Downtown Raleigh is our favorite of the seven areas that make up the municipality of Raleigh, NC. It’s where we most like to eat, drink, shop, play and explore.
Needless to say, there are so many things to do in downtown Raleigh NC and this is our local’s guide on what we love to do!
Since first moving to Raleigh NC in 2004, the downtown area has seen an explosion of growth and investment that has transformed the area into a vibrant center of activity for the Triangle region and a fantastic destination for those who visit Raleigh.
This now thriving Southern capital city is getting shaped by smart and savvy locals who are in the pursuit of a vibrant life, and it’s bursting with entrepreneurial spirit and energy.
- The Spirit of Downtown Raleigh
- Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh: Fayetteville Street District
- Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh: Warehouse District
- Things to Do in The Capital District of Downtown Raleigh
- Things to Do in The Moore Square District, Downtown Raleigh
- Things To Do in the Glenwood South District, Downtown Raleigh
- Things to Do in the Seaboard + Person Street District, Downtown Raleigh
- Final Thoughts
The Spirit of Downtown Raleigh
When you visit Raleigh, downtown is where you’ll find the most historic and best neighborhoods in Raleigh, world-class museums, the best places to eat in Raleigh, innovative breweries, underground bars and cocktail bars, food halls, coffee shops, performing arts venues, and local retail stores.
Among the inhabitants are artists, musicians, innovative tech companies, government buildings, and award-winning chefs working to create the new downtown Raleigh experience.
Yes, all are welcome in Raleigh and we love this mural at 428 S. McDowell Street next to Poolside Pies! Which is just one of the main murals and street art pieces you’ll find in downtown City of Oaks.
Although historic, downtown Raleigh has youthful energy and it’s becoming a more vibrant place to visit, and live. Raleigh’s food scene in particular is thriving.
There’s an exciting mix of traditional southern food and global flavors (many restaurants have received national recognition!) And with two downtown food halls the community is coming closer together. All this among green spaces and squares, and oak-lined streets that help to keep the city relaxed and feeling like a small town.
This guide on downtown Raleigh is broken up into the six districts that make up downtown. Down below we share suggestions on the best things to do in downtown Raleigh area including where to eat, drink, explore, and shop in each district.
It’s all accessible, too – getting around Raleigh is easy by walking, cycling, using the free R-LINE circulator bus, or hopping on the back of a pedal-powered rickshaw!
The best part? You barely even have to move your car!
If you’re currently in Raleigh and looking for things to do near me, we’ve got you covered. Stay for a day or stay overnight in one of the downtown hotels or cool Airbnb Raleigh properties!
Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh: Fayetteville Street District
Call it the central thoroughfare of downtown Raleigh, or the city’s central business corridor, Fayetteville Street has been rejuvenated since transforming from a pedestrian mall to a two lane street in 2006.
Fayetteville and surrounding streets like Hargett, Davie, Martin and S Wilmington have exploded with an abundance of restaurants, bars, galleries and boutique shops mixed in with new and old high-rises and restored historic buildings.
There are over 50 restaurants and bars, plus 16 retailers, the four tallest buildings in Raleigh, and the Raleigh Convention Center.
During the weekdays it’s not just the environment of business and commerce anymore, but also a place to eat, drink, socialize and shop.
The arts are alive and well here in this vibrant part of Downtown Raleigh with the Performing Arts Center being home to the Carolina Ballet and the NC Symphony. Plus you can take in live music performances at the Red Hat Amphitheater.
And, Fayetteville Street is regularly closed off for some of the biggest Raleigh events and festivals such as; Brewgaloo Beer Festival, First Fridays, the World of Bluegrass Festival, and Raleigh’s acclaimed Christmas Parade and St. Patrick’s Day Parades.
1. Martin Marietta Energy Center for the Performing Arts
Raleigh’s premier arts venue, here you can see theatrical productions at the Kennedy Theater, listen to the North Carolina Symphony in the Meymandi Concert Hall, and watch the Carolina Ballet.
2. City Of Raleigh Museum (COR)
The COR Museum is on the main street and housed in a historic former hardware store dating back to 1874, it features exhibits that focus on the history of the city, its people, places, and resources.
3. Where to Eat in the Fayetteville St District
One of the main reasons why we love the Fayetteville St District is because of all the fantastic restaurants, cafes and coffee shops. Below are some of our favorites…
Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
One of the most popular downtown Raleigh restaurants by the famed Ashley Christensen. The signature dishes at Beasley’s are fried quarter chicken, chicken biscuits and fried chicken and waffles, along with great tasting southern sides, and an adventurous wine menu.
