Locals Guide To Downtown Raleigh, NC (Things To Do + Places To Eat & Shop) | This Is Raleigh (2024)

Downtown Raleigh is our favorite district of the seven that make up the municipality of Raleigh, NC. The reason for this is simple; there are so many things to do in downtown Raleigh NC, from museum jaunting to bar hopping to eating your way around the many best-rated restaurants in the city!

Since first moving to Raleigh NC in 2004, the downtown area has seen an explosion of growth and investment that has transformed the area into a vibrant center of activity for the Triangle region.

This now thriving Southern capital city is getting shaped by smart and savvy locals who are in the pursuit of a vibrant life, and it’s bursting with entrepreneurial spirit and energy.

If you’re not sure what to do in downtown, here’s a local’s guide on what we love to do!

The Spirit of Downtown Raleigh

Downtown is not just one neighborhood, but a melting pot of many. It’s where you’ll find the best neighborhoods in Raleigh, from historic residential suburbs to bustling entertainment districts.

When we talk about downtown Raleigh, we’re referring to the Glenwood South District, Warehouse District, Boylan Heights, Moore Square District, Fayetteville Street District, Capital District, Seaboard and Person Street District, and the East side of Hillsborough Street.

Here is a map of Downtown Raleigh to get an idea:

Within the confines of this 754 acre (1.18 square mile) area, you’ll find the city’s most highly-acclaimed museums, the best places to eat in Raleigh, innovative breweries, underground bars and speakeasies, co*cktail bars, food halls, coffee shops, performing arts venues, live music venues, and local retail stores.

Yeah, it’s a lot in such a small place!

It’s not just a place to play, but a place to live. Among the inhabitants are artists and musicians, contributing to the thriving creative culture of the district, as well as innovative tech companies, start-ups, and government buildings.

Although historic, downtown Raleigh has youthful energy and it’s becoming a more vibrant place to visit.

The food scene is particularly adding to the vitality of downtown Raleigh, and you can find an exciting mix of traditional southern food and global flavors (many restaurants have received national recognition!).

With two downtown food halls, the community is coming closer together through food.

All this among green spaces and squares, and oak-lined streets that help to keep the city relaxed and feeling like a small town.

Things to Do on Fayetteville Street District, Downtown Raleigh

Call it the central thoroughfare of downtown Raleigh, or the city’s central business corridor, Fayetteville Street has been rejuvenated since transforming from a pedestrian mall to a two lane street in 2006.

Fayetteville and surrounding streets like Hargett, Davie, Martin and S Wilmington have exploded with an abundance of restaurants, bars, galleries and boutique shops mixed in with new and old high-rises and restored historic buildings.

There are over 50 restaurants and bars, plus 16 retailers, the four tallest buildings in Raleigh, as well as the Raleigh Convention Center.

During the weekdays it’s not just the environment of business and commerce anymore, but also a place to eat, drink, socialize and shop.

The arts are alive and well here in this vibrant part of Downtown Raleigh with the Performing Arts Center being home to the Carolina Ballet and the NC Symphony.

Plus you can take in live music performances at the Red Hat Amphitheater.

Fayetteville Street is regularly closed off for some of the biggest Raleigh events and festivals such as Brewgaloo Beer Festival, First Fridays, the World of Bluegrass Festival, and Raleigh’s acclaimed Christmas Parade and St. Patrick’s Day Parades.

1. Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Raleigh’s premier arts venue, here you can see theatrical productions at the Kennedy Theater, listen to the North Carolina Symphony in the Meymandi Concert Hall, and watch the Carolina Ballet.

2. City Of Raleigh Museum (COR)

The COR Museum is on the main street and housed in a historic former hardware store dating back to 1874, it features exhibits that focus on the history of the city, its people, places, and resources.

3. Take Pics at the “All Are Welcome” Mural

One of the things we love about Raleigh is the diversity and celebration of different genders, races, and cultures.

You can see a snapshot of this welcoming spirit at the “All are welcome” mural in Raleigh, located at 428 S. McDowell Street next to the old Poolside Pies!

