the Falls River Smokehouse on Litchford Road is a great place for BBQ. You'll pay around $12 for dinner in a budget restaurant and $30 in a more upscale establishment.

Most popular restaurants in Raleigh

When to visit raleigh.

Raleigh has a humid subtropical climate with cool winters and hot, humid summers. Spring is warm and dry and an ideal time to visit.

How to Get to Raleigh

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) has good domestic and some international connections. The 100 bus will take you downtown for $2.25. A taxi costs around $33.

Amtrak runs services to Raleigh from New York; Washington, D.C.; and Florida. Fares from New York are around $97.

The I-40 connects Raleigh from the west and I-85 and 95 give access from the East Coast. U.S. 1 runs through Raleigh on its way from New York to Florida.

Greyhound offers services to Raleigh. Fares from New York start at $54.

Airports near Raleigh

Airlines serving raleigh, where to stay in raleigh.

Best Western Raleigh North-Downtown has rooms from $56, while Sheraton Raleigh has a very central location and rooms from $139.

Popular Neighborhoods in Raleigh

Cameron Park - this is a historic area just to the west of downtown. It has a variety of Colonial Revival and Queen Anne architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Capitol Area Historic District - this is another historic area. In the heart of downtown, it has a number of examples of Classical Revival and Late Gothic Revival buildings.

Historic Oakwood - this area is full of splendid mansions and the Oakwood Cemetery. It is renowned for its gardens and Christmas Candlelight Tour.

Where to stay in popular areas of Raleigh

Most booked hotels in raleigh, how to get around raleigh, public transportation.

Capital Area Transit and the Triangle Transit Authority provide bus services in and around Raleigh. Fares are from $2.25.

Raleigh has plenty of reliable taxi firms. Fares are an initial $2.45 and then $2.50 per mile.

Raleigh has a simple grid road system, with the U.S. 401 being the main route through the city. Car rental is from $35.

Best car rental deals in Raleigh

Supplier choice

5 Adults, 5 Bags

The Cost of Living in Raleigh

Shopping streets.

Seaboard Station in downtown is the place for local independent stores, while the Crabtree Valley Mall on Glenwood Avenue is the largest mall in the region.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk in Raleigh is priced at $0.92 and a dozen eggs costs $2.77.

• Gift Certificates
• Purchase Tickets

The capital of North Carolina is home to some of the most dynamic restaurants in the country. Known for effortlessly blending modern architecture with historic buildings and monuments, Raleigh showcases fine dining and eclectic eateries. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’ll come away with a new appreciation of downtown Raleigh while enjoying innovative southern and global cuisine, all with an emphasis on local products. There’s something for everyone in Raleigh!

To register for a weekend walking tour: please click the Purchase Tickets! link at the top of the light blue bar to see the full lineup of tours or click the Book Now! buttons below for the particular tour listed. Private and custom tours can be arranged for any day or night of the week for groups.

The 2:30 Saturday Raleigh Downtown Dinner & Drinks Tours stay mostly close to historic Fayetteville Street and the Capitol area. These high-spirited tours include enough food to be considered dinner by most people, and they include a number of drink pairings along the way. Stops are subject to change on a week-to-week basis based on restaurant availability. Tours include five stops for food, and most are paired with small drinks, including craft cocktails. 21+ required.

The 1:15 Friday and Raleigh Downtown Tasting Tour: Foodies, Food Shops, and Food Halls begins on historic Fayetteville Street near the Capitol and explores other close by downtown districts, as well. This tour is a fun and fantastic way to get to know the heart of downtown. Delicious savory and sweet tastings at unique, locally-owned restaurants, food shops, and food halls show off artisan preparations of regional dishes and bites. Open to all ages, little to no alcoholic drink pairings included – but can be purchased

• Restaurants

1:15 Raleigh Downtown Tasting Tours , every Friday, $79 (plus a $6 ticketing fee).

2:30 Raleigh Downtown Dinner & Drinks Tours , every Saturday, $109 (plus a $6 ticketing fee).

Private and corporate tours are available any day or night of the week.

10:15 Raleigh Downtown Brunch Tours , Saturdays by request – please contact us. $89 (plus $6 ticketing fee).

4:00 Raleigh Speakeasies: The Craft Cocktail Tour takes place downtown on occasional Saturdays, $89 (plus $3 ticketing fee). 21+ required.

The Purchase Tickets link in this box takes you to a list of all Raleigh tours. The Purchase Tickets link at the top of the blue bar takes you to a calendar that shows available dates and tickets for all tours in all seven cities.

There are different meeting spots for the different tours . 

Check your confirmation email and messages for directions.

Most mid and late afternoon/ evening tours  meet in the Crude Bitters parking lot. It’s the pink house across from the Transfer Co. Food Hall’s Davie Street entrance. DO NOT park in Crude’s lot, please. Arrive 10-15 minutes before your tour time.

Most brunch and lunch tours meet at the Raleigh City Museum, 220 Fayetteville St. This building houses the City of Raleigh Museum (COR) and is called, The Briggs Building. Arrive 10-15 minutes before your tour time.

Parking is free on the street in downtown Raleigh on weekends. Or park in a downtown lot near Fayetteville or Wilmington Streets in the 100 or 200 S. blocks. The Alexander Square Deck and the Moore Square Deck are close by.

• Bad Cat Coffee & Crepes
• Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
• Bittersweet
• Carroll’s Kitchen
• Che Empanadas
• Crude Bitters
• Fox Liquor Bar
• Gallo Pelon
• Green Light
• Iyla’s Southern Kitchen
• lucettegrace
• Longleaf Swine
• Morgan Street Food Hall
• Raleigh Wine Shop
• The Roast Grill
• Transfer Co Food Hall
• Union Special

Tours run rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Wear comfortable shoes; walking distance is 2 to 3 miles. Tour runs 3 to 3.5 hours.

Please don’t be late! Meet the group 15 minutes prior to your tour time so that we can arrive at the restaurants promptly.

Bring a government-issued ID if you plan on drinking alcohol.

Register in advance. If you are trying to register for a tour the morning of and registration has closed, please call (919) 237-2254 to check availability. Sorry, no exchanges or refunds. If we have to cancel the tour due to extreme weather, we will refund your money.

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Visitor information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3.2 By taxi
• 4.1 Historic neighborhoods
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 7.4 Food trucks
• 10 Stay safe
• 12.1 Consulates
• 13.1 In the Triangle
• 13.2 Further afield

The capital of North Carolina and the largest city of the Research Triangle , Raleigh is the primary political and economic driver of the metro area. Indeed, business and politics are the main draws to Raleigh, which lacks the more trendy feel or active arts scene of Durham or Chapel Hill to the west. However, a concerted effort to expand the residential base and move events downtown has led to significantly expanded retail and restaurant options in the downtown core. Also, visitors will find many of the state's cultural institutions here, namely a major performing arts center downtown and three state museums, and a college town atmosphere in the neighborhood around the campus of North Carolina State University, the state's largest university.

Understand [ edit ]

As of 2020, the city had a population of about 468,000, with a metro area population of about 1.4 million.

History [ edit ]

Raleigh is one of the few U.S. state capitals that was specifically established and planned to serve as a capital. Its location was chosen partly for being near the center of the state and partly because it was close to Isaac Hunter's Tavern, where North Carolina legislators and other government officials liked to stay. The story goes that the commissioners couldn't decide on an exact plot of land until Isaac Hunter and his friend Joel Lane had the idea of throwing a big party with plenty of local jam and whiskey. The next morning, the hungover commissioners voted 5–1 for a plot owned by Joel Lane himself.

The new city was established as the state capital in 1792 and was named for Sir Walter Raleigh.

Visitor information [ edit ]

The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau operates the 35.77398 -78.63976 1 Raleigh Visitor Information Center . The Visitor Information Center (VIC) is at 500 Fayetteville Street between the Raleigh Marriott City Center and The Raleigh Convention Center. ☏ +1 919-834-5900 or ☏ +1-800-849-8499 . The VIC is open Monday through Saturday, 9AM to 5PM and offers brochures, event calendars, coupons, maps, and other visitor information. Stop by and pick up a brochure or visit the website to view a visitor guide online or order one to be mailed before your trip.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ], by car [ edit ].

• Interstate 40 goes to points west including Durham , Chapel Hill , Greensboro , Winston-Salem , and Asheville . 2½ hours east on I-40 is Wilmington .
• Interstates 85 and 95 , though they do not directly enter Raleigh, provide easy access to the city from up and down the Eastern Seaboard; large access routes from these interstates provide easy access to the city.
• US 1 , the East Coast corridor route, cuts through Raleigh on its way from New York to the Florida Keys; within the city limits US 1 is known as Capital Blvd.

By train [ edit ]

Amtrak provides train services to Raleigh; the Piedmont runs three times per day from Charlotte , a trip of just over three hours. There are also two daily long-distance routes: the Carolinian and Silver Star lines, both of which head north through Richmond , Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia to New York City . Southbound, the Carolinian follows the Piedmont south to Charlotte and the Silver Star heads south through Columbia and Savannah to Florida . The new 35.7773 -78.6475 2 Raleigh Union Station , at 510 W Martin St, has completely replaced the old station.

