Plan a Trip to Raleigh, N.C.

A visit to Raleigh is more than a trip to a blossoming Southern metropolis—you'll feel enriched and energized the instant you're warmly welcomed by its smart, savvy locals. Raleigh's bright minds head top-tier technology, education and life science institutions; its artists create a bevy of cultural and culinary touchstones; and its storytellers proudly carry on the collective heritage of a rich, historic capital city.

Invigorate your senses by sampling the many flavors of cutting-edge Southern cuisine enhanced by artisan craft brews and spirits. Get your toes tapping to the sounds of emerging music and bands, as well as rollicking bluegrass festivals and more. Discover gifts and treasures from local boutiques, including many handmade and custom designs for truly eclectic finds. And, join in broadening your horizons through an enticing array of visual and performing arts exhibitions. 

Raleigh may be quiet about the fact that it's leading in most recent quality-of-life rankings, but the fact is, you'll enjoy visiting as much as people enjoy living here. Come see what the city will inspire in you. Its authenticity is homegrown by passionate locals, rooted in Raleigh.


Planning info and resources

Use our Trip Planner to build your list of things to do while you're here View More

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Information on restaurants, accommodations, attractions and events View More

Download maps or explore an interactive Raleigh area map online View More

Right Now in Raleigh

Things to Do

Hello, May! A busy spring continues in the Raleigh area this month—longer days and lots of sunshine mean it's time to get outdoors and explore. Temperatures have hit a sweet spot, patios are open, picnics are in full swing, the calendar is packed with major events and there's never been a better

Live Music

Tried-and-true recipe for a great time: a dash of warm weather, a heap of live music and plenty of good friends. With a jam-packed schedule of open-air tunes, we've put together your guide to the...

Dining & Drinks

Weekends are meant to be brunched on! Time spent with family and friends over stacks of blueberry pancakes or the perfect eggs Benedict should be cherished—in the Raleigh area, it is. We get...

Museums & History

Two of the best-preserved fossils of the two most iconic dinosaurs are taking up permanent residency in Raleigh as part of an iconic new visitor attraction that opens April 27. Read on to find out how...

Live Music

Note: Authored by David Menconi, this piece has been produced in partnership with Raleigh Arts . Menconi's next book, "Oh, Didn't They Ramble: Rounder Records and the Transformation of...

Sports & Recreation

There's no shortage of ways to find peaceful escapes in order to explore the outdoors in the City of Oaks. Use any of the Raleigh area’s 180 miles of greenways—many of them connecting to attractions and letting you travel all over the...