Which is just one of the main murals and street art pieces you’ll find in downtown City of Oaks.

4. EatAt One of The Top Fayetteville St Restaurants

One of the main reasons why we love the Fayetteville St District is because of all the fantastic restaurants, cafes and coffee shops. Below are some of our favorites…

Beasley’s Chicken + Honey

One of the most popular downtown Raleigh restaurants by the famed Ashley Christensen.

The signature dishes at Beasley’s are fried quarter chicken, chicken biscuits and fried chicken and waffles, along with great tasting southern sides, and an adventurous wine menu.

Clyde Cooper’s BBQ

Barbecue is a tradition in North Carolina, and Clyde Cooper’s which opened in 1938 is one of the longest-running barbecue restaurants in the state and beloved by locals.

Watch the video below of Clyde Cooper’s BBQ:

Death & Taxes

Located in an elegant building that was once a mortuary and a tax office (hence the name Death & Taxes).

This is a fine dining downtown Raleigh experience featuring an open kitchen with an emphasis on wood-fired fare with Southern ingredients from award-winning chef Ashley Christensen, the most famous chef in Raleigh.

Sitti

Popular Middle Eastern restaurant, Sitti serves up modern versions of authentic Lebanese dishes in an airy room with a communal table and art deco bar.

Lucettegrace

Cute cafe near the Convention center. Lucettegrace is a contemporary patisserie that specializes in sweet and savory breakfast pastries, and French inspired desserts and light lunch.

Poole’s Diner

Poole’s is a modern diner with retro-chic charm serving seasonal comfort food, co*cktails and house desserts. The Macaroni au gratin (pictured above) is one of the most famous dishes in Raleigh, and yep, this is another Ashley Christensen restaurant.

Bittersweet

If you enjoy the concept of a dessert bar, Bittersweet serves up delicious desserts, coffee and co*cktails.

A place where you can get bourbon with your pie, champagne with your cake, and Irish whiskey in your coffee.

5. Check Out Bars, Breweries, Pubs in the Fayetteville St District

Fayetteville St District is also the place to be if you’re looking for cozy bars, cool pubs and top-notch breweries. Here’s some of our favorites…

The Raleigh Times Bar

A timeless watering hole and probably the most famous bar in Raleigh – even Obama had a campaign beer here.

Named after the former newspaper that occupied this 100 year old building, The Raleigh Times has an extensive Belgian beer selection, multiple levels and an open rooftop bar for a drink with a view – one of our favorite things to do in Raleigh.

The Haymaker Bar

One of our favorite co*cktail bars in downtown Raleigh. The Haymaker makes creative co*cktails (like the PB & JAY) in a cozy ambiance with offbeat, vintage-style decor.

The bartenders at The Haymaker are fast and knowledgeable with great suggestions and drinks well priced.

The Green Light Speakeasy

The true definition of a hidden bar. The Green Light is literally tucked away behind a secret bookshelf inside in a secret room in what was once an architect’s office.

This small, dimly lit room with a 1920s speakeasy feel is such a cool bar to have a quiet drink.

The Bridge DTR

British themed pub and eatery owned and operated by two guys who love their English football AND beer.

The Bridge DTR has an enjoyable atmosphere and is THE place in downtown Raleigh to watch English Premier league soccer games and other league matches (the Liverpool supporter’s home).

Enjoy a drink at the bar or in the big landscaped outdoor courtyard, either way, it’s a fun pub to watch all sports and meet new people.

6. Explore The Coffee Shops on Fayetteville St

If you love coffee as much as us, then you’re going to love exploring the coffee houses in the Fayetteville St District. To help you out, we’ve listed our favorites below…

The Morning Times

The Morning Times is a popular coffee shop with locals, including us. Sit upstairs in a cozy laid-back atmosphere that also functions as an art gallery, or on the sidewalk with your furry friends on a sunny day.

Sir Walter Coffee

You might feel like you’re in Brooklyn, NY at Sir Walter Coffee with it’s hip and modern interior.

A cool barista bar with a focus on unique coffee creations, tea lattes, tea co*cktails, kombucha, and smoothies and beer.

