18 Top cities near Raleigh to visit on a quick getaway

Although Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina, it’s not the only great city worth visiting in this state. We’re so blessed to have many incredible cities near Raleigh, and each of them are so unique and vibrant, they make for wonderful weekend escapes. And they’re not just in North Carolina either! Within a few hours drive, you could be exploring cities in our neighboring states of Virginia, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

No two cities are the same, and many of them have a small town feel. If you want to trade skyscrapers for tobacco barns, urban parks for paddleboards, and night clubs for honky tonks, you can do all that within driving distance.

Whether you’re looking for a city break with serene nature spots, relaxed urban living, or buzzing and vibrant nightlife, then these are the most exciting cities that are all within 8 hours’ drive of Raleigh, starting with the closest to furthest away.

Durham, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh: 24.6 miles
• Drive time: 30 minutes

The closest city to Raleigh is Durham, which is also the fourth largest city in North Carolina. Being just a 30-minute drive up I-40 makes Durham one of the best day trips from Raleigh. It’s known as The City of Medicine because it has more than 300 medical-related companies that operate here. It was also named the “tastiest Town in the South” by Southern Living Magazine because of its vibrant food scene, and you’ll find many amazing restaurants in Durham where you can sink your teeth into some tasty eats.

Although Durham is best known for its industry and innovation, and is a popular city for young professionals as you can easily commute to the Research Triangle Park in the Raleigh area.

What we love about Durham though, is that it’s also home to some beautiful nature spots. Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a beautiful 55-acre park that features a stunning array of flowers, plants, and sculptures. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Another top attraction we love in Durham is the Museum of Life and Science, where you can explore interactive exhibits, learn about wildlife, and even walk through a butterfly house.

Durham is also home to Duke University, one of the youngest research facilities in the U.S. It’s renowned for its stunning architecture and the magnificent Chapel, one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. And basketball fans should not miss the Duke Basketball Museum. If you want a super fun adventure, bike from Durham to Cary along the American Tobacco Trail (there’s a winery stop along the way!)

With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Durham has something for everyone. Read our full guide on things to do in Durham on our travel website.

Wilmington, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh: 131 miles
• Drive time: 2 hours

For those who are looking for a beach getaway from Raleigh, the charming city of Wilmington is a coastal city that offers a plethora of attractions and activities to enjoy. 

Boasting picturesque scenery, Wilmington is a destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors, such as Wrightsville Beach, located just a short 10-minute drive outside the city center. This five-mile beach has pristine sandy shores and clean and clear waters, making it the perfect destination for beach lovers.

One of the must-see attractions in Wilmington is Airlie Gardens, a historic botanical garden known for its stunning landscapes and efforts to preserve the natural environment of Wilmington. 

Wilmington is also all about history. Don’t miss a chance to explore the historic Battleship North Carolina. This iconic World War II battleship is a retired navy vessel that has been transformed into an interactive museum, offering nine decks of maritime history. You can explore exhibits such as the Crew’s Quarters, the Engine Room, and the Gun House. 

For a further step back in time, head to the vibrant Historic District, Wilmington’s well-preserved downtown, known for its cobblestone tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and historic architecture. Soak in the tranquil atmosphere as you stroll along the Riverwalk, lined with restaurants, cafes, and stunning views of the Cape Fear River.

Although Wilmington is a city, it’s quiet and laid back, and outside the metropolis area is Wrightsville Beach, a quick break for a beach day. It’s the perfect destination for those who want a mix of tranquility, excellent dining options, and historic attractions.

Read our in-depth guide on things to do in Wilmington including what to see, eat, drink and where to stay. We also have a guide for the best of Wilmington to see on an overnight stay. and favorite places to eat in Wilmington.

Popular tours in Wilmington

• 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise
• History and Architecture Walking Tour
• Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington’s History, Haunts & Breweries

Charlotte, North Carolina  

• Distance from Raleigh: 167.5 miles
• Drive time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Although Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina, Charlotte is the largest city and is the state’s banking hub. But Charlotte also offers plenty for visitors, from lively nightlife and entertainment to sporting events.

Adrenalin seekers can ride big roller coasters at the Carowinds theme park, and the U.S. Whitewater Center offers rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, zip lines and more. A top attraction is the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where racing car enthusiasts can revel in the history and excitement of the sport – see interactive exhibits, take selfies with historic cars, and learn about some of the greatest drivers of all time.

Art lovers don’t miss the Mint Museum, which has two campuses in the city: Randolph and Uptown. Each campus holds an extensive collection of American and European art, including works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Roy Halston Frowick, and Andy Warhol in the Uptown campus.

