things to do in raleigh nc

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

Outdoor Activities:

1. JC Raulston Arboretum: A 10-acre botanical garden featuring beautiful plants and flowers.
2. William B. Umstead State Park: A 5,579-acre park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lake.
3. Neuse River Greenway Trail: A 28-mile trail for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
4. Raleigh Union Station: A historic train station turned event space with a park and walking trails.

Cultural Attractions:

1. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: A museum featuring exhibits on science, nature, and technology.
2. North Carolina Museum of Art: A museum with a diverse collection of art from around the world.
3. Raleigh Little Theatre: A community theater with a variety of productions throughout the year.
4. Marbles Kids Museum: A children’s museum with interactive exhibits and play areas.

Food and Drink:

1. Glazed: A popular restaurant serving Southern-style comfort food.
2. Bida Manda: A Laotian restaurant with delicious street food-style dishes.
3. Big Ed’s City Market: A historic market with a variety of food vendors and shops.
4. Raleigh Brewing Company: A craft brewery with a taproom and live music.

Sports and Entertainment:

1. PNC Arena: A multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports events, and festivals.
2. Red Hat Amphitheater: An outdoor music venue with a variety of performances.
3. Raleigh Flyers: A professional indoor soccer team playing at the Raleigh Flyers Soccer Complex.
4. NC State University: A public research university with a variety of sports teams and events.

History and Education:

1. North Carolina State Capitol: A historic building with guided tours and a museum.
2. Historic Yates Mill County Park: A historic gristmill and park with walking trails.
3. Raleigh History Center: A museum showcasing the history of Raleigh and the surrounding area.
4. North Carolina State University’s Centennial Campus: A research park with a variety of educational and cultural attractions.

Festivals and Events:

1. Raleigh Festival of the Arts: A annual festival featuring art, music, and food.
2. NC State Fair: A annual fair with live music, rides, and food vendors.
3. Raleigh Jazz Festival: A annual festival featuring jazz music and performances.
4. First Night Raleigh: A annual celebration of the start of the new year with live music, food, and fireworks.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Raleigh, NC. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment.