​Raleigh, North Carolina is a city that has it all. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its vibrant arts and culinary scene, Raleigh is a city that is sure to charm you.

Rich History 

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina, and it has a rich history that dates back to the 1790s. The city is home to many historic landmarks, including the North Carolina State Capitol, the Mordecai Historic Park, and the Joel Lane House, which is the oldest surviving structure in downtown Raleigh, dating back to 1769.

Arts and Culture

Raleigh is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts.  Raleigh is also home to a number of art galleries, theaters, and performing arts venues.

Culinary Scene

Raleigh has a diverse and exciting culinary scene. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Chef Ashley Christensen has several restaurants downtown, and she received the James Beard award for Outstanding Chef in the entire country in 2019.   Raleigh is also home to a large number of microbreweries, and Funguys Brewing won the “Best New Brewery” of 2022 in a USA Today brewery contest. 

Natural Beauty

Raleigh is surrounded by natural beauty. The city is located within the area known as the Triangle, which is a region known for its rolling hills, forests, and lakes. Raleigh is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the Raleigh Arboretum and Umstead State Park.

Southern Charm

Raleigh is a city with a lot of Southern charm. The city is known for its friendly people, its laid-back atmosphere, and its delicious food. Raleigh is a great place to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life.

Why You Should Visit Raleigh

If you're looking for a city that has it all, then you should definitely visit Raleigh. Raleigh is a city with a rich history and culture, a vibrant arts and culinary scene, and stunning natural beauty. Raleigh is the perfect place to relax, explore, and enjoy the best of what North Carolina has to offer.

Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, you're sure to find something to keep you busy during your weekend getaway.

Here is a perfect itinerary for a weekend in Raleigh:

Day 1

Morning: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Big Ed's in City Market. This popular spot serves up classic Southern dishes like biscuits and gravy, grits, and pancakes.

Afternoon: Explore downtown Raleigh. Walk around the State Capitol grounds, visit the Contemporary Art Museum (CAM), and buy some Raleigh souvenirs at Deco, the largest independent retailer in the downtown.

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Raleigh's many acclaimed restaurants. Some of our favorites include Ajja, Barcelona Wine Bar, and Sitti.  You can also take a fun tour with Raleigh Walking Tours either before or after dinner! 

Day 2

Morning: Visit the Videri Chocolate Factory for a tour and tasting. This factory produces some of the best chocolate in the country and was recently named one of the 10 best chocolate shops in the United States. The tour is a great way to learn about the chocolate-making process.  Both self-guided and staff-led paid tours are available. 

Afternoon:  In the afternoon, head to Historic Oakwood. This charming neighborhood is home to some of Raleigh's most beautiful Victorian homes. Take a walk or bike ride through the neighborhood and enjoy the architecture.​

Evening​: Cap off your weekend with a night out in Raleigh's vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, so you're sure to find something to your taste.  Glenwood South is the most popular nightlife area in the city. 

This is just a suggested itinerary, of course!  Here are some additional tips for planning your weekend in Raleigh:

The best time to visit Raleigh is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild.

If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the North Carolina Museum of History, the Raleigh City Museum, and Mordecai Historic Park.

If you're a fan of live music, be sure to check out the schedule at the Lincoln Theatre or the Pour House.

If you're looking for unique shopping experiences in addition to Deco, be sure to visit the shops at the Village District or the shops at North Hills. 

I hope that this post gave you some ideas for enjoying a weekend in Raleigh!

Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant and growing city with a lot to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its thriving arts and food scenes, there's something for everyone in Raleigh.
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Here are some of the best things to do in Raleigh for first-timers:

• Visit the North Carolina State Capitol. The capitol building is a National Historic Landmark and is one of the most recognizable buildings in Raleigh. You can take a free tour of the building and learn about the history of North Carolina.
• Explore Pullen Park. Pullen Park is a 66-acre park located in downtown Raleigh. The park has a variety of attractions, including a carousel, a miniature train, a lake, and tennis courts.
• Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. The museum is the largest museum of its kind in the Southeastern United States, and it is home to a variety of exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, an arthropod zoo, and the Daily Planet theater.
• See a show at the Raleigh Little Theatre. The Raleigh Little Theatre is a community theater that has been producing plays since 1936.
• Take a walk through Mordecai Historic Park. Mordecai Historic Park is a 10-acre park that was once the home of a wealthy plantation owner. The park has a variety of historic buildings, including the Andrew Johnson Birthplace, the Badger Iredell Law Office, and St. Mark's Chapel.
• Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art. The museum is home to a collection of over 45,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
• Explore Glenwood South. Glenwood South is a trendy neighborhood with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Enjoy the nightlife in Raleigh. Raleigh has a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone. From rooftop bars to live music venues, there's something for everyone.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Raleigh for first-timers. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Raleigh is a city that has something to offer everyone.

