visitRaleigh insider

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 believe to be the surest sign yet that fall has officially arrived). Eleven days of high-flying rides, deep-fried foods,...

Raleigh may be North Carolina’s capital, but it often surprises first-time visitors with its creative energy, walkable neighborhoods and Southern charm that leans more indie than old fashioned. Downtown Raleigh has museums worth a detour, restaurants worthy of national buzz and more than...

Blending bold design, thoughtful touches and a name that suits its energy, Hive House is a fresh new addition to Cary’s growing hospitality mix. A 45-suite boutique hotel from locally owned CMC Hotels, Hive House opened July 15 just two miles from downtown Cary. Designed for longer stays but...

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 soft ballads and everything in between—are as busy as they ever get over the next few months....

Update, July 27: The sunflowers at Dorothea Dix Park are past their peak bloom for 2025. What and where are the sunflowers in Raleigh? Calling all cyclists, runners, outdoor enthusiasts and Instagram addicts—a pop-up tourist destination of gorgeous sunflowers is coming back to Raleigh, N.C.!

School’s out, the sun’s high and adventure is calling. From hands-on science and sky-high slides to vintage carousels and splash zones, these five family-friendly spots across the Raleigh area promise memory-making fun all summer long. Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park A playground...

Ready to celebrate Independence Day in a big way for 2025? Fireworks displays, bounce houses, live music and other patriotic celebrations are lined up all across the Raleigh area to celebrate America's 249th birthday—don't miss out! Here's your rundown on the biggest and best...

Raleigh, N.C., keeps adding happy occasions to the calendar. Festivals and major events serve an important purpose—they mark history and sense of pride, plus they showcase talent, creativity and culture, delicious foods and beverages (and some surprises, too!). Make plans now to spend a day...

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...

No matter who you love—or how you display it—Pride Month in Raleigh, N.C., provides plenty of chances to show up, show off and celebrate the LGBTQ community. The 13th annual Out! Raleigh Pride festival—one of the state's largest Pride gatherings—will take place June...