visitRaleigh insider

Note: Authored by David Menconi, this piece has been produced in partnership with Raleigh Arts. Menconi's latest book, "Step It Up and Go: The Story of North Carolina Popular Music, from Blind Boy Fuller and Doc Watson to Nina Simone and Superchunk," was published in Oct. 2020 by...

Every two weeks, we send out a newsletter that includes the best of the best upcoming events. If you sign up for our E-magazine, you'll get those, plus all the best new content (our ultimate fall bucket list, for example, or a guide to the N.C. State Fair). It's so long to summer, hello to...

Are. You. Ready?! The state's largest annual event, the N.C. State Fair draws nearly one million visitors through the gates each October in Raleigh, N.C. (and marks what many consider to be the true beginning of the fall season). Eleven days of high-flying rides, deep-fried foods, live music,...

Dive deep into Raleigh, N.C., by adding a People-First Tourism Experience to your travel itinerary. As a carefully curated collection of tours and hands-on encounters, People-First Experiences offer “backstage” exploration of the Raleigh area alongside the locals who call this unique...

So long summer, hello fall! Show of hands—who's ready for falling leaves, cooler weather, tailgating parties, N.C. State Fair adventures, museum exploring and all pumpkin everything? We have big plans for the coming months in Raleigh, N.C.! To jump-start your plans and keep you busy...

Fall is officially here! What better way to celebrate than with the best autumn activities the Raleigh area has to offer. Whether it’s picking through a pumpkin patch, getting lost in a corn maze or taking a relaxing hayride, these events and experiences will have you safely enjoying fall fun...

On Sept. 29, 2007, Marbles Kids Museum opened its doors and quickly became a staple attraction in Raleigh, N.C., for residents and visitors with young kids. At this popular children’s museum, located in downtown Raleigh's Moore Square district, kids are encouraged to get creative and use...

Prost! Oktoberfest is a German beer-drinking festival and tradition that dates back more than 200 years; it's now held annually over the course of two weeks in late September and early October. And because the Raleigh area is no stranger to good beer and good times, there are plenty of ways to...

Important note about this event, updated Sept. 27: IBMA Bluegrass Live! powered by PNC is typically an outdoor street festival. Due to forecasted weather for the weekend, all events will move indoors. Previously scheduled Street Stage performances—plus beer garden, art market, jam tents...

The downtown Raleigh, N.C., shopping scene is quite the impressive one. With unique boutiques and stores galore, there is no shortage of adorable and affordable souvenirs, trendy and timeless clothing, funky and fancy gifts! Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone, a souvenir...