Here Are The Best Raleigh Neighborhoods to Explore

There are a number of really cool Raleigh neighborhoods that are a ton of fun to explore. These neighborhoods feature everything from gorgeous historic homes to local restaurants to eclectic stores. Here are our top five favorite Raleigh neighborhoods to explore and what makes each so special.

Cameron Park

One of the quieter in-city neighborhoods, Cameron Park is filled with lush trees and stunning historic homes. Visitors and residents can enjoy one of the many green spaces inside the neighborhood or visit the local restaurants and businesses located there. Popular spots include David’s Dumpling & Noodle Bar and the nearby Cameron Village Shopping Center. Spend a day in the sun at Edna Metz Wells Park, which is also a dog-friendly location.

Fairmont

Home to the stunning Isabella Cannon Park and Rose Garden, Fairmont is a cozy neighborhood that is home to many young families and students. It’s a pleasant place to stroll around, and there’s lots of options as far as activities go. Two of the most popular neighborhood spots are the local Raleigh Little Theater and Mitch’s Tavern. It’s also super close to Meredith College and North Carolina University, hence its popularity with both faculty and students.

Five Points

Five Points is named after the jumbled intersection of Glenwood Avenue, Fairview Road, and Whitaker Mill Road. It’s a convergence of a number of different neighborhoods, creating a blend of different home styles and businesses that create a truly exciting and dynamic residential area. There’s always something to do in Five Points, and the main intersection area is home to plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops, most of which are locally owned and operated.

Glenwood South

Located centrally in Raleigh, Glenwood South is a blend of skyscrapers and residential buildings, mostly apartments and condos. It’s a popular spot for young professionals who want to be close to all the action. There is a dizzying number of restaurant, bars, and shops in the area, and new ones are moving in every day. Favorite destinations include Moonlight Pizza Company and Shop Local Raleigh. If you plan on visiting, prepare ahead for parking — it can be tricky to find an on-street spot.

Oakwood

Just a quick jaunt from the hustle and bustle of downtown Raleigh, Oakwood is a surprisingly quiet neighborhood home to some of the most stunning historic homes in Raleigh. Many were built in the early to mid-1800s. A popular spot to explore is the Historic Oakwood Cemetery, which is filled with massive mature oaks. It’s a quiet, pleasant spot to take your pup for a walk to just spend some time outside if you can get past the fact that it’s a graveyard.

Warehouse District

The Warehouse District is full of, you guessed it, warehouses that have been converted into trendy apartment and lofts, plus lots of bars and restaurants. Popular with a younger, artistic crowd, favorite spots include the Saturday Market and the Contemporary Art Museum. Besides the museum, there are lots of galleries that call the Warehouse District home.

These six neighborhoods are great places to start when exploring Raleigh and all it has to offer.

Image via Flickr by James Willamor under use of CC BY-SA 2.0/Cropped from original

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