The capital city of North Carolina, Raleigh is a regular fixture on lists of America’s most liveable cities – but there’s also plenty for outsiders to enjoy here too, and without digging too deep into your pockets, either.
(Photo: Warren LeMay via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
Home to several colleges and universities, Raleigh’s large student population brings a youthful energy to the city. It also helps keep costs down, with plenty of budget-friendly options when it comes to places to eat, attractions to visit, and how to get around. If you’re planning a trip to Raleigh and would like to build an itinerary of great things to see and do that won’t hit your wallet too hard, we’ve come up with a starter for 7.
Step into a historically significant state capitol
State Capitol buildings are often among a city’s most impressive architectural landmarks, and the North Carolina State Capitol is certainly one of the most distinctive buildings in Raleigh. Built in 1840 in Greek Revival Style, the eye-catching capitol continues to serve as the seat of state government, and those keen to see it from the inside and discover more about the nuts and bolts of governmental procedures can take self-guided tours of the building from Mondays through to Fridays, or join free guided tours on Saturdays. Admission to the capitol is also free of charge.
1 East Edenton Street / Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-5pm Closed Sun
Visit a free museum
It’s often the case that museums are mainly a go-to indoor option for rainy days, but in the case of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences that would be to underplay its immense reputation. The region’s largest natural history museum, this acclaimed and free-to-enter museum is spread across four floors of immersive exhibits and displays that transport visitors on a journey through time. Highlights include artefacts from coastal to prehistoric North Carolina, a live sloth in the Living Conservatory, and the chance to experience life as a bug. There’s also an on-site gift shop and a café.
11 West Jones Street / Tues-Sun 10am-5pm Closed Mon
(Photo: Sergiy Galyonkin via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
Another renowned cultural venue located right here in Raleigh is the North American Museum of Art, which has been a veritable mecca for arts enthusiasts since opening its doors back in 1956. Spanning two separate buildings, the museum is home to both a permanent exhibition and regular rotating exhibitions that together encompass artworks dating from antiquity through to the current day, and with every corner of the world represented. Spare time to explore the grounds of the museum, where you’ll find an extensive collection of sculptures by legendary French sculptor Auguste Rodin. Admission to the museum is free.
2110 Blue Ridge Road / Weds-Sun 10am-5pm Closed Mon-Tues
Head to a public park
Whether you’re an all-action type or seeking an antidote to the hustle and bustle of the city, Pullen Park can be anything to anyone. If you’re seeking peace and tranquility, there is ample green space in which to kick back, relax and do as little as you please. For those seeking fun and adventure, there is no end of recreational opportunities to be had here, from renting a pedal boat, to taking a swim in the aquatics centre, to playing a game of tennis, to riding a carousel, to signing up for an art class at the dedicated arts centre. The park also hosts a busy programme of live theatre performances.
520 Ashe Avenue / Mon-Sun 10am-6pm
(Photo: Suzie Tremmel via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Explore a state park
Another public space that draws large numbers of visitors each year, William B. Umstead State Park, situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Raleigh, is a green oasis and a magnet with lovers of the great outdoors. The expansive park covers over 5,500 acres of verdant woodlands that are dotted with hiking and bridle paths, along with three made-made fishing lakes and well-equipped campgrounds for overnight visitors. Mountain bikers and horseriding are also allowed here on designated trails.
8801 Glenwood Avenue / Mon-Sun 8am-8pm
Pick up some produce at a farmers’ market
There are few better ways of getting to know a place than by taking in the distinctive sights, sounds and aromas of a local market. Open from early morning through to early evening every day of the week, North Carolina State Farmers Public Market brims with vendors selling fresh, affordable and often locally sourced produce ranging from flowers to baked goods to organic fruit and veg, as well as plenty of gift ideas such as custom picture framing, pottery and teak items.
1201 Agriculture Street / Mon-Sat 5am-7pm Sun 8am-5pm
(Photo: North Carolina State Farmers Public Market)
JC Raulston Arboretum
Any horticulture enthusiasts visiting Raleigh are in for a real treat thanks to the presence of the nationally-acclaimed JC Raulston Arboretum. Set within the North Carolina State University’s main campus, located about 13 miles west of downtown Raleigh, the arboretum features a remarkable collection of over 6,000 landscape plants, shrubs and trees especially adapted for the unique landscapes of North Carolina. The garden is open every day of the year without charge.
Ruby McSwain Education Center, 4415 Beryl Road / Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm Sat-Sun 10am-5pm
By Paul Joseph