If you’re planning to spend 48 hours in Raleigh, we have called this city our home for 10+ years and the below two-day itinerary is our personal guide on the best things to do including where to eat, drink, play and stay!
As one of the South’s most vibrant and eclectic cities, we have a fun 48-hour Raleigh itinerary planned for you in the capital city of North Carolina, whether you visit over a weekend or during mid-week!
In this guide below you will get our personal suggestions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus where to have pre-dinner and after-dinner drinks, what morning and afternoon activities to do each day, and suggested hotels in Raleigh.
We’ll help you explore the best of Raleigh, the places and experiences we suggest for first time visitors to get a reel feel for the area, how to have an epic weekend in Raleigh, or even a staycation for locals!
This is a follow up to our 24 hours in Raleigh guide. Of course, we suggest your trip to Raleigh is longer as there are plenty of fun things to do – join our free VIP email tribe so you don’t miss our weekly e-newsletter sharing our insights. Now, let us show you around…
Day 1
Breakfast
Big Ed’s Restaurant City Market
There’s no better introduction to Raleigh and its welcoming community than Big Ed’s in historic City Market, the best Southern style breakfast since 1958. Expect generous portions of Southern comfort food, a laid-back vibe with a collection of funky antiques hanging from the ceiling, warm Southern hospitality, and food like what grandma used to make.
Especially popular for their GIANT pancakes, local country ham, fried chicken, aged ribeye steak and eggs, sliced pork loin, fried catfish, fluffy biscuits, and double-brewed sweet tea. Read our full review.
The Mecca Restaurant
The oldest of the Raleigh restaurants and founded by Greek immigrants in 1930. Historic setting oozing nostalgia with red stools along a long counter, a black and white checkered floor, and heavy wooden booths. Serving unpretentious and comforting meals, this is one of the few true diners left in Raleigh.
Popular dishes at The Mecca include French toast, country ham, omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches on a scratch made biscuit. If you love value for money, consider this breakfast restaurant for a unique-to-Raleigh experience.
Coffee
The Morning Times
The Morning Times is only a 7-minute walk from Big Ed’s and one of the popular coffee shops in downtown Raleigh with the locals and visitors alike. We order their lattes (our kids love their cookies and baked goods) and we enjoy sitting either in the cozy upstairs, or on the sidewalk in the warmer months. Solid breakfast burrito, too!
Heirloom Brewshop
Our favorite coffee spot in downtown is Heirloom Brewshop in the Warehouse District (15-minute walk from Big E’ds). Heirloom is a specialty coffee shop, premium tea house, sake bar and kitchen all rolled into one with an Asian-inspired menu and aesthetics – a unique concept for Raleigh!
A pink espresso machine is the focal point at the bar, while the wood slat ceiling overhead and large windows allowing in natural light highlight the space. Choose from a full coffee bar of options including our favorite latte in the city, and their Mochi Donuts (made with rice flour and tofu) are a hit. Read our full review of Heirloom.
Morning Activities
Museums
There are excellent museums in Raleigh to suit all interests, and because of the quality and number of free museums in the city, Raleigh is often referred to as the “Smithsonian of the South”. If you really love museums, do several of them instead of the other suggested activities on day two!
NC Museum of Natural Sciences
Located in the heart of downtown is one of the top attractions in Raleigh. The Museum of Natural Sciences is free to enter and North Carolina’s most visited museum. Over 4 floors of exhibits to explore including live animals, microbes and meteorites, walk-through dioramas, 3D movies, and there’s a fantastic permanent collection of dinosaur and whale skeletons.
NC Museum of History
If history is your thing, across the street from the Natural Sciences is the Museum of History. Founded in 1902, it welcomes more than 400,000+ visitors a year and on display are more than 14,000 years and 150,000 artifacts of history.
NC Museum of Art
Art lover? Head to the NC Museum of Art, home to more than a dozen beautiful indoor gallery spaces showcasing art from around the world. You can self-explore, take an engaging tour, see performing arts, and participate in family workshops. Be sure to take a stroll through the Ann & Jim Goodnight Museum Park, this 164-acre park and trail system features more than a dozen commissioned works of art.
Marbles Kids Museum
If you’re looking for a fun children’s museum in Raleigh, look no further. For families with young kids (up until the age of about 12), consider Marbles Kids Museum as one of the best things to do with kids in Raleigh.
There are two levels of kid-focused museum activities with dozens of hands-on exhibits and the state’s only 3D-capable IMAX theater. Read our guide to 8 top museums in Raleigh.
