Things To Do In Raleigh, NC

Modern technology meets rich cultural history: This is the essence of Raleigh, NC, a blossoming Southern city on the forefront of innovation with deep roots in art, food, architecture and so much more.

When you visit Raleigh, NC, you feel an energy that reminds you of a big city, but with the warmth and charm of your hometown. The StateView Hotel wants to be the first stop on your journey, welcoming you with luxurious rooms, decadent dining and modern amenities. After you unpack, get ready to explore the rich bounty of cultural attractions, an awe-inspiring landscape and fun things to do in Raleigh, NC.

North Carolina State University

NC State University

Phone: (919) 515-2011
Address: Raleigh, NC

Are you visiting NCSU with a prospective student? Are you an alumnus coming back for homecoming weekend? Exploring the largest four-year institution in North Carolina might take some time, but it’s well worth it. NCAA games, Centennial Campus, historical Holladay Hall, and other campus highlights aren’t far from nearby StateView Hotel. Book a guided tour or explore on your own — our staff can point you to the most historic, iconic, and unique places on the NCSU campus.

PNC Arena North Carolina

Lenovo Center

Phone: (919) 861-2300
Address: 1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh, NC

If you’ve never been to a National Hockey League game, your next Raleigh visit is a perfect time. Carolina Hurricanes fans are as passionate as they are welcoming, and soon you’ll be on your feet cheering along with the rest of the crowd! Raleigh’s Lenovo Center hosts many other events, from headliners like Taylor Swift to comedians and family events like Disney on Ice. This arena is your headquarters for world-class entertainment during your stay at StateView Hotel.

Coastal Credit Union Music Park

Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

Phone: (919) 831-6400
Address: 3801 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh NC

When was the last time you gazed up at a starry night sky, surrounded by good friends while listening to music from your favorite band? It’s time to recreate that moment with a visit to the Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. From The Offspring to Jason Aldean and Fleetwood Mac, favorites old and new deliver electric performances throughout the year. Check the iconic amphitheater’s outdoor concert calendar; you won’t be disappointed!

North Carolina Museum of Art

North Carolina Museum of Art

Phone: (919) 839-6262
Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC

As the first major museum formed in the nation by state legislation and funding, the NC Museum of Art is no stranger to breaking new ground. This must-see for all Raleigh visitors is home to dozens of galleries featuring major artworks, and admission to the permanent collection is always free. Within the gallery walls, the museum houses works of art from Ancient Africa, Judaic culture, the Italian Renaissance, ancient people groups, and much more. Be sure to make time for a walk through the Museum Park, which features art installations created to engage visitors with the natural landscape.

Carter Finley Stadium, NCSU

Carter Finley Stadium

Phone: (919) 865-1510
Address: 4600 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC

Get tickets to the next NC State Wolfpack game and see for yourself how they earned the name! With seating for nearly 57,000 die-hard fans, Carter-Finley Stadium is the home of NCSU’s legendary football program. Whether you’re a loyal Wolfpack fan or traveling to cheer on the visiting team, you’ll quickly get caught up in the buzz reverberating throughout the stadium on game day.

North Carolina State Fairgrounds

North Carolina State Fairgrounds

Phone: (919) 821-7400
Address: 4285 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC

The exciting North Carolina State Fair runs for 10 days each October, but don’t fret if you miss it — plenty of events take place on the state fairgrounds throughout the year. Flea markets, horse shows, Christmas celebrations, car auctions — you name it, the NC State Fairgrounds hosts it all!

Yates Mill In Raleigh, North Carolina

Historic Yates Mill County Park

Phone: ​​​​(919) 856-6675
Address: 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC

For more than 200 years, the Yates Mill proudly served Wake County as a water-powered gristmill and social gathering place for rural populations. Today, Yates Mill is the only gristmill in the county still in working condition. Visitors to the Historic Yates Mill County Park from March through November can tour the mill, learning about the evolution of milling in the area, and see first-hand demonstrations. The A.E. Finley Center for Education & Research is also located within the park. Explore the educational programs, summer camps, and history hikes — there’s something for everyone!