By bus [ edit ]

• 35.80618 -78.61564 3 Greyhound , 2210 Capital Blvd , ☏ +1 919-834-8275 . ( updated May 2023 )
• Megabus stops in nearby Durham .
• GoTriangle , ☏ +1 919-485-7433 . The Triangle's inter-city bus service runs routes between Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and RDU, with a hub near the Research Triangle Park. Fares are $2.25 per trip, $3.00 for express routes, and $4.50 for a day pass . ( updated May 2023 )

Get around [ edit ]

Within the I-440 Beltline are mostly fashionable older neighborhoods and the NC State University area. The North Raleigh neighborhoods are aligned along the "spokes of the wheel"—major thoroughfares emanating from the I-440 loop and passing through the northern edge of the much larger I-540 loop.

Downtown Raleigh provides easy travel and access through its grid of one-way streets. If you're just passing through, the major thoroughfare is Capital Boulevard (US 401), which splits into Dawson Street heading south and McDowell Street heading north. From the west, it is Hillsborough Street, interrupted midway by the state Capitol building. To the east, it continues as New Bern Avenue (US 64).

The I-440 Beltline was once denoted with "Inner" and "Outer" labels, but they have been phased out in favor of "East" and "West." I-440 West used to be the Outer Beltline, and I-440 East used to be the Inner Beltline. I-440's concurrency with I-40 through the souther portion of Raleigh has also been removed; therefore, the Beltline no longer loops back on itself.

Raleigh is known for particularly aggressive parking enforcement and towing, so be sure to follow all parking signs and rules. Most parking meters have been converted to electronic pay stations that accept coins and MasterCard/Visa. Most metered areas are only enforced on Monday-Friday from 8AM-5PM. Some parking garages are free on evenings and weekends as well, but "special event" rates are common during major downtown events regardless of the time or day.

For information on routes, schedules and fares, check GoTriangle.org , for a helpful trip planner.

• GoTriangle , ☏ +1 919-485-7433 . Routes between Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill as well as Research Triangle Park and the Raleigh-Durham International Airport. ( updated May 2023 )
• GoRaleigh , ☏ +1 919-919-7433 . Routes within Raleigh city limits including a free downtown circulator bus, the R-Line. ( updated May 2023 )
• Wolfline , ☏ +1 919-515-9653 . Routes in and around NC State University; free and open to the public. ( updated May 2023 )

Regional Passes are available by GoTriangle and can be purchased at the Regional Transit Center (901 Slater Road, Durham), and one-day passes can be purchased on buses. (Tell the driver you want to purchase a day pass before inserting money into the farebox.) Regional Passes will work on GoTriangle, GoRaleigh, GoDurham, and GoCary buses.

GoRaleigh offers a lower cost alternative to the Regional Day Pass what will work only on GoRaleigh buses called the GoRaleigh Day Pass. GoRaleigh Day Pass can be purchases directly from the bus driver or at the GoRaleigh Station in Downtown Raleigh.

By taxi [ edit ]

There are 36 licensed taxi operators in Raleigh of varying quality. Spanish speakers will appreciate Amigo taxi ☏ +1 919-862-6162 .

See [ edit ]

• 35.77843 -78.63615 6 Marbles Kids Museum , 201 E Hargett St , ☏ +1 919-834-4040 . Closed M, open Tu-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM . The former Exploris museum has merged with Playspace to form Marbles, an interactive kid's museum, still with an IMAX theater. $5 for adults and kids (1-99), prices for the IMAX theater vary .  
• 35.77904 -78.65079 7 Joel Lane Museum House , 160 South Saint Mary's St ( corner of St. Mary's & Hargett Streets ), ☏ +1 919-833-3431 . Hours vary . A Georgian-style manor plantation house built circa 1770 by Colonel Joel Lane, patriot, statesman, and planter, Col. Lane's home has been faithfully restored and is filled with period artifacts. The site houses three historic structures, including a very simple circa 1790 middle-class home interpreted as a kitchen and a circa 1840 Visitors Center. $5 .  
• 35.7949 -78.7002 8 JC Raulston Arboretum , 4301 Beryl Road , ☏ +1 919-515-3132 . 8 acres (3.2 hectares) arboretum and botanical gardens operated by NC State University with over 5000 varieties of plants. Free .  

Historic neighborhoods [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

• 35.8252 -78.5879 1 Adventure Landing .  
• 35.8081 -78.5959 2 Sky Zone Raleigh .  
• 35.8035 -78.722 3 Carolina Hurricanes , 1400 Edwards Mill Rd , ☏ +1 919-861-2323 , toll-free: +1 866-NHL-CANES (645-22637) . Raleigh's NHL hockey team plays at the PNC Arena . A good atmosphere and family-friendly crowds make this an excellent place to spend an evening during fall and winter. The 'Canes won the 2006 Stanley Cup, and have become famous for their fun "Storm Surge" celebrations after home wins. The Hurricanes have also been one of the NHL's best teams since 2019, and as a result of this success, tickets have risen in price moderately with PNC Arena filling up close to capacity for most games. However, tickets to weeknight games can still be had for as low as $30 (before ticket fees), making a 'Canes game one of the cheaper tickets in the NHL. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 35.7799 -78.6638 4 Pullen Park , 520 Ashe Ave , ☏ +1 919-831-6468 . Outdoor plays, a 1911 carousel, pedal boats, a miniature train, and an excellent aquatic center.  
• North Carolina State Wolfpack . The sports teams representing North Carolina State University, competing in the Atlantic Coast Conference along with 14 other schools along the East Coast and Midwestern United States. Football and basketball games are popular in addition to other sports.  
• 35.8173 -78.2701 6 Carolina Mudcats , 1501 NC Highway 39, Zebulon ( East on US-64 to US-264 to NC-39 ). Minor-league baseball. About a 20-minute drive east of town. Tickets are affordable at $3-9; unlike the nearby Durham Bulls baseball stadium, Mudcats' parking is ample.  
• 35.7965 -78.7116 7 North Carolina State Fair , 1025 Blue Ridge Rd. , ☏ +1 919-821-7400 . Raleigh. One of the largest fairs of its kind in America, this ten-day long event drew almost 940,000 in 2019 to the State Fairgrounds to sample North Carolina produce, attend concerts, ride fair rides and feast on deep-fried Twinkies. Mid to late October. Age 13-64 $10-13, age 6-12 $5-7, active military $8, <6 and 65+ free, discounts for advance sales . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• 35.76264 -78.71435 8 Lake Johnson Nature Park , 4601 Avent Ferry Rd , ☏ +1 919-996-3141 . Open during daylight every day of the week . A pleasant nature trail winds about 3½ miles (5½ km) around the eastern half of the lake, and another dirt trail exists on the northwestern shore of the lake. Ideal for hiking and biking. Paddle boats can also be rented. Free .  
• First Fridays ( Downtown ). 6-9PM . On the first Friday evening of every month, downtown art galleries, museums, and shops stay open late for a downtown-wide event with live music and specials at restaurants and bars.  
• World of Bluegrass ( Various locations downtown ). Late September/early October . The International Bluegrass Music Association will be hosting its annual conference and celebration in Raleigh until at least 2018. Awards gala, concerts, and a free street festival.  
• 35.7202 -78.6874 10 Yates Mill County Park , 4620 Lake Wheeler Road . 8AM-sunset . A 174 acres (70 hectares) park only a few miles from downtown. Over 2 mi (3.2 km) of trails, a visitor center with family activities, and a large pond for fishing. The park also contains the last water-powered grist mill in Wake county. Restored to operating condition, the mill offers guided tours on weekends. Free ($3-5 for mill tour) .  
• 35.907771 -78.59141 11 Blue Water Spa , 10941 Raven Ridge Rd ( near Falls of Neuse and Durant Rd ), ☏ +1 919-870-6066 . Voted best medical spa in America 3 consecutive years. The home spa boutique is a great place to indulge or to pick up a great hostess gift.  