Lunch
Below we have listed some local Raleigh restaurants all centrally located and based on a few select categories to help you get a taste of Raleigh and what it is popular with the locals.
Barbecue
North Carolina is a big barbecue state and enjoying a plate of bbq in Raleigh is something they take seriously in the state capital and one of those “welcome to the South” moments you should try at least once.
- Sam Jones BBQ is kind of famous in NC. They smoke whole hogs on site and are popular for their chopped BBQ, fried chicken, ribs, and baked flat cornbread. They also serve one of my favorite sandwiches in Raleigh, the smoked turkey!
- The Pit Authentic BBQ is one of the most popular BBQ spots in Raleigh. They serve whole-hog, pit-cooked Eastern-style bbq and are well known for Baby Back Ribs and Chopped bbq, plus their Brunswick Stew, Heirloom Cabbage Collards, and Fried Green Tomatoes.
Southern American
- Beasley’s Chicken + Honey – popular Raleigh restaurant by famed chef Ashley Christensen. Specializing in Fried chicken and sandwiches, and a popular brunch spot on weekends.
- The Raleigh Times – a timeless watering hole in a 100-year-old building serving up quality American pub grub. Nice inside seating, or on the sidewalk or cool rooftop!
Burgers
- Burger Village – If you’re looking for grass-fed, organic, and exotic burgers look no further. Choose from exotic meats like bison, elk, boar, and ostrich, plus your standard offerings such as beef, salmon, and chicken. Read our full review.
- Player’s Retreat – one of my favorite sports bars in Raleigh and a tradition with NC State students for over 70 years. Some of the best burgers in Raleigh. Enjoy lunch in a booth, at the bar, or a table on the sidewalk. NOTE: Kids eat free here on Sundays!
Mexican
- Gringo A Go Go – one of the popular Mexican restaurants in Raleigh with their colorful outdoor patio, real Mexican food. and seasonal hand-crafted Margaritas. Brunch on Sundays. Read our full review.
- Centro – Modern Mexican food in the heart of downtown. Funky little place with a laid-back Mexican vibe and atmosphere, Centro utilizes organic and local ingredients in flavorful ways.
For even more places and categories of food including food halls, see our complete guide to 40 spots to eat lunch in Raleigh.
Afternoon activities
Umstead State Park
Time to walk off lunch. A 15-minute drive from downtown is one of the most popular places to visit in Raleigh, and one of North Carolina’s most visited state parks – William B. Umstead State Park.
This natural oasis surrounds three man-made lakes and has over 22 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate. If you love nature trails through the forest, biking, trail running, picnicking, canoeing, or even horseback riding, put Umstead on your itinerary.
A great introductory trail is the 2.8-mile Sal’s Branch Trail. If you’re up for a woodland walk, the Sycamore Trail is a 7.2-mile loop and the longest trail. Another popular trail is the 6-mile loop, Company Mill Trail.
Lake Johnson Loop Trail
Lake Johnson is just a 10-minute drive from downtown and our favorite of the lakes in Raleigh. The 3-mile paved greenway loop around the lake is popular with NC State students and all locals. There’s a 700-foot-long boardwalk across the center of the lake, a boat house, small beach area, and picnic shelters.
Pullen Park (young kids)
One of the top Raleigh attractions for kids is historic Pullen Park, which dates back to 1887 and was the first public park in North Carolina and is the fifth oldest operating amusement park in the US.
Ride a historic carousel and miniature train, rent pedal boats, let the kids run free on the playgrounds, have a picnic or grill out in one of the picnic areas.
Explore the Warehouse District
Not into trails and parks? The six-block Warehouse District is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Raleigh. This area was transformed from its former red-brick industrial buildings into a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, a brewery, a food hall, boutique shopping, art museums, studios and technology firms.
What to do in the Warehouse District:
- Need another coffee? Go to Black & White Coffee, a great little coffee shop inside the Videri Chocolate Factory.
- Videri Chocolate Factory – sample yummy chocolates, and get soft serve ice cream!
- The Flourish Market – a unique women’s gift and boutique clothing store.
- Contemporary Art Museum (CAM) – displays new and emerging work by local and national living artists. Free admission.
- 311 Gallery – home to 12 artist studios, an exhibition gallery and a gift shop.
- Father & Son Antiques – modern furnishings, vintage clothing and accessories, records and books.
- Raleigh Denim Workshop – exclusive well-crafted jeans!