​I hope this blog post has inspired you to plan your trip to Raleigh!

Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. From its historic architecture to its thriving arts and culture scene, there's something for everyone in Raleigh. And when it comes to choosing a place to stay, there are plenty of fabulous options to choose from.

Here are a few of the best places to stay in downtown Raleigh:

• The Raleigh Marriott City Center Hotel: This modern hotel is located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, just steps from the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts and the Raleigh Convention Center. The Raleigh Marriott City Center Hotel offers guests a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a business center.

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• The Casso, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel:  Self-billed as "delightfully irreverent," The Casso has a modern design with a touch of old-fashioned charm.  It offers guests a unique and stylish experience, with modern amenities and a touch of luxury.

 

• The Guest House: This charming bed and breakfast is located in a historic Victorian home in downtown Raleigh. The Guest House offers customers a relaxing and intimate experience, with comfortable accommodations and friendly service.

 

• The Longleaf Hotel: This vintage motor lodge has undergone a modern renovation inspired by the North Carolina Longleaf pine tree.  Be sure to check out the hotel Lounge and its spacious outdoor area, where you can feast on some retro snacks like the port wine cheese ball!

 

• Heights House Hotel: This 9-room luxury boutique hotel was originally known as Monfort Hall.  The Italiante style mansion was completed in 1860 and sits on the highest point of the now historic Boylan Heights neighborhood in downtown Raleigh. The Parlor at Heights House is a must-see experience, even if you aren't staying at the hotel!  Reservations for the Parlor are recommended for this intimate venue. The Parlor at Heights House has a meticulously curated menu composed of Italian influenced craft cocktails, an all-Italian wine list & local beers – all in an effort to reflect & honor the Italianate style of the mansion. Charcuterie plates are also available. 

 

• The Umstead Hotel and Spa: This luxurious hotel is located outside of downtown Raleigh, but it should definitely be considered because it is the only Forbes Five-Star Hotel in North Carolina. The Umstead is known for its world-class spa, its award-winning restaurants, and its amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

No matter what your budget or style, there's a great place to stay in downtown Raleigh that's perfect for you. So book your stay today and start exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer.

In addition to these hotels, there are also a number of cool Airbnbs and vacation rentals available in downtown Raleigh. These can be a great option for groups or families, as they often offer more space and amenities than a hotel room.

No matter where you choose to stay, you're sure to have a great time in downtown Raleigh. So book your trip today and start exploring!​

Raleigh is a great city to visit any time of year, but it can be especially fun on a rainy day. Here are a few of our favorite rainy day activities in Raleigh:

• Visit the Marbles Kids Museum. This hands-on museum is a great place for kids of all ages. There are exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration.  The museum even has an IMAX theater.
  
  
• Explore the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. This museum has exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to the human body. 


• Go bowling at Kings. This bowling alley in North Hills has Happy Hour bowling specials, karaoke night on Wednesdays, and a food menu with staples like burgers, pizza, and tacos.

 

• Take a fun class at Wine & Design, which is located in the Warehouse District on the third floor of Raleigh's train station.  You can choose to paint your own canvas, wine glass, or even a charcuterie board!
  
  
• Spend some time at a bookstore. Quail Ridge Books is an independent bookstore in North Hills with a friendly staff and a friendly staff that is dedicated to providing great customer service.  Or check out the Liberation Station Bookstore that opened downtown on Fayetteville Street in June of 2023.  This globally recognized children's bookstore believes in amplifying black voices and making representation accessible. 
  
  
• Play some games at Boxcar Bar + Arcade.  Located in Raleigh's Warehouse District, this establishment has been named one of the best bars in Raleigh, NC.  Boxcar Bar + Arcade is home to hundreds of arcade-style games, including 70+ classic and modern arcade cabinets, over a dozen pinball machines and 175+ console games.  Check out the full liquor bar and the 24 constantly rotating American craft drafts.

 

• Get a massage or other spa treatment. There are many great spas in Raleigh that offer a variety of treatments.
  
  

These are just a few of the many rainy day activities in Raleigh. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to do to keep you entertained on a rainy day.

Raleigh is a city with a rich barbecue history. From the Eastern-style pork of Clyde Cooper's to the Western-style brisket of Sam Jones BBQ, there's something for everyone in this barbecue-loving city.

