Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a rich history, thriving culture, and an abundance of attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor lover, Raleigh has something to offer everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Raleigh:
Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art
The North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the Southeast. It houses a vast collection of over 20,000 artworks, spanning from ancient times to the present day. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. Admission to the museum is free, and it is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday.
Transportation and Accommodation
The North Carolina Museum of Art is located in the heart of Raleigh, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The museum offers free parking for visitors. Nearby accommodation options include the Raleigh Marriott City Center and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown.
Explore the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is another must-visit attraction in Raleigh. This award-winning museum is home to a variety of exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs, animals, and insects. The museum also has a planetarium and an IMAX theater. Admission to the museum is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for children.
Transportation and Accommodation
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is located in downtown Raleigh. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The museum offers paid parking for visitors. Nearby accommodation options include the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel and the Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh Downtown.
Immerse Yourself in the Duke Gardens
Duke Gardens is a stunning 55-acre botanical garden located on the campus of Duke University. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, including roses, azaleas, and tropical plants. There are also several walking trails and a lake in the gardens. Admission to the gardens is free, and they are open to the public daily.
Transportation and Accommodation
Duke Gardens is located in the Duke University campus in Durham, approximately 10 miles from downtown Raleigh. Public transportation is available, but it is easiest to reach the gardens by car. There are paid parking options available for visitors. Nearby accommodation options in Durham include the Durham Marriott City Center and the Hilton Garden Inn Durham.
Enjoy the Raleigh Rose Garden
The Raleigh Rose Garden is a beautiful 13-acre park located in downtown Raleigh. The garden features over 5,000 roses, representing more than 100 varieties. The garden is a popular spot for picnics, weddings, and other events. Admission to the garden is free, and it is open to the public daily.
Transportation and Accommodation
The Raleigh Rose Garden is located in downtown Raleigh, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The garden offers free parking for visitors. Nearby accommodation options include the Raleigh Marriott City Center and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown.
Visit the Pullen Park
Pullen Park is a historic 82-acre park located in downtown Raleigh. The park features a variety of attractions, including a carousel, a train, a playground, and a lake with paddleboats. Pullen Park is also home to the Pullen Arts Center, which offers classes and exhibitions in the arts. Admission to the park is free, and it is open to the public daily.
Transportation and Accommodation
Pullen Park is located in downtown Raleigh, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The park offers free parking for visitors. Nearby accommodation options include the Raleigh Marriott City Center and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown.
Explore the Historic Oakwood Cemetery
The Historic Oakwood Cemetery is a 16-acre cemetery located in downtown Raleigh. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable North Carolinians, including governors, senators, and generals. The cemetery is also home to a number of beautiful sculptures and monuments. Admission to the cemetery is free, and it is open to the public daily.
Transportation and Accommodation
The Historic Oakwood Cemetery is located in downtown Raleigh, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The cemetery offers free parking for visitors. Nearby accommodation options include the Raleigh Marriott City Center and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown.
Attend a Show at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
The Raleigh Memorial Auditorium is a historic venue located in downtown Raleigh. The auditorium hosts a variety of shows, including concerts, Broadway shows, and sporting events. The auditorium has a capacity of over 2,000 people.
Transportation and Accommodation
The Raleigh Memorial Auditorium is located in downtown Raleigh, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. There is limited paid parking available for visitors at the auditorium. Nearby accommodation options include the Raleigh Marriott City Center and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown.
Go Shopping at Crabtree Valley Mall
Crabtree Valley Mall is the largest shopping mall in Raleigh. The mall features over 200 stores, including department stores, specialty stores, and restaurants. The mall also has a movie theater and an ice skating rink.
Transportation and Accommodation
Crabtree Valley Mall is located in the Crabtree Valley neighborhood of Raleigh. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The mall offers free parking for visitors. Nearby accommodation options include the Crabtree Valley Marriott and the Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh Crabtree Valley.
Cheer on the Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes are a professional hockey team based in Raleigh. The Hurricanes play their home games at PNC Arena in downtown Raleigh. The Hurricanes are a popular team in Raleigh, and their games are always well-attended.
Transportation and Accommodation
PNC Arena is located in downtown Raleigh, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. There is paid parking available for visitors at the arena. Nearby accommodation options include the Raleigh Marriott City Center and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown.
Conclusion
Raleigh is a vibrant city with something to offer everyone. From museums and art galleries to parks and gardens, there is no shortage of things to see and do in the city of oaks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, be sure to check out these 10 best things to do in Raleigh.