- Morgan Street Food Hall – Raleigh Rolls offers unique rolled ice cream with delicious toppings!
Pre-dinner drinks
There are plenty of great Raleigh bars and Raleigh breweries that are perfect for all occasions. Below are a select few of our favorites that are also popular with other locals.
Breweries
- Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing – we take all first-time visitors here for that wow moment. The best view of the Raleigh skyline from their outstanding outdoor patio is paired with excellent craft beer and unique cocktails.
- Crank Arm Brewing – the guys at Crank Arm are passionate about beer and bikes. Relaxed and friendly vibe in the Warehouse District and fun events. My pick: Road Hazard Hazy IPA.
- Raleigh Beer Garden – not a brewery so to speak, but with 350+ beers on tap, at time of opening they became the world record-holder for largest selection of draft beer!
Wine bars
- Vita Vite Art Gallery + Wine Bar – premier wine bar that doubles as an art gallery. Great selection of wine and a classy and relaxed atmosphere. Locations in the Warehouse District and North Hills.
- Barcelona Wine Bar – as lifelong global travelers we cannot resist a place that takes us on a quick vacation without needing to whip out the passport. An array of Spanish wines and tapas that transport you to the streets of Barcelona.
Whiskey & Cocktail bars
- Whiskey Kitchen – beautiful open space and hip venue with a repurposed industrial feel. Over 300 whiskies plus craft cocktails, beer and wine options you can’t go wrong.
- William & Company – cozy local neighborhood cocktail bar on the edge of Historic Oakwood. Serves up fresh and unique craft cocktails created by top-notch bartenders!
- Killjoy – cool and colorful decor plus signature cocktails one block from Glenwood South. One of our favorite Raleigh bars!
Dinner
Modern American
- Stanbury – Possibly the most unique dining experience in Raleigh. Outstanding food, wonderful ambiance in a quirky, rustic venue with excellent service! Their menu changes daily (updated on their Facebook) and features modern cuisine via small plates and entrees (and the best steak I’ve had in Raleigh), plus craft cocktails. No reservations, walk ins only!
Asian
- Bida Manda – hands down the best of the Asian restaurants in Raleigh, and my favorite Southeast Asian restaurant in North Carolina, if not the USA. Well renowned for its authentic Laotian cuisine with ample vegetarian and gluten free options.
- Five Star Restaurant – named after the owner’s grandfather who was the equivalent of a Five Star General in the U.S. Army and served in the Republic of China (Taiwan) armed forces. Highly regarded by locals. My suggestion: the Pork Dumplings and Crispy Sesame Beef.
Italian
- Giorgio Pizza Bar – Get a taste of Italy in North Hills by famed restauranter, Giorgios Bakatsias. Delightful pizzas and pastas with accompanying Italian wines.
- Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar – the ultimate outdoor dining experience on their open-air secluded patio by the pool.
Vegetarian & Vegan
- Fiction Kitchen – 100% vegan restaurant that combines a creative flair with classic comfort foods like Southern style “chicken and waffles” to globally inspired plates like Vegan charcuterie board, potato chaat, curry bowl, homestyle meatloaf, and risotto. Fantastic cocktails.
- Irregardless Cafe – iconic vegetarian restaurant that has been serving the community for decades. Seasonal menus feature an array of vegetarian and vegan options, plus meat and seafood. Cozy and fun community vibe. Local artists featured on their gallery walls, and live music.
Fine Dining
- Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern – an exquisite fine dining experience inside a Second Empire Victorian that incorporates history, Southern charm, gourmet meals and excellent service. Perfect for special occasions!
- Crawford & Son – perfect date night experience for those who want an intimate setting with a little buzzy vibe. Casual yet elegant with innovative dishes beautifully presented by award winning chef, Scott Crawford.
After-dinner drinks (or activities)
- Watts & Ward – our favorite bar in Raleigh (underground bar at least). A craft cocktail bar founded upon the underground spirit of the 1920s. Leather seating, rustic tables, dim lighting and bookshelves full of history. Inventive cocktail menu and low-key jazz events.
- Dram & Draught – excellent range of whiskeys from around the world, plus seasonal cocktails, wines, and draught beer from Raleigh and beyond.
- Bittersweet – if you enjoy the concept of a dessert bar, a place where you can get bourbon with your pie, or champagne with your cake, then consider Bittersweet. A bar I love to go to in downtown for an Espresso Martini and Irish Coffee.