Nature lovers can explore the beautiful Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, with its stunning displays of flowers and plants, or take a stroll along the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, a picturesque urban trail.

Football fans can see a Carolina Panthers game at Bank of America Stadium, consider catching the Amtrak from Raleigh that stops in downtown Charlotte near the stadium. NoDa (North of Davidson) is known as the vibrant arts district with cool cafes, breweries, restaurants and of course street art.

Popular tours in Charlotte

• 90-Minute Segway Tour of Historic Uptown
• Queen City Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour
• 90-Minute Electric Cart City Sightseeing Tour

Richmond, Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh: 154.5 miles
• Drive time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Another historic city near Raleigh that’s easily accessible is Richmond in Virginia. As the capital of Virginia, Richmond holds significant historical importance as it was once the capital of the Confederate States of America during the Civil War.

As such, many of the city’s top attractions revolve around its Civil War and political history, such as the American Civil War Museum and Hollywood Cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures such as Jefferson Davis and James Monroe. 

Other top attractions are the Virginia State Capitol and The White House of the Confederacy, which was the former residence of Jefferson Davis from 1861 to 1865.

Art lovers should not miss a visit to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, renowned for its diverse collection of art, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to more contemporary masterpieces. Richmond also has a vibrant food scene, with craft breweries and trendy eateries dotted all over the city.

Popular tours in Richmond

• Arts District Walking Food Tour
• Church Hill Food Tour
• Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

Roanoke, Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh: 155.3 miles
• Drive time: 3 hours

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains is the beautiful city of Roanoke, Virginia. Known for its railroad history and picturesque location surrounded by lush mountainous nature, it’s the perfect city to visit if you want a more relaxed vacation.

One of the top things to do in Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star & Park, which gives Roanoke its nickname ‘The Magic City’ because it’s the second largest illuminated man-made star in the world. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and explore the surrounding nature. 

The Virginia Museum of Transportation is another highlight of Roanoke, showcasing an impressive collection of vintage automobiles, trains, and aviation artifacts.

For history enthusiasts, don’t miss the O. Winston Link Museum which is another opportunity to learn about the region’s railroad history through captivating works of photography. 

If you love museums, then be sure to visit The Center in the Square, a cultural hub housing multiple museums, including the Science Museum of Western Virginia and the Harrison Museum of African American Culture.

Of course, don’t miss out on a chance to hike the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway, where you can hike to the famous McAfee Knob for stunning vistas, or stroll along the Roanoke Valley Greenways.

Williamsburg, Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh: 199 miles
• Drive time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Another city relatively close to Raleigh known for its Civil War history is Williamsburg in Virginia. In fact, the entire city of Williamsburg is a living museum of American history.

One of the top things to do in Williamsburg is a visit to Colonial Williamsburg. This open-air living history museum transports you back to the 18th century, where you can explore restored buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and experience life as it was during the Revolutionary era.

Another must-visit attraction is the Jamestown Settlement, another living history museum where you can glimpse into the first permanent English settlement in America and explore recreated ships, a Powhatan Indian village, and a replica fort.

Despite being known for its plethora of historical landmarks, it’s not all about history in Williamsburg. If you’re looking to visit a city near Raleigh with kids, here are fun attractions in Williamsburg with kids including Busch Gardens, which provides an action-packed day of roller coasters, live shows, and games.

With its historical significance, visiting Williamsburg is like stepping back in time, and promises to be an educational experience for all ages.

Popular tours of Williamsburg

• Colonial History Guided Walking Tour
• Secrets of Williamsburg Walking Tour
• Patriots Historical Walking Tour
• Black History Walking Tour
• Haunted ghost tour

Columbia, South Carolina  

• Distance from Raleigh: 227.4 miles
• Drive time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Columbia is the second largest city in South Carolina and is known for its excellent shopping and entertainment opportunities.  Columbia’s Main Street District is the perfect place for shopping enthusiasts to stroll along and do some window shopping. The Soda City Market is another vibrant place where you can shop for boutique and artisan offerings, as well as dive into the tasty foodie scene. 

The biggest of the attractions in Columbia is the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, which is a huge 170-acre park and botanical garden that’s home to over 2,000 animals. The South Carolina State House is another notable landmark, showcasing stunning architecture and providing insight into the state’s history.

For art enthusiasts, check out the Columbia Museum of Art, which offers a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, while history buffs can explore the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Saluda Riverwalk, an easy 7-mile trail next to the Saluda River.

Asheville, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh: 247.4 miles
• Drive time: 3 hours 50 minutes

Another beautiful city in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Asheville, North Carolina, which is possibly the most well-known gateway to the mountains. With its vibrant arts scene, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich history, Asheville is a city worth pinning on the map.

