Vacations from Raleigh

A sandy beach next to a body of water

For Raleigh residents looking to escape the city and unwind, our travel guides also feature recommendations for exciting getaways within a short drive from Raleigh, or those that are easy to get to via direct flights.

Explore charming coastal towns like Wilmington or historic cities like Charleston for a weekend retreat filled with relaxation and exploration.

Venture into the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains for outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and waterfall chasing in destinations like Asheville and Boone. Or indulge in a luxurious escape to the Outer Banks, where pristine beaches and coastal serenity await.

Whether you're craving a beach vacation, a mountain retreat, or a cultural excursion, our travel guides offer curated recommendations and itineraries to help you plan the perfect getaway from Raleigh.

Don't forget to follow our social channels as we share new nearby vacation destinations AND subscribe to our email newsletter - they get the tips first! We can explore North Carolina and Raleigh together!

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WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH VACATION

Watch the video of this awesome trail ride in Raleigh along the Greenway from the North Carolina Museum of Art to Downtown Raleigh. 

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ALL VACATION ARTICLES

Browse all our articles on things to do in Raleigh and discover a few surprises.  

beach with beach houses along the sand

15 Awesome Things to Do in Ocean Isle Beach, NC

We have plenty of amazing white sand beaches on the North Carolina Coast, but none […]

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Colorful shop fronts in a downtown Asheville, North Carolina

48 Hours in Downtown Asheville NC (See, Eat, Drink and Stay)

You’ve been asking us for more ideas on getaways from Raleigh, and downtown Asheville is […]

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people walking beside the water roanoke island

15 Fun Things to Do in Manteo & Roanoke Island, NC

On previous trips to the Outer Banks, we cruised right on by Roanoke Island, focused […]

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Row of shopfronts

A Family Day out in Johnston County (Shopping & Christmas Holiday Lights)

As you’re closing out the busy Holiday season, why not bring an element of fun […]

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Santa talking to a child on a train - The Polar Express

What It’s Like To Ride The Polar Express in Bryson City, North Carolina

ALL ABOARD! Grab your finest pajamas and a heart open to the magic of Christmas […]

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Santa talking to a child on a train - The Polar Express

12 Amazing North Carolina Christmas Experiences Not Too Miss

If you’re looking for unique places to celebrate the holidays, then perhaps you might consider […]

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Awesome mural in downtown Clayton, Johnston County

Unforgettable Date Experience in Johnston County, NC (40-mins from Raleigh)

Are you looking for unique date ideas with your special person? And are you growing […]

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Mother and two daughters on a hiking trail during Fall in the Great Smoky Mountains

Fall Foliage Getaway Ideas from Raleigh (Scenic drives, hikes & Waterfalls)

Start your engines Raleigh, it’s almost time to chase the Fall foliage in North Carolina! While […]

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Family of four horse riding on the beach in the Outer Banks

7 Fun Activities in the Outer Banks to Enjoy With Kids

We love visiting the Outer Banks with our kids. It is the place to create […]

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Lady standing on a boardwalk overlooking a river and bridge

Guide on Things to Do in Wilmington, NC (See, Eat, Drink, Stay)

Wilmington was our first real getaway from Raleigh when we first moved to North Carolina […]

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Roller coaster at Carowinds theme park

Ultimate Guide to Carowinds Amusement Park (Top tips & Rides)

After 10 years of living in Raleigh, we finally made it to Carowinds Amusement Park […]

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A group of people swimming in the water at Wet'nWild water park greensboro

Get Wet and Go Wild at Wet’n Wild Water Park in Greensboro

Looking for a fun place to cool off and relax this summer? If you love […]

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