Juniper Level Botanic Gardens

Phone: ​​​​(919) 772-4794
Address: 9241 Sauls Road, Raleigh, NC

The Juniper Level Botanic Gardens is a 28-acre nature preserve home to 27,000 different perennials, exotic plants, and rare specimens of trees and shrubs. The 10 acres of garden displays featuring native and rare plants draw researchers, gardeners, and naturalists from all over. This nursery has been a mainstay in Raleigh since 1986. Plan your visit carefully — Juniper Gardens is only open eight or nine weekends a year, otherwise by appointment.

James B. Hunt Library

Phone: (919) 515-7110
Address: 1070 Partners Way, Raleigh, NC

This library on the NCSU campus was dubbed the ‘library of the future’ by Time magazine because of its advanced technology. While the striking architectural design is worth a visit to the James B. Hunt Library, the facility’s bookBot, a futuristic robot retrieval and cataloging system, gets a fair share of attention. This library features something for everyone, from its art wall to the state-of-the-art shelving system and an onsite eatery.

Videri Chocolate Factory

Phone: (919) 755-5053
Address: 327 W. Davie Street, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC

This chocolatier opens its doors to visitors seven days a week, welcoming you to take a self-guided factory tour or enjoy a staff-led experience. If you choose Videri’s self-guided tour, bring your phone to scan QR codes and learn about the operations. The guided tours require advanced reservations. Either option ends with a sweet treat. The store is open daily — browse their indulgent chocolate bars, baking items, and confections.

Raleigh, North Carolina, Downtown Skyline

Downtown Dining

If you’re planning a downtown dining experience in Raleigh, there is no doubt you will find the right dish to satisfy your taste buds with nearly 200 restaurants nearby. To name a few… Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar serves hand-tossed pizzas and freshly-made pasta and meatballs in their trendy outdoor dining room. Good Day Good Night has it all, from delicious coffee and pastries each morning to decadent entrées and drinks in the evening. If there isn’t enough time to try them all, consider starting at Flask & Beaker right at StateView — it’s one of the top 10 restaurants near NCSU.

Together at Last

Downtown Drinks

No one goes thirsty in Raleigh. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you are sure to find a spot downtown serving inventive cocktails and delicious beverages. Raleigh is home to several local wineries, and the city offers a number of wine bars and tasting rooms downtown. Raleigh also boasts many brewing companies, which explains why it’s ranked as one of the best cities for beer lovers. If the sun has just risen or you’re craving caffeine, explore the coffee shops scattered around the City of Oaks.

Buildings in Raleigh, North Carolina

Downtown Shopping

You’ll never run out of places to shop in downtown Raleigh, with more than a dozen art galleries and endless furniture, clothing, and antique boutiques. Ask the front desk staff for their recommendations, and shop like a local!

Downtown Historic Sites

The City of Oaks has a rich history, so you’ll find many historic places to visit throughout Raleigh. Three of the top downtown landmarks are the Mordecai Historic Park, Joel Lane Museum House and Gardens, and Andrew Johnson’s Birthplace. Don’t forget to check out the historic North Carolina State Capitol, right in the center of the city.

Downtown Food Halls

The demand for food halls is growing everywhere, including downtown Raleigh. If you haven’t experienced one of these yet, consider stopping by Morgan Street Food Hall or Transfer Co. Food Hall. Each features an eclectic mix of restaurants, vendors, and confectioners, all under one roof. If you’re traveling with a group — or have a family of picky eaters — you can’t go wrong at either of these spots. Stop in for lunch, dinner, or dessert!

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Phone: (919) 707-9800
Address: 11 W Jones Street, Raleigh, NC

Visit the incredible North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in the heart of Raleigh. This building is an architectural beauty, and what’s housed within is fun and educational for all walks of life. Permanent exhibits cover many compelling topics, including Prehistoric North Carolina, Snakes of North Carolina, Dueling Dinosaurs, and Diversity of Life. Make the NC Museum of Natural Sciences an all-day adventure, grabbing lunch at one of their two cafés and finishing the day with a movie at the WRAL 3D Theater. Fun fact: NC Museum of Natural Sciences is also a research center where visitors can ​​watch museum scientists study the natural world in real-time.

JC Raulston Arboretum in NC

JC Raulston Arboretum

Phone: (919) 515-3132
Address: 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, NC

Part of North Carolina State University, the JC Raulston Arboretum is one of the Southeast’s largest collection of gardens. The arboretum houses 18 breathtaking gardens, including a Japanese Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Color Trials Garden. Each is unique to the arboretum, but all are free for the public to enjoy. The Arboretum is located next to the North Carolina State Fairgrounds and is open daily (hours vary based on season).

