Whether you travel for work or fun, there’s always time to grab something to eat or stop and smell the roses! And our southern states will see a lot of love this winter from our northern travelers. Let’s talk about how to spend a weekend in Raleigh.
Night Life
If you’re coming into town to visit a friend or perhaps on a romantic weekend, you’ll be interested in what there is to do when the sun goes down. We would suggest starting at the Videri Chocolate Factory. Does anything even compare to chocolate when we think of love? Decadent, delicious, and handcrafted – you’re sure to fill your belly and heart with joyful bliss at this homegrown chocolate factory.
Then after your chocolate milkshake or handcrafted bonbon, head over to the Triangle Drive-In for a flick. Open on weekends and is perfect for getaways for two. If you’re more of the adventurous type, check out Crazy Axe and release some of that pent-up rage! And for those of us who are more like tall children, Raleigh is home to Boxcar Bar & Arcade. Catch a buzz and spend all your coin on video games.
Ravers and clubbers can look no further than downtown Raliegh. Nightlife here will not disappoint. Check out Legends Nightclub Complex for a guaranteed epic night. Laidback crowds can find their vibe at Watts and Ward Speakeasy or C. Grace for the relaxing jazz ambiance.
Perfect Morning
Since we are working backward, let’s discuss the best places to visit the morning after your night out. Shake awake your best friends and drag them out to the Flying Biscuit Cafe. They might start the day off angry with you, but they will thank you after your breakfast/brunch experience. Whatever time you end up visiting, breakfast is all day. Finally, a cafe that truly understands our needs.
If you’re not too damaged from the night before and feel better after your meal, hop along to William B. Umstead State Park. There are over 30 miles of hiking trails and paths, horseback riding, camping, and endless picnicking. And if the weather is just right, you must visit the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University. There are over 6,000 species of wondrous taxa.
Downtown Raleigh on Fayetteville Street is another popular spot for visitors. It’s a street shut down to vehicle traffic. You can find this area exploding with visitors. It’s an essential part of the city boasting a farmers market, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
Family Fun
You may be riding into town with your family who needs to be entertained just as much as anyone else. Maybe you are even coming with the whole gang to search out some homes or apartments for rent in Raleigh. The Marbles Kids Museum is a favorite for those visiting and locals alike. Offering hands-on exhibits that encourage education and imagination, parents even enjoy Marbles Museum. Don’t forget to check out the IMAX theater while you are there!
Bring the kids to Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and let them wear themselves out. Get the crew hiking and biking during the daytime so they sleep well at night! The Carolina Museum of Art is another treasured staple of Raliegh. There’s always something new and they cater to audiences of all kinds. Although the kiddos may not be as excited here as they are at Marbles, there’s much to learn from this enriching experience.
Our list is nowhere near the ultimate guide, but it offers some guidance on your southern weekend getaway. If you’re looking for something specifically, we encourage you to research it! Raleigh is an urban city sprawling with entertainment. You’re bound to find your perfect activity somewhere nearby!