7. Shop in The Fayetteville St District

One of the big reasons to visit this corner of downtown is to shop! There are store openings all the time, and there are often farmer’s markets and pop-up stores on Fayetteville Street too.

Here are some of our favorite shops in this area.

Deco Raleigh

At DECO they stock a large selection of locally gifts, housewares, books and cards from local makers and unique brands.

See more women owned businesses in Raleigh.

Curate

Curate showcases over 60 local artists in their cute and cozy downtown Raleigh storefront with a nice collection of handmade goods.

Artists rotate monthly so there is always a reason to stop by for something new. Popular items include candles, jewelry and homemade sauces.

Pop-Up Shops On Martin St

Another excellent concept. Thispop-up retail storeprogram’s goal is to provide affordable retail space in a desirable location within Downtown Raleigh to minority-and-women-owned businesses.

Here, up-and-coming retailers can also participate in business counseling opportunities to grow their business through StartUp at Wake Tech. See more Black-owned businesses in Raleigh to support.

Munjo Munjo

Munjo Munjo is owned and operated by a Latinx artist. This design studio highlights women and BIPOC artists, through collaborative works, live art events, and other opportunities.

Inside are Munjo branded gear and products from local artists and creators. Munjo. We often pop in here to see what new designs they have. We love their stickers, mugs and graphic tees.

Unorthodox Vintage

Unorthodox Vintageis a vintage and secondhand clothing store on Wilmington St. It’s a success story from the Martin St pop ups!

It pops with color and style and is a fun place to shop, for clothes and vintage items. (My teen loves shopping here)

Read more: 25+ Places to Shop Local in Raleigh.

Things to Do in The Warehouse District, Downtown Raleigh

The Warehouse District is probably our favorite of the downtown Raleigh districts and talk about a renaissance!

The six-block Warehouse District has transformed from its former red-brick industrial buildings into a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, a food hall, boutique shopping, art museums, studios and technology firms. It’s become a mecca for residents and visitors.

Plus it’s also a transit hub with the opening of Raleigh Union Station and a sought after residential location within The Dillon Building.

8. Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh (CAM)

CAM Raleigh displays new and emerging work by local and national living artists. Every exhibition is unique and thought-provoking. Free admission and popular among local residents.

9. Videri Chocolate Factory

Chocolates lovers rejoice! Tour the fully-operational Videri Chocolate Factory and retail space on a self-guided tour. Sample yummy chocolate and witness all the chocolate-making from cacao bean to finish.

There’s an outdoor patio to relax and enjoy one of their signature chocolate bars – and allergy friendly chocolate!It’s a place for any chocolate lover, no matter your taste.

10. Visit Local Color Gallery

Run by local artists, Local Color is a women’s artist cooperative featuring work in a variety of mediums.

Here you can meet and interact with the artists who all live in the downtown Raleigh area.

11. Learn at Joel Lane Museum

Visit Wake County’s oldest home and what is considered the Birthplace of Raleigh. The Joel Lane Museum House was built in 1769.

Joel Lane sold 1,000 acres to the state in 1792 to be used as the new state capital. Pre-arranged tours are provided by costumed docents.

12. Eat in the Warehouse District

If you’re looking for vibrancy and a lively atmosphere, then you’ll want to dine in the Warehouse district! Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the area..

Morgan Street Food Hall

22,000 square feet of space inside a repurposed warehouse, Morgan Street Food Hall is the first of its kind in Raleigh.

A popular hangout with 20 different food concepts housed in food stalls or free-standing kiosks. Our faves; CowBar Burger and Raleigh Rolls.

The Pit BBQ

North Carolina is a BBQ state, and you might have to loosen your belt here. The Pit proudly serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked Eastern-style barbecue with all the Southern sides from collards and fried okra to candied yams and coleslaw.

Parkside Restaurant

Across from historic Nash Square and housed and under the longest running neon restaurant sign in N.C. is Parkside, a Retro-industrial restaurant and bar serving American comfort food and 25+ beers on tap.

Boulted Bread

Bread and pastry lovers rejoice. Boulted Bread is a chic bakery featuring pastries and loaves of bread made with local, organic grains.