Woman at Raleigh Farmers Market

State Farmers Market

Phone: (919) 733-7417
Address: 1201 Agriculture Street, Raleigh, NC

Browse fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and unique crafts at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh. The market is open seven days a week. In the Farmers Building, you’ll find fresh produce and plants. The Market Shoppes is a 15,000-square-foot climate-controlled building filled with vendors selling fresh cheeses, meats, baked goods, crafts, and more! While you’re here, grab a meal at one of the three restaurants: Market Grill, NC Seafood Restaurant, and State Farmers Market Restaurant.

Raleigh City Market

Phone: (984) 232-8661
Address: 215 Wolfe Street, Raleigh, NC

Enjoy open-air shopping along beautiful cobblestone streets. The Raleigh City Market offers specialty shops and local eateries, providing plenty of places to gather and explore. This area also hosts events and community gatherings that are fun to join in on.

Red Hat Amphitheater Downtown Raleigh

Red Hat Amphitheater

Phone: (919) 996-8800
Address: 500 S McDowell Street, Raleigh, NC

If you’re in the mood for live entertainment, head over to Red Hat Amphitheater. Located in the heart of downtown, this music venue features an open stage and gorgeous views of the Raleigh skyline. There are several ways to experience shows, including lawn, traditional, and premium box seating. Food and beverage service is available for premium boxes and a VIP area. The musical lineup offers something for everyone, from Primus to The Flaming Lips and Caamp, John Legend, and other world-touring artists.

Bridge Over Lake in Pullen Park

Pullen Park

Phone: (919) 996-6468
Address: 520 Ashe Avenue, Raleigh, NC

Pullen Park is a local favorite in the downtown Raleigh area and regarded as one of the area’s best parks. This beautiful 66-acre property is home to the fifth-oldest amusement park still in operation in the country. It also features covered picnic areas, fields, playgrounds, and a lake, plus a performing arts theater. Bring the family to enjoy a day in Pullen Park filled with carousel rides, kiddie boat rides, and live performances at the children’s amphitheater. You can even enjoy lunch at Pullen Place Cafe.

Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh NC

Marbles Kids Museum

Phone: (919) 834-4040
Address: 201 E Hargett Street, Raleigh, NC

The name says it all! Marbles Kids Museum is made for kids and features edu-tainment style attractions for hands-on fun. Explore exhibits for everyone in your crew: The woodland-themed Toddlers Hollow is designed to encourage exploration and curiosity for crawlers and walkers, and the Splash exhibit teaches kids all about the ocean and the creatures found within. At Sun Sprouts, kids learn about the power of the sun with a solar-powered flower and a first-hand gardening experience. Marbles also features an IMAX theater and gift shop.

North Carolina Capitol Building

North Carolina State Capitol

Phone: (984) 867-8340
Address: 1 East Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC

History comes to life at the North Carolina State Capitol. This National Historic Landmark has proudly served the capital city since its completion in 1840. All of the state’s government, the Supreme Court, and the State Library were housed within the building until 1888. Today, the state governor’s office is still found within. The Capitol offers free self-guided tours during any operating hours and free guided public tours on Saturdays.

Lake Raleigh, North Carolina

Lake Raleigh Recreation Area

Free Parking: (1) Park Alumni Center – 2450 Alumni Drive, Raleigh, NC
(2) Centennial Campus Middle School – 1900 Main Campus Drive, Raleigh, NC
(3) Main Campus Drive –

Around Lake Raleigh
Step outside, breathe in the fresh North Carolina air and enjoy one of Raleigh’s best outdoor activities. Located in the backyard of the StateView Hotel, the picture-perfect Lake Raleigh offers a serene setting for a scenic stroll, calm waters for canoeing and kayaking and two piers for fishing. Take a quiet morning walk alongside Lake Raleigh on the Centennial Greenway, where you’ll find picturesque views, paved walkways and exercise stations.

