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5 fun things to do in Raleigh, NC this weekend - Great activities for you and the whole family!

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and a great place to visit. See our list of things to do in Raleigh, NC.

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Downtown Raleigh and George Washington Statue - Things to do in Raleigh NC
By
Eric Openshaw
, WRAL contributor

There's plenty to do in Raleigh, North Carolina whether you're looking for a day trip, or want to stay for a while. The city has plenty of attractions, from the iconic Raleigh Museum of Art to the popular Wake Forest University campus. There are also plenty of restaurants and nightlife options, making it easy to find something to do every night of your stay.

1. History: Raleigh has a rich history that visitors can learn about

City of Raleigh Museum. Photo: Emily Warburton
Raleigh has been around for centuries and is steeped in history. There are a number of places where visitors can learn about the city’s past, including the North Carolina Museum of History and the City of Raleigh Museum. These museums are both full of exhibits that tell the story of Raleigh, from its early days as a crossroads for American Indians to its growth into a major metropolitan area.
In addition to learning about Raleigh’s history, visitors can also enjoy plenty of fun activities. The city is home to a variety of other interesting family-friendly museums. Some popular destinations include the North Carolina Museum of Art (This place is awesome! Check out the next few sections for more info) and the Marbles Kids Museum.

2. Parks and Recreation: Raleigh has many parks and recreational areas for visitors to enjoy

Tranquil scene of dock and water at sunset in North Carolina. Photo: Big Stock
One of the great things about Raleigh is the abundance of parks and recreational areas. There are plenty of places to go for a walk, a run, or just to enjoy nature. The North Carolina Museum of Art is located in downtown Raleigh and has a beautiful park with sculpture gardens and trails that wind through the woods.
Lake Johnson Park is another great spot for a walk or a run, with miles of paved trails around the lake. There are also several greenways throughout Raleigh, which are perfect for biking, running, or walking. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of options for that too. Umstead State Park has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping

3. Arts and Culture: There are many arts and cultural venues in Raleigh

Raleigh Convention Center

Most major cities have an arts and cultural district where people can go to take in a show, see a museum, or listen to live music. Raleigh is no exception. In fact, the city has several districts with different offerings for arts and culture lovers.

The first stop for many is the Raleigh Convention Center, located in the heart of downtown. The center hosts major concerts and Broadway shows, as well as smaller events throughout the year. It's also home to the North Carolina Museum of Art and the North Carolina Symphony.
Just south of downtown is the Glenwood South Arts District. This vibrant area is home to galleries, studios, restaurants, and bars. It's also a popular spot for live music. You can often find free concerts in Glenwood South on weekend nights.

4. Shopping and Dining: Visitors will find plenty of shopping and dining options in Raleigh

Full Bloom Coffee Roasters in Garner (Facebook)
There are plenty of shopping and dining options in Raleigh for visitors to choose from. Downtown, you'll find popular chain stores like H&M and Urban Outfitters, as well as local boutiques and art galleries. There are also several major malls in the area, including Crabtree Valley Mall and Triangle Town Center.
When it comes to dining, Raleigh has something for everyone. You can find everything from fine dining restaurants serving up locally-sourced fare to casual eateries serving up classic southern dishes. And of course, there are plenty of coffee shops and bars to choose from as well.

5. Events: There are always events happening in Raleigh

North Carolina Bluegrass Festival. Photo: Eric Openshaw
There are always events happening in Raleigh. From the weekly farmer's markets to major festivals and concerts, there's always something to do. In October, the North Carolina State Fair kicks off, and it's always a blast. There will be rides, games, food, and exhibits for everyone to enjoy.

There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Raleigh, from hiking and biking trails to kayaking on Falls Lake. No matter what your interests are, there's sure to be an event happening in Raleigh that you'll enjoy!

There are so many things to do in Raleigh, NC

Touring the Raleigh City Museum

There is something for everyone in Raleigh, NC. The city has a variety of activities for people of all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly activity or something more adult-oriented, Raleigh has something for you. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore everything that Raleigh has to offer!

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