Here are some of the best barbecue restaurants in Raleigh:

• Clyde Cooper's Barbeque is a Raleigh institution. Since 1938, Clyde Cooper's has been serving up some of the best barbecue in the city. The Eastern-style pork is slow-smoked over hickory wood, and the sides are just as good as the main course.
• Sam Jones BBQ is a newer addition to the downtown Raleigh barbecue scene, but it's quickly made a name for itself. The Jones family has a long and rich history of cooking barbecue.  Sam's  grandfather, the late Pete Jones, opened the legendary Skylight Inn in 1947 in Ayden, NC.
• The BBQ Lab is a great option for those who want to try something different. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, turkey, and chicken. There are also weekly rotating specials, so there's always something new to try.
• The Pit is a popular barbecue joint with a focus on quality ingredients. ​It goes far beyond traditional barbecue offerings with some modern twists on Southern favorites, The Pit serves beef brisket, baby back ribs, barbecue turkey, fried chicken, and even barbecue tofu nuggets. The tradition of Southern hospitality mixes well with The Pit's contemporary setting in a beautifully restored 1930s meatpacking warehouse.

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No matter what your taste in barbecue, you're sure to find something to love in Raleigh. So fire up your appetite and head out to try some of the best barbecue in the city!

Here are some additional tips for finding the best barbecue in Raleigh:

• Look for restaurants that have been around for a while. This is a good indication that they're doing something right.
• Read online reviews. This can help you get a sense of what other people think of the restaurant.
• Don't be afraid to experiment. There are many different styles of barbecue, so try a few different places to see what you like best.

With so many great barbecue restaurants to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal in Raleigh.

Raleigh, North Carolina is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in history, art, or nature, you'll find something to capture your attention in Raleigh. And of course, no trip to Raleigh would be complete without taking some stunning photos of the city and its surroundings.

Here are some of the best photo spots in Raleigh, North Carolina:

• The North Carolina Museum of Art: This world-renowned museum is home to a vast collection of art from around the world. The museum's grounds are also beautiful and make for a great place to take photos.
• The State Capitol: The North Carolina State Capitol is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. The building is open to the public for tours, and makes for a great backdrop for photos.
• Pullen Park: This historic park is home to a variety of attractions, including a carousel, a train, and a zoo. 
• Dorothea Dix Park: This large park is home to a variety of gardens, as well as a lake and a nature preserve. The park is a great place to take photos of nature, as well as the Raleigh skyline.  Go behind the Flower Cottage in Flowers Field for the best skyline shots!
• WRAL Azalea Gardens: This gorgeous 2.5 acre garden is at its peak in the early spring.  Some azaleas also bloom in the fall.
• Glenwood South District: This trendy district is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops. The district is also home to some of Raleigh's most popular murals.
• Boylan Bridge: This is one of the best places to take photos of the Raleigh skyline.  While you're there, be sure to grab a beer or a meal at Wye Hill!
• The Museum of Natural Sciences:  The giant globe at this museum is a very popular photo spot.  Insider Tip: If you stand across the street from the globe, you can pretend that you are supporting the globe and holding it up! Get creative and have fun here!

These are just a few of the many great photo spots in Raleigh, North Carolina. With its beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and vibrant culture, Raleigh is a city that is sure to inspire your creativity. So grab your camera and start exploring!

Here are some tips for taking great photos in Raleigh:

• Use natural light whenever possible. Raleigh has a lot of beautiful natural light, so take advantage of it!
• Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Don't be afraid to get creative with your photos.
• Pay attention to the details. Raleigh is a city with a lot of interesting characteristics, so take your time and look around.
• Have fun! Taking photos should be enjoyable, so relax and enjoy the process.

​Have you heard about my newest tour route that launched in the fall of 2021?  It's the True Crime & Curious Tales tour!  I am thrilled to be offering this new route!

Raleigh has experienced its share of murder, mayhem, and other strange happenings throughout the years!  This tour will take you on a journey back in time to Raleigh’s most interesting true crime stories and other quirky tales.  Don’t miss out on these weird, offbeat, and entertaining historical stories!
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This tour will start outside the State Archives of NC Building, which is located at 109  E. Jones St. in Raleigh.  Feel free to hang out on the front steps as you wait for the tour to start!  The tour route is about 1 mile long, and the end point of the tour is approximately 1.5 blocks away from the starting point. 

Due to the adult nature of several of the stories and the gory nature of one of the stories, this tour is NOT recommended for children under 16 years old.

The True Crime and Curious Tales Tours are approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes long, but may be slightly longer depending on the size and speed of the group.  There will not be any restroom breaks or stops for food/drinks.

To register for the True Crime & Curious Tales tour through Eventbrite, please click HERE. 

I hope to see you on a tour sometime soon!