visitRaleigh insider

In a city packed with world-class art, live music and leafy green parks, it might surprise you that Raleigh’s most-visited year-round attraction is all about ancient bones, wild weather and the mysteries of the natural world. The biggest tourist attraction in Raleigh—by popularity and...

Note: Authored by David Menconi, this piece has been produced in partnership with Raleigh Arts . Menconi's latest book, "Oh, Didn't They Ramble: Rounder Records and the Transformation of American Roots Music," was published by University of North Carolina Press. His podcast,...

Legendary barbecue spots, old-school soda shops, a hot dog joint that's more than 100 years old and more! The Raleigh, N.C., area is rooted in history (founded on Dec. 31, 1792, the City of Oaks is more than 230 years strong), and a host of the area's most celebrated...

School’s out, the sun’s high and adventure is calling. From hands-on science and sky-high slides to vintage carousels and splash zones, these five family-friendly spots across the Raleigh area promise memory-making fun all summer long. Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park A playground...

One of North Carolina’s most acclaimed chefs just landed in Raleigh, and the line out the door is evidence of just how excited locals are. Botiwalla, an Indian street food restaurant from Asheville-based chef Meherwan Irani, recently opened in the trending Raleigh Iron Works development,...

Big Cat didn’t have to advertise its pending opening to generate excitement bordering on hysteria. When you assemble a super group of star chefs and restaurant industry all-stars to launch a new concept, the community is bound to notice. In this case, the players are lauded enough that...

Update, July 20: The sunflowers at Dix Park are now past peak bloom, but may remain in viewable condition for several more days. What and where are the sunflowers in Raleigh? Calling all cyclists, runners, outdoor enthusiasts and Instagram addicts—a pop-up tourist destination of gorgeous

The City of Raleigh will host fireworks (plus games, food and music) at Dix Park on July 4, with gates opening at 6pm. Read about that event plus other fireworks displays in the Raleigh area below! Ready to celebrate Independence Day in a big way for 2026? Fireworks displays, bounce houses, live

The Carolina Hurricanes beat Vegas in Game 6 to win the Stanley Cup! The Canes will host a Championship Celebration in downtown Raleigh on Sat., June 20 at 11am. More info here! Official: Raleigh's Carolina Hurricanes have won the Stanley Cup! The Canes put on a dominant performance in Game 6

Note: Authored by David Menconi, this piece has been produced in partnership with Raleigh Arts . Menconi's latest book, "Oh, Didn't They Ramble: Rounder Records and the Transformation of American Roots Music," was published by University of North Carolina Press. His podcast,...