- See a show at the Performing Arts Center (home to the Carolina Ballet and the NC Symphony)
- A concert at Red Hat Amphitheater
- Or live music at The Lincoln Theater
If you want to explore the nightlife area of Raleigh, the Glenwood South Entertainment District is lined with bars, breweries and restaurants.
Day 2
Breakfast
State Farmers’ Market Restaurant
Another of the classic Raleigh breakfast spots to get a Southern dining experience is the Farmers’ Market Restaurant. They start each breakfast with their highly acclaimed hand-made biscuits, and they are gigantic!
Popular dishes include their Granny Cone’s Sampler (a little of everything), country ham, omelets, and of course their biscuits. Get there early on a weekend as this place gets busy!
A Place at the Table
A Place at the Table is Raleigh’s unique pay-what-you-can-afford cafe. Amazing concept and staff where they serve chef-prepared food where all menu items have suggested prices.
Popular items include homemade buttermilk biscuits and/or spicy cheddar biscuits, and the latin breakfast – Chef Andrew’s homemade black beans, eggs, crema, avocado, homemade salsa, and brown butter cornbread.
See our full article on 13 places to eat the best breakfast in Raleigh that includes bagel places, cafes, and a bakery. This is one of Raleigh’s most beloved women-owned businesses.
Coffee
Jubala on Hillsborough Street
A 5-minute drive from downtown Raleigh brings you to Jubala Coffee. Located across the street from NC State University, Jubala is one of our favorite Raleigh coffee shops known for their strong, fresh coffees and tasty small bites menu.
Their professionally trained baristas make excellent lattes and the full spectrum of coffees. Their biscuits are possibly my favorite in Raleigh (my pick is the fried egg + pimento cheese + bacon), and our kids love their Nutella & Banana Waffles.
Morning Activities
Shop (and dine) at North Hills
North Hills, also known as Midtown Raleigh, has become one of North Carolina’s most upscale locations and one of the most popular neighborhoods in Raleigh.
With 130+ local shops, high-end boutiques, restaurants, bars, salons and spas, cinemas, a bowling alley, Farmers’ Market, indie bookstore, outdoor concerts, greenspaces, apartment living, and premier hotels there is something here for everyone. Read our guide to North Hills.
If you chose to head to North Hills (10-minute drive north of downtown Raleigh), there’s a Jubala Coffee shop here so skip the one near NC State. And, if you decide to stay in North Hills for brunch or lunch, our top picks are:
- Coquette: French style brasserie and excellent espresso martini
- Bartaco: amazing tacos and margaritas
- STIR: dishes with a Southern twist plus premium oysters and signature craft cocktails
Shop The Village District
The Village District is home to more than 100 unique and distinctive shops, many small, independent, and local. Plus, a residential community of cafés, restaurants and services.
It doesn’t get any more “Raleigh” than the Village District. When it opened in 1949, it became the first shopping center between Washington D.C. and Atlanta, and a Raleigh tradition was born and is still a favorite neighborhood destination for shoppers.
Lunch
Southern American
- Whiskey Kitchen – one of our favorite bars in Raleigh that also does excellent and inventive Southern food in a beautiful open space and hip venue. I love their lamb burger and fried brussels sprouts. Oh, and whiskey’s!
- Parkside Restaurant – a retro-industrial restaurant serving traditional Southern comfort food the locals love. They also do an excellent burger, plus chicken & waffle sandwich, prime rib, and other popular Southern dishes.
Burgers
- MoJoe’s – classic local neighborhood burger joint with a large patio serving excellent burgers along with wings and pub-style appetizers. I love their Carnivor burger with a side of tater tots.
- Char-Grill – Raleigh landmark that’s been serving charcoal-grilled burgers in their iconic downtown location since 1959. Just placing your order is a part of the experience at this no-frills burger joint.
Pizza
- Trophy Brewing & Pizza – if you’re in town on a weekend, then Trophy is open for lunch (mid-week, open from 4pm). For a good slice of pizza washed down with one of the best craft beers in Raleigh, it’s hard to go past this neighborhood pizza and beer joint.
- Oakwood Pizza Box (lunch on Fri-Sun only). When you search for “best pizzas in Raleigh”, Oakwood regularly tops of the lists. This is real New York-style pizza by a New York native. Gluten-free bases available.
BBQ
- Midwood Smokehouse – great tasting BBQ and good value in downtown in the Smokey Hollow area. My suggestion: the Well-Fed Combo Platter (pick 4 proteins) feeds two!
