Fun Things to Do in Raleigh This Weekend
Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital, is full of weekend excitement. The City of Oaks offers activities for locals and visitors alike. You’ll find cultural festivals, outdoor adventures, and more to suit your interests.
Raleigh’s weekend scene boasts over 1,000 activities. These include 315 food-related options and 190 arts and entertainment choices. History buffs can explore 97 historic sites.
Nature lovers have 73 attractions to enjoy. Thrill-seekers can choose from 93 outdoor adventure options. Families will love the 60 kid-friendly activities available.
This weekend, comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short perform in Raleigh. A new Japanese restaurant has opened downtown, adding to the food scene. The city’s tallest rooftop bar recently opened, offering amazing views.
Raleigh’s diverse offerings ensure a great weekend for everyone. You can explore museums, enjoy live music, or relax in parks. With so many choices, your Raleigh weekend will be unforgettable.
Explore North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a top family destination in Raleigh. It’s the Southeast’s largest natural history museum. The complex spans five campuses and six facilities, with its main location downtown.
The Nature Exploration Center houses a collection dating back to 1879. Four floors of exhibits showcase our planet’s rich biodiversity. The Nature Research Center adds 80,000 square feet of cutting-edge exploration space.
Check Out the Latest Exhibits
The SECU Daily Planet is a 70-foot-diameter globe with a three-story theater. It offers immersive educational experiences for all ages. The new Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit features rare Tyrannosaur and Triceratops fossils.
Attend a Live Animal Presentation
Live animal presentations bring wildlife conservation to life. These shows are a hit for families visiting Raleigh. Admission is free, and temporary exhibits change regularly.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Visitors can marvel at a 54-foot-long sperm whale skeleton. They can also explore a 10,000-gallon aquarium.
Stroll Through Pullen Park
Pullen Park is a beloved 66-acre oasis in Raleigh. It blends history and fun, making it ideal for outdoor activities. As North Carolina’s first public park, it boasts a rich heritage dating back generations.
Enjoy the Carousel Ride
The park’s crown jewel is the Gustave A. Dentzel Carousel, built in 1911. For $2, you can take a whirl on this restored piece of history. It’s a must-do experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
Picnic by the Lake
Pullen Park offers many picnic spots with scenic views. Several shelters are available for rent, each with different capacities. The Island Gazebo hosts up to 100 people, while the Fountain Terrace suits intimate gatherings.
Book your spot at least two weeks in advance to secure your preferred location.
Take a Train Ride
Hop aboard the miniature train for a delightful tour of the park grounds. Like the carousel, train rides cost $2 per person. It’s a fun way to see the park’s attractions.
The park features 10 traditional swings, two baseball fields, and six tennis courts with night lighting.
| Attraction | Details |
|---|---|
| Park Size | 66.33 acres |
| Ride Cost | $2 per person |
| Tennis Courts | 6 (open until 10 p.m.) |
| Swings | 10 traditional, 1 preschool, 1 accessible, 1 tire |
| Average Visit Duration | 2-3 hours |
Pullen Park offers a mix of peaceful picnics and exciting rides. It’s a place where memories are made. Visitors can enjoy recreation and relaxation for a perfect weekend getaway.
Visit Raleigh City Market
Raleigh’s City Market has been a cultural hotspot since 1914. This historic gem blends the city’s rich past with its lively present. It offers diverse weekend activities for all interests.
Shop at Local Artisan Stalls
Explore cobblestone streets lined with local artisan stalls. Skilled craftspeople showcase their talents through unique creations. You’ll find handmade jewelry, bespoke furniture, and other artistic treasures.
Taste Local Cuisine
Food lovers will enjoy the market’s culinary offerings. Sample farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked goods. Join the Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour for $89.
This tour lets you savor innovative dishes from local farms and vendors. It’s a great way to explore Raleigh’s food scene.
Discover Unique Crafts
City Market celebrates Raleigh’s creative spirit. Find one-of-a-kind crafts perfect for souvenirs or gifts. At night, the market transforms with illuminated rooflines and a buzzing atmosphere.
The National Register of Historic Places recognized City Market in 1980. It remains a vital part of Raleigh’s cultural landscape. Visit to experience the city’s authentic essence this weekend.
Attend the Raleigh Farmers Market
The State Farmers Market is a top Raleigh attraction. This 30,000-square-foot hub showcases local agriculture. It’s a feast for the senses and a community gathering spot.
Sample Fresh Produce
Explore aisles filled with colorful, locally grown fruits and veggies. North Carolina’s agricultural bounty is on full display here. Supporting local farmers is crucial, as 1 in 6 North Carolinians face food insecurity.
Engage with Local Farmers
Talk to passionate growers about their harvest and farming methods. Learn about family traditions passed down through generations. Special events like the Black Farmers Market support diversity in agriculture.
