The Best Downtown Attractions in Raleigh, NC

Welcome to Raleigh, NC — where there's always something exciting going on. Whether you're visiting for the day or planning a staycation to explore your own city, downtown Raleigh has plenty of attractions and activities that are perfect for active adults. From outdoor entertainment venues to historic sites, there is endless fun to be had in North Carolina’s capital city. In this blog post, we'll dive into some of the best downtown attractions in Raleigh so grab your friends and family—it's time for an adventure.

Places to Eat in Downtown Raleigh 

Raleigh is home to an outstanding restaurant scene, and Top Chef contestant Katsuji Tanabe knows it. Growing up in Los Angeles, Tanabe is now based in Raleigh and recently added something special to the city with his second restaurant — a'Verde Cocina + Tequila Library. Locals and travelers alike give downtown Raleigh rave reviews, and Tanabe’s must-try spot in Cary is just 20 minutes away from the bustling city. There's no doubt a sweet, Southern feeling radiates throughout the town here.

1. Death & Taxes

Raleigh native Ashley Christensen is a culinary genius and an award-winning chef. She recently took home the James Beard Best Chef Award, which in the foodie world is like winning a Grammy. With her talent and mission to bring locals and travelers together, she opened up several restaurants downtown, including Death & Taxes — a restaurant with wood-fire recipes sure to tickle your taste buds! 

Location: 105 W. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601

Hours of operation: Sun-Mon: Closed

Tue–Thur: 5 pm–9 pm

Fri–Sat: 5 pm–10 pm 

2. Jolie

For a romantic night out, head to this enchanting French bistro in Raleigh's North Person Street neighborhood. Enjoy an intimate dinner on the rooftop surrounded by beautiful scents of rosemary and lavender and illuminated by candlelight.  

Location: 620 N. Person St., Raleigh, NC 27604

Hours of operation: Sun-Mon: Closed

Tue–Sat: 5 pm–10 pm

3. Fiction Kitchen 

Fiction Kitchen is changing the game with its vegan take on our favorite dishes. Think crab rangoons, tacos, and even chicken and waffles without any animal cruelty. Get ready to indulge in some delicious guilt-free meals.

Location: 428 S. Dawson St., Raleigh, NC 27601

Hours of operation: Sun–Tue: Closed

Wed-Sat: 4:30 pm–9 pm

Recreational Things to Do in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, with its breathtaking outdoor spaces and convenient location in the heart of North Carolina, is a delightful destination for transplants. The city offers easy access to incredible mountain hikes or coastal escapes. Explore all this stunning state has to offer.

4. Jordan Lake

Experience feeling like you're on the coast even though you’re only 45 minutes away from downtown Raleigh. Jordan Lake is an outdoor paradise for all ages. Go bird-watching, hiking, boating, and more. Or, stay awhile by pitching a tent and watching the stars twinkle against a clear night sky. 

Location: Chatham/Durham Counties, NC

Hours of operation: N/A

5. Raleigh City Market

Raleigh’s downtown City Market is a special place. Lined with cozy mom-and-pop shops on a picturesque cobblestone road, you can find anything your heart desires, including tasty restaurants, one-of-a-kind stores, and more. There are delicious new surprises around every corner, making each visit to the market truly unique. This is a wonderful hidden gem to explore. 

Location: 215 Wolfe St, Raleigh, NC 27601

Hours of operation: Sun-Mon: 11 am–12 am

Tue–Sat: 11 am–2 am

6. Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

Feel the rush of adventure as you fly through nature on a thrilling zipline. Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park offers fun and exciting zipline courses and provides thorough safety training from their expert staff. Embark on this adrenaline-pumping journey for an experience like no other. Grab your gear and get ready to take flight! 

Location: 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh, NC 27614

Hours of operation: Mon–Thur: Closed

Fri: 10 am–1 pm

Sat-Sun: 10 am–3 pm

7. Frankie’s Fun Park

If you’re looking for a fun way to make memories in Raleigh, look no further than Frankie’s Fun Park — North Carolina's biggest indoor park. There are tons of activities to keep everyone entertained, from go-karts and batting cages to bumper boats and laser tag. Plus, Frankie’s has an awesome arcade with the latest games. Don't miss out on all the unforgettable family-friendly fun. 

Location: 11190 Fun Park Dr., Raleigh, NC 27617

Hours of operation: Sun–Thur: 12 pm–11 pm

Fri–Sat: 12 pm–12 am

Raleigh Murals

8. Ride

The joy of biking and an appreciation for the environment are alive in Raleigh thanks to Ride — a mural by local artist J.P. Powell at the city's Union Station bike tracks. Commissioned during National Bike Week, this piece encourages all citizens to take advantage of cycling. It’s a great way to exercise in the fresh air and an opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet while delighting in life’s simple pleasures.  

Location: 510 West Martin St., Raleigh, NC 27601

Hours of operation: N/A

9. Sprinkles the Bobcat

Lisa Gaither is a beloved muralist in North Carolina. Her interactive pieces, like Sprinkles the Bobcat, captivate passersby. Dressed to impress, complete with a bowtie and top hat, it may seem like this dapper feline is pointing directly at you. But if you look closer, it turns out he’s actually directing you to C. Grace, one of Raleigh's most iconic bars, located just across the street. 

Location: 407 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC 27601

Hours of operation: N/A

Museums in Raleigh

If you're looking for a worthwhile way to enrich your understanding of the world around you, learn about fascinating history and cultures, or simply enjoy a unique and fun outing with friends, then visiting one of the many inspiring museums in Raleigh is just what you need. Whether it's art, natural science, or something more obscure that interests you, there are plenty of incredible museums throughout this vibrant city that offer unparalleled insight into new perspectives and ideas. Who knows — after exploring these exciting places full of interactive exhibits and engaging activities, maybe they will inspire some amazing moments in your life too.

Each of the museums in Raleigh listed below has hundreds of remarkable 4.5+-star ratings on Google Maps from visitors like you:

1. Marbles Kids Museum - Great for taking the grandkids

2. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

3. North Carolina Museum of History

4. North Carolina Museum of Art

5. City of Raleigh Museum

6. CAM Raleigh - Art Museum in Raleigh

7. Pope House Museum

8. Gregg Museum of Art & Design

9. Original Selfie Museum of Raleigh - Another great one for when the grandkids visit, or a fun girls’ night out

10. Raleigh Fire Museum

11. Prairie Ridge Ecostation

There’s truly something for everyone in Raleigh, making it a popular place for retirees to settle down and enjoy all it has to offer. Discover an amenity-rich active adult community near Raleigh today!