Visitors to Raleigh, North Carolina, will discover a myriad of attractions. The city mingles its good old southern charm with a contemporary flair. There's something for everyone in The City of Oaks. The Capital Area Visitors Center can provide maps, brochures, and more detailed information.
Nature lovers will delight in many areas in and around Raleigh. Parks and gardens are scattered throughout Raleigh, even in the heart of downtown. You'll find rose gardens, lake access, nature trails, and even a nationally acclaimed arboretum, all within minutes of each other. Just outside of Raleigh you'll find three state parks in which you can explore and enjoy the nature of North Carolina. Falls Lake State Recreation Area is the largest park and besides picnic and playground areas, it has accommodations for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area also offers boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. In the summer, Jordan Lake is home to the largest population of bald eagles on the eastern seaboard. William B. Umstead State Park is known for its excellent hiking trails and also has trails for horseback riding and areas for camping, fishing, picnicking, and row boating.
History buffs will be thrilled with many attractions throughout Raleigh. A narrated trolley tour is available in downtown Raleigh. It begins at Mordecai Historic Park and Gardens, which includes the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson among other historic buildings. At certain times, walking tours are also available. The history of North Carolina can also be enjoyed at the North Carolina Museum of History. The museum features exhibits on the Civil War, folk life, and sports in North Carolina. Special events are scheduled throughout the year, along with dramatic presentations, hands-on activities, and family events. For a view of life in Raleigh before the Civil War, Historic Oak View County Park is an ideal destination. The park contains a restored farmhouse from 1855, the family cemetery plot, a cotton gin house full of artifacts, a plank kitchen house, and other farm buildings. Activities and information are available inside the park's charming visitor center.
Art lovers will find Raleigh full of inspirational places and events. The North Carolina Museum of Art is a delight to explore inside and out. Inside, the museum displays its extensive permanent collection along with a variety of temporary exhibits. The artwork spans the ages, from ancient times to today. Outside, the museum hosts an assortment of sculptures and an open-air theater. Events and performances take place regularly in the museum's classrooms, theater, and large, grassy fields. Performance arts are also active throughout the city of Raleigh. The BTI Center for the Perfoming Arts houses an elegant concert hall, an auditorium, and an opera theater. Celebrated performances include productions by the North Carolina Symphony, Carolina Ballet, and North Carolina Theater. Music, dance, and theater productions are also available in other venues throughout Raleigh, including the Raleigh Little Theater, Theater in the Park, and the Alltel Pavilion at Walnut Creek.
Science and technology enthusiasts will find plenty in Raleigh to hold their attention. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Science is a four-story facility packed with exhibits. The museum features exhibits of native wildlife and environments from all over the state. The museum is also home to the only Acrocanthosaurus in the world, otherwise known as the "Terror of the South." Exploris is another museum in Raleigh you don't want to miss. With many interactive exhibits and activities, Exploris educates its visitors regarding global communication, trade, environments, and cultures.
For an authentic taste of Raleigh, be sure to mingle with the locals. Many restaurants in Raleigh feature southern style barbecue complete with hush puppies, greens, and sweet tea. Traditional foods and cooking can also be sampled at Raleigh's open markets. The Farmers Market presents a medley of local people and products. Spreading 75 acres, the Farmers Market offers produce, crafts, plants, and prepared foods, complete with the charm and hospitality that makes Raleigh such a special place to visit.
