48 Hours in The Warehouse District (see, do, eat, drink, shop)

We are blessed to have many quirky and interesting neighborhoods in Raleigh, but none are more artistic and exciting to explore than the Warehouse District. A hip hangout for Raleigh’s creative and cutting-edge artists, the Warehouse District has transformed its industrial buildings and factories into a haven for virtuoso folk wanting to flaunt their talents.

Known for its art galleries, lively bars and breweries, food halls, restaurants offering exciting culinary concepts, and entertainment venues, there is much to see and explore in Raleigh’s Warehouse neighborhood.

In this guide, we’ll show you how you can spend 48 hours in the Warehouse District and reveal some of the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore. Whether you’re looking for things to do or places to eat, we’ve got all this and more in the following Warehouse District itinerary.

Where is the Warehouse District in Raleigh?

The six-block Warehouse District is nestled just west of downtown Raleigh. The neighborhood is made up of former-industrial buildings that have turned into a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, a brewery, a food hall, boutique shopping, art museums, studios, and technology firms.

Located between Boylan Heights and Downtown, the loose border of the district is W. Morgan St to the north, S Dawson St to the east, Western Blvd to the south, and S Saunders St to the west.

It’s also a transit hub with the opening of Raleigh Union Station, which connects you to Durham, Charlotte, and other popular places in North Carolina. It’s also where you’ll find the sought-after residential hub, The Dillon Building.

The Warehouse District Itinerary: Day One

Now we’ll get into how to spend 48 hours in the Warehouse District in Raleigh.

Breakfast – A Place at the Table

We love the concept at A Place At The Table Cafe. It’s a pay-what-you-can and pay-it-forward cafe with multiple options to pay and to pay-it-forward if you can. It’s a sandwich shop and coffee bar, and popular for brunch. They have great pastries, biscuits, breakfast plates, and yoghurt bowls. My pick: avocado on toast, egg + bacon + cheese biscuit, and a latte (or pumpkin latte in the Fall). Why not start off your visit to downtown Raleigh’s Warehouse District by being a part of a mission that provides community and good food for all, regardless of means (and we love it because it’s a Raleigh women-owned business).

• Address: 300 W Hargett St, Raleigh
• Website: TableRaleigh.org

Coffee: Black & White

Black & White is a great coffee shop inside Videri Chocolate Factory. The smell of coffee + chocolate when you enter is heaven on earth! Their baristas create a great latte, and considering you’re in a chocolate factory, why not try their Mocha latte as they use the chocolate made onsite. Offering a full coffee bar menu, some great specials and seasonal drinks, and a small selection of pastries. One of our favorite coffee shops in Raleigh.

• Address: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: BlackWhiteRoasters.com

Stop 2: Check out the Art Murals

To get your bearings for the rest of your visit, why not get a coffee to go from Black and White Coffee, Heirloom, or a Place at the Table and wander around the 6-block Warehouse District? You can check out the colorful art murals, which have been showing up all over the district thanks to the collaboration with Raleigh Arts and the Raleigh Murals Project.

Some of our favorite murals in the district are:

Women’s International Champions Cup

Women’s soccer is a BIG deal in North Carolina, and this mural on S Harrington Street by local artist @Taylurk was painted to celebrate the Women’s International Cup that took place in nearby Cary in 2019. This mural features a key player from each of the teams that competed: Manchester City, hometown heroes NC Courage, Olympique Lyonnais, and Atlético de Madrid. 

Location: 120 S West St 

Allen Iverson mural

As part of the CAM Raleigh exhibition called “Above The Rim” (closed now), this mural was part of the exhibit that explored basketball through the lens of art. @Steveespopowers re-created a scene from 1990’s NBA history of Allen Iverson, sitting on the bench during an actual game, having his hair braided by his mom Ann.