Buy [ edit ]

• 35.790097 -78.660167 1 Village District ( Cameron Village ), 2108 Clark Avenue ( inside the Beltline on Oberlin Road between Hillsborough Street and Wade Ave ), ☏ +1 919-821-1350 . The first shopping center between Atlanta and DC, Village District is today a major destination point. Home to many of Raleigh's oldest boutique stores, the development also includes restaurants, a grocery store, and one of Wake County's public libraries. Hours vary depending on the store. ( updated Apr 2023 )
• 35.837068 -78.643087 4 North Hills Shopping Center , 4217 Six Forks Rd . North Hills has transformed itself from a drab 1960s mall to a mixed-use center. Along with Cameron Village, the complex houses a large number of trendy boutiques in Raleigh; the center also is home to a grocery store, movie theater, Target, JC Penney, and a variety of restaurants and retail. Hours vary according to the store.  
• 35.789207 -78.639537 5 Seaboard Station ( downtown near Peace University ). Individual business hours vary . Designed to showcase the local, independent retailer, shopping at Seaboard Station is a bright, airy prospect. Along with many unique specialty shops, you'll also find a salon, fitness center and options for dining.  
• 35.776522 -78.636437 6 City Market ( Moore Square, downtown Raleigh ). Home to art galleries, restaurants and specialty shops. Cobblestone streets lit by lamps give the area a 19th-century feel.  
• 35.794861 -78.707534 7 Raleigh Flea Market , 1025 Blue Ridge Rd ( NC State Fairgrounds ). Sa Su 9AM-6PM . The Flea Market, featuring 600 vendors offering all sorts of antiques, collectibles, furniture, electronics and more. Parking and admission is free . ( updated Sep 2021 )
• 35.763444 -78.662194 8 State Farmers Market , 1201 Agriculture St , ☏ +1 919-733-7417 . M–Sa 5AM–6PM, Su 8AM–6PM . Huge farmer's market open every day. Come in the morning for a bigger, fresher selection. ( updated Aug 2020 )

Eat [ edit ]

Due to the large influx of residents from around the USA and the world as well as the large student population, there is a fairly large variety of cuisine available at a wide range of prices. And, being a Southern city, there are still plenty of options for traditional Southern food and a few modern interpretations of those traditional foods. Of course, no visit to North Carolina would be complete without trying some NC-style barbecue pork. There are actually two major styles in the state: Lexington-style (named after Lexington, NC ) which uses only the pork shoulder and is served with a tomato and vinegar sauce and Eastern-style which uses the "whole hog" and is served with a vinegar-based sauce. Both styles are available around Raleigh and some restaurants include both types of sauce on the table.

Budget [ edit ]

• 35.77601 -78.63595 1 Big Ed's , 220 Wolfe St , ☏ +1 919-836-9909 . Big Ed's signature breakfasts are the Southern standards: homemade biscuits, grits with red-eye gravy, etc. Come Saturday mornings for live Dixieland jazz. Second location on Falls of Neuse Road and Millbrook in Quail Ridge Shopping Center.  
• 35.76206 -78.66412 2 Farmer's Market Restaurant , 1240 Farmer's Market Dr , ☏ +1 919-833-7973 . M-Sa 6AM-3PM, Su 8AM-3PM . Solid, hearty food with fresh ingredients from the state farmer's market right next door. Serves breakfast and lunch.  
• 35.81513 -78.69656 3 Guasaca-Lake Boone Trail , 4025 Lake Boone Trail Suite #107 , ☏ +1 919-322-4928 , [email protected] . ( updated Aug 2020 )
• 35.78806 -78.66883 4 Guasaca-Hillsborough Street , 2512 Hillsborough Street , ☏ +1 919-210-6838 , [email protected] . ( updated Aug 2020 )
• 35.7881 -78.6348 5 Krispy Kreme , 549 North Person St , ☏ +1 919-833-3682 . The popular Winston-Salem-based doughnut maker is a landmark that nearby residents use to give directions. Look for the "Hot Doughnuts Now" sign for a little round piece of glazed heaven. Quite popular with the students of nearby Broughton and Enloe High Schools, especially in the early morning hours, so plan accordingly.  
• 35.79322 -78.69015 6 Neomonde , 3817 Beryl Rd , ☏ +1 919-828-1628 . A delicious Mediterranean market and deli. Their fantastic hummus and baba ghanouj with pita bread alone make any meal great.  
• 35.78026 -78.64579 7 Roast Grill , 7 South West St , ☏ +1 919-832-8292 . If you're looking for a hot dog and a bottle of Coke, this is the place in downtown Raleigh. If you're looking for ketchup, though, you may just be asked to leave. Run by a family of Greek immigrants since 1940, in a tiny room added to the front of their house.  
• 35.80183 -78.625 8 Watkin's Grill , 1625 Wake Forest Rd , ☏ +1 919-834-0467 . Greasy-spoon with Civil War memorabilia on the walls. Cash only.  
• 35.77566 -78.63815 9 Clyde Cooper's BBQ , 327 S Wilmington St , ☏ +1 919-832-7614 . Traditional NC-style barbecue. A Raleigh institution since 1938.  
• 35.78822 -78.740097 10 Albaraka Market and Grill , 3815 Hillsborough St , ☏ +1 919-838-5155 , [email protected] . Albaraka Market and Grill in Raleigh is a Mediterranean restaurant with a grocery store. They offer halal food and baked goods. ( updated Mar 2024 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 35.774706 -78.643823 11 The Fiction Kitchen , 428 S. Dawson St , ☏ +1 919-831-4177 . Thoughtfully prepared vegan and vegetarian cuisine from a 100% vegetarian kitchen. Very popular among touring music artists playing at the nearby Red Hat Amphitheater. ( updated Jan 2019 )
• 35.8539 -78.7018 12 Casa Carbone Ristorante , 6019-A Glenwood Ave ( Oak Park Shopping Center ), ☏ +1 919-781-8750 . Tu-Sa 5-10PM, Su 4-9PM . A family restaurant with an extensive menu that includes everything from classic spaghetti and lasagna, to more intricate entrees such as grouper puttanesca and beef braciole. Excellent wine choices as well. Affordable and delicious.  
• 35.78117 -78.65601 13 Irregardless Cafe , 901 W. Morgan St , ☏ +1 919-833-8898 . A Raleigh institution since the 1970s, the Irregardless offers an eclectic menu including creative vegetarian options. Jazz music every night and dancing on Saturday nights.  
• 35.80508 -78.6467 14 Lilly's Pizza , 1813 Glenwood Ave , ☏ +1 919-833-0226 . Part hippie, yuppie, bohemian, and retro, Lilly's is an experience all to its own. It's in the popular Five Points district so parking can be a problem, especially when a popular film is screening at the nearby Rialto theater. If you're adventurous, you can access Five Points by the number 2 CAT bus.  
• 35.78512 -78.68922 15 Sushi Nine , 3812 Western Blvd , ☏ +1 919-900-8203 . 11AM-11PM . A great selection of BOGO sushi rolls offered all day everyday. Also offers a mix of Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese entrees. Full bar.  
• 35.7901 -78.6607 16 The Village Draft House , 428 Daniels St , ☏ +1 919-833-1373 . Don't forget the pickle chips! $3 wings on Sundays .  
• 35.77599 -78.64468 17 The Pit , 328 W Davie St , ☏ +1 919-890-4500 . Somewhat upscale whole-hog barbecue. Popular with out-of-staters, but of questionable authenticity.  
• 35.77462 -78.64228 18 Poole's Downtown Diner , 426 S McDowell St , ☏ +1 919-832-4477 . 5:30PM-midnight . Sourced almost entirely from local farmers and artisan producers, the menu can change on a daily basis. The executive chef, Ashley Christensen, won the 2014 James Beard award for Best Chef in the Southeast.  
• 35.77784 -78.63812 19 Tonbo Ramen , 211 S. Wilmington St , ☏ +1 919-977-3625 . ( updated Aug 2020 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 35.7808 -78.64472 20 Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern , 330 Hillsborough Street , ☏ +1 919-829-3663 . Gourmet fare in the restored Dodd-Hinsdale House, built in 1879 in the Second Empire Victorian style.  
• 35.8994 -78.7637 21 The Angus Barn , 9401 Glenwood Ave , ☏ +1 919-781-2444 . Fine dining with house-aged steaks.  

Food trucks [ edit ]

Thanks to relaxed regulations first in Durham and later in Raleigh, the Triangle area has a lively food truck scene with a wide variety of cuisines available in street food form from burgers and pizza to Chinese dumplings and Belgian waffles, and of course, barbecue. Many have since expanded to brick and mortar locations as well and a few popular restaurants have launched their own trucks. At lunchtime, trucks can usually be found near office parks with few restaurants nearby or on college campuses (there is almost always at least one truck serving weekday lunch on NC State's Centennial Campus). In the evening they often serve dinner at local breweries (see Drink below). Downtown Raleigh hosts occasional food truck "rodeos" featuring over 50 trucks from as far as Charlotte . See their website [dead link] for upcoming dates and links to truck websites. A partial list of trucks that occasionally serve Raleigh is given below.

• American Meltdown . Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and melts on locally baked bread. $6-9 .  
• Baguettaboutit . Locally-produced sausage and freshly-made sauce served inside of a fresh-baked baguette. Vegetarian options available. $5-10 .  
• Belgian Waffle Crafters . Liege (dough-based) and Brussels (batter-based) waffles. Both sweet and savory toppings available. Try the "Choco-waffle", a Liege waffle with chocolate pieces in the dough. $4-10 .  
• Chirba Chirba . Chinese dumplings and dipping sauces. Always a crowd favorite at food truck rodeos. $5-10 .  
• OnlyBurger . Made-to-order burgers and fresh-cut fries. $5-10 .  