Visitors are attracted to it’s exceptional food and beverage scene, but also to use it as a base to explore the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest, where hiking, biking, and waterfall exploration abound. 

A top attraction in Asheville is the River Arts District, located in downtown Asheville.. Here you’ll find an eclectic collection of galleries and studios, as well as an abundance of murals and street art. It’s important to note that this district is still undergoing a major renovation after it was badly damaged in Hurricane Helene.

For history buffs, be sure to check out the iconic Biltmore Estate. This magnificent mansion, built by George Vanderbilt, is a marvel of architecture and offers immersive tours, stunning gardens, and wine tastings. We also loved our stay at the Biltmore Inn on the estate.

Asheville also has a thriving food and craft beer scene, with numerous farm-to-table restaurants and breweries showcasing local ingredients and flavors. See our full 48 hour guide to downtown Asheville.

Popular tours in Asheville

• Guided Walking Tour
• Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour
• Ghost walking tour
• Brewery Crawl of Asheville

Charleston, South Carolina   

• Distance from Raleigh: 263.9 miles
• Drive time: 4 hours
• Flight time: around 4 hours connecting

Although a little too far for a day trip from Raleigh, Charleston in South Carolina is brimming with picturesque streets, one of a kind boutiques, trendy restaurants, and a wide range of coastal attractions, which is why it’s most often associated with a romantic retreat.

It’s famous for its charming architecture and one of the most historic downtowns in South Carolina, as well as year-round pleasant weather, and good ol’ Southern hospitality. 

One of the top things to see and do in Charleston is to explore the historic Battery and White Point Garden. This beautiful waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor.

Another landmark for history buffs is Fort Sumter National Monument. This iconic fort played a significant role in the American Civil War and offers a glimpse into the country’s past.

Charleston’s culinary scene, however, is one of its biggest draws. With a variety of restaurants serving up delicious Lowcountry cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional Gullah dishes, anyone visiting Charleston can sample some of the best flavors of the region.

Don’t miss a chance to stroll down the historic district’s cobblestone streets, lined with colorful row houses, is like stepping back in time, particularly Rainbow Row, which is a series of perfectly preserved historic homes that make for the ultimate backdrop for photographers.

Read our 36-hour guide to Charleston for a weekend getaway – includes food tour gullah tour, stunning rooftop views, restaurants and more! (so good)

Popular tours of Charleston

• Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
• Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride
• Historic City Highlights Guided Bus Tour
• Haunted Carriage Evening Tour

Greenville, South Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh: 263.9 miles
• Drive time: 4 hours
• Flight time: between 3-4 hours connecting

Although not a big city, Greenville in South Carolina is somewhat of a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s known for its ‘Deep South’ heritage, laid back lifestyle, and picturesque landscapes, as well as the vibrant downtown area which has all its attractions within walkable distance.

No trip to Greenville would be complete without exploring Falls Park on the Reedy, which is considered the birthplace of Greenville. This lush, green oasis in the heart of the city is known for its cascading Reedy Falls waterfall and Liberty Bridge pedestrian bridge.

Greenville is also home to many hiking and biking trails. The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail offers miles of scenic biking and walking paths along the Reedy River, whereas Cleveland Park and Paris Mountain State Park are perfect for picnics, hiking, and relaxing in nature. If you love a city that’s as green as our City of Oaks, this is the best place to go.

Greenville also has a thriving arts scene, which can be best seen at the Greenville County Museum of Art and the Upcountry History Museum. And The Peace Center is a hub for performing arts, offering world-class theater productions and concerts.

Popular tours in Greenville

• Walking Tour with Breakfast
• Greenville City Segway Tour
• Craft Cocktail Tour
• Just Desserts Tour 

Washington D.C.

• Distance from Raleigh: 278 miles
• Drive time: 4 hours, 30 minutes
• Flight time: 1 hour 15 minutes direct (Delta, American, United)

Washington D.C. needs little introduction being the home of the U.S. Government including The White House and The Capitol Building. DC is also a city of fantastic museums and monuments and an international food scene to rival anywhere else in the country.

One of the best things to do in DC is explore the incredible National Mall area, a huge landscaped park near downtown that comprises monuments, museums, and parks. It connects many of the city’s top attractions and landmarks.

Some of the top museums include the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Archives Museum, International Spy Museum, National Gallery of Art, and the National Museum of African American History. See the full list here.

Doing a tour of the Capitol Building is fascinating and interesting, as is the Library of Congress and its incredible architecture. And one of the best things about visiting D.C. is many of its top attractions are free, and it’s a great city to walk around. Read our complete 3 day itinerary to Washington DC that include what to see, do, eat and how to get around.