Location: 409 W. Martin St

“No Damsel” murals

At CAM Raleigh, artist Dorian Lynde’s critically-acclaimed No Damsel exhibition was a hit. The exhibition featured a series of murals and paintings with re-imagined, modern-day Disney princesses. Lynde painted many murals in the Warehouse District that can still be seen today. 

Location: Corner of S. Harrington and W. Martin Streets.

Oaks and Spokes mural

Oaks and Spokes, a nonprofit organization fostering the cycling community in Raleigh, partnered with Crank Arm Brewing to thank riders for doing what they do. Right near this mural in the same parking lot is the Mount Rushmore of Hip Hop (feat. J. Cole) (first photo of this section)

Location: 319 W. Davie Street.

Stop 3: Visit CAM Raleigh

While you’re walking around admiring the murals, why not stop into CAM (Contemporary Art Museum) to see what exhibits are taking place? CAM Raleigh displays new and emerging work by local and national living artists and is always offering ever-changing experiences and exhibits. Every exhibition is unique and thought-provoking. It’s free admission and a popular spot among local residents to hang out in. They often have great events, so be sure to check the schedule. Read our guide to CAM Raleigh

• Address: 409 W Martin Street
• Website: CAMraleigh.org

Stop 4: Check out 311 Gallery

Home to 12 artist studios, an exhibition gallery, and a gift shop, 311 Gallery regularly hosts juried art shows and traveling artists’ exhibits. It’s a popular place to visit for First Fridays. I enjoyed going there with my teen daughter on an afternoon shopping in Raleigh.

• Address: 311 W Martin St, Raleigh
• Website: 311ArtGallery.com

Stop 5: Lunch at Morgan Street Food Hall

Another great concept in the Warehouse District is the Morgan Street Food Hall. This food hall was a first of its kind in Raleigh and is similar to a food court with lots of dining choices in one spot, but with higher quality food and ambiance. Here you can choose from 20 different food concepts showcasing local eateries housed in food stalls or free-standing kiosks. On weekends, there’s a lively atmosphere, and it’s perfect for those with different food tastes. 

Popular vendors

• CowBar Burger (my favorite is the Southern Classic burger and truffle fries)
• Curry in a Hurry
• Gym Tacos
• The Crispy Cod
• Raleigh Rolls (ice cream rolled on cold slats with a variety of flavors and toppings)
• See all vendors here.

Stop 6: Go afternoon shopping

As well as admiring the art galleries and museums in the Warehouse District, it’s also a popular neighborhood for shopping. You can enjoy shopping at the Raleigh Denim Workshop, which is run by Sarah Yarborough and Victor Lytvinenko and has made a name for itself as the place to go for bespoke denim. This is the place to go for the perfect pair of jeans. Check out Father & Son Antiques, Sorry State Records, Videri Chocolate Factory, and, while not local, our daughters love Urban Outfitters.

Stop 7: Afternoon drinks

After all that shopping and culture grazing, you’re going to need a refreshment. Head into one of the top bars and breweries for a later afternoon beverage. Below are some of our favorite jaunts to drink in the Warehouse District..

Crank Arm Brewing

If you enjoy tasting new craft brews, the guys at Crank Arm Brewing are passionate about beer and bikes and have a mission to brew delicious, innovative beer and support the local cycling community! Pop in and sample one of the three flagship beers at one of the most popular Raleigh breweries in downtown or go with a flight. My pick: Road Hazard Hazy IPA. In nice weather, you can sit outside or relax indoors and have the outside come to you – they have an open garage door setup. Check their schedule as they have community events every day, from music bingo to yoga and bike rides.

• Address: 319 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: CrankArmBrewing.com

Whiskey Kitchen

If you prefer whiskey over beer, walk one block east outside of the Warehouse District boundary along W Martin Street to one of our favorite Raleigh bars – Whiskey Kitchen. Part whiskey bar, part Southern kitchen, it’s a beautiful open space and hip venue with a repurposed industrial feel. And with over 300 whiskies, craft cocktails, and great beer and wine options, you can’t go wrong. Not sure which whiskey to drink, try a flight. They also have a cool outdoor patio space, which is popular in the warmer months. Plus, a great small bites menu – I’m a big fan of their lamb burger and rate it as one of the best burgers in Raleigh!

