Things to do in Raleigh

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Raleigh Travel Guide

Aerial view of Raleigh, North Carolina skyline on a sunny day.

Panorama view of downtown Raleigh Skyline

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What to do in Raleigh

Discover the most popular places to visit in Raleigh

Duke University

Walk around the campus of Duke University, a top college in Durham. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

North Carolina State University

Explore the campus of North Carolina State University during your visit to Raleigh. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

Raleigh Convention Center

Learn about the events happening at Raleigh Convention Center during your trip to Raleigh. Experience the acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Not many flowers on the beach - had a bad winter I guess

Lenovo Center

Catch an event at Lenovo Center during your trip to Raleigh. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

North Carolina Historic State Fairgrounds Commercial and Education Building

North Carolina State Fairgrounds

Enjoy an outing to North Carolina State Fairgrounds during your stay in Raleigh. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

The Old Well at UNC Chapel Hill during the spring with azaleas blooming

University of North Carolina

Explore the campus of University of North Carolina, during your travels in Chapel Hill. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.

Dorothea Dix Park

Dorothea Dix Park is just one of the places to see in Raleigh, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels?

Franklin Street

During your visit to Chapel Hill, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Franklin Street. Visit the area's cathedral, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Crabtree Valley Mall

You can enjoy retail therapy at Crabtree Valley Mall during your trip to Raleigh. Attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh

4.5/5(65 area reviews)

While visiting Downtown Raleigh, you might make a stop by sights like Marbles Kids Museums and The Acorn.

North Hills

5/5(148 area reviews)

North Hills is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by North Hills Shopping Center and Lassiter Mill Historic Park while in the area.

This is an awesome little used book store that's been around forever. You can trade in books for store credit and "pennies are more work than they're worth." Great little place! They usual have the book I'm looking for too.

Southwest Raleigh

4/5(774 area reviews)

While visiting Southwest Raleigh, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Johnson and J.C. Raulston Arboretum.

Downtown Durham

4.5/5(105 area reviews)

Discover a historic district with 97 contributing buildings, showcasing Colonial Revival, Italianate, and Art Deco architecture. Visit notable landmarks like Durham County Courthouse and Carolina Theatre.

We got ice over the weekend making these puffy robins stand out against the frozen branches.

North Raleigh

4/5(28 area reviews)

While visiting North Raleigh, you might make a stop by sights like Lafayette Village and Durant Nature Preserve.

Midtown Raleigh

While visiting Midtown Raleigh, you might make a stop by sights like Lassiter Mill Historic Park and North Hills Shopping Center.

Popular day trips from Raleigh

Apex

Durham

This free botanical garden is on the UNC campus although you would not know it as a visitor. The gardens are beautiful and have a huge assortment of sculptures. I was impressed with the amount of information the garden had on the plants as well as the art. A great activity to do if you are in the area! Peaceful, natural, beautiful, and full of inspiring art! There is a free parking area and an information center with everything you could need.

Chapel Hill

Cary

Wake Forest

Fall Color Reflections on Sycamore Creek, William B. Umstead State Park, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA

Wendell

Frequently asked questions

Is Raleigh worth visiting?

From retail therapy to outdoor pursuits and history, there are many great things to do in Raleigh. Don't forget to discover the area's blend of cool attractions, local charm and culture.

How do I spend a day in Raleigh?

Once you've visited key attractions like Triangle Town Center and North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, spend some time enjoying Raleigh's retail and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Raleigh?

You can't go home without visiting Triangle Town Center, rated the top tourist attraction in Raleigh.

Is three days enough to stay in Raleigh?

You can easily enjoy leading attractions like North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Marbles Kids Museums and North Carolina Museum of History with a three-day getaway in Raleigh. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Durham.

Is Raleigh a walkable city?

That depends on what you plan to see and do in Raleigh. Several key sights, like North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and Marbles Kids Museums, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Raleigh's neighborhoods, Downtown Raleigh is 0.64 kilometers away from downtown, while Glenwood South is 2 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Raleigh with kids?

Deciding what to do in Raleigh with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're traveling with teenagers or toddlers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Raleigh for adults?

Bond Brothers Beer Company and Raleigh Brewing Company are just a couple of the things to do in Raleigh. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Raleigh?

In Raleigh, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a must-see spot for anyone planning to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Raleigh.