Popular tours in D.C

• Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
• Capitol Hill and Library of Congress Tour
• Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour
• Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour

Savannah, Georgia

• Distance from Raleigh: 323.8 miles
• Drive time: 4 hours 50 minutes
• Flight time: between 3 and 4.5 hours connecting

Savannah is a city teeming with historic charm and Southern hospitality. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and enchanting squares, it’s the perfect vacation getaway from Raleigh if you love a city with community spirit and a small-town feel.

One of Savannah’s most well-known attractions is the Historic Landmark District, a beautifully preserved area that’s home to stunning architecture, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Forsyth Park, and River Street.

Dive into Savannah’s past by visiting sites like Bonaventure Cemetery and the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, as well as The First African Baptist Church and Pin Point Heritage Museum, where you can learn more about the city’s African American heritage.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Savannah’s location on the coast provides ample opportunities for some peace and quiet. Head to Tybee Island for some amazing beaches or visit Skidaway Island State Park for 6 miles of walking trails through forest, marshes, and salt flats.

Popular tours in Savannah

• Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
• Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise
• Ghosts and Gravestones Tour

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Distance from Raleigh: 360.3 miles
• Drive time: 5 hours 40 minutes
• Flight time: 3 hours 45 minutes – 4 hours 30 minutes connecting flight via Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Located on the Tennessee River, Knoxville is a buzzing city known for its art scene, lush nature, strong sense of community, and former enterprise in marble production. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or entertainment, there are plenty of things to do in Knoxville.

The vibrant hub of Knoxville is Market Square, a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Here, you can enjoy live music, browse local boutiques, and taste the local flavors of Tennessee.

For nature enthusiasts, be sure to check out Ijams Nature Center, with its 12+ miles of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and stunning Mead’s Quarry Lake, made from the old quarry, it offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature.

Art lovers will fall in love with Knoxville, which has an impressive collection of art in The Knoxville Museum of Art, while the Clarence Brown Theatre, part of the University of Tennessee, offers wonderful performances.

Atlanta, Georgia 

• Distance from Raleigh: 406.6 miles
• Drive time: 6 hours 40 minutes
• Flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes non-stop (Delta, Frontier)

Although a solid drive from Raleigh, Atlanta can be worth the trek. It’s a dynamic city that has the perfect blend of historic and modern attractions and is oozing in Southern charm. 

One of the top attractions in Atlanta is the Georgia Aquarium, which was the largest aquarium in the world until 2012 when it was overtaken by S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore.

Still, the aquarium is one of the top reasons to visit Atlanta and has many mesmerizing underwater exhibits and interactive experiences to enjoy.

Atlanta is most famous for being home to Martin Luther King Jr. You can pay your respects to this national hero at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which is a significant landmark that preserves the legacy of the civil rights movement. 

The Atlanta History Center offers a deeper dive into the city’s past, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Atlanta’s evolution. For those visiting with kids, don’t miss out on unique attractions such as the World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park.

Popular tours in Atlanta

• 1.5-Hour Highlight Trolley Tour
• Georgia Aquarium Skip-the-Box-Office Entry Ticket
• Zoo Atlanta
• World of Coca-Cola: Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry

Jacksonville, Florida

• Distance from Raleigh: 454.5 miles
• Drive time: 6 hours 40 minutes
• Flight time: 1 hour 15 minutes non-stop (Breeze)

You might not think Florida is within easy reach of Raleigh, but Jacksonville is less than an 8-hour drive or a 1 hour 15 minute direct flight, and is the perfect city near Raleigh to visit if you want some sub-tropical sunshine.

Known for its beautiful beaches, urban parks, lively entertainment scene, and rich history, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this coastal city.

One of the top attractions in Jacksonville is the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, where you can both appreciate displays of stunning artwork and stroll through picturesque gardens. For those traveling with kids, don’t miss The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, offering an up-close encounter with exotic wildlife.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Jacksonville’s beaches are a paradise. Whether it’s lounging on the sandy shores of Jacksonville Beach or exploring the pristine dunes of Amelia Island, there’s no shortage of pristine sandy shores to relax on.

History buffs will enjoy exploring the Kingsley Plantation, which tells the story of the area’s plantation history, located in the wetlands of Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve. 

Popular tours in Jacksonville

• Half-Day City Tour in Downtown Jacksonville
• Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour
• Art and Architecture Guided Tour

Chattanooga, Tennessee   

• Distance from Raleigh: 470.6 miles
• Drive time: 7 hours 20 minutes

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is a scenic city known as The Gateway to the South, due to its location on the southern border of Tennessee. 