Drink [ edit ]

Southwest Raleigh, particularly the area along Hillsborough Street, resembles a college town, so there are plenty of places to find a drink. What is more, the city has a number of microbreweries. For cheaper places, try near the campus of North Carolina State University on Hillsborough Street. (A scene in "Bull Durham" was filmed in Mitch's Tavern.) The downtown area known as Glenwood South has a few more upscale bars and is located between Glenwood Ave and Harrington Street and between Peace Street and Hillsborough Street just northwest of downtown. The City Market area around Moore Square and the area around Fayetteville Street also offer a good mix. Those not from the American South should be sure to order "sweet tea". Sweet tea, along with Sundrop and Cheerwine, has long been considered a native beverage, and is served in most restaurants. The sweetness will vary in accordance with the locale, but is nevertheless much sweeter than any tea served elsewhere in the nation.

• 35.65597 -78.85432 1 Carolina Brewing Company , 140 Thomas Mill Rd . In Holly Springs - CBC conducts weekly tours on Saturday afternoons, and it's best to arrive anywhere from 15-30 minutes early to make sure you get a sample of their beer both prior to the tour. No fear if you arrive late, however, as the taps are typically open for an hour afterwards as well. CBC brews an India Pale Ale, a Nut Brown Ale, and the Carolina Pale Ale year round (available at the brewery, in local stores, and in many local bars and restaurants) and usually has one or two seasonal beers available only at the brewery or on tap at select local establishments.  
• 35.809919 -78.617041 2 Big Boss Brewing company , 1249 Wicker Dr . Big Boss conducts monthly tours on Saturday afternoons, and it's usually best to check the website to find out exactly when. As with CBC, it's a good idea to get there a bit early, as there's usually a pretty good crowd there. Big Boss brews an assortment of seasonal beers that are distributed locally in addition to their year-round Bad Penny Brown Ale, Helles Belle Belgian Blond, and Angry Angel Kolsch Ale that are also sold in bottles at local stores. Big Boss also features an on-site pub called Horniblows Tavern. Though it's not in one of the trendy areas of town, Horniblows is a great place for knocking back a couple of brews and solving the world's problems with your mates.  
• 35.903523 -78.762609 3 Lonerider Brewing Company , 8816 Gulf Court #100 . Near the airport and Brier Creek. One of the area's nearest breweries, it has quickly penetrated the market. Often considered a brewers brewery, they offer a handful or more of well-crafted beers. Brewery tours fairly regularly at about once a month.  
• 35.778138 -78.638642 4 The Raleigh Times Bar , 14 E. Hargett St . Snug in the offices of the former Raleigh Times newspaper, this broadsheet turned gastropub is the place for people watching over a pint (or a half pint) of craft-brewed beer.  
• 35.775589 -78.644056 5 Crank Arm Brewing , 319 W. Davie St , [email protected] . Brewpub in the warehouse district that opened in 2013.  
• 35.77698 -78.63782 6 Fox Liquor Bar , 237 S Wilmington St ( Downtown near Moore Square, entrance on Martin Street ), ☏ +1 919-322-0128 . 5PM-2AM . A trendy, upscale bar featuring traditional and creative cocktails along with a small, but interesting selection of craft beers.  
• 35.788094 -78.646996 7 Raleigh Beer Garden , 614 Glenwood Ave , ☏ +1 919-324-3415 , [email protected] . Popular spot with a huge selection of beer on tap: North Carolina beers on the first floor and beers from around the world on the second floor. Interesting decor too, with a tree growing in the middle of the first floor. ( updated Aug 2020 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Downtown, there are three major hotels: the Clarion, Marriott City Center, and the Sheraton.

• 35.864726 -78.814549 1 Hyatt Place Raleigh-Durham Airport , 200 Airgate Dr , ☏ +1 919-405-2400 . Adjacent to Raleigh Durham International Airport and the Research Triangle Park.  
• 35.780887 -78.644092 2 Holiday Inn Raleigh ( formerly the Clarion ), 320 Hillsborough St , ☏ +1 919-832-0501 . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: 11AM . From $115 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• 35.856371 -78.70423 3 Best Western Plus Raleigh Crabtree Valley Hotel , 6209 Glenwood Ave ( 6 mi (9.7 km) from Raleigh Airport, with free airport transfers ), ☏ +1 919-782-1112 . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: 11AM . $75-115 .  
• 35.784298 -78.642467 4 The Longleaf Hotel , 300 North Dawson St , ☏ +1 919-867-5770 , [email protected] . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: noon . Closest to Glenwood South, where many bars and restaurants are located.  
• 35.844749 -78.679325 5 Embassy Suites Raleigh - Crabtree , 4700 Creedmoor Rd , ☏ +1 919-881-0000 . All-suite hotel with tropical atrium featuring full-service amenities, indoor pool, and fitness center. Free breakfast and reception daily for all guests.  
• 35.850908 -78.795986 6 Hilton Garden Inn , 1500 RDU Center Dr ( Exit 285 off I-40 ), ☏ +1 919-840-8088 . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: Noon . Airport hotel.  
• 35.773672 -78.639801 7 Marriott City Center , 500 Fayetteville St ( Attached to the Convention Center ), ☏ +1 919-833-1120 .  
• 35.842846 -78.677889 8 Marriott Crabtree Valley , 4500 Marriott Dr ( Close to Crabtree Valley Mall, NC Museum of Art and Time Warner Cable Pavilion at Walnut Creek ), ☏ +1 919-781-7000 .  
• 35.801334 -78.706125 9 Ramada Raleigh , 1520 Blue Ridge Dr , ☏ +1 919-832-4100 . ( updated May 2017 )
• 35.836129 -78.643793 10 Renaissance Hotel , 4100 Main ( at North Hills St. ).  
• 35.774922 -78.639917 11 Sheraton Hotel , 421 South Salisbury St , ☏ +1 919-834-9900 . A 20-story hotel, fancy, but it's on the mostly uninteresting Fayetteville Street Mall.  
• 35.789687 -78.743581 12 Wingate by Wyndham State Arena Raleigh/Cary ( Raleigh North Carolina Hotel- Wingate Raleigh RBC Center ), 115 Corporate Ridge Rd , ☏ +1 919-847-7383 .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Raleigh's crime rate is below average for an American city of its size (and one of the lowest in the Southern USA), but one still must be cautious and intelligent. In particular, stick to the busy and well-lit parts of downtown after dark, and avoid the neighborhoods immediately south or east of downtown after dark. The NC State University campus and vicinity are safe and heavily trafficked during the day and evening, but use the university's public safety escort service in the early hours of the morning. Throughout Raleigh, you should think before using an automated teller machine (ATM) after dark, unless it's in a mall or other heavily travelled, well-lit area.

Connect [ edit ]

• 35.84002 -78.64329 2 Panera Bread , 4421 Six Forks Rd Ste 119 , ☏ +1 919-781-1112 . Free wireless access.  

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ].

Raleigh has only a few consulates. If the country you're looking for isn't listed here, try Charlotte , Atlanta , or Washington, D.C.

Go next [ edit ]

In the triangle [ edit ].

• Chapel Hill , about 25 mi (40 km) from Raleigh, is home to the University of North Carolina (UNC-CH). Chapel Hill has many good restaurants and bars on Franklin Street, adjacent to the UNC campus.
• Durham about 25 mi (40 km) away, the home of Duke University. Durham has many trendy cafes, bars, theaters, art locations and four-star restaurants.
• Pittsboro , home to a tiger sanctuary, and the tiny nearby town of Bynum on the Haw River
• Wake Forest , about 18 mi (29 km) away, features access to the vast Falls Lake Park Recreation Area and boasts a small downtown carefully preserved in time.

Further afield [ edit ]

• Hanging Rock State Park
• Winston-Salem

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Raleigh   Travel Guide

Best Times To Visit Raleigh

The best times to visit Raleigh are in the fall and spring. Both seasons feature comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, whether it's the vibrant reds and yellows of the fall or the fragrant and colorful blossoms of the spring. Winter tends to be cold, but the excitement of college basketball might mitigate the chilly weather. And summertime is usually characterized by stifling humidity.

Weather in Raleigh

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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25 + Things to Do in Raleigh in the Fall (see, eat, drink, play)

Happy Fall, ya’ll. If you are looking for things to do in Raleigh in the fall, we are here to help with lots of fun suggestions down below.

Fall season is our favorite time of year as it brings with it awesome festivals and events, pumpkin flavored everything, tailgating at college football games, and of course fun Halloween parties. Next would be summer in Raleigh , and Christmas in Raleigh is fun too!

Most of the best fall things to do in Raleigh are gearing up for another fabulous year, such as the NC State Fair , Hopscotch Music Festival , Wide Open Bluegrass , and many other smaller events.

Fall is such a great time to be living in Raleigh, but if you’re planning a trip to Raleigh for the first time, get excited as there are plenty of fall festivals and events to partake in, and the leaf colors can be impressive here too!

In this guide, we share some of the best things to do in Raleigh in the fall to help keep you, and your kids busy. 

We’ve also recorded a podcast episode about Raleigh in the Fall. You can listen at the bottom of the post.