A true locals favorite, they serve craft bread and pastries ranging from flaky croissants and sweet, fruit-filled tarts to savory breakfast quiches.

A Place at the Table

Love the concept here. A place at the table brings us all together to eat. It’s a pay-what-you-can and pay-it-forward cafe. With multiple options to pay and to pay-it-forward you can.

It’s a sandwich shop and coffee bar and popular for brunch – listen to our podcast chat with founder, Maggie Kane.

Other places to eat in the Warehouse District:

• Oak Steakhouse
• O-Ku Japanese
• Heirloom Brewshop

13. Visit Breweries & Bars in the Warehouse District

For nightlife enthusiasts, you’ll want to make sure you check out some of these incredible bars and breweries in the Warehouse District, downtown Raleigh NC.

Crank Arm Brewing

These guys are passionate about beer and bikes. Crank Arm’s is a bike-themed brewery whose mission is to brew delicious innovative beer and support the cycling community.

Sample their beers with a flight or pick from one of three flagship beers and relax with indoor and outdoor seating and an open garage door.

Whiskey Kitchen

Another of our fave bars in Raleigh. Part whiskey bar, part Southern kitchen, Whiskey Kitchen is a beautiful open space and hip venue featuring over 300 whiskies, craft co*cktails, and inventive Southern fare.

There’s an inviting atmosphere and a cool outdoor patio which booms in the warmer months. Not sure which whiskey to drink, try a flight.

Boxcar Bar + Arcade

If you’re into games, at Boxcar you’ll find all the best classic and modern arcade games, plus 24 constantly rotating American craft draft selections, a full liquor bar and seasonal co*cktails.

A fun place to hang out with friends and meet some new ones!

Trophy Brewing & Pizza

Beer + pizza makes Trophy Brewing & Pizza one of the popular breweries in Raleigh featuring a wide selection of house made beers (they like to experiment with their beers) plus creative pizzas made by hand every day.

Lively atmosphere and a ‘neighborhood hangout’ type joint with indoor and outdoor seating.

Vita Vite

Premier wine bar that doubles as an art gallery. Vita Vite offers a great selection of wine and a classy and relaxed atmosphere.

The cozy lounge-style wine bar is furnished with plush, fireside couches and there’s a nice outdoor porch. Decent beer selection for a wine bar. Check out their Midtown location in our North Hills guide.

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

Brews with incredible views! offers craft brewed beers and delicious and innovative meals with a healthy twist, and our favorite view of downtown Raleigh from the outdoor patio – one of our favorite things to do in Raleigh NC is sit here and enjoy a drink.

Other bars in the Warehouse District:

• Barcelona Wine Bar
• Junction West
• Circa 1888
• Aunty Betty’s Gin and Absinthe Bar

Check out these other wine bars we love in the Raleigh area.

14. Explore Coffee Shops in the Warehouse District

For coffee lovers, be sure to check out some of our favorite coffee shops in the Warehouse district.

Heirloom Brewshop

In our opinion, Heirloom Brewshop makes the best latte in downtown and is one of the best coffee shops in downtown Raleigh.

This specialty coffee shop, premium tea house, and sake bar offers a variety of drinks from brewed coffee and pour overs, to cortados, loose leaf teas, sake, draft beers and co*cktails. Read our full review of Heirloom Brewshop.

15. Shop in the Warehouse District

The Warehouse District is where you need to be to find antique and vintage items. Be sure to check out these quirky shops…

Father & Son Antiques

10,000 square foot antique shop that sells modern furnishings, vintage clothing and accessories, records and books. Father & Son has one of the best best vintage clothing selections in Raleigh.

Retro Modern Furnishings

With a focus on vintage and upcycled products and new products that support local and up-and-coming craftsmen, at Retro Modern Furnishings you’ll find many selections of unique furniture and accessories.

Things to Do in The Capital District of Downtown Raleigh

Being the capital city of North Carolina, of course there’s a historic capital district. It’s also where you’ll find some of the city’s biggest tourist attractions and museums.

