Top 11 Things to Do in Raleigh, North Carolina
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Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Ever since one of my best friends moved to the area a couple of years ago, it has become somewhere where I spend a lot of my time. The city has a number of museums, art galleries, theaters, and restaurants. Raleigh is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors by hiking or just laying back and enjoying the scenery (which is honestly more up my alley).
Here are some of the top things to do near Raleigh!
Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
naturalsciences.org
Price - FREE!
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a natural history museum in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is the largest museum of its kind in the Southeastern United States and the oldest established museum in North Carolina. The museum has four floors of exhibits, including a planetarium, a butterfly house, a live animal exhibit, and a variety of interactive displays. The museum also has a research library and a research collection of over 15 million specimens. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a popular destination for families, school groups, and tourists alike. It offers a variety of educational programs and events, and it is a great place to learn about the natural world.
Here are some of the museum's most popular exhibits:
The Nature Exploration Center: This exhibit features live animals from around the world, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds. Visitors can also learn about the natural history of North Carolina through interactive displays and exhibits.
The Nature Research Center: This exhibit features state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities. Visitors can learn about the work of scientists at the museum, and they can also participate in hands-on activities.
The Butterfly House: This exhibit is home to a variety of butterflies from around the world. Visitors can see the butterflies up close, and they can also learn about the life cycle of a butterfly.
The Planetarium: The museum's planetarium offers a variety of shows about the night sky. Visitors can learn about the planets, stars, and galaxies.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a great place to learn about the natural world. It is a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art
Price - FREE!
The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) is an art museum in Raleigh, North Carolina. It opened in 1956 as the first major museum collection in the country to be formed by state legislation and funding. Today, it encompasses a collection that spans more than 5,000 years of artistic work from antiquity to the present, an amphitheater for outdoor performances, and a variety of celebrated exhibitions and public programs. The Museum features over 40 galleries as well as more than a dozen major works of art in the nation's largest museum park with 164 acres.
The NCMA's permanent collection includes works by some of the most renowned artists in history, including Rembrandt, Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. The museum also has a strong collection of American art, including works by Thomas Eakins, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O'Keeffe. In addition to its permanent collection, the NCMA hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Recent exhibitions have featured the work of Andy Warhol, Ansel Adams, and Kehinde Wiley.
The North Carolina Museum of Art is a valuable resource for the people of North Carolina and the surrounding region. The museum's collections, exhibitions, and programs offer something for everyone, and the museum is committed to making art accessible to all.
Tour the North Carolina State Capitol
Price - FREE!
The North Carolina State Capitol is a National Historic Landmark and one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the country. The building is made of white marble, and its exterior is decorated with columns, pediments, and other classical elements. The interior of the building is just as impressive, with its marble floors, high ceilings, and ornate chandeliers. It is also home to the offices of the Governor of North Carolina and the North Carolina General Assembly.
In addition to its beauty, the North Carolina State Capitol is also home to a rich history and a tour is a great way to learn about the history of North Carolina and its government. Free guided tours are offered every Saturday from 11 AM - 2 PM. The building was completed in 1840 and has been the seat of state government ever since. It has been the site of many important events in North Carolina history, including the signing of the Declaration of Secession in 1861. The building is also home to a number of historical artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and furniture.
Visitors can see the Rotunda, the Supreme Court Chamber, the Governor's Office, and the House and Senate Chambers. They can also learn about the history of the building, which was built in the early 1800s and has been the seat of government for North Carolina ever since.
Catch a Show at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts
The Duke Energy Center for the Performinbg Arts is a world-class venue that hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway musicals to concerts to dance recitals. The Center has something for everyone, and it's a great place to catch a show with friends or family.
One of the best things about the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts is its location. The Center is located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, making it easy to get to and from. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, so you can make a night of it before or after the show.
The Center's venues are also top-notch. Raleigh Memorial Auditorium is a historic venue that has been hosting performances for over 80 years. The Auditorium has a capacity of 2,800 people, and it offers excellent acoustics and sightlines. Meymandi Concert Hall is a more intimate venue with a capacity of 1,200 people. The Hall is known for its warm acoustics and its state-of-the-art sound system.
The Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts also offers a variety of educational programs and events. These programs are designed to engage audiences of all ages and interests. The Center also offers a variety of discounts and benefits for students, seniors, and members of the military.
If you're looking for a great place to catch a show, the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts is the perfect choice. The Center has something for everyone, and it's a great place to make memories with friends and family.
Take a Walk Through Pullen Park
raleighnc.gov
Price - FREE!
If you are looking for a fun and affordable way to spend a day in Raleigh, then Pullen Park is the perfect place for you. Pullen Park is a 66-acre public park in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is the first public park in North Carolina, the fifth oldest operating amusement park in the United States, and the 16th oldest in the world. The park is home to a variety of attractions, including a carousel, a miniature train, a petting zoo, a playground, a lake, and a swimming pool. Pullen Park also offers a variety of activities, such as concerts, festivals, and classes.
There are many reasons why everyone should visit Pullen Park. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park is also a great place to take children, as there are many activities and attractions that are suitable for all ages. Pullen Park is also a great place to just hang out for the day with friends.
Visit the North Carolina Museum of History
Price - Free for children under 5 and $10 for adults.
The North Carolina Museum of History is a great place to learn about the history of the state. It has a large collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive activities that will keep you engaged for hours.
Some of the things you can see at the museum include:
The Wright Brothers' plane, which they flew at Kitty Hawk in 1903
The original Liberty Bell from Philadelphia
A replica of the first English settlement in North Carolina
A collection of Native American artifacts
A Civil War exhibit
A World War II exhibit
And much more!