A few of our favorites to check out include:

Transfer co. food hall, barbecue at theatre raleigh, video: go ape, 18. city of oaks marathon, things to do in raleigh in the fall.

Whilst we do LOVE summer and the high humidity, others are welcoming the cooler days and nights that Fall brings to get outside and take in some of the best Raleigh things on offer. 

Some of our favorite activities during Fall include eating and drinking outside at fantastic restaurants and breweries, exploring nature trails, getting out on the lakes, picnics in parks, and picking pumpkins. 

1. Chase the Fall Colors

It seems like every year the leaf-peeping season gets shorter and it’s harder to know when it will start and end. But unlike having to plan a road trip to New England and time it perfectly, if you live in Raleigh like us you are already here and can act quickly!

Whilst fall in the Triangle area isn’t quite like in the North Carolina Mountains , there are still some great spots to take it all in.

When it comes to fall foliage in Raleigh , typically the most vibrant colors are near the water , and some of the best spots to explore include:

• Umstead State Park
• Falls of Neuse River Trail
• Lake Johnson
• Lake Raleigh
• Shelley Lake
• Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
• Falls Lake State Recreation Area
• E. Carroll Joyner Park (Wake Forest)
• Eno River State Park (Durham)

Click play on the video below to see the beauty of Lake Johnson in the Fall:

Also, when chasing the fall colors in North Carolina keep in mind botanical gardens, parks, and preserves like:

• Pullen Park
• Dorothea Dix Park
• Duke Gardens (Durham)
• J.C. Raulston Arboretum
• Durant Nature Preserve (North Raleigh)
• Robertson Millpond Preserve (Wendell)
• Horseshoe Farm Nature Preserve (Wake Forest)
• Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve (Cary)

READ MORE : 6 beautiful gardens in Raleigh (and one nearby)

2. Enjoy Fall Seasonal Drinks & Treats

Fall is the time for fun pumpkin-spiced flavored seasonal coffees and treats, and Oktoberfest-style beers . Whether you’re a coffee, beer, or cider drinker, put this on your list of things to do in Raleigh in the fall and there’s a brewery or coffee shop for you!

• Raleigh Brewing has its Oktoberfest Lager with notes of sweet caramel, baked bread, and herbal hops.
• Trophy Maywood typically has a Oktrophyfest – Marzen (a lager that originated in Bavaria)
• Bittersweet offers a Pumpkin Crème Brûlée (gluten-free) with house-made whipped cream, spiced pecans & dried cranberry mix. Pairs great with either their Espresso Martini and Irish Coffee!

• Lynnwood Brewing serves up a seasonal Shut Your Pumpkin Pie Hole Wheat .
• Pelagic Beer & Wine currently has a Pumpkin Pie Porter on tap.
• Raleigh Beer Garden – ask for a Pumpkin Spice Martini and Shooters at their spirits bar.

• Jubala Coffee has its Pumpkin Spice Latte ; flavored with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and clove. And their Campfire Mocha ; s’mores flavored mocha featuring graham cracker-infused milk, Videri Chocolate, and house made toasted marshmallow.
• Black and White Coffee Roasters in the Warehouse District does seasonal drinks like a Pumpkin Spiced Latte.

• Sir Walter Coffee always get creative with their drinks. Ask about their Graham Cracker latte , pumpkin pie martini , apple cider old fashion, or spiced rum cider. 
• Asali Cafe in Cary makes delicious desserts, like the Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse and Autumn Mousse .

• 42 & Lawrence also typically has a Pumpkin Spice Latte on their specials menu, plus chai tea and hot apple cider.
• Idle Hour Coffee – ask about their Maple Ginger Latte and Lavender Honey Latte.

• Hayes Barton Cafe make the most amazing cakes in Raleigh.
• The Cupcake Shoppe has a Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls (and their cupcakes are all amazing!
• Lucettegrace has a yummy looking Pumpkin Cheescake Eclair.

• Raleigh Rolls , who make ice cream rolled on cold slates with a variety of flavors and toppings, currently has a pumpkin pie special through October (pumpkin pie filling, graham cracker, topped with whipped cream!

PLEASE NOTE: These are seasonal items. Please visit each business’s website for up-to-date offerings before driving there! Oh, here is our list of 17 places to celebrate Oktoberfest in Raleigh .

3. Visit Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, and Fruit Picking

Looking for things to do with kids in Raleigh during the fall? One of the classic fall activities is visiting pumpkin patches and exploring corn mazes. The Raleigh pumpkin picking season typically begins sometime in late September to early October.

NOTE: These are seasonal attractions, be sure to check the website of each place mentioned below for up to date guidelines and opening hours before you drive there! 

Click here to read the full list of 17 Pumpkin patches and corn mazes in Raleigh

Naylor Family Farm & Giant Corn Maze

Located just outside of Fuquay Varina, Naylor Family Farm & Giant Corn Maze offers a variety of outdoor fun including a 2,400 square foot Farm Market Barn, 10-acre giant corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, kids play area, and more. 

Ken’s Korny Corn Maze

In the town of Garner, Ken’s Korny Corn Maze has been a fall tradition for more than 15 years and North Carolina’s First and longest-running corn maze over 6 acres 2 1/2 miles of paths.

DJ’s Berry Patch

DJ’s Berry Patch is a family-owned and operated business located in Apex that offers U-Pick Pumpkins & Mums, produce, and Strawberries. Bring the family to pick your own pumpkin, they also have beautiful fall mums (fall flowering plants).

The Family Farm on Avent Ferry

The Family Farm on Avent Ferry in Holly Springs has been in the same family for 6 generations. Here you can pick out your favorite carving pumpkin for your decorating needs.

They also sell a variety of specialty pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, and hay bales. And onsite they have an 85 year old traditional cow barn and 100+ year old log tobacco barn. Open seasonally – check website for dates!

Phillips Farm (Haunted Farm & Corn Maze)

Head to the Phillips Farm in Cary to scare yourself at the haunted farm and Visit the Field of Lost Souls and Rebellion Trail, take on the corn maze, and of course pick your own pumpkins.

Read More – 17 corn mazes & pumpkin patches in Raleigh

Video: Pumpkin Farm in Johnston County

From Wednesday until Sunday, September 23rd – October 29th, you can pick your pumpkins at Page Farms in Raleigh.

The price of a ticket allows you to pick one pumpkin per paid person, as well as visit the Corn Maze, enjoy a hayride, ride the Cow Train, see the Farm Animals and visit the playground.

4. Eat or Drink on the Patio at some of the Best Raleigh Restaurants

If you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh this weekend (or any weekend) the culinary scene is top notch here and eating and drinking your way around the city of oaks is one of the best Raleigh things to do!

But if you don’t like the heat and humidity of summer, fall is your time to eat outside and there are some great Raleigh restaurants with awesome patios or rooftops. A few of our favorites include:

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, Wye Hill is home to our favorite patio in Raleigh. As they say, come for the brews (and delicious food), and stay for the amazing views of the downtown Raleigh skyline!

Raleigh Times Bar

If you can jag a seat on their rooftop (or on the sidewalk), The Raleigh Times is one of our favorite places to eat (and drink) outside in downtown Raleigh. In this historic building you get quality bar food – check out their burger and nachos – and a great selection of beers.

Morgan Street Food Hall

Morgan Street Food Hall in the Warehouse District offers 20 different food concepts. Fantastic spot for families or groups of friends with different food tastes. Lots of outdoor seating. Our fave is the burgers from Cow Bar!

Taverna Agora

Go to Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar for authentic Greek food and for their lovely rooftop terrace that will remind you of your trips to Greece.

The Pit BBQ

BBQ lovers should head to The Pit Authentic Barbecue in the Warehouse District. Here you can sit outside at their “Pig Pen” on picnic-style tables. Don’t miss their Beef Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, and Pimento Cheese Balls. 

Trophy Brewing & Pizza

If you love a pizza and beer combo, and a cozy patio setting, it’s hard to go past Trophy Brewing & Pizza . Popular beers include their Cloud Surfer and Trophy Husband, and for pizza their Daredevil. 

Raleigh Beer Garden

If tasting one of the 350+ beers on tap (world record-holder) isn’t enough to entice you to the Raleigh Beer Garden , another reason we like eating and drinking here is the tons of outdoor space and back garden patio – perfect for a fall hangout.

Whiskey Kitchen

One of our favorite bars in Raleigh is Whiskey Kitchen , not only for its large menu of drinks, but also for its inventive Southern food and great outside patio.

Transfer Co. Food Hall is the other of the two food halls in downtown Raleigh. There are 50,000+ square feet of renovated warehouse space that’s now home to 12 vendors , plus a nice outdoor patio area. Nice variety of food choices including burgers, seafood, Asian, Italian, Mexican, Bagels, Beer, and Wine.

• Best places to eat outside in Raleigh
• 5 cool rooftop bars in Raleigh

5. Look Out For Fall Festivals & Events

If you’re looking for an exciting festival or event to entertain you, then be sure to check out some of our favorite autumnal festivals in Raleigh.

