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...

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...

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

With warmer weather upon us, water fun is a must for families and kids! From splash pads with giant water buckets and plenty of sprinklers to lake beaches with beautiful views, here are some of the best places to get in the water in the Raleigh area. Jack Smith Park Sprayground Jack Smith Park

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...

Note: This article was first published in November 2017. This incredible piece of art has been kept in immaculate condition and is worth the hike! A gorgeous, functional piece of art awaits visitors inside William B. Umstead State Park. A fallen red oak tree—approximately 25 feet long and...

Fall is here! Show of hands—who's enjoying falling leaves, cooler weather, tailgating parties, museum exploring and all pumpkin everything? We've had big plans for these cooler months in Raleigh, N.C.! To keep you busy during this gorgeous time of year, we've put together this...

Note: Peak fall colors generally arrive in the Raleigh area in late Oct. to mid-Nov. (so now is the time to book a trip to experience it in the best way possible)! The Neuse River Greenway Trail—a 30-mile paved, uninterrupted greenway that stretches from Falls Lake in North Raleigh to the...

It's now possible to bike from Raleigh to Durham exclusively using greenways thanks to a few recently completed sections of trail in the Cary area. The 45-mile ride is a rewarding challenge and an incredible way to explore on two wheels! The Raleigh area's cycling infrastructure is...