In addition to its exhibits, the museum also has a variety of educational programs for all ages. There are programs for children, teens, and adults, and they cover a variety of topics related to North Carolina history. The museum also has a gift shop, which sells a variety of books, souvenirs, and educational materials.
The North Carolina Museum of History is a great place to learn about the history of the state. It is a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Explore the Umstead State Park
Price - FREE!
William B. Umstead State Park is a 5,599-acre park located in Wake County, North Carolina, United States. It is nestled between the expanding cities of Raleigh, Cary, and Durham, North Carolina. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and picnicking.
One of the best reasons to explore Umstead State Park is its extensive network of hiking trails. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from easy walks to challenging hikes. The trails wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands, offering stunning views of the park's natural beauty.
Another great reason to visit Umstead State Park is its biking trails. There are over 17 miles of paved trails and over 20 miles of unpaved trails for bikers to enjoy. The trails wind through the park's forests and meadows, providing a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
Umstead State Park is also a great place to go fishing. There are three manmade lakes in the park that are stocked with fish. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a boat to fish from the water.
If you're looking for a place to camp, Umstead State Park has two campgrounds. The Reedy Creek Campground has 100 campsites and the Lake Crabtree Campground has 125 campsites. Both campgrounds have restrooms, showers, and water hookups.
Umstead State Park also has several picnic areas that are perfect for a family picnic. The picnic areas have tables, grills, and restrooms.
No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to enjoy at Umstead State Park. So come explore this beautiful park and see all that it has to offer!
Visit the Historic Yates Mill County Park
Price - FREE!
Historic Yates Mill County Park is a 174-acre park located in the southwestern part of Wake County, North Carolina. The park is home to a restored 18th century gristmill, as well as a variety of hiking trails, a pond, and a visitor center.
The mill was built in 1756 by William Yates, and it was used to grind corn and wheat for local farmers. The mill operated for over 200 years, and it was eventually abandoned in the early 20th century. In the 1970s, the mill was restored by the Wake County government, and it was opened to the public as a historic site.
The mill is now a popular tourist destination, and it is open for tours on weekends from March to November. Visitors can learn about the history of the mill and how it was used by local farmers. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails, which wind through the woods and along the millpond. The trails are a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.
The visitor center at the park has a variety of exhibits on the history of the mill and the surrounding area. The center also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs.
Historic Yates Mill County Park is a great place to learn about the history of Wake County and enjoy the outdoors.
Take a Day Trip to the Beach
I know a beach day isn’t what you originally think of when you’re right in the center of North Carolina. But if you have some extra time and want to get out of the city, the Outer Banks is just a short drive from Raleigh, and they offer stunning beaches, charming towns, and plenty of activities.
The beaches are wide and sandy, with plenty of room to spread out and relax. The water is clear and warm, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. If you're looking for something more adventurous, the Outer Banks has plenty of options for you. You can go kiteboarding, windsurfing, or parasailing. You can also go fishing, crabbing, or clamming. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even go shipwreck diving.
The Outer Banks is also home to a rich history. It was the site of the first English settlement in the New World, and it's home to many historic sites, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the Lost Colony.
No matter what you're looking for in a vacation, the Outer Banks of North Carolina is the perfect place for you. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and endless activities, the Outer Banks is sure to have something for everyone.
Visit the JC Raulston Arboretum
Price - Free!
The JC Raulston Arboretum is a 10-acre botanical garden and arboretum located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is open daily to the public and it’s free! The arboretum is home to a wide variety of plants from around the world, including many that are not native to North Carolina. The gardens are beautifully landscaped and offer a variety of experiences for visitors, including walking trails, educational programs, and special events.
Here are just a couple of reasons why you should visit the JC Raulston Arboretum:
To see a wide variety of plants from around the world. The arboretum has over 6,000 species of plants, including many that are not native to North Carolina. This makes it a great place to learn about different plants and their uses.
To enjoy the beautiful gardens. The arboretum is beautifully landscaped with a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, a perennial border, and a Japanese garden. The gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
To participate in educational programs. The arboretum offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including lectures, workshops, and tours. These programs are a great way to learn more about plants and gardening.
To attend special events. The arboretum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and plant sales. These events are a great way to enjoy the gardens and learn more about plants.
If you are looking for a beautiful and educational place to visit, the JC Raulston Arboretum is a great option. It is a great place to learn about plants, enjoy the outdoors, and participate in educational programs.
Take a Walk Along the Neuse River Trail
Price - FREE!
The Neuse River Trail is a 34.5 mile long paved greenway located in the Raleigh area of North Carolina, running along the banks of the Neuse River from Falls Lake Dam to the town of Clayton. The route passes through the jurisdictions of Raleigh, Wake Forest, Knightdale, and Clayton in Wake and Johnston counties.
The trail is open to walkers, runners, cyclists, and rollerbladers. It is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and offers scenic views of the river, wetlands, and agricultural fields. The trail also passes through several historic sites, including the Falls of Neuse State Historic Site and the Dorothea Dix Hospital Historic District.
If you are looking for a fun and healthy way to spend your time in Raleigh, I highly recommend taking a walk along the Neuse River Trail. You will not be disappointed!
These are just a few of the many things to do near Raleigh. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have a great time in this vibrant city.
Hi, I’m Karen!Travel Blogger & Photographer + Founder of The Everyday Adventure
Here I share travel tips, packing guides, planning help, and photography from many different parts of the world. I help other working 9-5 adventurers get out into the world and see as much as they can with the little time they have available.
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