City Guide: Raleigh, NC
Learn about North Carolina's capital city and why it's great for both families and young professionals.
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Learn about Raleigh, NC
The City of Oaks
This former colonial settlement (under direction of Sir Walter Raleigh) was purchased from early settlers of the region in the late 1700s. This created an “unalterable seat of government” and thus Raleigh, NC became the capital of North Carolina.
Raleigh has grown into a hub of innovation since, with its impressive business climate, top-tier universities, and affordable lifestyle. It's no wonder that the region has been named the best place to live in North Carolina time and time again.
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Raleigh-Durham by the Numbers
One of the fastest growing metro areas in the country!
510,000+
Raleigh Population
3.40%
Raleigh Growth Rate
300,000+
Durham Population
1.52%
Durham Growth Rate
Downtown Raleigh
Downtown Raleigh is home to countless museums such as the North Carolina Museum of History and the CAM Raleigh , a striking art museum that features art from local and national up-and-coming artists. There are also many historic sites to visit like the State Capitol and the Executive Mansion.
Be sure to check out Raleigh’s most beloved thrift shop, Father & Son Antiques. Catch a concert at the Lincoln Theatre or the Red Hat Amphitheater, or listen to local artists with a craft beer at Pour House Music Hall .
Best Restaurants in Raleigh
For starters, be sure to check out the vegetarian focused menu at the Irreguardless Café, the 2018 ‘best restaurant of the year’ according to The News & Observer. In addition, local favorites include MoJoe’s Burger Joint, Whiskey Kitchen , and Big Ed’s City Market and Restaurant.
Raleigh is also home to two very popular Food Halls with worldly cuisines of all types. Morgan Street Food Hall offers over 20 culinary concepts under one roof, and Transfer Co. Food Hall is a great place to go with a group of friends for an assortment of burgers, burritos and bagels.
Bars and Breweries
Raleigh is home to countless local breweries each bringing unique flavors and atmosphere. Popular breweries to check out include Trophy , Brewery Bhavana, Clouds Brewing and many more.
If you're looking for drinks with a view, Raleigh is home to many rooftop bars and restaurants. Raleigh Times and 10th and Terrace provide intimate views of the city. On the flip side, Raleigh is also well known around the state for having fantastic underground cocktails, featuring speakeasies like Foundation, C. Grace , and Watts & Ward .
Coffee Shops and Sweet Treats
Everyone needs a little pick me up at some point in their day and Raleigh's local coffee shops do not disappoint. Some local favorites include 42 & Lawrence, Heirloom Brewshop, Morning Times, and Sir Walter Coffee . These coffee shops are perfect for a quick cup of joe while working remotely.
If you have more of a sweet tooth, be sure to check out Layered Croissanterie for a delicious buttery treat. Videri Chocolate Factory and Lucettegrace are some other sweet treat staples in Raleigh's food scene.
A Food-lover’s Paradise
Historically known for it's BBQ, Raleigh has a great up-and-coming food scene that's worth exploring!
186
Restaurants
9
Breweries
19
Coffee Shops
4
Food Halls
Outdoor & Recreation
Take a quick walk to Moore Square, a historical park in the heart of Raleigh with picturesque walking paths and views of beautiful oak trees. Another local favorite is Dorothea Dix Park, which combines historic architecture and beautiful landscapes.
The Art to Heart Corridor is a walking path that takes you through the many landmarks, museums and green spaces in Raleigh, and ends in the heart of downtown. One of the more recent additions to Raleigh’s ample outdoor recreation is Citric Cycle, often called ‘Raleigh bikes’. Check it out when you visit!