Wide Open Bluegrass

Fayetteville Street and its surrounds are closed off for one of the best things to do in Raleigh in the fall – the two-day Wide Open Bluegrass Festival , which takes place on the last weekend of September.

It’s one of Raleigh’s biggest annual events and the largest FREE urban bluegrass festival in the world. The festival typically features IBMA and GRAMMY award-winning legends, top-notch emerging acts, and unforgettable collaborations.

Read more in our guide to the bluegrass festival in Raleigh .

NC State Fair

For rides, music, animals, and all the greasy fair food you can imagine, Raleigh locals flock to the annual North Carolina State Fair each October, the largest annual event in the state which draws one million visitors over 11 days. Read our guide to the State Fair .

Triangle Oktoberfest

The annual Triangle Oktoberfest is held every October at Cary’s Koko Booth Amphitheatre and includes traditional Bavarian food and fare (plus local and authentic German beers on hand). Plus, family-friendly activities like live music, storytelling, and dancing.

READ MORE: Where to celebrate Oktoberfest in Raleigh

Falling for Local

Autumn lovers 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, hayrides, free pumpkins, and more!

Wendell Harvest Festival

The annual Wendell Harvest Festival in downtown Wendell in the month of October has been running for over 95 years and features a parade, over 100 craft vendors, a beer garden, games for kids and adults and live music.

SAS Golf Championship

You can watch some of golf’s best at the SAS Championship , an annual PGA Tour Champions event held at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary from the 9th – 15th October 2023. Widely recognized as one of the most important events of the year.

NC Wine Festival

Held at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary on October 28th, the NC Wine Festival showcases more than 30 North Carolina local wineries to sample from, plus artisans, music, food, and fun.

READ MORE: A Guide to the best Fall festivals and events in Raleigh

North Carolina Hot Sauce Contest & Festival

The North Carolina Hot Sauce Contest and Festival is just a short drive outside of Raleigh to downtown Oxford, and is an event that marks the beginning of fall. It’s the place to be for a fun day of entertainment and laughter!

The event has been taking place every year for 28 years and is famous for its hot sauce contest, live music, food vendors, the Bailey Farms Pepper Eating Contest, and for the kids a fun park called Wee Pepper’s Place where there’s a bouncy castle, arts and crafts, and a petting zoo.

BugFest: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

On September 16th, head over to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences for the largest bug-centered event in the USA! BugFest is a day celebrating everything creepy crawly, with the aim to educate and inspire the public about bugs.

There will be more than 100 exhibits, craft tables and games for kids, as well as the chance to chat with etomologists and scientists. In 2023, the focus will be on the eight-legged friends, spiders! BugFest starts at 10.00am and ends at 7.00pm.

Hitting the stage at the Theatre Raleigh this fall is the theatrical drama “Barbecue” which is showing every night from 18th October until 29th October.

This performance is all about a dysfunctional group of siblings who come together for a barbecue in the park. However, it’s no ordinary barbecue, and is in fact an intervention for their sister Barbara who has a substance abuse problem.

What’s fascinating about Barbecue is the story is told through two families, one black and one white , highlighting the juxtaposition between race and family politics.

It’s both poignant and a little bit funny, and was written by Obie and Helen Hayes Award winner, Robert O’Hara. It’s a show that contains strong language and subject matter and only for ages 16+ .

6. Check Out The Nature Trails In Raleigh

One of the fun things to do in Raleigh in autumn is explore the greenways and nature trails . Now that the high heat and humidity have passed, fall is an optimal time to hit one of the many trails and greenways on offer in the Triangle area.

Hike at Umstead State Park

William B. Umstead State Park is North Carolina’s most visited state park and a natural oasis just 15-minutes from downtown and one of the top places to go in Raleigh.

Surrounding three man-made lakes, if you love nature trails through the forest, biking, trail running, picnicking, camping, canoeing, and horseback riding and haven’t visited Umstead yet, take advantage of the ideal fall weather and leaf colors. Here are a few Umstead Trails we love:

• Sals Branch Loop Trail
• Loblolly Trail
• Pott’s Branch Trail
• Sycamore Trail

Lake Johnson Nature Park

Located near NC State University, Lake Johnson is a popular lake for students to get active, and for locals living in Raleigh.

With 300 acres of land surrounding the 150-acre lake, there’s a lovely three-mile paved loop around the lake (our favorite trail), plus a separate two miles of unpaved trail, a 700-foot-long boardwalk across the lake, a boat house, small beach area, and picnic shelters.

Bond Lake Trail

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. Read our review of the Bond Lake Trail. 

Art to Heart Trail

Beginning at the North Carolina Museum of Art , the 5.9-mile Art to Heart Trail winds through the museum’s 164-acre park, passes behind Meredith College, cuts through the main campus at NC State, passes by Pullen Park and finishes in downtown just outside of the Duke Energy Performing Arts Center.

Watch this video of the trail:

American Tobacco Trail

The 23-mile American Tobacco Trail runs along the abandoned railroad bed originally built for the American Tobacco Company in the 70s. The trail crosses through Wake County, Chatham, and Durham County. Part of the East Coast Greenway , it’s open to pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, and other non-motorized users.

Neuse River Greenway Trail

The  27-mile paved Neuse River Greenway Trail is considered the gem of the 100-mile Capital Area Greenway system. It stretches from Falls Lake in North Raleigh to the Wake County border line in southeast Raleigh. A good place to start is Anderson Point Park

Shelley Lake Park

An easy 2-mile paved scenic greenway trail loops around Shelley Lake and is popular with locals in North Raleigh, so it’s better for walkers and runners than cyclists at peak times.

Lake Lynn Trail is a 2.6 mile heavily trafficked paved loop trail with scenic views and a couple of hills but nothing too challenging.

7. Hit the Raleigh Beer Trail

Speaking of trails (of a different kind) if you like sampling beers at different breweries, and there are plenty of great Raleigh breweries, consider the Raleigh Beer Trail for a fun fall challenge and earn rewards! 

Download and print your Raleigh Beer Trail Passport , then make your way around and collect 15 or more stamps to earn a stainless steel bottle opener, a Raleigh Beer Trail pint glass hugger, and a limited edition T-shirt.

Read More : 20 Local Breweries in Raleigh to Love

8. Picnic at NC Museum of Art & Dorothea Dix Park

North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the most popular Raleigh attractions, not only for its excellent display of creative art but for its large 164-acre park and trail system through natural areas featuring more than a dozen commissioned works of art.

Plenty of cool spots and space to enjoy a picnic outside, so grab some food-to-go from one of your favorite restaurants in Raleigh . 

Dorothea Dix Park sits on a whopping 300+ acres (the largest park in Raleigh) and offers impressive skyline views of the city from wide-open fields and rolling meadows with plenty of space for picnics!

While you’re there, we highly recommend you check out the museum and their European Masterworks collection titled “Modern Vision”.

The collection features more than 50 pieces from the Phillips Collection including works by Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and more.

9. See the Carolina Hurricanes Play

The National Hockey League is in full swing, and you can join the loudest and best fans in ice hockey at PNC Arena to cheer on Raleigh’s own Carolina Hurricanes in action. See their schedule here.

10. Go Paddle Boarding or Kayaking

If you’ve been following us for a while you’ll know that we’ve embraced lake life here in Raleigh and one of our favorite family activities is stand up paddle boarding (or kayaking).

With trees surrounding the edge of a lake being one of the prime locations for leaf peeping, you can get a great perspective out on the water.  Read our guide on 9 places to go paddling .

11. Visit the State Farmers’ Market

As one of four regional Farmers Markets across North Carolina, the Raleigh Farmers Market is considered one of the nation’s best and most modern markets.

Fall in Raleigh is a lovely time to explore and pick out what fruit is in season from across NC. And they have PUMPKINS…Open 7 days per week!

12. The Raleigh Market

Fall in Raleigh is a good time to explore The Raleigh Market . With over 500 vendors selling a wide variety of items, this flea market at the State Fairgrounds is one of the unique places to visit in Raleigh and has been an entertaining shopping experience since 1971.

13. Go Ziplining and Take on a Tree-Tops Adventure Course at Go Ape

We took our youngest here for her birthday in August which was a little on the hot and humid side, but alas you are shaded by trees

Never fear though, the cooler temps in fall make for the perfect time to visit GoApe and take on the 500-foot-long zipline and tree top adventure courses. Allow 2-3 hours. Fun for the whole family. Check out our review of Go Ape in Raleigh.

14. Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park

The Pumpkin Flotilla is an annual event you can take your carved pumpkins to at Bond Park in Cary, and enjoy a discounted boat ride. Typically prior to Halloween. Check their website each year for dates and times!

There are so many fun things to do in Raleigh and nearby for Halloween. Check out our guide sharing 27 Halloween experiences for the Triangle and beyond

15. Plan a Fall Road Trip to the Mountains (or Coast)

If you’re interested in getaways from Raleigh, or even just day trips from Raleigh to nearby towns, the fall is a great time to plan a road trip.

