What Makes Raleigh A Great Place To Visit?

Raleigh is a great city for tourists, offering beauty, culture and a sense of adventure. Located in North Carolina, Raleigh is the capital city of the state and home to many of the state’s biggest attractions. From its stunning landscape, world-class restaurants and cultural attractions, Raleigh has plenty to offer on any trip.Raleigh has something to offer everyone, whether it be cultural attractions or stunning scenery. Its mild climate, 25 miles of greenways, fantastic parks and state-of-the-art natural attractions make it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday. Here are five of the best reasons to visit Raleigh.

1. Nature & Parks

Raleigh is home to some of the best parks in North Carolina, from the William B. Umstead State Park to Pullen Park and the Neuse River Trail. The city also boasts of more than 25 miles of greenways and 25 miles of bike trails. There are also over 70 waterfalls in and around the city, which makes for some breathtaking sightseeing. For nature-lovers, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors, with fishing, biking and hiking spots readily available.

2. Cultural Sites & Activities

Raleigh has a wealth of cultural attractions and activities. There are dozens of art galleries, museums, performing arts centers and performing arts venues to explore during your visit. Raleigh also hosts an impressive live music scene, featuring top acts such as Ed Sheeran and Kings Of Leon. Festivals such as the Raleigh Arts & Music Festival, Paint The Town and Start Something Raleigh bring even more music, art and culture to the city.

3. Shopping & Dining

Raleigh is home to one of the biggest shopping districts in North Carolina – the Glenwood South district. Here you’ll find designer stores, boutique shops, trendy cafes and fine dining establishments to explore. The Three Little Pigs BBQ Smokehouse is a popular local establishment for excellent barbeque sandwiches and smoked meats. There’s also award-winning restaurants such as Poole’s Diner for modern American dining and Drink Master for excellent craft beers and cocktails.

4. Sports

Raleigh is well-known for its love of sports, particularly its two NBA teams – the Charlotte Hornets and Durham Bulls. The city also has an impressive Minor League Baseball team called the Carolina Mudcats. There are a number of sporting facilities too to explore including Dorothea Dix Park which has plenty of sport fields and tranquil areas to enjoy a picnic lunch.

5. Accommodation

When visiting Raleigh, you’ll want to stay in a place that capture all that the city has to offer. With so much diversity in accommodation available, you’ll never be stuck for choice on where to stay during your visit. The Raleigh Marriott City Center offers luxurious rooms with private balconies overlooking downtown Raleigh and nearby attractions such as the NCMA Amphitheater, while the Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Downtown offers a modern boutique experience with stylish décor and world-class service. Overall, Raleigh has plenty of naturally beautiful attractions and activities for both the urban explorer and outdoor enthusiast alike. With its mild climate, stunning natural scenery and cultural attractions, Raleigh is definitely a great place for anyone looking for an exciting holiday experience or weekend getaway. To learn more about what Raleigh has to offer visitors, you can visit visitraleigh.com.

Insider’s Guide to Raleigh, North Carolina

When it comes to exploring the southern states of the US, Raleigh, North Carolina, is often overlooked by tourists in favor of larger cities like Atlanta or Charleston. However, what many people don’t realize is that Raleigh is a booming city with a rich history and vast cultural offerings that make it a fantastic destination for travelers. From its picturesque downtown to its endless array of museums, parks, and dining spots, this city has something for everyone. Here is our insider’s guide to what makes Raleigh a great place to visit:

Local Attractions

There are plenty of local attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting Raleigh. For those who enjoy a good history lesson, the State Capitol building is a must-see. Constructed in the 1830s, this building features stunning architecture and offers free tours which explain the state’s storied history.
Similarly, the North Carolina Museum of History, located in downtown Raleigh, is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the state’s past. With exhibits on everything from the Civil War to Native American culture, this museum is perfect for history buffs of all ages.
If you’re traveling with kids, the Marbles Kids Museum is a fun and interactive way to keep them entertained for hours. From a giant pirate ship to a replica grocery store, this museum is equal parts entertainment and education.

Dining Spots

Raleigh’s foodie scene is no joke, and there are plenty of dining spots to satisfy every craving. For a taste of classic Southern cuisine, be sure to stop by Beasley’s Chicken + Honey. Famous for its crispy fried chicken, fluffy biscuits, and sweet honey, this restaurant is a must-visit.
For a unique twist on classic American fare, check out Brewery Bhavana. This restaurant serves up delicious craft beer and mouth-watering dumplings in a stunning space that also doubles as a bookstore and flower shop.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head over to Bittersweet, where you can indulge in delicious desserts like homemade ice cream, cakes, and gourmet chocolates.

Cultural Experiences

There’s always something happening in Raleigh’s vast cultural scene, so check out some of their offerings when you’re in town. For a classic evening out, head over to the Raleigh Little Theatre. This community theater has been in operation for over 85 years and hosts multiple productions throughout the year.
If you’re more interested in the performing arts, look no further than the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. Home to The Carolina Ballet, North Carolina Symphony, and Theatre in the Park, there’s always something to catch at this buzzing cultural center.
Finally, if you’re visiting during the summer months, you may want to check out Raleigh’s outdoor music series. From concerts in the park to live performances at the Amphitheatre, the city has something to offer every music lover.

Local History

If you’re interested in learning more about Raleigh’s history beyond the museums, there are plenty of walking tours available. The African American Heritage Walking Tour, for example, will take you through the city’s African American history, from its earliest roots to present-day.
For a more unconventional history experience, head over to the Mordecai Historic Park. Here, you can visit five historic structures, including the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson.
Finally, for a touch of mystery and intrigue, check out the Historic Oakwood Cemetery. This graveyard includes the final resting places of many notable Raleigh citizens and features stunning Victorian-era grave markers and monuments.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking to explore some lesser-known attractions while in Raleigh, be sure to visit the City Market, located in the heart of downtown. This charming indoor market features everything from artisanal cheeses to homemade soaps and is housed in a restored 1914 building.
For a taste of the great outdoors, head over to the Neuse River Trail, a paved trail that follows the scenic Neuse River. Perfect for walking, running, or biking, this trail is a great way to see the natural beauty surrounding Raleigh.
Finally, if you’re a fan of craft beer, check out some of the city’s many breweries. From the Raleigh Brewing Company to Trophy Brewing, this city is home to some of the best craft beer in the South.

Conclusion

From its vast cultural offerings to its thriving food and drink scene, Raleigh is a great place to visit. Whether you’re interested in history, the performing arts, or just exploring the outdoors, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of a city. Next time you’re traveling to the South, be sure to make a stop in Raleigh – you won’t be disappointed!