visitRaleigh insider

In case you missed it: a big new attraction is now open in Cary, N.C. (about 10 miles from the center of Raleigh). Downtown Cary Park—a seven-acre, state-of-the-art playspace for all ages—opened in the heart of downtown Cary in late 2023. The early reviews have made it clear: this is...

It's the most wonderful time of the year to explore the outdoors! Peak fall colors in the Raleigh area—lighting up greenways, parks and nature preserves—are generally expected from late October through mid- to late November. And while there are many places to see fall foliage in...

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...

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

Update, July 18, 2024 The sunflowers at Dorothea Dix Park are past peak bloom. 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.! First...

There's no shortage of ways to find peaceful escapes in order to explore the outdoors in the City of Oaks. Use any of the Raleigh area’s 180 miles of greenways—many of them connecting to attractions and letting you travel all over the destination—or numerous other miles of...

The days are longer, the weather is warmer and the flowers are blooming—sure signs of spring in the Raleigh area! The perfect season to explore parks and gardens budding with colorful flowers, use this list to get out and enjoy sunshine and the beauty of the City of Oaks. WRAL Azalea Gardens...

Raleigh, N.C., is a booming metropolis that offers a big city feel with Southern charm. It's a smart, modern-meets-historic destination that has a lot to offer and no matter what path you choose on your visit, we know you'll be energized by the fired-up cultural heartbeat fostered by...

Located just east of Raleigh in the town of Wendell, Robertson Millpond Preserve is a hidden, 85-acre refuge for nature lovers, canoeists and kayakers. Opened to the public in 2015, the blackwater swamp property is the only bald cypress habitat in the Raleigh area, creating the unique experience of

Explore what the Raleigh area has to offer without breaking the bank! Here are 30-plus free (or nearly free) experiences and attractions that can anchor any trip to the area. William B. Umstead State Park N.C.’s most visited state park maintains its status as a peaceful and affordable getaway