Purchase Handmade Goods
Discover artisanal crafts and local delicacies beyond produce. Find unique souvenirs like handwoven textiles and artisanal soaps. Don’t miss 321 Coffee, a local favorite right in the market.
The Raleigh Farmers Market celebrates community and local culture. It’s a prime spot to experience the city’s food scene. Visit to support local businesses and enjoy one of Raleigh’s top events.
Experience Live Music at Red Hat Amphitheater
Raleigh’s nightlife thrives at the iconic Red Hat Amphitheater. This open-air venue offers unforgettable concerts under the stars. With 6,000 seats, it’s perfect for big-name acts and rising stars.
Check the Weekend Lineup
Red Hat Amphitheater is ready for an exciting season. Over 35 shows are planned through summer 2024. The venue hosts diverse artists, from rock legends to pop sensations.
Notable performers include Coheed and Cambria, The String Cheese Incident, and Halsey. There’s something for every music fan to enjoy.
Follow Up with Local Bands
Keep the music going by exploring Raleigh’s local scene. The Lincoln Theatre hosts 8 shows in March alone. For a cozy setting, visit The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop.
These venues showcase Raleigh’s homegrown talent. They feature 7 events in the same month.
Raleigh’s concert scene is booming with over 100 outdoor concerts this summer. The annual Packapalooza event draws 80,000 attendees.
The Hopscotch Music Festival features more than 100 bands. Join Raleigh’s vibrant music community this weekend!
Tour the State Capitol Building
The North Carolina State Capitol offers a journey through time. Built in 1840, this Greek Revival building showcases the state’s political past. It attracts over 100,000 visitors yearly for tours and events.
Learn About North Carolina’s History
The Capitol houses numerous historical treasures. A 16-foot tall marble George Washington statue is the main attraction. It was finished in 1970.
This building once held all of North Carolina’s state government until 1888. Its importance was recognized nationally in 1970 when added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Participate in Guided Tours
Free self-guided tours run Monday to Friday (9 am – 5 pm) and Saturday (10 am – 5 pm). Guided tours happen Saturdays at 11 am and 2 pm, lasting about 90 minutes.
These tours cover less than a mile and reveal fascinating aspects of Raleigh’s history. The Capitol provides a unique educational experience, different from Raleigh’s traditional museums.
The Capitol hosts special events throughout the year. These include holiday celebrations in December and an Independence Day event. It’s a great spot for history lovers and curious visitors.
Discover Art at the North Carolina Museum of Art
The North Carolina Museum of Art is a cultural gem in Raleigh. It blends indoor galleries with outdoor activities perfectly. Art lovers and nature enthusiasts will find it a must-visit destination.
View the Outdoor Sculpture Garden
The Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park spans 164 acres of outdoor wonder. It’s the largest museum art park in the nation. Over 30 stunning sculptures dot the winding paths amid nature’s beauty.
The park’s Rodin collection is truly special. It’s the largest between Philadelphia and the West Coast. This makes it a prime spot for outdoor activities in Raleigh.
Attend a Weekend Workshop
Boost your artistic skills through the museum’s weekend workshops. These hands-on sessions cover various art forms and skill levels. You can try painting, sculpture, and more.
It’s a unique way to engage with art beyond just looking. This interactive experience makes your visit to this top Raleigh museum unforgettable.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Museum Buildings | West Building (permanent collection), East Building (rotating exhibitions) |
| Outdoor Park Size | 164 acres |
| Permanent Collection | 4,353 objects spanning 5,000 years |
| Opening Hours | Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm (Friday until 9 pm) |
| Admission | Free (fees for special exhibitions) |
Enjoy Family Day at Marbles Kids Museum
Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh offers a world of interactive learning and play. Dozens of hands-on exhibits spark curiosity in young minds. It’s the perfect spot for weekend family fun.
Participate in Interactive Exhibits
Marbles caters to kids of all ages with diverse exhibits. Toddlers Hollow is ideal for children under three years old. Around Town lets kids explore a mini-city with a fire truck and grocery store.
Peek-a-boo Bay provides a safe space for babies to crawl and discover. These engaging exhibits make Marbles a top choice for Raleigh weekend activities.
Visit the IMAX Theater
The Marbles IMAX theater offers an immersive movie experience. It shows educational documentaries and blockbuster hits on a massive screen. Remember to book your tickets in advance.
Bean Sprouts cafe serves kid-friendly favorites like pizza and sandwiches. The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your weekend visit accordingly.
Marbles Kids Museum blends education and entertainment perfectly. It’s a prime destination for family fun in Raleigh.
Take a Walking Tour of Historic Oakwood
Explore Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood neighborhood on a captivating walking tour. This charming area blends outdoor and weekend activities perfectly. Discover over 125 properties showcasing 19th-century architecture and local history.
Explore The Victorian Architecture
Oakwood’s tree-lined streets feature stunning Victorian-era homes. More than 90% of these houses have at least one porch, highlighting their architectural charm.
