6 Things To Do In Raleigh This Weekend

Looking for things to do in Raleigh this weekend? Here's our guide for exploring this vibrant and dynamic city.

6 Things To Do In Raleigh This Weekend

Raleigh combines the best of both worlds - a modern, thriving city with a vibrant history and culture just waiting to be explored.

If you’re looking for things to do in Raleigh this weekend, here are six popular Raleigh things to do that should definitely be on your list.

1. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

A trip to Raleigh wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the spectacular North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

A firm favorite among adults and kids alike, the museum is the largest institution of its kind in the Southeastern United States and welcomes over a million visitors every year.

Devoted to all things science and nature, there are three exciting floors of laboratories and exhibitions to discover.

From dinosaurs and whale skeletons to live animals and walk-through dioramas, there’s something for everyone at this fascinating museum. And the best part? It’s free! Find out more and plan your visit here.

2. State Farmers Market

Whether you’re looking for fresh produce to take home with you or a locally baked treat to enjoy, you need to check out the State Farmers Market.

Open 7 days a week with free parking, you’ll find local farmers selling the very best that the state has to offer. From fresh flowers to fruit and vegetables, it’s all there under one roof.

Find out more about opening times and upcoming events at the market here.

3. Pullen Park

Raleigh may be a bustling city, but there are plenty of places where you can get back to nature and relax.

Pullen Park is one of those places. You can take in the beautiful gardens with a picnic or enjoy your favorite sport at the park's fantastic leisure facilities, including an aquatic center, tennis courts, and athletic fields.

The park is a firm favorite with younger visitors, too, with several play areas to enjoy and a ride on the charming carousel. Learn more about the park and its facilities here.

4. Historic Yates Mill County Park

Despite its cosmopolitan persona, Raleigh is full of fascinating historic sites. One of the most beautiful of these is the Historic Yates Mill County Park.

Spread across 174 acres, the park is not only a haven for wildlife. It’s the perfect sanctuary for those looking to escape the city and take in the countryside.

The park is also home to the Historic Yates Mill, Wake County’s last remaining gristmill, which has been lovingly restored and is fully operational.

Admission to the park itself is free. Tours of the mill are available between March and November for a small fee, with all proceeds going towards keeping the mill running. Find out more about the park here.

5. North Carolina Museum of Art

So much more than an art museum, the North Carolina Museum of Art is always worth a visit. Explore the galleries and exhibitions and take a moment for quiet contemplation in the museum’s very own outdoor park, full of works of art and trails.

The museum’s permanent exhibitions of rare Egyptian artifacts, prominent European Old Master paintings, African and Judaic works of art, and contemporary art are always popular.

The museum offers a range of new exhibitions and other events throughout the year. Check out the website to find out more.

6. William B. Umstead State Park

If you're looking for more adventurous things to do in Raleigh, take a trip to the William B. Umstead State Park.

Around 10 miles northwest of downtown Raleigh, this spectacular park has an extensive network of hiking and multi-use trails that can be explored on foot or horseback.

It's free to access the park every day from 8 am to sunset, but there are charges for boat rental and the use of camping facilities.

Visit the park’s website for more information on events and facilities.

Explore Raleigh Now

As you've discovered, Raleigh has so much to offer, whether you’re just passing through or stopping by for a few days.

Curious about more things to do in Raleigh? Check out our complete guide to this beautiful city here.