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

Arts

Note: Authored by David Menconi, this piece has been produced in partnership with Raleigh Arts . Menconi's latest book, "Oh, Didn't They Ramble: Rounder Records and the Transformation of American Roots Music," was published in the fall of 2023 by University of North Carolina Press. His podcast,

Arts

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

Live Music

Sunshine, good times and good tunes mean one thing is abundantly clear—it's time for a Raleigh road trip. Stages across the Raleigh—both big and small, dishing out hard rock and...

Dining & Drinks

A family-owned institution for more than 60 years now, the double doors of the now-fabled Angus Barn swung wide on June 28, 1960—a 275-seat steak-and-potatoes based restaurant dreamt up by...

Dining & Drinks

The Raleigh area's agricultural background and vibrant artistic culture are together helping local chefs create unique spins on everyone's favorite summertime treat. With fresh and local...

Sports & Recreation

Update, May 2025 The sunflowers at Dorothea Dix Park were planted in late May and are expected to bloom in late July. What and where are the sunflowers in Raleigh? Calling all cyclists, runners, outdoor enthusiasts and Instagram addicts—a pop-up tourist...