William B. Umstead State Park Hiking

William B. Umstead State Park

Phone: (919) 571-4170
Crabtree Creek Access & Visitor Center: 8801 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC

Reedy Creek Access: 2100 N. Harrison Avenue, Cary, NC

If you’re looking for an immersive outdoor experience, don’t miss the 5,600-acre William B. Umstead State Park, located just 20 minutes from the StateView Hotel. With gorgeous hiking trails, rowboat and canoe rentals, and shady picnic areas with fire pits, Umstead State Park offers some of Raleigh’s best outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Hikers and trail runners will find nearly 35 miles of trails to explore, while 13 miles of trails are available for bicyclists and equestrians.

Foliage at Durant Nature Preserve

Durant Nature Preserve

Phone: (919) 996-2271
Address: 8305 Camp Durant Road, Raleigh, NC

The Durant Nature Preserve offers 237 acres of natural Raleigh beauty. This preserve features 5 miles of hiking trails, designated mountain biking trails, covered picnic areas, a sand volleyball court, and a playground. The property also features a serene lake and stream to hike along. If you’d like to hike with your furry friend, be sure to keep them on a leash at all times. Durant is open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk.

Neuse River Greenway Trail Raleigh, NC

Neuse River Greenway Trail

Address: 20 Anderson Point Drive, Raleigh, NC

The Neuse River Greenway Trail is part of the Mountains-to-Sea trail and Capital Area Greenway System. This trail offers 27.5 miles of paved paths, boardwalks, and suspension bridges through Raleigh’s gorgeous greenery. You’ll encounter many families enjoying a walk on the north end of this trail; the farther south you head, the more secluded it becomes. The Neuse River Greenway Trails’ difficulty is rated as easy.

Public Parking Lots Along the Trail:
• Horseshoe Farm Nature Preserve – 2900 Horseshoe Farm Road, Wake Forest, NC
• WRAL Soccer Park – 7700 Perry Creek Road, Raleigh, NC
• Greenway Parking – 198 Trailhead Lane, Raleigh, NC
• Buffaloe Road Canoe Launch – 4901 Elizabeth Drive, Raleigh, NC
• Buffaloe Road Athletic Park – 5812 Buffaloe Road, Raleigh, NC

Hikers at Swift Creek Bluff Nature Preserve

Swift Creek Bluffs Nature Preserve

Phone: (919) 908-8809
Address: 7800 Holly Springs Road, Raleigh, NC

Swift Creek Bluffs Nature Preserve is a small, 23-acre preserve with some short but scenic trails for hikers. This property features four trails: Birkhaven Greenway, Swift Creek Loop, Creek Loop and Beech Bluffs Loop. The two longest trails together total just over a mile (Beech Bluffs Loop and Swift Creek Loop), but don’t let the short trails fool you — you can expect to see a ton of wildlife and native plants at this preserve.

Shelley Lake Park, Raleigh NC

Shelley Lake Park

Phone: (919) 996-2329
Address: 1400 W Millbrook Road, Raleigh, NC

Shelley Lake Park is a beautiful park with two miles of paved trails. The lush greenway takes you around Shelley Lake, making for a refreshing walk or run. On this scenic trail, you can enjoy views of the lake or bird watching for native birds like eagles, geese, mallards and more. If you’d like to take your four-legged friend with you to the park, be sure he or she is leashed at all times.

Dog walking on Lake Lynn Trail

Lake Lynn Trail

Phone: (919) 996-2911
Address: 7370 Leesville Rodd, Raleigh, NC

Lake Lynn Park offers an easy to moderate 2.8-mile loop to walk or hike. This trail is paved (some areas are boardwalks) with a beautiful Raleigh greenway to enjoy along the way. Dogs are allowed in this park as long as they are leashed. During your trip to Lake Lynn Park, you can expect to see herons, turtles, geese, ducks and more wildlife.

Lake Johnson in Raleigh, NC during fall season

Lake Johnson Park & Nature Preserve

Phone: (919) 996-3141
Address: 4601 Avent Ferry Road, Raleigh, NC

Lake Johnson Park spans across 500 acres of Raleigh’s natural beauty. Within the park, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, paved and natural surface trails, a public swimming pool, wildlife viewing, educational programs and more. Leashed pets are always welcome at Lake Johnson Park.

Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve

Phone: (919) 908-8809
Address: 4409 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC

The Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve offers over 400 acres of scenic trails and open spaces to explore about 20 minutes from the StateView Hotel. This peaceful nature preserve featuring a mix of meadows, forests, and wetlands is ideal for walking, running, and mountain biking. With more than 16 miles of single-track trails — plus seven miles of multi-use trails designed for walking and biking and another mile of trail designated for walking only — the preserve delivers one of the largest multi-use trail systems in the Triangle. Visitors can enjoy quiet moments in nature, spot a variety of birds and wildlife, and experience the beauty of restored farmland. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and the preserve is open daily from dawn until dusk.

 

Lonnie Poole Golf Course Raleigh, NC

Lonnie Poole Golf Course

Phone: (919) 515-6527
Address: 1509 Main Campus Drive, Raleigh, NC

Does the name Arnold Palmer sound familiar? Break out your clubs for a casual round of 18 holes designed by the legend himself! You’ll love swinging against a backdrop of the Raleigh skyline at Lonnie Poole Golf Course. This high-caliber collegiate course is situated on North Carolina State University’s campus and is home to both the men’s and women’s varsity golf teams. The best part? It’s located just steps from our hotel’s front door!

River Ridge Golf Club Raleigh, NC

River Ridge Golf Club

Phone: (919) 661-8374
Address: 3224 Auburn Knightdale Road, Raleigh, NC

River Ridge Golf Club offers a unique landscape designed by Chuck Smith for seasoned golfers to enjoy. Take in the rolling hills of Raleigh as you make your way through 18 holes. The lush Bermuda greens are accompanied by marshland, lakes, and large rocks, adding to the course’s challenge. Rates vary based on day and time, but special rates are offered to seniors, students, juniors, and public safety personnel.

Raleigh Golf Association, NC

Raleigh Golf Association

Phone: (919) 772-9987
Address: 1527 Tryon Road, Raleigh, NC

The Raleigh Golf Association offers a public golf course for residents and visitors to the area. Eighteen of their 27 holes are open to the public, while the other 9 are for members only. RGA offers contests and tournaments throughout the year, as well as lessons and clinics. Rates vary based on time and day, so visit their website for the most up-to-date information.

Wildwood Green Golf Club, Raleigh NC

Wildwood Green Golf Club

Phone: (919) 846-8376
Address: 3000 Ballybunion Way, Raleigh, NC

If you’re looking for a course for all skill levels, you’ll want to schedule a tee time at Wildwood Green Golf Club. Wildwood Green features a serene landscape of rolling hills, wetlands, and wooded areas as the backdrop for its 18-hole course. Rates do vary based on weekday and weekend availability, and discounts are offered to juniors and seniors (except for weekend play).

They love golfing

Hedingham Golf Club

Phone: (919) 341-7991
Address: 4801 Harbour Towne Drive, Raleigh, NC

The 18-hole championship course at Hedingham Golf Club was designed by David Postlethwait, an internationally renowned golf architect. Its lush fairways are speckled with shimmering lakes and ponds, chiseled sand traps, and undulating greens. Hedingham Golf Club offers membership leagues, tournaments, practice facilities, golf lessons, and an on-site eatery, Hedingham Grill. Easily book tee times and see the current season’s rates online.

Pine Hollow Golf Club

Phone: (919) 553-4554
Address: 3300 Garner Road, Clayton, NC

Found in nearby Clayton, North Carolina, Pine Hollow Golf Club offers an 18-hole, par-71 course that’s known for its relaxed environment and challenging yet achievable layout. Characterized by rolling hills, strategic bunkering, and well-maintained Bermuda greens, the course provides both challenge and enjoyment to golfers of all skill levels. Pine Hollow also offers a driving range, practice green, and fully stocked pro shop. Rates vary by day and time, and discounts are available for seniors (60+) and juniors (17 and under), as well as during twilight hours.

Women practicing at golf studios.

Dogwood Country Club

Phone: (919) 327-9707
Address: 2431 Crabtree Boulevard #201, Raleigh, NC

Play championship courses from around the world at Dogwood Country Club. Dogwood’s indoor golf experience harnesses the power of golf simulator technology to offer a unique and fun environment for experienced pros and newbies to enjoy. Dogwood Country Club boasts an on-site golf shop and offers golf lessons with Dave Nastalski, owner and Class A PGA–certified instructor. Beverages are served on-site, and catering is available by request for events such as parties and fundraisers.