Things to do in Raleigh
Welcome to the City of Oaks! Raleigh, NC is home to a variety of fun activities, outdoor spaces, and local events. We have listed a few “things to do” within the city of Raleigh. If you’re interested in learning more about what Raleigh has to offer, please visit the City of Raleigh’s visitor website.
Parks & Gardens
- NC State Arboretum
- Pullen Park (right next to campus!)
- Raleigh Rose Garden (Just a couple blocks from Hillsborough St.)
- Lake Wheeler Park
- Lake Johnson (off Avent Ferry Rd. Lots of walking trails, paddle boats and kayaks)
- Raleigh Parks and Recreation (listing of all parks and activities)
Historic Tours
First Friday In Downtown Raleigh
“First Friday is one of Raleigh’s most popular evening escapes. Join us on the First Friday of every month for a fun-filled introduction to Raleigh’s exciting art, music and dining scene. Enjoy a free self-guided tour of local art galleries, art studios, museums, retail, restaurants and alternative art venues on the first Friday of every month. Look for the First Friday Flags to easily locate participating venues. A detailed map/guide will be available at each location. Pick up your very own FREE copy for easy event navigation.”
Government Educational Tours
- North Carolina State Capitol
- North Carolina State Legislature Building
- North Carolina Executive Mansion (Governor’s Home)
- North Carolina State Archives
Museums
- NC Museum of History
- NC Museum of Natural Sciences
- NC Museum of Art
- Art Space (not really a museum, but educational)
- Raleigh Museum
- Marbles Kids Museum
Movie Theaters
- Crossroads 20:501 Caitboo Ave., Cary NC (919) 226-2000
- Blue Ridge 14: 600 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh NC (919) 828-9003
- The Art Museum also plays movies (outdoors).