things to do in raleigh

Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, is a vibrant and eclectic destination with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting activities to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Raleigh:

1. North Carolina State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the historic Capitol building and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.
2. Raleigh Union Station: Explore the beautifully restored 1920s train station, now home to shops, restaurants, and a hotel.
3. JC Raulston Arboretum: Stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the diverse plant collections, including a rose garden and a sensory garden.
4. Marbles Kids Museum: Engage in interactive exhibits and play areas designed for kids of all ages.
5. Raleigh Little Theatre: Catch a performance at this intimate theater, which hosts a variety of productions throughout the year.
6. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Discover the natural world through exhibits on science, nature, and technology.
7. PNC Arena: Catch a sports game or concert at this state-of-the-art arena, home to the Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) and the North Carolina State University Wolfpack.
8. Raleigh City Market: Browse the historic market, which offers a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
9. William B. Umstead State Park: Escape the city and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in this beautiful park.
10. Glenwood South: Explore the trendy nightlife and dining scene in this vibrant neighborhood, known for its bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
11. NC Museum of Art: Visit the beautiful campus, which features a collection of over 5,000 works of art, including pieces by renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol.
12. Raleigh Farmers Market: Stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and local products at this bustling market, which takes place every Saturday morning.
13. Cary Towne Center: Shop and dine at this upscale outdoor mall, which features a variety of stores and restaurants.
14. JC Raulston Arboretum’s Rose Garden: Stroll through the beautiful rose garden, which features over 1,000 varieties of roses.
15. Raleigh’s Downtown Farmers Market: Visit the market every Thursday morning to sample local foods and drinks.
16. North Carolina State University: Take a campus tour and explore the beautiful grounds, which feature a variety of historic buildings and landmarks.
17. Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood Neighborhood: Explore the charming streets and homes of this historic neighborhood, which features a mix of Victorian and Craftsman-style architecture.
18. Marbles Kids Museum’s IMAX Theater: Catch a movie on the giant screen at this unique theater, which offers a variety of films for kids and adults.
19. Raleigh’s Red Hat Amphitheater: Attend a concert or festival at this outdoor amphitheater, which hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
20. NC Museum of History: Learn about the history of North Carolina through exhibits on topics like the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the state’s natural history.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Raleigh. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.