visitRaleigh insider

Raleigh wears its nickname with pride. The City of Oaks is no stranger to great outdoor spaces—lush, lively and packed with places to play, wander and unwind. From sculpted gardens to wildflower fields, wooded trails to waterfront lounging, these wonders show off the area's natural side...

From historic sites and museums to art galleries and city parks, the Raleigh, N.C., area, strives to make a wide range of experiences accessible to visitors of varying abilities. Here are a few options you should absolutely take advantage of while visiting the City of Oaks. Explore our museums

Often dubbed the "Smithsonian of the South" thanks to an abundance of free museums, historic attractions and educational institutions, the Raleigh area has long been known as a budget-friendly family getaway destination for those in the Tar Heel State and beyond ( Southern Living recently...

One of the can't-miss events of the year, Art in Bloom is prepared to return for a five-day celebration of art, flowers and community at the North Carolina Museum of Art (and tickets are going to go fast !). From March 18-22, more than 50 unique floral arrangements—some standing 10 feet...

A year full of major festivals and celebrations lies ahead in Raleigh, N.C.! These 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...

In a city packed with world-class art, live music and leafy green parks, it might surprise you that Raleigh’s most-visited year-round attraction is all about ancient bones, wild weather and the mysteries of the natural world. The biggest tourist attraction in Raleigh—by popularity and...

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...

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...

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...

Summer is coming (and we have big plans!). But first, a glorious long weekend is straight ahead—baseball games, good eats, museum exhibits, outdoor exploring and more are on the docket. Here's what's in store in the Raleigh area for Memorial Day weekend! Visit the Garner Veterans...