Notable examples include:
- Theophilus H. Snow House (c. 1840) – The oldest house in Oakwood
- Thomas F. Wilson House (1895) – Features Queen Anne elements
- Marcellus Parker House (1879) – Blends Italianate and Second Empire styles
- Vivian E. Denton House (c. 1912) – Known for its grand wrap-around porch
Learn About Local Legends
Tour guides share fascinating stories about Oakwood’s rich history and residents. The Octavia Winder Skinner House, built around 1905, served as a tourist home for 40 years.
Oakwood narrowly escaped demolition in 1970. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
| Event | Description | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Oakwood Candlelight Tour | Features dozen private homes | December (nearly 50 years running) |
| Oakwood Snow Ball | Semi-formal fundraising event | January or February |
| Annual Oakwood Garden Tour | Showcases select gardens | Spring |
A Historic Oakwood walking tour offers an engaging outdoor activity in Raleigh. Immerse yourself in the city’s architectural heritage and local lore. It’s a perfect way to spend your weekend exploring Raleigh’s history.
Check Out a Local Brewery
Raleigh’s craft beer scene is thriving with over 40 breweries across the city. It’s a perfect weekend activity to explore local brewing culture. You’ll discover a unique mix of history, innovation, and flavor in Raleigh’s nightlife.
Enjoy Tasting Flights
Begin your brewery adventure with a tasting flight. Sample various local beers, from light lagers to rich porters. Raleigh even boasts North Carolina’s first woman-owned brewery.
This diverse brewing landscape ensures there’s a beer for everyone’s taste. You’ll find exciting flavors that showcase Raleigh’s creative brewing spirit.
Take a Brewery Tour
Many Raleigh breweries offer free tours of their facilities. You’ll get an inside look at how beer is made. Some breweries have surprising origins, like one that started as a rickshaw company!
These tours are both fun and educational. They’re a great way to immerse yourself in Raleigh’s vibrant craft beer culture.
Raleigh’s breweries offer unique experiences for beer lovers and curious visitors alike. Each brewery tells its own story, adding to Raleigh’s rich brewing history.
Relax at William B. Umstead State Park
William B. Umstead State Park is a 5,599-acre green oasis near downtown Raleigh. It’s perfect for outdoor activities and offers a refreshing break from city life. This park is a prime spot for nature lovers.
Hike the Beautiful Trails
Umstead State Park boasts over 22 miles of hiking trails for all skill levels. The Loblolly Trail spans 5.4 miles round trip, offering a peaceful forest experience.
For a shorter hike, try the 2.8-mile Sal’s Branch Trail. It takes about an hour to complete. These trails showcase diverse landscapes, from tall pines to flowing creeks.
Go Birdwatching
Birdwatchers will love Umstead State Park. Bring binoculars to spot colorful warblers, majestic hawks, and maybe even a pileated woodpecker.
The park’s varied habitats attract many bird species. This makes it one of Raleigh’s most exciting parks for nature fans.
Umstead State Park offers challenging hikes, peaceful walks, and quiet spots for wildlife watching. Pack water and wear comfy shoes for your visit.
Remember to leave no trace to keep this natural gem beautiful. Enjoy your perfect weekend escape at Umstead State Park!
FAQ
What are some free things to do in Raleigh this weekend?
Raleigh offers many free activities for weekend fun. Explore the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences or stroll through Pullen Park. Visit the State Capitol Building or hike at William B. Umstead State Park.
Are there any family-friendly activities in Raleigh?
Raleigh has plenty of family-friendly options. Marbles Kids Museum features interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. Pullen Park is perfect for picnics and train rides.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences provides educational entertainment for all ages.
What outdoor activities are available in Raleigh?
Raleigh is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Hike and birdwatch at William B. Umstead State Park. Explore the outdoor sculpture garden at the North Carolina Museum of Art.
Enjoy Pullen Park or cycle on the city’s numerous greenways and trails.
Where can I experience Raleigh’s local culture this weekend?
Immerse yourself in Raleigh’s local culture at City Market. Shop from local artisans and taste local cuisine. Visit the Raleigh Farmers Market to meet local farmers and sample fresh produce.
Take a walking tour of the Historic Oakwood neighborhood for history and architecture.
What’s the music scene like in Raleigh?
Raleigh boasts a vibrant music scene. Catch live performances at the Red Hat Amphitheater, featuring national acts and local talents. Local venues like The Lincoln Theatre host performances by local bands.
Are there any unique food experiences in Raleigh?
Raleigh offers several unique food experiences. Sample local produce and artisanal foods at the Raleigh Farmers Market. City Market features local cuisine for food lovers.
Explore Raleigh’s craft brewery scene with tasting flights and tours.
What museums are worth visiting in Raleigh this weekend?
Raleigh has several excellent museums to explore. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is perfect for science enthusiasts. Art lovers should visit the North Carolina Museum of Art.
Families will enjoy Marbles Kids Museum with its interactive and educational exhibits.