This area is home to stately buildings and some of N.C.’s most iconic public landmarks such as the North Carolina State Capitol Building, the North Carolina Executive Mansion (Governor’s mansion), and the State Legislative Building (home of the North Carolina General Assembly).

16. State Capitol Building

Built in 1840, the State Capitol building is a National Historic Landmark and one of the best-preserved examples of Greek Revival-style architecture.

Tour all three floors of the building, plus the monuments and statues on display outside in the grounds. Self-guided and guided tours available.

17. North Carolina Executive Mansion

The North Carolina Executive Mansion has been the official residence of the Governor’s of NC since 1891, and is a beautiful Victorian-style mansion.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (F.D.R) once described the mansion as having “the most beautiful governor’s residence interior in America.”

18. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is North Carolina’s most visited museum with over 4 floors of exhibits, live animals, and 3D movies.

It’s split into two areas, the Nature Research Center and the Nature Exploration Center, and offers educational programs on the natural world for all ages.

We love their permanent collection of dinosaur skeletons and whale skeletons. And don’t forget your photo with the giant globe out front. Read our full review here.

19. North Carolina Museum of History

The Museum of History is a history museum that was founded in 1902 and welcomes more than 400,000+ visitors a year.

On display are more than 14,000 years and 150,000 artifacts of history. One of the most impressive exhibits showcases Raleigh’s history from its origins up to to today’s world. Part of this exhibit houses a replica of the 1903 Wright Brother’s place, Wright Flyer!

20. Eat & Drink in the Capital District

There isn’t much in the way of places to eat in the Capital District, but we do love…

The Daily Planet Cafe

This cafe prides itself on fresh and local produce from N.C. farmers, coffee from Larry’s Beans in Raleigh and beer and wine from across NC.Daily Planet Cafe is locally owned serving breakfast and lunch.

Things to Do in The Moore Square District, Downtown Raleigh

Moore Square has been a place of gathering, entertainment, and recreation for locals and visitors to Raleigh since 1972.

This four-acre urban green space was originally conceived as one of five public green spaces for the City of Raleigh and the park/square and surrounds is a charming mix of old and new in the heart of downtown Raleigh.

After playing a significant role throughout Raleigh’s 225+ year history, Moore Square was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

Here you will find the old City Market, restaurants, cafes, bars, art galleries, a kids museum, the GoRaleigh transit station, high-density residential, and of course the park, which underwent a $12 million renovation.

Don’t visit Raleigh without taking a stroll around here, and grabbing a drink or bite to eat at award winning bars (such as Brewery Bhavana) and restaurants (like Bida Manda).

Regular special events at Moore Square include the Movies in the Park, First Friday, the Street Painting Festival and the Moore Square Farmer’s Market.

21. Historic City Market

Browse the historic cobblestone-streets with galleries, restaurants, bars and specialty shops.

22. The Pour House Music Hall & Record Store

See a band at The Pour House, one of Raleigh’s favorite live music venues since 1997. Or drop in and buy a record from their upstairs record store and one of the best record stores in Raleigh!

23. Marbles Kids Museum

Got young kids? Marbles is a premier kids’ museum and one of the best things to do in Raleigh with kids. There’s two levels of kid-focused museum activities with dozens of hands-on exhibits and the state’s only 3D-capable IMAX theater

24. Relax in Moore Square Park

Two open lawn areas, magnificent trees, numerous benches, a shaded “treehouse” area for kids, 30-foot-wide sidewalks on the south edge of the park, and a small splash pad for children during the warmer months.

25. Art Space

Artspace is one of the largest open studio environments and arts venues in the country and home to 30+ artists working in a variety of media.

26. Pope House Museum

This is the only African American house museum in North Carolina and is a great place to learn about the history and contributions of the African American community in the City of Oaks.

Set in a former home of a prominent African-American resident, it features the original furnishings and household items, and you can also partake in guided tours.

27. Eatin Moore Square

The Moore Square district has lots of great places to eat. Be sure you check out the following restaurants in this area!

Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant

Looking for the best breakfast in Raleigh? Big Eds Raleigh is popular for their breakfasts (especially the hot cakes and country ham). Get a taste of Southern comfort and hospitality in a 170-seat restaurant displaying historical memorabilia in City Market. See our full review of Big Ed’s here.

Caffe Luna

Tuscan-accented Italian fare served in an airy, art-filled space since 1996. It’s not just the authentic cuisine at Cafe Luna that will transport you to Italy, but also the original artwork hanging on the walls.

MOFU Shoppe

What started as a popular food truck selling dumplings and pho (and a participant on the Food Networks Season 6 of the reality TV show, The Great Food Truck Race) MOFU is now a brick-and-mortar restaurant bringing the flavors of Asia to downtown Raleigh.

Transfer Co. Food Hall

A five minute walk from Moore Square brings you to Transfer Co. Food Hall, one of the two food halls in downtown Raleigh.

Housed in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shops, there’s 50,000+ square feet of renovated warehouse space that’s now home to 12 vendors and a place for the local community to gather through food.

Vic’s Italian Cafe & Pizzeria

Owned by a family of Italians, Vic’s serves authentic Italian cuisine and New York style pizza and a wide variety of delicious pastas and entrees in healthy portions. Some great lunch specials under $9.

Bida Manda

We’ve traveled through Laso and lived in Southeast Asia, we can assure you Bida Manda is the real deal. It’s hands down our favorite spot for Asian food in Raleigh, and easily one of the bestdowntown restaurants in Raleigh.

My favorite dish is by far the Lemongrass Trout with Papaya Salad. We also love theCrispy Rice Lettuce Wraps,Crispy Chicken Wings, and Manda Amphone’s Curry with chicken.

If you’revegetarian or vegan, you’re in luck as those dietary preferences are catered to, as aregluten free.

28. Breweries and Bars in Moore Square

There aren’t too many bars in Moore Square, but we do love…

Watts & Ward

Watts & Ward is easily one of our favorite bars in Raleigh downtown. It’s a craft co*cktail bar founded upon the underground spirit of 1920s America.

A 6,000-square-feet space of seemingly endless cavern, with room after room of leather seating, rustic tables, dim lighting and bookshelves full of history. An inventive co*cktail menu and low-key jazz events.

Things To Do in the Glenwood South District, Downtown Raleigh

South Glenwood Ave is one of downtown Raleigh’s signature streets, and the streets of Glenwood South are known as the entertainment district of Raleigh.

Glenwood Ave is lined with a mixture of new and old Raleigh restaurants and bars (including the world record holding Raleigh Beer Garden), cool boutique stores, art galleries and studios.

This district also offers unique beauty salons and fitness studios, and a mixture of people who live and play here, from college students to young professionals and artists eating, drinking, creating, and living.

29. Where to Eat on Glenwood Ave South

Glenwood Ave South has a lot of great restaurants and cafes to eat at. Here are some of our favorites!

MoJoe’s Burger Joint

Craving a burger? Head to MoJoe’s, a classic neighborhood burger joint serving some of the best burgers in Raleigh (GF buns available). Hand made patties, choose from a 6 ounce, 10 ounce, or “Hall of Fame” one pounder. 12 local beers and kids menu.

42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill

The 42nd St. Oyster Bar has been a Southern Seafood tradition since 1931 and is one of the most popular and famous places to eat Raleigh downtown. If you love oysters, seafood, atmosphere, and good service then dine here.

Hibernian Restaurant & Pub

Get your Irish pub fix at The Hibernian, a staple in the Glenwood South district. Traditional Irish pub grub plus great wings and reuben sandwiches. Cozy nooks plus an upstairs deck with one of the best views in the city.

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern

Incredible dining experience. Second Empire is one of the top restaurants in Raleigh and a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award and an elegant American restaurant set in a historic, circa-1879 Second Empire house.

Spectacular service plus history, atmosphere, and gourmet cuisine. Read our review for date nights at Second Empire.

Sushi Blues Cafe

Sushi bar offering traditional Japanese dishes, plus sake and specialty co*cktails, in a blues-themed setting and fun atmosphere.

Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar

Authentic Greek dining experience with an atmosphere and vibe on the lovely rooftop patio that will remind you of your trips to Greece.