• Website: Whiskey.Kitchen
• Address:201 W Martin St, Raleigh

More drinking options:

• State of Beer  – cool bottle shop offering an extensive list of craft brews + some of the best gourmet sandwiches in town (one block north of the Warehouse District). We also love their new location on W Morgan St, just to the west to the Warehouse District (easy short walk)
• Flying Saucer – across the street from Morgan Street Food Hall and offer 200+ global beers.
• Junction West – bar with a nice upscale feel and cool uncovered patio space outside.
• Here are some other breweries in Downtown Raleigh

Stop 8: Admire the sunset and skyline view from the top of The Dillon Building

For one of the best views of downtown Raleigh, jump in the elevator at the bottom of The Dillon Building and head up to the rooftop deck on level 9. Anyone can go up here, and it’s free. You get magnificent views over the Warehouse District and of the Raleigh city skyline, and the perfect time to go up is just before sunset, with the sun’s rays washing over the buildings! Even better, in May 2024, a swanky new Italian restaurant, La Terrazza, opened, offering an elevated rooftop restaurant and Sky Bar experience.

You can’t miss The Dillon Building, it’s in the heart of Raleigh’s Warehouse District and stands on a site once owned by Dillon Supply, an industrial supplies distributor and steel service center that opened its doors more than 100 years ago. 

• Address: 223 S West St, Raleigh
• Website: TheDillonRaleigh.com

Stop 9: Dinner at The Pit Authentic BBQ

In case you don’t know, North Carolina is a big BBQ state, and The Pit Authentic BBQ proudly serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked Eastern-style barbecue. So if this is your first time visiting Raleigh, why not try some Carolina BBQ at one of the best Warehouse District restaurants – just be warned, you may have to loosen your belts! Popular items: Beef Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, Southern Fried Chicken, Pimento Cheese Balls, Heirloom Cabbage Collards.

But one of my other favorite dishes is their Big Boy Burger: two house-ground brisket patties, western BBQ sauce, brisket, pulled pork, pimento cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion straws. It’s phenomenal. I mean, look at that thing! They also serve biscuits and hushpuppies with the meal. Prices are fair, and there’s a good beer list. And they often have live music outside (check their website), so I always recommend this as one of the best places to eat in Raleigh, period. A few blocks south of here, you’ll find Sam Jones BBQ, another local’s favorite for the best BBQ in Raleigh.

• Address: 328 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: ThePit-Raleigh.com

One of the great things about the Warehouse District is all the food options in close proximity. If you’re not interested in BBQ, check out these other restaurants:

Other dinner options:

• Taverna Agora – one block north of the Warehouse District boundary, go here for an authentic Greek dining experience that will remind you of your trips to Greece. 
• Tuscan Blu Italian Restaurant – classic Italian cuisine plus wine and beer in a charming red-brick walled setting with a patio.
• Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern – next door to Taverna Agora, this is Raleigh’s premier fine dining experience and a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award.
• Fiction Kitchen – a bright vegan restaurant with thoughtfully sourced and healthy ingredients
• Poole’s Diner – one of Raleigh’s G.O.A.T establishments, opening in 1945. This diner has seasonal comfort food that’s true to Southern roots. It has a cool retro-chic setting.

Stop 10: Evening drinks at Barcelona Wine Bar

It might be a chain, but there is still a lot to love about the Barcelona Wine Bar. You know, as lifelong global travelers, we cannot resist a place that takes us on a quick vacation without needing to whip out the passport. As the name suggests, this wine bar in the Warehouse District offers a rich, earthy taste of Spain. It offers an array of Spanish wines and tapas that transport you to the streets of Barcelona.