- Clyde Coopers – Step back in time here, a downtown Raleigh institution since 1938. Popular choices include Pulled Pork, Fried Chicken (choice of dark or white meat.), Brisket, Ribs, Collards, Brunswick Stew, and Hush Puppies.
Mediterranean
- Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen – amazing rooftop patio and authentic Greek food, you can’t beat the food and vibe here. Traditional favorites like Baklava Sticky Buns, Gyro hash, Greek Omelet, Baked Eggs and Pita, Moussaka, and lamb burger!
- Sitti (Lebanese) – popular restaurant serving versions of authentic Lebanese dishes in an upbeat atmosphere with communal tables or your own space.
Breweries/Bars
- Tobacco Road Sports Cafe & Brewery – modern sports bar and a good spot to catch a game over lunch. Southern-inspired food, good burgers and salads, and their Down East Nachos is one of the biggest, and best, in Raleigh!
- Clouds Brewing – German inspired, American made. Full-service restaurant and industrial-chic pub with a kid’s menu and outdoor patio area. Variety of beers and styles.
Afternoon Activities
Historic Oakwood
Historic Oakwood is one of our favorite neighborhoods to explore and dates back to the 1800’s. It rose after the Civil War and is home to magnificent oak trees, Grand Victorians and modest bungalows. Check out this Free walking tour and don’t miss the magnificent Oakwood Cemetery
Mordecai Historic Park, once known as the largest plantation in Wake County and home to many interesting pieces of North Carolina history is nearby. Tour the Mordecai Historic House, the oldest residence in Raleigh still on its original foundation, and the birthplace of Andrew Johnson, the 17th President.
You may enjoy a candlelight concert in a historic Mordecai home or church.
North Person Street
North Person Street borders historic Oakwood and is my favorite street in Raleigh. Here you shop at local boutique stores, a bookstore, and grab a bite to eat or drink at many of my favorite spots in the city:
- Edge of Urge – boutique store specializing in clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories.
- Unlikely Professionals – part dive bar, part retail store.
- So & So Books – independent local bookstore.
- Two Roosters Ice Cream – handcrafted, seasonal and permanent flavors.
- Pelagic Beer & Wine – cool craft retail beer store and tasting room.
- Standard Beer + Food – hip and contemporary brewery with tasty tacos.
- Oakwood Pizza – New York style pizza.
- William & Company – fantastic neighborhood cocktail bar.
- Krispy Kreme – the second original store in the world (after Winston-Salem)
- Crawford & Son – fine dining by award-winning chef, Scott Crawford.
Boylan Heights
Historic Boylan Heights is one of the premier neighborhoods in Raleigh on the immediate edge of downtown. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. Craftsman bungalows sit along with transitional Queen Anne/Colonial Revivals and Dutch Colonials, while mature trees dominate the streetscapes.
We love to walk or drive through this neighborhood. Things to do here (and nearby) include:
- Rebus Works – coffee shop and tasty treats plus gallery run by artists.
- Boulted Bread – popular local bakery.
- Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing – excellent drinks + small paltes and views!
- Vault Craft Beer – old bank turned brewery.
- Dorothea Dix Park – Raleigh’s largest city park.
- Sam Jones BBQ – 5 minutes walk down the hill.
Downtown Cary
15-minutes’ drive from downtown Raleigh brings you to the charming downtown Cary, one of the fastest growing towns in the South and home to some of the best places to eat and drink in the Triangle and an awesome new park right in town. Things to do:
- BREW Coffee Shop – they brew good quality coffee, we love their lattes.
- Downtown Cary Park – 7 acre park in the heart of town. Also has an outdoor bar.
- Crosstown Pub & Grill – good burgers, tacos and fish & chips
- Soda Fountain at Ashworth Drugs – classic diner serving milkshakes and hot dogs.
- Cotton House Craft Brewers – inside The Pasmore House, built circa 1900.
- Pharmacy Bottle Shop – neighborhood bottle shop and bar.
- RBF – awesome champagne bar with small plates and live music!
- Bond Brothers – award winning brewery.
- FRESH – popular local ice cream shop.
- Annelore’s German Bakery – inspired by traditional Munich and Viennese coffee houses.
- Di Farara Pizza Tavern – New York style pizza.
- Hanks Downtown Dive – elevated food and drinks.
- Academy Street Bistro – new American cuisine with a French flair.
