Should You Visit Raleigh?

Is Raleigh worth visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting this city for two to three days because of the many great activities. Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina. It's a suburban city with a friendly population and a nice downtown area. The city is home to North Carolina State University as well as many smaller colleges. There's a large student population, but you'll also find many families in the area. Known as the "city of oaks", Raleigh is filled with parks and other outdoor spaces.

Raleigh, North Carolina

Reasons to Visit Raleigh

Museums
As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Food
In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Nightlife
Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Authenticity
Raleigh has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Raleigh worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Raleigh, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here. During the summer months Raleigh hosts a number of festivals and events.

The weather in Raleigh is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 26°C (79°F). But it can get as warm as 32°C (90°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, discover the big city activities, and enjoy an evening out.

Is Raleigh worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Raleigh. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 16°C (61°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks and the big city activities.

Is Raleigh worth visiting in the Winter?

The weather in Raleigh can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The low season for travel in Raleigh is during the winter. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet. Basketball season kicks up during the winter months.

This is a great time of year to wander through the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, and dance the night away. Also, you can enjoy the city's energy.

Is Raleigh worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Raleigh. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 16°C (60°F).

You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to browse through museums and enjoy the evening activities.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Raleigh

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Raleigh might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Raleigh here or see if Raleigh is expensive here.

Related

What is Raleigh most famous for?

Raleigh is most famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. The city is very popular for its museums, food, and nightlife. It is often described as suburban-style, friendly, southern, and student-friendly.

What is the most famous sight in Raleigh?

The most popular sight in Raleigh is North Carolina State University. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Raleigh on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for North Carolina State University and other attractions here.

How touristy is Raleigh? Is it a popular city to visit?

Raleigh is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Tour of Downtown Raleigh on a Rickshaw(Pedicab): $90
• Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh: $45
• Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh: $60
• Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
• Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $16
• Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
• Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $30
• Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks: $10

How long should I spend in Raleigh?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Raleigh is two to three days. Since Raleigh has activities such as nightlife, museums, and dining, most people visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Raleigh? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Raleigh?.