Hand-crafted co*cktails, a gourmet marketplace, Sunday brunch, and possibly the best Lamb Burger in Raleigh. Read our full review of Taverna Agora.

Carolina Ale House

If you’re looking for a casual restaurant and fun sports bar in Raleigh, it’s hard to go wrong at Carolina Ale House. Good pub fare, a long beer list, kids’ menu, big screens on every wall, and a rooftop patio.

Sullivan’s Steakhouse

Classic steakhouse, Sullivan’s offers the finest hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, signature co*cktails, jazz music and friendly, familiar atmosphere. A little expensive, like most steakhouses.

Char-Grill

A Raleigh tradition, think local version of Shake Shack. Char Grill is a local fast-food chain serving charcoal-grilled burgers since 1959. True old-fashioned feel and just placing your order is a part of the experience. Our kids love their shakes and fries!

Check this list for other burgers we love in Raleigh.

Anise Pho

For Vietnamese cuisine, Anise Pho make delicious bowls of pho and top notch banh mi, plus noodle bowls and vegetarian options. Reasonably priced and authentic tasting dishes.

Vidrio

On offer at Vidrio is upmarket Mediterranean cuisine and handcrafted co*cktails served in stylish surrounds. Sharing plates are made with the freshest ingredients, plus the purest Greek olive oil, and 50 wines on tap.

The Cupcake Shoppe

Cozy, stylish bakery whipping up bespoke cakes & cupcakes using fresh, high end, local ingredients and proudly serving locally roasted Joe Van Gogh coffee and espresso. Even the gluten free cupcakes are delicious. Try the red velvet with cream cheese icing!

30. Check Out Breweries, Bars and Pubs on Glenwood South

We have some of the best bars and breweries in Glenwood South. Whether you love sipping craft beers in the beer garden or you’re looking for a sophisticated venue for date night, be sure to visit these places…

Raleigh Beer Garden

350+ beers on tap and world record-holder for largest selection of draft beer. Raleigh Beer Garden is a massive 8,500-square-foot venue with 3 levels, tons of outdoor space, a back garden patio and a rooftop bar – the perfect warm-weather hangout.

Hibernian

Traditional Irish pub with dark wood interiors, old world charm, cozy booths and tables. Hibernian has multiple bars, a second-floor patio and bar area overlooking downtown. Good for all people; professionals, sports fans, families.

Tin Roof

A place to support live music and where musicians have a place to play. The Tin Roof has a first-floor stage for live music, and a second level with a rooftop patioIs there anything better than enjoying a drink with some live music? Daily drink specials.

Dram & Draught

Over 300 whiskeys from around the world at Dram & Draught, plus nice hand-crafted co*cktails, wines, and draught beer from Raleigh and beyond.

Great selection of bourbons and whiskeys, plus knowledgeable staff to help you choose! Read our interview with owner, Kevin Barrett

State of Beer

Cool bottle shop with special offerings of craft brews and some of the best gourmet sandwiches in Raleigh that pair perfectly with your beer.

At State of Beer there’s a laid back patio seating outside perfect for sunny days! Part of the Trophy brewing family.

Milk Bar

Located in the Historic Pine State Creamery Building, the Milk Bar is an open-air hip co*cktail bar and lounge with live music. Local beer on tap, and frozen co*cktails are their specialties. Live music Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

31. Shop in Glenwood South

Glenwood South is a great place to shop for boutiques and find independent stores. Here are some shops we love in the Glenwood South area of downtown Raleigh…

Revolver Consignment Boutique

Revolver is an upscale consignment/vintage shop for men and women featuring clothing, jewelry, and art.

Union Camp Collective

Not your average retail experience. Union Camp Collective has hand-picked vintage and antique furnishings from every era, style and price.

Part vintage and antique store, part creative co-op, part event space, part workshop and art gallery.

Things to Do in the Seaboard + Person Street District, Downtown Raleigh

North Person Street in the northern end of downtown Raleigh is another area that continues to improve, and one that has more of a neighborly feel.