Pre-dinner drinks
- The Raleigh Times Bar – timeless watering hole named after the former newspaper. Extensive Belgian beer selection, multiple levels and an awesome open rooftop.
- Brewery Bhavana – stylish and unique four-in-one concept of Beer + Dim Sum + Flowers + Bookstore.
- Lynwood Brewing Concern – nice range of beers and one of the most kid-friendly breweries. Located close to downtown and North Hills. Great spot to hang out with a true neighborhood feel.
Dinner
Steak Houses
- Angus Barn – iconic restaurant, especially for their steaks, chocolate chess pie, and their famous Christmas decorations.
- Oak Steakhouse – contemporary establishment offering steaks, seafood, and pasta amid a relaxed ambiance.
Modern American
- Plates Neighborhood Kitchen – taste the world and enjoy favorite international dishes combined with regional southern flavors. Modern eatery with a farm-fresh menu, plus signature cocktails.
- Mandolin – in a refined bistro space, Mandolin is Southern at its roots, but draws influences from around the world. They use high quality local ingredients to create seasonal menus that represent a fresh take on Southern food in a soulful, comforting atmosphere.
Italian
- Cafe Luna – they’ve been serving Tuscan-accented Italian fare in an airy, art-filled space since 1996. It’s not just the authentic cuisine that will transport you to Italy, but also the original artwork hanging on the walls.
- Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – casual, affordable and family-friendly. Really good pizza and pasta and large portions.
Mexican
- Gonza Tacos y Tequila – fun place to dine. Combine Mexican-Colombian plates, an eclectic decor, hand crafted Latin cocktails, and an extensive variety of tequilas and regional spirits.
- Bartaco – excellent tacos, fresh Margaritas, and cool vibes and music that’ll make you feel like you’re in coastal Carolina. Great for gluten free diners!
Mediterranean
- Vidrio – upmarket Mediterranean cuisine and handcrafted cocktails served in stylish surroundings. Sharing plates are made with the freshest ingredients, plus the purest Greek olive oil, and 50 wines on tap. In the heart of Glenwood Ave Sth with lots of bars nearby.
- Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen or Sitti Lebanese as previously suggested for lunch!
Asian
- City Market Sushi – upscale Sushi restaurant in old city market of downtown. It might be small, but the ambiance is on point and perfect for a date night or dinner with friends.
- CO (North Hills) – of our favorite Asian restaurants in Raleigh. The food is consistently flavorful with large portions and the best Pad Thai we’ve had in Raleigh!
Fine dining
- Jolie Restaurant – by award-winning chef Scott Crawford, this French bistro themed restaurant with an amazing rooftop called Le Rooftop is highly rated – bookings essential.
- Death & Taxes – by Raleigh’s other award-winning chef, Ashley Christensen. Located in an elegant building that was once a mortuary and a tax office (hence the name). Open kitchen concept, incredible food, extensive wine list, impeccable service.
After dinner Drinks
- Foundation Bar – underground bar with industrial-chic decor, warm brick walls, great artwork and intimate atmosphere. Super talented bartenders who make great drinks!
- The Green Light – true definition of a hidden bar. Literally tucked away behind a secret bookcase door in what was once an architect’s office. Small, dimly lit room with a 1920s speakeasy feel. Reservations recommended.
- The Merchant – beautiful decor, pleasant atmosphere, unique cocktails.
Where to Stay in Raleigh
The choice of hotels in Raleigh just keeps getting better. Below is our handpicked selection for a weekend in Raleigh:
- Residence Inn Raleigh – cozy apartment style (all-suite) accommodation and perfect for couples and families. Excellent central downtown location, walk to everything!
- Marriott Raleigh City Center – in the middle of it all in downtown Raleigh on Fayetteville Street. Good for leisure or business travel.
- The Casso – boutique hotel and super convenient to the Glenwood South Entertainment District and the Warehouse District.
- StateView Hotel – located on NC State University’s Centennial campus, you feel like you’re a million miles away in the forest by a lake, but you’re just a 3-mile drive from downtown!
- Heights House Hotel – boutique hotel in historic Boylan Heights on the edge of downtown. This historic landmark dates to the 1860s.
- NOTE: if you are looking for hotels near Raleigh Airport, stay here.
Use the interactive map below to help find your Raleigh hotel and book:
There you have it. I hope this guide on how to spend 48 hours in Raleigh helps you have a memorable time in the city of oaks. If you only have one day in Raleigh, see that guide.
If you have any questions, or your own suggestions on things to do, please leave a comment down below!