• Address: 430 West Martin Street, Raleigh
• Website: barcelonawinebar.com

Stop 11: Explore Raleigh’s Nightlife

The go-to district for nightlife in Raleigh is actually Glenwood South, which is just up the road from the Warehouse District, but you can still experience a vibrant atmosphere in this district after dark – especially if you’re looking for LGBT clubs. Some of the best clubs and live music venues in the Warehouse District are:

• Boxcar Bar & Arcade – a bar and classic arcade hall, where you can drink, play pool, and challenge your friends to some arcade games
• The Ugly Monkey Party Bar – a cheerful dive bar with DJs, a party atmosphere, and themed nights such as karaoke or trivia nights.
• Legends Nightclub – an LGBT nightclub with a dance floor, games room, performance venue, and more!
• Flex – another LGBT club with drag shows, DJs, and karaoke

Warehouse District Itinerary: Day Two

The second day will be all about uncovering the hidden gems of the Warehouse District. We’ll be sharing our favorite places to eat, shop, and explore…

Stop 1: Breakfast at Boulted Bread

If you’re a bread and pastry lover, Boulted Bread is that chic local neighborhood bakery you’ve been craving those features pastries, and loaves of bread made with local, organic grains. Located a few steps outside the western boundary of the Warehouse District, for Raleigh locals, this bakery is a favorite. They serve pastries ranging from flaky croissants and sweet, fruit-filled tarts to savory breakfast quiches and craft bread created in a bright, rustic bakery that’s small in size but big on quality.

Popular items: The Morning Bun, Chocolate Croissants, Nordic Rye Bread, and the staff’s favorite is the Baguette. Now they have moved into a bigger space, you can sit down and eat, and they do fairly decent coffee.

Alternatively, you can wait for coffee to have it at one of our favorite coffee shops in Raleigh, Heirloom Brewshop. There is no crime in having more than one coffee. HOT TIP: If you don’t want to visit a bakery for breakfast, or want to skip breakfast altogether, Parkside Restaurant (see below lunch suggestion) serves one of the best brunches in Raleigh! 

• Address: 614 W. South St, Raleigh
• Website: BoultedBread.com

Stop 2: Grab a coffee on the go at Heirloom Brewshop

In my opinion, Heirloom Brewshop makes one of the best lattes in downtown and is one of the best coffee shops in Raleigh. They are a specialty coffee shop, premium tea house, and sake bar that offers a variety of drinks from brewed coffee and pour-overs, to cortados, loose-leaf teas, sake, draft beers, and cocktails.

When in the Warehouse District and craving caffeine or a place to work online, the first place I think of is Heirloom Brewshop, and I suggest you pop in here at least once during your 48-hour visit. 

• Address: 219 S West St, Raleigh
• Website: HeirloomBrewShop.com

Stop 4: Admire Raleigh Union Station

The City of Raleigh constructed a new train station in 2018, and with a quick walk through, you can appreciate more of the architectural and artistic beauty of the Warehouse District. Inside is the cool Glas: Raleigh light display and a Welcome To Raleigh sign. Union Station is Raleigh’s new transit center. Its main building serves as an Amtrak train station, while the adjacent building is the bus terminus for GoTriangle.

• Address: 520 W Martin St, Raleigh
• Website: Amtrak.com/stations/rgh

Stop 5: Lunch at Parkside Restaurant

With a prime location on the edge of Raleigh’s Warehouse District and with its neon sign, Parkside Restaurant is hard to miss. As mentioned, Parkside is a retro-industrial restaurant and popular for its brunch menu, but also for lunch and dinner, and offers filling Southern dishes with a variety of choices to suit all taste buds, and prices hard to beat for the quality. This is one of the best restaurants in Raleigh for traditional American comfort food, the locals love, including another amazing burger! Popular items: Chicken and Waffle Sandwich, The Parkside Burger, Prime Rib. And you can wash your meal down with one of the 20 beers on tap, a cocktail, or a glass of wine!

