10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Raleigh, North Carolina
Looking for the best things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting friends at NC State, or road-tripping through the South, Raleigh in Wake County is packed with easy, fun activities.
From free museums and leafy parks to craft beer and college sports, Raleigh has a little bit of everything. Let’s dive into 10 great things to do in and around this laid‑back, fast‑growing Southern city.
1. Explore the Free Museums in Downtown Raleigh
One of the best surprises about Raleigh?
So many museums are free. That makes it perfect if you’re traveling on a budget or with a big family.
Right in downtown, you’ll find:
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences – Dinosaurs, whale skeletons, live reptiles, and hands-on science for kids. Don’t miss the massive T. rex and the butterfly room.
- North Carolina Museum of History – Learn about everything from Native American history to NASCAR. It’s a great spot to cool off on a hot summer day.
You can easily walk between these museums and the State Capitol in just a few minutes. If you’re staying in a downtown hotel, you might not even need your car.
Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, plan at least half a day for the Natural Sciences museum. There’s a lot more inside than it looks from the outside.
2. Stroll (Or Picnic) Around Pullen Park
If you want something outdoorsy that’s still close to downtown, head to
Pullen Park, just west of the city center and near NC State.
This historic park has:
- A classic carousel that kids love
- Paddle boats you can rent on the small lake
- Plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas
- Playgrounds and walking paths
It’s one of those places where you can just slow down and enjoy being outside. If you’re on a road trip, this is an easy stop to stretch your legs and let the kids burn some energy.
Local-style idea: Grab a to-go lunch from a nearby sandwich shop and have a simple picnic at Pullen. It’s an inexpensive way to enjoy Raleigh like a local.
3. Wander Through the North Carolina Museum of Art and Its Park
A few miles west of downtown, the
North Carolina Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers, but you don’t have to be an art expert to enjoy it.
Inside, you’ll find:
- European paintings, African art, ancient sculptures, and modern pieces
- Rotating special exhibits (some may require tickets)
Outside is where things get really unique. The
Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park has:
- Miles of walking and biking trails
- Large outdoor sculptures you can walk right up to
- Open fields perfect for relaxing on a blanket
On a sunny day, it’s easy to spend a couple hours inside the museum and then head out for a gentle walk. The whole area feels calm, even though you’re not far from the highway.
4. Walk, Bike, or Run the Neuse River Greenway Trail
If you’re craving a longer stretch of nature, the
Neuse River Greenway Trail is one of the best outdoor things to do near Raleigh.
This paved trail runs for over 25 miles along the Neuse River, with:
- Flat paths great for biking, jogging, or walking
- Wooden boardwalks through wetlands
- Plenty of scenic overlooks and resting spots
You can hop on the trail at different access points around Wake County, and just go as far as you feel like. No need to do the whole thing.
Helpful hint: If you’re visiting in the summer, go early in the morning or closer to sunset. It can get hot and humid during the middle of the day.
5. Experience College Spirit at NC State, UNC, or Duke (All Within Easy Driving Distance)
Raleigh sits in the middle of what locals call the
Triangle: Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. That means three major universities are a short drive away:
- NC State University in Raleigh
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Duke University in Durham
Even if you’re not a college sports fan, it’s fun to:
- Walk through the campus quads
- Check out campus bookstores and grab a hoodie
- Catch a football or basketball game if you’re visiting in season
Each campus has its own vibe. If you have a free afternoon, drive out to Chapel Hill or Durham and compare them. Think of it as a mini college tour for adults.
6. Enjoy Craft Beer and Local Food in Downtown Raleigh
Raleigh has quietly become a great city for
craft beer and relaxed, creative food. If you like trying local flavors when you travel, you’ll have plenty of options.
In and around downtown, you’ll find:
- Breweries with large patios, food trucks, and live music
- Casual spots serving Southern comfort food with a modern twist
- Bars and restaurants around Fayetteville Street and the Warehouse District
You don’t have to be a beer expert. Many places will happily suggest something light, fruity, or hoppy depending on what you usually drink.
Example: You might start your evening with a local IPA on a patio, then walk a few blocks for North Carolina-style barbecue or fried chicken.
7. Step Back in Time at Historic Oakwood and Oakwood Cemetery
If you enjoy older neighborhoods and quiet walks, head just east of downtown to
Historic Oakwood.
This area is known for:
- Victorian-style homes with big porches and detailed woodwork
- Tree-lined streets that are great for a slow stroll
- Historic Oakwood Cemetery with beautiful old gravestones and monuments
It’s the kind of neighborhood where you might catch yourself saying, “Wow, I could live here.” During the holidays, many of the homes decorate and sometimes open for tours.
This is a simple, low-cost way to get a feel for Raleigh’s older side, away from the new glass buildings downtown.
8. Shop, Eat, and People-Watch at North Hills
If you’re in the mood for shopping or a night out without going too far, check out
North Hills in midtown Raleigh.
This open-air complex has:
- National chain stores and smaller boutiques
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Seasonal events like outdoor concerts and markets
It’s easy to spend a few hours here:
- Shop for clothes or gifts
- Grab dinner on a patio
- Finish with ice cream or a drink at a rooftop bar
If you’re staying in a nearby hotel, North Hills can be a one-stop evening plan without much driving around.
9. Take a Day Trip to Falls Lake or Jordan Lake
Want to get out on the water? You don’t have to go all the way to the coast. Near Raleigh, you’ve got two popular options:
- Falls Lake (north of Raleigh in Wake County)
- Jordan Lake (about 30–40 minutes southwest, near Apex and Pittsboro)
Both lakes offer:
- Boating and kayaking (rentals at certain access points)
- Swimming areas with sandy or grassy shores
- Picnic spots and campgrounds
On a warm day, this can be a perfect break from city sightseeing. Pack a cooler, some sunscreen, and make a full afternoon of it.
Good to know: On sunny weekends, parking areas can fill up. Try to arrive earlier in the day, especially in summer.
10. Catch a Game or Concert at PNC Arena or Red Hat Amphitheater
Raleigh loves its events. If you’re in town at the right time, you might be able to add a game or concert to your trip.
Two big venues to know:
- PNC Arena – Home of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and NC State basketball, plus major concerts and shows.
- Red Hat Amphitheater – An outdoor venue in downtown Raleigh that hosts concerts in warmer months.
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, the energy at a Hurricanes game can be a lot of fun. And seeing a concert under the stars at Red Hat feels like a classic summer night.
Make sure to check event schedules before your trip—you might be able to plan your visit around a band or team you love.
Planning Your Trip to Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh is a great base if you:
- Want a few days of urban exploring without big-city stress
- Are visiting students at NC State, UNC, or Duke
- Are road-tripping through the Southeast and need a central stop
It’s also well-connected by major highways and the Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU), which makes it easy to reach from many parts of the USA.
With free museums, green parks, good food, and easy day trips, Raleigh offers plenty to fill a weekend—or more—without feeling rushed.
What Would You Add to This Raleigh Bucket List?
Have you visited Raleigh or anywhere else in Wake County?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you find any hidden gems—coffee shops, trails, little bars—that others should know about?
Share your tips in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to North Carolina or looking for fun weekend getaways in the USA.
The more we share our travel stories, the easier it is for everyone to plan a trip that feels just right.
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