The mountains are obviously prime leaf peeping territory and beautiful this time of year. As for the coast, the big crowds and heat of summer have left but the temperatures are still pleasant in the 70s. Boone is a fantastic getaway, as is downtown Asheville .

16. Celebrate American Indian Heritage at North Carolina Museum of History

2023 marks the 28th annual festival dedicated to The American Indian Heritage Celebration at the North Carolina Museum of History. The event takes place on Saturday 18th November and also has a virtual  Education Day  on Friday 17th November.

The festival will host multiple demonstrations, presentations, and performances that showcase the contributions of American Indians in North Carolina.

From artistic displays to historic talks and traditional workshops, this is a great place to learn about the native communities in Raleigh.

17. Check Out “Kooky Spooky” at the Marbles Kids Museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh in fall with kids, then plan a trip to Kooky Spooky at The Marbles Kids Museum. Taking place on Friday, October 27th , this is a fun way to experience the magic of marbles and Halloween in one exciting evening.

From Monster Mash dance parties to cauldron cooking to scientific experiments, there is much to enjoy at this family friendly event. Oh, and don’t forget to wear your Halloween costumes!

Last but not least, don’t forget to head on down to the City Of Oaks Marathon held on Sunday 5th November. In 2023, the marathon is celebrating its 17th annual running after a five-year absence, so it’s expected to draw huge crowds and lots of participants this year!

Runners will be heading on a loop around the city , starting from the northern edge of the North Carolina State University campus, along Hillsborough Street , passing the Meredith College of Art campus and parallel to the I-440.

There will be four races of differing lengths (5K, 10K, 13.1 miles and 26.2 miles), but each race will pass through downtown Raleigh. Whether you’re participating or not, head down to downtown on the 5th November and support the runners!

Raleigh in the Fall Podcast Episode

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 .

Final Thoughts

Check out our posts on 15 fun day trips from Raleigh . For longer breaks, read about the top places to go in the North Carolina Mountains , and our 20 things to do in the Outer Banks .

I hope this post gives you ideas on stuff to do in Raleigh in the fall of a very unique year. If you have any suggestions on things to do in the Triangle, leave us a comment below. 

About The Author

Craig Makepeace

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It's concert season. Shows in Fayetteville and Raleigh to put on your calendar this summer

Although Fayetteville native J. Cole’s annual Dreamville Festival is now in the books for 2024, residents can still find concerts in Cumberland County and the Triangle this summer.

From Meghan Thee Stallion to Blink 182 to Tim McGraw, here are the dates to mark on your calendars and where you can catch a summer concert in Fayetteville and Raleigh.

Little River Band

Rock group Little River Brand known for its 1970s- and '80s-era hits like “Reminiscing,” “ Lady ” and “ Lonesome Loser, ” will be at the Crown Theatre, 1960 Coliseum Drive in Fayetteville, on May 4.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Gospel singer Tasha Cobbs Lenard , along with The Clark Sisters , Jekalyn Carr and Marvin Sapp , will be part of a Mother’s Day celebration on May 10 at the Crown Arena, 1960 Coliseum Drive, Fayetteville.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $65 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Big Daddy Weave

Christian band Big Daddy Weave will perform at The Village Baptist Church , 906 S. McPherson Church Road, Fayetteville, on June 9 as part of their Heaven Changes Everything Tour .

Doors open at 7 p.m., and general admission tickets start at $25.

Tickets can be purchased at ticketweb.com.

John Fogerty

Singer-songwriter John Fogerty's, The Celebration Tour, takes the stage at the Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh on June 5.

The show will " celebrate his songs from Creedance Clearwater Revival. " and has special guest George Thorogood and the Destroyers and Fogerty's son's successful LA rock band Hearty Har .

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $54 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Megan Thee Stallion

Grammy-award rapper Megan Thee Stallion , known for hits like “ Hot Girl Summer, ” and “Savage Remix,” and “Hiss,” will be at PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Road, in Raleigh on June 4.

Doors open at 6 p.m.

Tickets start at $122 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Dave Matthews Band

The Dave Matthews Band takes the stage at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on June 14.

Tickets start at $67 and can be purchased on ticketmaster.com.

Justin Timberlake

Grammy award winner and pop singer Justin Timberlake , known for hits like “ Rock Your Body ,” “ SexyBack ,” and “ Can’t Stop the Feeling! ” will be at PNC Arena on June 12.

Tickets start at $83 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Grammy winner and country singer Tim McGraw , known for hits like “It’s Your Love,” “Live Like You Were Dying ,” and “Just to See You Smile, ” will be at PNC Arena on June 22.

Tickets start at $34 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com .

Outlaw Music Festival

Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss will be part the Outlaw Music Festival at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on June 23.

Doors open at 5 p.m.

Tickets start at $42 and can be purchased at TicketNetwork.com.

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ice Cube, and IRONTOM

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ice Cube, and IRONTOM will be at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on June 26.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $111 and can be purchased at TicketNetwork.com.

Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Morgan Wade

Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Morgan Wade will be at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on June 27.

Tickets start at $44 and can be purchased at TicketNetwork.com.

Grammy winner and rapper Kid Cud i, known for hits like “Just What I Am,” and “The Scotts,” will be at PNC Arena on July 11.

Tickets start at $44.95 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Xscape and SWV

The Queens of R&B: Xscape & SWV perform at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on July 20.

Doors at 7 p.m.

Tickets begin at $41 and can be purchased at livenation.com.

Third Eye Blind, Yellowcard and Arizona

Third Eye Blind, Yellowcard and Arizona will be at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on July 21.

Tickets start at $40 and can be purchased at TicketNetwork.com.

New Kids on the Block

New Kids on the Block with Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff will be at Raleigh's Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek on July 28.

Tickets start at $41 and can be purchased at livenation.com .

Punk rock band Blink 182 , known for their hits like “What’s My Age Again?,” and “All the Small Things,” will be at PNC Arena on July 30.

Tickets start at $34.50 and can be purchased on ticketmaster.com.

The Doobie Brothers and Steve Winwood

The Doobie Brothers and Steve Winwood will be at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on July 31.

Tickets start at $41 and can be purchased at TicketNetwork.com.

Train and REO Speedwagon

The Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour brings together Train’s critically acclaimed catalog of global hits with REO Speedwagon’s vast collection of timeless classics at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on Aug. 9.

Doors open at 6:25 p.m.

Tickets start at $48 and can be purchased at livenation.com.

John Legend

Singer-songwriter John Legend 's presents A Night of Songs and Stories at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary on Aug. 11. Experience he 12-time Grammy winner reimagine his hits like “ All of Me ,” “ Ordinary People ,” " Tonight ."

For tickets, visit etix.com.

Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire

Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire bring their Heart & Soul 2024 North America Tour to the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh on Aug. 12.

Tickets start at $63 and can be purchased at livenation.com.

Staff writer Rachael Riley can be reached at [email protected] or 910-486-3528.

Guide to Visiting Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC: Things To Do & Tips!

O ne of our favorite getaways from Raleigh is to the opulent Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, also known as America’s largest home!

We love a stately home – they are a great way to gain an insight into the lifestyles of the wealthy and extravagant, as well as showcase some of the finest, classical architecture in the country.

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC is the castle of all castles. This French-chateaux-inspired mansion has 250 rooms and four floors and sits on a property that spans 8,000 acres (that’s 13 square miles – pretty big!)

If you’re thinking about taking a trip to Biltmore Estate from Raleigh, then this guide is for you! We’ve shared some of the best things to do at Biltmore Estate, as well as shared some tips for visiting and where to stay nearby, so you can make the most of your visit.

About Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate is nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains region, fairly close to Smoky Mountains National Park and only a 5-minute drive outside of downtown Asheville .

This sprawling estate is the vision of George Washington Vanderbilt , a former railroad tycoon who famously turned $100 into $1,000 million. His construction business made him one of the wealthiest men in the world in his prime, and of course, he built a home to showcase this.

Construction of the estate started in 1889 and was completed in 1895, taking six years to build. It was and still is regarded as America’s largest home.

Shortly after the completion of this French Renaissance château, he met his wife, Edith, who moved into the home and they had one child, Cornelia. 

When George died in 1914, the ownership of the house went to his wife, and then his child. The lineage of the estate has stayed in the Vanderbilt family and is today owned by his great-grandson, Bill Cecil Jr.

What makes the Vanderbilt family unique is that although they were wealthy, they wanted to share what they had with the world, and from the moment the house was built they opened their doors to the community, hosting events throughout the year.

They also provided employment opportunities and gave their workers New York salaries, which uplifted the local community and contributed to the growth of nearby towns.

Biltmore Estate is more than an architectural marvel, but a work of art. It has been a registered National Historic Landmark since 1963.

How many days to see Biltmore Estate?

We recommend you allow at least 2 full days to explore the entire Biltmore Estate. When you purchase an entrance ticket for Biltmore House, you receive free access to the grounds for the following day.

