Raleigh

From a hot dog joint that's over 100 years old and legendary North Carolina barbecue spots to food halls and fine dining, Raleigh’s tables overflow with flavourful global eats and, of course, traditional North Carolina whole-hog BBQ. A delicious celebration of fresh, local produce and bold flavours, this city is dominated by innovative chefs. Whether you’re trying modern Indian cuisine served with a twist or raising a glass in the Guinness World Record-holding Raleigh Beer Garden, you’ll find culinary creativity and warm Southern charm in every plate and pint.  

If you love the great outdoors, Raleigh is your kind of city. From urban strolls to nature hikes, the harmonious blend of urban sophistication and natural splendour makes Raleigh a standout destination on your USA holidays in the South. With over 200 miles of scenic greenways weaving through parks and neighbourhoods, it’s a paradise for walking, jogging and cycling any time of year. Take it slow and wander through the nationally acclaimed JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State, a plant-lover’s dream boasting over 6000 diverse species from around the globe. 

Raleigh isn’t called the “Smithsonian of the South” for nothing. From the elegant State Capitol building to African American heritage sites, this city packs an impressive lineup of free museums and cultural gems perfect for curious travellers looking to bring the city’s fascinating past to life. Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art with its 5000-piece world-class collection and outdoor sculpture park or get up close to prehistoric giants at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences featuring the famous “Dueling Dinosaurs.”  

Looking for a family-friendly getaway? Raleigh’s got plenty to keep everyone entertained. Spend time at Pullen Park, North Carolina’s oldest public park, with its charming carousel and paddle boats. Let little explorers run wild at Marbles Kids Museum, where hands-on STEM exhibits spark imagination and learning. With parks, museums and interactive attractions galore, Raleigh makes a fantastic family destination on your North Carolina holiday calendar. 

This trendy hotspot is a creative hive packed with galleries, breweries, bars, and boutiques housed in characterful red-brick buildings. Don’t miss a sweet visit to Videri Chocolate Factory for a free tour and samples or dig into authentic Carolina-style BBQ at The Pit. 

Home to North Carolina State University’s iconic Memorial Belltower, West Raleigh offers a vibrant mix of culture, learning, and leisure. Visitors can explore world-class institutions like the North Carolina Museum of Art, with its acclaimed galleries and outdoor sculpture park, or browse the bustling State Farmers Market, filled with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and seasonal blooms. Green spaces, eclectic cafés, and tree-lined campus walkways give the neighbourhood a welcoming charm, while year-round events, live music, and a strong collegiate spirit keep the energy high. Located just minutes from downtown Raleigh, West Raleigh blends education, culture, and entertainment with ease.

One of the fastest-growing towns in the South, Cary is home to renowned restaurants, world-class shopping, booming business, top-tier entertainment, arts, culture and a wide range of leisure and outdoor experiences. Home of the USA Baseball National Training Complex, a hotspot for soccer with North Carolina Courage women’s pro soccer team at WakeMed Soccer Park, and summer home of the North Carolina Symphony at the lovely Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary is located just 17 minutes from downtown Raleigh.