Along with the nearby Seaboard Station area, on N Person Street you will find unique locally owned businesses including a bakery, burger bar, brewery and wine store, ice cream shop, bookstore, pizza joint and some of the best restaurants in downtown Raleigh.

This area is right next to the Historic Oakwood neighborhood, which is also worth a visit. More on that later…

32. Mordecai Historic Park

Once known as the largest plantation in Wake County, Mordecai Historic Park is home to many interesting pieces of North Carolina and Raleigh’s history.

Here you can see the Mordecai Historic House, the oldest residence in Raleigh still on its original foundation, and the birthplace of Andrew Johnson, the 17th President. It’s on our top Raleigh attractions list.

33. Explore Historic Oakwood

Check out the lovely neighborhood of Historic Oakwood by foot or car. We like to wander the streets and dream of owning one of the Victorian and 20th-century homes.

Be sure to check out Historic Oakwood Cemetery which has served as a noble resting place for Raleigh residents for more than a century. Check out this cool historic Oakwood Christmas candlelight tour

34. Eat& Drink in the Seaboard + Person Street District

Crawford & Son

A casual and cozy neighborhood restaurant, Crawford & Son is located in historic Oakwood and serves honest food that ranges from the familiar to the unexpected.

Known as one of the best restaurants in Raleigh for outstanding service, ambiance, food presentation, and craft co*cktails. Check out our date night experience at Crawford and Sons.

The Station at Person Street

A corner bar and restaurant that originally served as an Amoco gas station, The Station pays tribute to Raleigh’s rich past as well as present. Boasting one of the city’s best outdoor dining and drinking patios, they offer updated United States food, beer and co*cktails.

Two Roosters Ice Cream

Founded by an North Carolina State University alum, Two Roosters has been roaming the streets of Raleigh in a turquoise 1965 Ford truck since 2014 and was such a hit they opened brick-and-mortar locations in 2017.

Their handcrafted ice cream features seasonal and permanent flavors – often inspired by local events and restaurants. More ice cream places to love in Raleigh

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Crave a burger? Their burgers here are fantastic and massive with gourmet toppings and hand-cut fries, plus cool decor and friendly staff. And Bad Daddy’s commit to sourcing local and fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Yellow Dog Bread Company

Coffee shop and bakery specializing in handmade artisan breads and southern influenced pastries. Popular items at Yellow Dog include their almond croissants, sticky buns and maple bacon scones.

Pelagic Beer & Wine

A craft retail beer store and tasting room, Pelagic Beer & Wine offer an extensive selection and was voted to have the “Best Retail Beer Selection in Wake County” in the local Indy Week’s 2018 Best of the Triangle competition.

Person Street Bar

A stylish, local, independent neighborhood bar, Person Street Bar has a jukebox and covered patio offering co*cktails and craft beers on tap.

Yellow Dog Bread Company

Go to Yellow Dog Bread Company for your coffee fix (espresso/latte/drip), chai latte, hot tea or hot chocolate when in this area!

35. Where to Shop in the Seaboard + Person Street District

Edge of Urge

A boutique store for men and women, Edge of Urge specialize in handmade and independent designer clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories.

Check out the new concept, Unlikely Professionals – a Men’s General Store and bar!

The Centerpiece

Check out the friendly and inviting art gallery and workspace, The Centerpiece, which displays fine art from emerging and nationally-recognized artists.

So & So Books

A small independent book store, So & So carries a carefully curated selection of the owners favorite titles in all the major genres that you probably won’t find easily elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, those are the best things to do in downtown Raleigh, and as you can see, there’s plenty of options to choose from!

The best part is downtown is accessible, too – getting around Raleigh is easy by walking, cycling, using the free R-LINE circulator bus, or hopping on the back of a pedal-powered rickshaw! You barely even have to move your car!

If you’re still looking for accommodation in downtown, check out this guide to the best stay downtown hotels or check out these cool vacation rental properties in Raleigh!

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More Raleigh Neighborhood Guides

• 48 hour guide to North Hills Raleigh
• Boylan Heights neighborhood
• Things to do in Downtown Cary
• 48 hours in the Warehouse District