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

Dining & Drinks

Big Cat didn’t have to advertise its pending opening to generate excitement bordering on hysteria. When you assemble a super group of star chefs and restaurant industry all-stars to launch a new concept, the community is bound to notice. In this case, the players are lauded enough that national

Sports & Recreation

Update, July 8: The sunflowers at Dix Park are just beginning to bloom. Full bloom may be here by this weekend! The park will host a sunflower celebration on Sat., July 10 with music, food and more....

Things to Do

The City of Raleigh will host fireworks (plus games, food and music) at Dix Park on July 4, with gates opening at 6pm. Read about that event plus other fireworks displays in the Raleigh area below!...

Sports & Recreation

The Carolina Hurricanes beat Vegas in Game 6 to win the Stanley Cup! The Canes will host a Championship Celebration in downtown Raleigh on Sat., June 20 at 11am. More info here! Official:...

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

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 venues and concert series that make up more than 100 outdoor concerts...