Most people visit Chattanooga for its endless hiking opportunities, such as exploring Lookout Mountain. This majestic mountain is not only a hiker’s paradise, but it’s home to landmarks like Rock City, a collection of unique rock formations with breathtaking views of seven states. 

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park is a must. This historic site played a significant role in the Civil War as the place where the Rebels broke through Union lines and besieged the Federals.

Another must-visit attraction for those thinking of visiting Chattanooga with kids is the Tennessee Aquarium, which underwent an expansion in 2005 and now includes an IMAX movie theater. 

Of course, Chattanooga’s downtown area is a bustling hub of activity. It’s the perfect place for leisurely strolls in the evening and for chances to try Tennessee’s southern cuisine. 

Of course, an almost 7 hour drive doesn’t sound fun, but you can also fly direct from RDU to Atlanta, Georgia (Frontier and Delta Airlines), and then drive 1 hour 50 minutes up the I-75 if you prefer less time in a car.

Popular tours in Chattanooga

• Trolley Tour and Train Ride
• Ocoee River Full River Whitewater Rafting Trip 
• Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour
• North Shore & Coolidge Park Guided Segway Tour

Lexington, Kentucky 

• Distance from Raleigh: 493.7 miles
• Drive time: 7 hours 50 minutes
• Flight time: 4 hours (connecting via Atlanta GE) with Delta Airlines

Lexington is the second largest city in Kentucky and is brimming with history, southern hospitality, and scenic beauty. Known for its equestrian heritage that gave it the nickname “Horse Capital of the World” and its abundance of cultural attractions, Lexington has a lot to offer.

Of course, no trip to The Horse Capital of The World would be complete without visiting the Kentucky Horse Park, an equine-themed attraction that’s all about horses. From horse shows, interactive exhibits, and pony rides, this is the place to be if you have kids who are obsessed with horses.

But it’s not all about horses in Lexington, for bourbon enthusiasts, don’t miss a chance to visit the James E. Pepper Distillery. This historic distillery offers tours where you can learn about the art of bourbon making and sample some of their award-winning spirits.

Another popular attraction in Lexington is Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate, which is the former home of one of America’s most influential statesmen. The Mary Todd Lincoln House is another significant landmark, providing insight into the life of the former First Lady of Abraham Lincoln.

Popular tours in Lexington

• Walking Food Tour Downtown Lexington
• Half-Day Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour
• Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails and Bites Tour
• Walking Food Tour Downtown Lexington

Nashville, Tennessee 

• Distance from Raleigh: 538.6 miles
• Drive time: 8 hours 30 minutes
• Flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes non-stop (Delta)

Ok, so it’s not exactly a city near Raleigh, but Nashville in Tennessee is one of the most influential cities in the United States, so it has to make a spot on this list.  Plus, there are regular direct flights from RDU to Nashville with Delta Airlines. They depart at least six times a day, so it’s possible to make it a weekend trip.

Known as the “Music City,” Nashville is most famous for its live music scene and has more than 180 music venues in the city and is the birthplace of several musical legends.

If you want to get familiar with the musical heritage of the city, head to the Grand Ole Opry, a renowned country music venue that has hosted legendary artists for decades. 

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is another must-visit attraction in Nashville, as well as Broadway, a district where live music pours out from every honky-tonk bar. Explore the Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, and catch a show at this iconic venue.

Aside from music, Nashville has plenty of things to do with kids and an awesome food scene. And it also has a rich history. Head over to the Belle Meade Plantation, a preserved mansion that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. 

Popular tours in Nashville

• Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
• Country Music Hall of Fame 
• Grand Ole Opry House Guided Backstage Tour
• “Homes Of The Stars” Narrated Bus Tour
• Taste of Nashville Food Tour
• 1-Hour Line Dancing Class

Final thoughts

One of things we love about living in Raleigh is the great central East Coast location and that there are these awesome cities near Raleigh within driving distance, or by non-stop flight.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport has also been increasing the number of direct flights departing each day, and it’s becoming easier and easier to make a weekend trip to cities by flying instead of driving. We recently popped over to Daytona Beach Florida for the weekend on the direct flight from RDU on Breeze Airways. Two hours and you’re there!

Some of these cities may be far away, but with the added convenience of flight travel, you could make it a day trip. Nashville for example, you can get a 5am flight and be there at 8.30am, and depart at 5pm and be home by 11pm. Talk about convenient!

So, have we convinced you to take a trip to one of these hot destinations? Let us know in the comments! Several of these destinations were featured in our top spring break destinations from Raleigh.