History, arts & eats: Raleigh's perfect weekend for every explorer
In the heart of North Carolina, Raleigh's Southern charm, cultural flair and lively vibe await. Got a weekend to spare? Raleigh's got you covered with a bunch of things to do. Whether you're into history, food or artsy stuff, we've got the lowdown on how to make the most of your weekend escape in Raleigh.
Here's a list of things you can do in Raleigh:
Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art: This museum has a vast collection of art spanning centuries, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works. The museum also has beautiful outdoor grounds with walking trails and sculptures, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Learn about state history at the North Carolina Museum of History: This fascinating museum brings North Carolina’s rich past to life, showcasing over 14,000 years of history – from the lives of the earliest Native American inhabitants to the 20th century.
Relax and enjoy a day at Pullen Park: This historic park is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or go for a swim. The park also has a carousel, a miniature train, and a paddleboat lake.
Catch a performance at the Red Hat Amphitheater: This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
Go for a hike or bike ride on the Neuse River Trail: This trail is a great way to see the city and get some exercise. The trail is over 27 miles long and winds along the Neuse River.
Catch a hockey game at PNC Arena: PNC Arena is home to the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes.
Take a stroll through the North Carolina State Capitol: This Greek Revival-style building is the seat of North Carolina's government. Visitors can take a guided tour of the capitol or explore the grounds on their own. (The North Carolina State Capitol is currently closed to the public for construction and repair work. They are expected to reopen this summer.)
See a concert at the Raleigh Convention Center: The Raleigh Convention Center hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
Engage your child's curiosity at Marbles Kids Museum: This museum is specifically designed for children aged 10 and under and offers a variety of hands-on exhibits that will spark their imagination and creativity. The museum also features the state's only IMAX theater, which is a great option for older kids and adults.
Explore the outdoors at Umstead Park: William B. Umstead State Park is a large park with over 5,500 acres of forests, lakes, and trails. Visitors can go hiking, biking, fishing, or boating in the park. The park also has a visitor center with exhibits on the park's natural history.
Go brewery hopping on the Raleigh Beer Trail: Raleigh has a thriving craft beer scene, and the Raleigh Beer Trail is a great way to sample some of the city's best beers. The trail includes over 30 breweries, taprooms, and cideries.
See dinosaur skeletons and other fascinating exhibits at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: This museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Raleigh and is sure to amaze visitors of all ages.
Shop for local produce at the Raleigh State Farmers Market: The Raleigh State Farmers Market is one of the largest farmers markets in North Carolina. The market is open year-round and features a variety of fresh produce, meat, seafood, and baked goods.
Pope House Museum: Raleigh's Pope House Museum, the only one for African Americans in North Carolina, offers a glimpse into Black family life during segregation. Explore original furnishings and learn about Dr. Pope, a prominent citizen, doctor, and mayoral candidate. It's a window into Raleigh's past.
Race souped-up, electric go-karts at Rush Hour Karting: Experience the thrill of racing high-performance electric go-karts at Rush Hour Karting. These eco-friendly karts offer an exciting and fast-paced activity for all ages. They even have special features for younger riders. Put on your helmet, feel the rush of competition, and see if you can set the fastest lap time!
Step back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park: Historic Yates Mill County Park transports you back in time. This 1750 grist mill is one of the oldest operating mills in North Carolina. Explore the mill and learn how it used water power to grind cornmeal and flour. Witness demonstrations by costumed interpreters and see the millstones in action. The park also offers scenic hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.
Raleigh has a fantastic food scene
Fine Dining: Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is an elegant American restaurant set in a historic Second Empire house. They offer a seasonal menu with a focus on local ingredients.
Upscale Southern: Crawford and Son offers a modern take on Southern cuisine. Their menu includes dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and pecan pie.
Mediterranean: Ajja features a menu of Eastern Mediterranean dishes, including mezze, lamb shanks, and seafood.
Seafood: The Cortez is a popular spot for fresh seafood. They offer a variety of oysters, clams, crabs, and fish.
Casual American: Irregardless Cafe is a long-running cafe offering a global menu of locally sourced fare, plus live music. They have a great brunch menu and a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and entrees.
French: Jolie is a French bistro that offers a menu of classic French dishes. They have a great wine list and a charming atmosphere.
Global Fusion: Brewery Bhavana is a brewery and restaurant that serves up a unique menu of Asian-inspired dishes. They have a large selection of beers on tap, as well as a variety of cocktails and wines.
Food truck: Tombachi Restaurants is a Raleigh -based food truck specializing in Hibachi cuisine. They offer a variety of dishes, including marinated chicken, hand-cut ribeye steak, salmon, jumbo shrimp, and dumplings. They also have their famous fried rice and recently added yakisoba noodles.
Southern Comfort: Poole's Diner is a classic Raleigh institution that serves up delicious Southern comfort food. Their menu includes dishes like fried chicken, chicken and waffles, and pimento cheese.