• Address: 301 W Martin St, Raleigh
• Website: ParksideRaleigh.com

Stop 6: Afternoon coffee at Black & White Roasters

I’m a two-coffee-per-day person, so after lunch, if you’re in need of another caffeine hit, head to Black and White Coffee at Videri, which also does a great latte and is a full espresso bar (how about a mocha made with Videri chocolate from next door!)

• Address: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: BlackWhiteRoasters.com

Stop 7: Pop into Videri Chocolate Factory

Yee, Black & White roasters are attached to the Videri Chocolate Factory, and all chocolate lovers need to go here and check out their retail space and sample yummy chocolates! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the chocolate-making process from knowledgeable staff, then choose from high-quality handmade chocolate made with organic and fair-trade ingredients – vegan and allergy-friendly options available.

• Address: 327 W Davie St
• Website: Viderichocolatefactory.com

Stop 8: Walk around Nash Square

Nash Square hugs the eastern boundary of the Warehouse District, and a square we love to walk around or sit in the sun during our afternoon coffee break when working out of the co-working spaces at Raleigh Founded and The Locality in the Warehouse District. The trees are magnificent, there’s a Raleigh Firefighters memorial in the middle, you can say hello to the resident squirrel, and you get a view of the Raleigh skyline!

Stop 9: Drinks at Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

Looking for an awesome craft beer, wine, or cocktail with the best view in Raleigh? Not officially within the boundary of the Warehouse District, but literally a 5-minute walk from The Dillon Building, you must go here for the fantastic views of the Warehouse District and Raleigh skyline from the best outdoor patio in Raleigh – and the drinks are super too! 

• Address: 201 S Boylan Ave
• Website: Wyehill.com

Dinner at Figulina

One of our personal favorite restaurants in Raleigh. Excellent Italian food with a Southern twist. Fantastic cocktails, service, and an elevated vibe, yet casual. Perfect for couples or a group of friends.

• Address: 317 S Harrington St, Raleigh
• Website: figulinaraleigh.com

Where to stay in the Warehouse District

Casso Hotel

Located just one block outside the Northwest boundary of the Warehouse District, The Casso Raleigh opened in just 2020 and instantly became one of the best hotels in downtown Raleigh that is a full-service hotel. It’s one of the first boutique Raleigh hotels focused on lifestyle and local community experiences, and you’ll have plenty of fun opportunities right outside your door.

Read our review of the Casso Hotel and see why it’s one of our favorite places in Raleigh to stay – especially their hidden gem of a restaurant, which made our list of last year’s favorite restaurants in Raleigh.

Modern Condo in the heart of the Warehouse District

Choose to stay in a home away from home in a self-contained condo right in the heart of the district. This condo can host four guests, and is located on West Martin Street, so you are within walking distance to the attractions and restaurants mentioned in this guide. It has homely comforts and family-friendly amenities such as a crib and Pack ’n Play, plus high-speed Wi-Fi, EV charger, and free parking.

Use the map below to find more hotels in Raleigh!

Final Thoughts

Back in 2004, when we first moved to Raleigh, we would usually end up in Glenwood South or the Fayetteville Street and Moore Square area when we wanted entertainment. Now you will often find us hanging out in the Warehouse District for coffee, lunch, a beer, or a spot of shopping. In fact, we could spend a whole weekend just in this district and not run out of things to do, see, eat and drink.

This area is home to one of the best BBQ joints, breweries, coffee shops, and boutique stores in all of Raleigh, which keeps us coming back for more!

I hope this guide to Raleigh’s Warehouse District helps you have a memorable visit. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions, or suggestions of your own! Not sure what to see in Raleigh? My parents recently visited for three weeks, and we spent every day showing off the Best of Raleigh (and beyond) to them!

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