3 Fun Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is filled to the brim with fun, educational, and thrilling things to do. Check out a cultural district, try a local brew, get some fresh air, or explore an expansive museum the next time you’re in town. Here are some of the top things to do in downtown Raleigh.

Explore the Warehouse District

There are plenty of neighborhoods worth exploring, but the Warehouse District is one of the most unique. Easily identifiable by the red-brick warehouses that line the streets, you’ll find ample places to explore in the area.

The 311 Gallery and CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum) are here, but you can also check out one of the smaller galleries and studios, like the Local Color Gallery at 311 W. Martin Street, which showcases the work of 12 women artists and hosts rotating monthly shows.

If you’re hungry, The Pit is a famous BBQ restaurant in the neighborhood. The Fiction Kitchen is another popular spot that serves up 100 percent vegetarian dishes. If you want an awesome and unique shopping experience, go to Trolley Pub Beer Shop on 323 W. Davie St.

The Warehouse District is south of W. Morgan St. and east of S. Dawson St. If you want to visit for one of the businesses mentioned here, remember to check their hours of operation before departing.

Visit a Downtown Museum

There are two excellent museums in the downtown area: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and North Carolina Museum of History.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at 11 W. Jones St. has many things to see, including permanent exhibits like the Nature Exploration Center and the Nature Research Center. You can also check out some live animals here. Visit the arthropod zoo for a closer look at arachnids, crustaceans, insects, and more, or go to the living conservatory to see some butterflies.

The North Carolina Museum of History at 5 E. Edenton St. is another quality museum in the downtown area. The Story of North Carolina is the feature exhibit, where you’ll learn about the history of the land dating back 14,000 years.

Get Some Exercise at the Triangle Rock Club

If you want a unique workout while you’re in the downtown area, go to the Triangle Rock Club at 102 Pheasant Wood Ct. Here you’ll find lead and top-rope climbing as well as bouldering and a dedicated fitness area that hosts yoga and Pilates classes. Even if you’re on your own, you can try bouldering or clip into one of the seven auto-belays for a challenging climb. There are over 40 climbing lanes and numerous routes, so you’ll have no problem finding a spot that accommodates your skill level.

There are many more things to do and see in the heart of Raleigh. Even if you decide to walk the Capital District or Fayetteville Street and don’t want to plan anything else, you’ll pass by numerous restaurants, shopping spots, and art and culture opportunities in the downtown area. Remember these recommendations the next time you’re visiting, and enjoy your time in Raleigh!

Image via Flickr by Suzie Tremmel under use of CC BY 2.0/Cropped from original

*Based on 2016 EPA mileage/highway estimates and driving range ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe/MPG and driving range will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors. For additional information about EPA ratings, visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.