Need some visual inspiration for your next visit to Raleigh, N.C.? Instagram and travel are the perfect match, and we know you need a couple perfect 'grams to let your family and friends know what you're up to. This list, made up of colorful attractions and eye-catching views, should get you off to a great start. Need more ideas? Find tons of inspiration on our Instagram account (and don't forget to tag your photos with #visitRaleigh while here!).
 

Nature Research Center

Opened in 2012, this new wing of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is highlighted by the instantly-recognizable SECU Daily Planet—a scaled-down replica of our planet with a 42-foot-tall video screen on the inside.

 

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North Carolina Museum of Art

A world-class art museum, inside and out (with free admission!). You'll definitely want to take the time to explore the 164-acre Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, where you'll find walking and biking trails plus large art installations.

 

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Dorothea Dix Park

With tons of open green space, Dorothea Dix Park is a popular spot for picnics, kite flying, running and biking as well as photography (the view of downtown Raleigh is one of the best!).

 

James B. Hunt Jr. Library

Called "one of the most beautiful libraries in the world," this futuristic building on North Carolina State University's Centennial Campus has a robot that can fetch any of the two million books for you with a click of a button (read up on bookBot here).

 

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North Carolina State Capitol

Completed in 1840, get an up-close look at history by touring the North Carolina State Capitol (self-guided tours Mon.-Fri., guided tours Sat., 11am and 2pm).

 

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Raleigh Beer Garden

The Guinness world-record holder for most beers on tap (nearly 400!), tons of outdoor seating, a rooftop bar, beer battered pretzels—what's not to love?

 

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All Are Welcome mural near Poole's Diner

It's not uncommon to see a steady stream of photo takers framing up shots in front of this wall in downtown Raleigh near chef Ashley Christensen's Poole's Diner and just across from Red Hat Amphitheater. The mural artist is Luke Buchanan.

 

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Level7

This rooftop bar at the AC Hotel Raleigh North Hills has a perfect view of the entire neighborhood (and the craft cocktails to go with it).

 

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William B. Umstead State Park

N.C.'s most visited state park, 22 miles of hiking trails and 13-miles of horseback and mountain biking trails make this a perfect escape from the city.


Trophy Brewing Company

Some of Raleigh's best pizza, some of Raleigh's best beer. Trophy Brewing is known by locals as one of the coolest hangouts to grab a beer after work, spend a Sun. afternoon on the patio or swing by for some late night grub.


North Carolina State Fair

For 11 days each Oct., the North Carolina State Fairgrounds comes alive with bright lights, roller coasters, cotton candy, musical acts and more. 2017 marks the 150th annual event!

 

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Neuse River Greenway Trail

This greenway, stretching nearly 30 miles down the eastern side of Raleigh, makes for one of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the state. The paved path offers scenic views of the Neuse River, winding boardwalk areas through wetlands and plenty of shade for runners and bicyclists.


lucettegrace

Colorful macarons, chocolate-filled croissants and other mouth-watering treats make for desserts as pretty as they are delicious at lucettegrace (and a can't-miss Instagram opportunity).

 

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Morning Times

A downtown Raleigh coffee staple, the team at Morning Times has been serving locally-roasted coffee since 2006. Once you've ordered, head up the stairs where you'll find an art gallery with plenty of tables and comfortable chairs (plus tons of natural light).

 

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Boylan Bridge (for a view of the Raleigh skyline)

Sunrise or sunset, Boylan Bridge remains one of the classic spots to view the Raleigh skyline (and it's just a short walk away from the previously mentioned Trophy Brewing Company).


Carter-Finley Stadium

Home to North Carolina State University's football team—go Pack! Join more than 50,000 other football fans for tailgating and touchdowns, and don't forget to wear red.

 

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Freedom Balloon Fest

Now a Memorial Day weekend staple, the Freedom Balloon Fest fills the skies of Fuquay-Varina with more than 35 glowing hot air balloons. Music, kids entertainment and North Carolina State Fair-inspired foods make this free event a local favorite.

 

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Marbles Kids Museum

A place for kids to let their imaginations run wild. Marbles Kids Musuem, one of the most visited attractions in the state, has dozens of colorful, interactive and educational exhibits for all ages.

 

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CAM Raleigh

Thought-provoking, beautiful contemporary art in an equally gorgeous modern space in downtown Raleigh's Warehouse District.

 

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Historic Yates Mill County Park

This 174-acre park, featuring a fully-operable 18th century water-powered mill, makes for a perfect sunset visit.

 

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Jubala Coffee

Because you can never have too many coffee options. Grab one a waffle or sweet biscuit, too!

 

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Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden

This historic garden features more than 60 varieties of roses (and more than 1,200 roses altogether), plus a variety of other year-round flowers, bulbs, shrubs and more.

 

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State Farmers Market

Fresh produce, fresh flowers, fresh photos! Open seven days a week just outside of downtown Raleigh.


Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

One of just a few state nature preserves in N.C., Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary makes for a gorgeous walk through the woods on three miles of mulched trails (especially in the fall!).

 

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Sir Walter Raleigh statue

This larger than life statue of Sir Walter Raleigh, outside the Raleigh Convention Center, often gets dressed up to match the season or fit in at major festivals.


PNC Arena

Home to the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes, the North Carolina State Wolfpack men's basketball team and tons of concerts and other major events, the entertainment never stops at the 20,000-seat PNC Arena.