Most people take two days to explore the grounds and house, but nothing is stopping you from staying longer. Ideally, three days would be better, as there are a lot of activities you can do there from clay shooting to craft workshops to Land Rover tours. 

Any more than three days would be pushing it (and weighing heavily on your wallet).

Several people I’ve met have told me they’ll visit Biltmore on a day trip from Raleigh and have a great time. At a minimum three and a half hours drive from Raleigh one way, I personally would not visit on a day trip from Raleigh!

But, I have visited Biltmore in just one day before coming in from Asheville or Lake Lure. On those one-day visits, we tend to only fit in the house, gardens and wine tasting.

Things To Do At Biltmore Estate

1. tour the house.

Of course, the most important thing to do at Biltmore Estate is to explore Biltmore house and gardens. After all, this is what you come to see, right?

You can take a self-guided audio tour , which is included in your ticket price , or you can opt for a guided tour. It’s up to you how you do it, but make sure you book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, as it often sells out (and you make a saving by booking in advance).

The audio tour takes about 90-minutes and takes you through the most important rooms in the house (not all 250 are open to the public). 

You’ll see the elegant and spacious banquet hall, entrance hall, winter garden, and breakfast room. You also get to visit George and Edith’s bedroom, which has been decorated in period furnishings and hosts displays of vintage clothing, art, and more.

As you wander through these grand rooms, the audio guide will narrate stories that illustrate the lives of the Vanderbilt family and the people around them.

The basement level is one of the most inspiring sections of the house. Here you can see the kitchen, staff quarters, laundry room, and other areas used by the workers of the house. It’s amazing to think what it would have looked like in the beginning.

After the tour, be sure to stop by the shops in the former Carriage Homes to pick up souvenirs or refreshments before exploring the grounds.

Always check the Biltmore schedule as they often have special exhibitions inside the house. We’ve visited before when they had a special Titanic the movie exhibition with costumes throughout the house and interesting pieces of information and connections between the settings of the movie and Biltmore.

2. Explore the Biltmore Estate Gardens

If you think the house is impressive, wait until you see the backyard! Standing on the verandah at the back of the house, you’ll be met with sprawling scenes of the Pisgah National Forest, which Vanderbilt strived to protect.

As well as wandering through the nature trails of the woodlands, take a couple of hours to wander through the former and informal gardens.

As with the house, Vanderbilt left no expense when it came to designing the gardens . They were designed by America’s foremost landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, and have been divided into several sections.

Be sure to visit the Italian garden, azalea garden, and shrub garden, and see the orchids in the spring garden conservatory. The rose garden is beautiful in the spring and has over 250 varieties of plants.

NOTE: I have just finished the Devil in the White City book which is all about Chicago’s World Fair in 1893. Olmsted was the landscape architect for the fair and they mention Biltmore House several times in the book, as he was working on Biltmore’s garden project at the same time.

3. Enjoy Complimentary Wine-Tasting

Did you know that Biltmore Winery is one of the most visited wineries in the USA? Well, now you do! And the good news is, with your entrance ticket, you get free wine tasting of around 20 handcrafted wines from their vineyard, some of which have won awards.

For the kids, they can have a complimentary grape juice, so they don’t miss out.

While I really enjoyed the wine tasting experience at Biltmore, and highly recommend you do it, Biltmore wine is not something I’d choose to drink outside of the estate. It’s really not too bad, but not my typical style. I would drink it again on my next visit though for sure!

4. Visit Antler Hill Village

Antler Hill Village is a tiny village set up on the estate where all the action is. It’s where you will find places to eat, The Creamery ice cream shop, stores, an Outdoor Adventure Center, and the winery.

When we last visited, there was even live music playing in the grassy area in the village.

Be sure to dine at one of Biltmore’s restaurants, which continue the legacy of Vanderbilt’s farm-to-table ethos and use herbs grown from the estate’s garden.

We ate at Village Social, which was more casual, but we heard good things about Cedric’s Tavern, which is a traditional, English-looking pub. And don’t miss a chance to take the kids to the farmyard at Antler Hill Village to see the chickens and goats.

5. Go For a Hike Around The Deer Park Area

There are nearly 22 miles of hiking trails in the entire Biltmore Estate, so if you want to get out into nature and explore, you have a lot of areas to explore. 

Head into the Deer Park Area and walk along the French Broad River, or traverse through the forests and open meadows. Be sure to visit the Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village for a detailed trail map.

6. Go Horseback Riding

If hiking 22 miles of trails sounds too daunting for you, then consider exploring the nature sites on horseback instead. You can take a 1-hour, western-style guided ride through the woodlands and meadows of the estate, accompanied by an experienced guide.

There is a maximum of 10 people per horseback riding tour, so you can enjoy the quietness and ambiance of the forest without a huge tour group to spoil the atmosphere.

7. See the Chihuly Exhibit (April Only)

When we visited the Biltmore Estate back in 2014, we were lucky to see the work of American artist, David Chihuly.

Due to its popularity, it will be welcomed back this April 2024 for a limited time only and can also be observed intimately at a few formal dinner events.

David Chihuly is famous for his colorful glass sculptures, which will be displayed in front of the mansion as well as in the gardens.

We loved the bright colors and unique shapes of his sculptures, and highly recommend you go to check them out. It really made an already beautiful garden bloom with even more splendor. It made our list of spring break destinations from Raleigh.

8. Have Afternoon Tea at The Dining Room

What better way to experience the elegance and grandeur of this estate than by enjoying a traditional Afternoon Tea? 

Vanderbilt often had a tradition of having afternoon tea with his guests, and the tradition lives on at the Inn on Biltmore Estate Dining Room, where tea is served with fresh-baked scones with clotted cream, honey, and jam.

You will also get a selection of sweet and savory canapés as well as a selection of sandwiches. And you can also have a tea-infused cocktail if you prefer to make it boozy.

NOTE: this is an “elegant attire” activity, and you won’t be allowed in if you rock up in shorts and sandals. Come wearing your best dress shirts and dresses.

9. Stay at The Inn at Biltmore Estate

The Inn at Biltmore Estate is a four-star luxury hotel on the property that continues that exuberant charm from the main mansion.

From the grandeur of the hotel foyer to the magnificent mountain views to the complimentary glasses of champagne on arrival – it’s luxury through and through.

All rooms are decorated in a period style close to Biltmore Mansion’s style, but still feel comfortable and elegant. It’s expensive, but it’s well worth it for a special occasion. You can read more about our stay at The Inn at Biltmore Estate here .

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees

The Biltmore Estate is open all year round, though hours of operation vary by season and differ for each shop and restaurant, so it’s best to check the website before visiting . The house is open from 8.30am until around 5.00pm.

As for admission, ticket prices vary depending on the time of year. The price of visiting in the winter starts at $75, and prices in Spring and Summer start at $80. All tickets allow access to explore the magnificent Biltmore House and its sprawling grounds. 

If you are visiting during the Christmas period (Nov 2-Jan 5), prices start at $110. Visiting Biltmore Estate at Christmas to see the lights is a Christmas experience not to miss in NC .

Additional activities such as clay shooting, horseback riding, and other workshops and classes are additional to the ticket price.

Where To Stay When Visiting Biltmore Estate

Of course, there are places to stay on the Biltmore Estate which make a visit much easier. The Inn at Biltmore Estate is the most luxurious hotel on the grounds, as we mentioned earlier, but if you’re looking for something more modern, consider the following:

The Village Hotel

The Village Hotel is a newer hotel on the grounds and is of 3* quality. It has spacious and comfortable rooms, decorated in a more modern flare but still offers the warm hospitality that Biltmore is famous for.

The Cottages

There are also a couple of self-contained cottages on the estate that you can rent if you prefer a little more privacy and more amenities. You will need to book in advance for these though, as there is only a handful.

Hotel Indigo in Asheville

If you don’t want to stay on the grounds, we enjoyed our stay at Hotel Indigo in downtown Asheville . It’s a great location and has comfortable rooms.

Another option is to stay in Lake Lure, which is about an hour’s drive from Biltmore Estate. We love it there and if you’re planning to visit Asheville for 2+ days , consider making a stop by. We have a guide on our ytravelblog.com site on why we love Lake Lure and what to do there.

Tips for Visiting Biltmore Estate

To make the most of your trip, here are some words of advice:

• Get there early to avoid the crowds. Even if you have booked your ticket in advance, you’ll want to enjoy the house and gardens with fewer people. If possible, visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
• Purchase your tickets in advance. Reservations are required for the self-guided visit to Biltmore House and are timed entry, so you do need to book in advance to make sure that tickets are available.
• Get to the house at least 45 minutes before your Biltmore House entry time . It takes time to find a parking space and catch the shuttle bus to the house.
• Note that children under 16 are allowed to enter free for all summer (through Labor Day)! The rest of the year, children under 9 and admitted free.
• If you want to see the Christmas Lights or other special events throughout the year, book way in advance as they are very popular, and tickets sell out quickly. Biltmore Bloom in Spring is another popular event that boasts incredible floral displays.
• You need to drive from location to location in the estate, it’s that big!