Fun Things to do in Raleigh, NC
If you have ever visited Europe, and most specifically Berlin, you can see first-hand the destructive changes of war. Even though Berlin has rebuilt into a beautiful city it has lost a lot of archectural history. When you visit Raleigh you will see the opposite. A smart, modern city that has maintained all of its history having made it through the Civil War without any damage. With that having been said, here are some of the best things to do in Raleigh. Being the state’s capital, being the home to over 1.2 million residents, being home to two large universities; all has its benefits.
Let’s start with History
You’ll find a number of different museums. There is the Museum of History that has memorabilia preserving hundreds of years in North Carolina. There is the Museum of Art with its galleries, studios and exhibitions. They have a fine permanent collection of historic value and also innovative contemporary art. The Marbles Kids Museum offers themed exhibits designed to build the imagination. They have the world’s first and only kid driven smart power grid! The Museum of Natural Sciences is the most popular attraction featuring many permanent exhibits teaching you about the natural world. The Contemporary Art Museum takes a progressive approach to works of art and design that are still possible. Finally, the City of Raleigh Museum focuses its exhibits on the people, places and resources of the city itself.
Parks and Nature
The first public park in the state is still a favorite attraction. The Pullen Park hosts thousands of visitors a year that check out the 1911 carousel, amusement rides, a miniature train, water boats and pedal boats. The William B. Umstead State Park offers 22 miles of trails for hiking, 13 miles of trails for horseback riding and trails for mountain biking. The park and lake are great for camping, fishing and paddle sports and is located only 15 minutes from downtown. You’ll find many different species of wildlife calling this park home. The Historic Yates Mill County Park takes you away from today’s hustle and bustle and lets you slip back into history with different interpretational programs such as an operational gristmill.
Hungry? Thirsty?
With a city of this size comes opportunities to explore regarding your palate. You’ll find over 1,200 restaurants that feature anything from local specials like southern barbeque and chicken and waffles to European favorites and Asian surprises. You’ll be surprised to find 366 beers on tap at the Raleigh Beer Garden, the world’s largest selection as made official by the Guinness World Records.
Just for Starters
The best things to do in Raleigh continue on. You can find live music everywhere and performing arts in different venues. You can get creative and visit the hotbed of local entrepreneurs with their creative businesses in downtown Raleigh. You can find an eclectic mix of close to 150 shops, restaurants, bars and hotels if you head to the North Hills. An outdoor shopping haven. Raleigh is a mecca for big city offerings with southern, small town charm.
Now that we’ve covered some fun things to do! How about our rich history.
Raleigh really is a special place filled with special people. If you’re new to the area or a long time resident consider Renaissance Dental Center for you and/or your family’s dental needs. We care about our Raleigh family the same way we care about our own. From General to Cosmetic, RDC is your home away from home.