Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Raleigh NC

Discover the Best Activities in Raleigh

Raleigh North Carolina is a vibrant city filled with history culture outdoor adventures and a thriving food scene. Whether you’re a visitor exploring for the first time or a local looking for something new to experience this guide covers the top things to do in Raleigh from must-visit attractions to hidden gems.

Explore Raleigh’s Top Attractions

Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

📍 Location: NC Museum of Natural Sciences | Downtown Raleigh

One of the most popular attractions in Raleigh this free museum offers interactive exhibits on dinosaurs marine life and climate science. It’s a perfect stop for families nature lovers and science enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• Walk through a real prehistoric dinosaur exhibit

• Visit the Living Conservatory with live butterflies

• Explore the Nature Research Center for hands-on learning

Tour the North Carolina Museum of Art

📍 Location: NC Museum of Art | 2110 Blue Ridge Rd Raleigh

This museum features a world-class collection of European masterpieces African art and contemporary works. Outside the museum the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park offers walking trails sculptures and open green spaces.

Must-See Attractions:

• The permanent art galleries (free to the public)

• The outdoor sculpture park and walking trails

• Special rotating exhibitions throughout the year

Outdoor Adventures and Parks in Raleigh

Relax at Pullen Park

📍 Location: Pullen Park | 520 Ashe Ave Raleigh

Pullen Park is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States and a local favorite. It’s a great place to enjoy a picnic ride the carousel or take a pedal boat out on the lake.

What to Do at Pullen Park:

• Ride the historic carousel (small fee required)

• Walk along scenic trails

• Let the kids explore the playgrounds and splash areas

Explore William B. Umstead State Park

📍 Location: Umstead State Park | 8801 Glenwood Ave Raleigh

For those who love hiking biking and nature, Umstead State Park offers over 5,500 acres of forests lakes and trails. It’s the perfect getaway for outdoor lovers just minutes from downtown.

Outdoor Activities:

• Hiking and biking trails for all skill levels

• Fishing and canoeing at Big Lake

• Wildlife spotting including deer and birds

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Raleigh

Try Local Flavors at Morgan Street Food Hall

📍 Location: Morgan Street Food Hall | 411 W Morgan St Raleigh

This trendy indoor food market offers a variety of vendors serving everything from tacos to sushi. It’s a must-visit for food lovers who want to try a little bit of everything in one place.

Must-Try Vendors:

• CowBar – Famous for gourmet burgers

• Raleigh Rolls – Handcrafted Thai rolled ice cream

• Iyla’s Southern Kitchen – Classic Southern comfort food

Visit Raleigh’s Best Coffee Shops

Raleigh has a thriving independent coffee scene with unique cafés all over the city.

Top Picks:

• The Green Light Coffee Shop – Cozy atmosphere and famous Maple Latte

• Morning Times – Great for pastries and cold brew

• Common Grounds – Known for locally roasted coffee and live music

Things to Do in Raleigh NC:

Nightlife and Entertainment in Raleigh

Catch a Show at Red Hat Amphitheater

📍 Location: Red Hat Amphitheater | Downtown Raleigh

One of Raleigh’s premier concert venues, Red Hat Amphitheater hosts big-name musicians and local artists throughout the year.

Upcoming Shows & Events:

• Summer concerts and festivals

• Outdoor movie nights

• Local band showcases

Experience Raleigh’s Brewery Scene

Raleigh is known for its craft beer culture with dozens of breweries offering unique local brews.

Must-Visit Breweries:

• Crank Arm Brewing – Bike-friendly brewery with IPAs and lagers

• Raleigh Brewing Company – Large taproom with a variety of seasonal beers

• Lonerider Brewing – Western-themed brewery known for its Shotgun Betty Hefeweizen

Shopping and Local Markets in Raleigh

Shop at the Raleigh Farmers Market

📍 Location: Raleigh Farmers Market

This year-round market is one of the best places to find fresh produce handmade goods and local crafts.

Things to Do at the Farmers Market:

• Sample fresh fruits and vegetables from North Carolina farms

• Browse handmade crafts and artwork from local vendors

• Enjoy Southern-style food at the on-site restaurants

Free and Budget-Friendly Activities in Raleigh

Take a Walk Through Historic Oakwood

📍 Location: Historic Oakwood District | Raleigh NC

This beautiful Victorian-era neighborhood offers a scenic walk through Raleigh’s history.

What to See:

• Well-preserved 19th-century homes

• Oakwood Cemetery with historic gravestones

• Seasonal walking tours and events

Visit the JC Raulston Arboretum

📍 Location: JC Raulston Arboretum

A free botanical garden operated by NC State University featuring rare plants and peaceful walking paths.

Garden Highlights:

• Japanese garden and bamboo grove

• Stunning seasonal flower displays

• Educational events and plant sales

Plan Your Raleigh Adventure

With so many things to do in Raleigh NC there’s always something new to explore. Whether you’re interested in museums parks food music or shopping this city has something for everyone.