Raleigh, N.C. (December 9, 2024) – As the demand for unique meeting venues continues to grow, event planners in Raleigh, N.C., are thinking outside the box and taking their events beyond the traditional ballroom. With stunning natural landscapes and historic buildings, Raleigh offers a variety of well-equipped meeting venues, thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of needs. From the enchanting JC Raulston Arboretum to the vintage charm of Melrose Knitting Mill, event planners have a range of options to choose from.

JC Raulston Arboretum, located at North Carolina State University, is a true hidden gem for events. With its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere, it provides a unique setting for corporate meetings, conferences and social gatherings. The arboretum's extensive collection of over 6,000 varietals of plants and trees ensures a picturesque backdrop for any event. The York Auditorium, with a capacity of up to 175, features floor-to-ceiling garden view windows and an outdoor patio. Larger groups (250 or more) can take advantage of the Great Lawn or Finely-Nottingham Rose Garden.

For a more industrial and historic vibe, Melrose Knitting Mill is the perfect choice. This renovated textile mill-turned event venue is known for its exposed brick walls, high ceilings and rustic charm. The venue holds up to 180 and has on-site catering from one of Raleigh’s most popular Italian restaurants, Mulino. The combination of the old-world atmosphere with modern amenities creates an elevated meeting experience for attendees.

Another standout venue in Raleigh is the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS), which offers a one-of-a-kind setting for events. With its interactive exhibits and stunning architecture, the museum provides a unique backdrop for corporate parties, product launches and networking events. The museum can host groups of up to 1,600 comfortably. In 2024, NCMNS unveiled the world’s first open-air paleontology lab and Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit. This first-of-its-kind attraction along with the museum’s other exhibits provides a truly memorable experience for meeting attendees.  

One of Raleigh’s newest unique meeting venues is Jaguar Bolera. Located within the Raleigh Iron Works development, Jaguar Bolera is an exciting setting that masterfully combines Southern cuisine, vintage-inspired décor and an exciting atmosphere. This new standout venue is all about having fun and can host groups from 10 to 1,000. The over-25,000-square-foot space serves as a grown-up playground filled with games and activities that cater to all ages and has a full-service kitchen and bar on-site.

Pin Point Indoor Pickleball & Golf, a brand-new venue that caters to those looking to host private events, celebrate special occasions or take clients somewhere different than a typical meeting setting. With 16 state-of-the-art indoor pickleball courts, eight cutting-edge golf simulators and a full bar, Pin Point’s 8,500 square-foot space is versatile and perfect for networking, team building or simply having fun.

The area is also home to the Downtown Cary Park and Raleigh Union Station, two stunning public spaces that double as meeting venues. Downtown Cary Park has vibrant indoor and outdoor spaces that can accommodate a variety of events, with indoor spaces for up to 80 guests. Raleigh Union Station, an architecturally stunning active train station and event venue, provides a distinctive setting with unique charm and can accommodate groups larger than 700, with both indoor and private rooftop terrace spaces available.

About the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Raleigh):
As the official destination marketing organization for Wake County, Visit Raleigh is responsible for promoting Wake County as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, the organization strengthens the industry and community's economic position and provides opportunities for people throughout Wake County. Raleigh, N.C./Wake County welcomes 18.5 million visitors annually, whose spending tops $3.2 billion. The visitor economy supports nearly 26,000 local jobs in Wake County and generates $307 million in state and local tax revenues, saving each Wake County household $712 in taxes annually. visitRaleigh.com

Media Contact:
Visit Raleigh
Veronica Clark
Public Relations Manager
919.819.8292
vclark@visitraleigh.com

 

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