Clyde Cooper’s BBQ
Barbecue is a tradition in North Carolina, and Clyde Cooper’s which opened in 1938 is one of the longest-running barbecue restaurants in the state and beloved by locals.
Watch the video belowof Clyde Cooper’s BBQ:
Death & Taxes
Located in an elegant building that was once a mortuary and a tax office (hence the name Death & Taxes). On offer is a fine dining experience featuring an open kitchen with an emphasis on wood-fired fare with Southern ingredients from award-winning chef Ashley Christensen.
Sitti
Popular Middle Eastern restaurant, Sitti serves up modern versions of authentic Lebanese dishes in an airy room with a communal table and art deco bar.
Capital Club 16
Traditional American fare in a Depression-era landmark building, Capital Club 16 is a popular brunch spot in downtown Raleigh. Small in size but big on character and charm, and great for people watching.
Lucettegrace
Cute cafe near the Convention center. Lucettegrace is a contemporary patisserie that specializes in sweet and savory breakfast pastries, and French inspired desserts and light lunch.
Poole’s Diner
Poole’s is a modern diner with retro-chic charm serving seasonal comfort food, cocktails and house desserts. The Macaroni au gratin (pictured above) is one of the most famous dishes in Raleigh, and yep, this is another Ashley Christensen restaurant.
Poole’side Pies
Next door to Poole’s Diner is Poole’side Pies, Ashley Christensen’s take on Neapolitan-style pizza plus fried bites, Italian-inspired desserts, and a spritz-focused cocktail menu in a bright and fun venue.
Bittersweet
If you enjoy the concept of a dessert bar, Bittersweet serves up delicious desserts, coffee and cocktails. A place where you can get bourbon with your pie, champagne with your cake, and Irish whiskey in your coffee.
4. Bars, Breweries, Pubs in the Fayetteville St District
Fayetteville St District is also the place to be if you’re looking for cozy bars, cool pubs and top-notch breweries. Here’s some of our favorites…
The Raleigh Times Bar
A timeless watering hole and probably the most famous bar in Raleigh – even Obama had a campaign beer here.
Named after the former newspaper that occupied this 100 year old building, The Raleigh Times has an extensive Belgian beer selection, multiple levels and an open rooftop bar for a drink with a view – one of our favorite things to do in Raleigh.
The Haymaker Bar
One of our favorite cocktail bars in downtown Raleigh. The Haymaker makes creative cocktails (like the PB & JAY) in a cozy ambiance with offbeat, vintage-style decor. The bartenders at The Haymaker are fast and knowledgeable with great suggestions and drinks well priced.
The Green Light Speakeasy
The true definition of a hidden bar. The Green Light is literally tucked away behind a secret bookshelf inside in a secret room in what was once an architect’s office. This small, dimly lit room with a 1920s speakeasy feel is such a cool bar to have a quiet drink.
The Bridge DTR
British themed pub and eatery owned and operated by two guys who love their English football AND beer. The Bridge DTR has an enjoyable atmosphere and is THE place in downtown Raleigh to watch English Premier league soccer games and other league matches (the Liverpool supporters home).
Enjoy a drink at the bar or in the big landscaped outdoor courtyard, either way, it’s a fun pub to watch all sports and meet new people.
5. Coffee Shops in Fayetteville St District
If you love coffee as much as us, then you’re going to love exploring the coffee houses in the Fayetteville St District. To help you out, we’ve listed our favorites below…
The Morning Times
The Morning Times is a popular coffee shop with locals, including us. Sit upstairs in a cozy laid-back atmosphere that also functions as an art gallery, or on the sidewalk with your furry friends on a sunny day.
Sir Walter Coffee
You might feel like you’re in Brooklyn, NY at Sir Walter Coffee with it’s hip and modern interior. A cool barista bar with a focus on unique coffee creations, tea lattes, tea cocktails, kombucha, and smoothies and beer.
6. Where to Shop in Fayetteville St district
Deco Raleigh
At DECO they stock a large selection of locally gifts, housewares, books and cards from local makers and unique brands.
The Gathering Gallery
This eclectic Gathering Gallery in Downtown Raleigh offers unique, smile-inducing items. Mission-driven, they employ adults with disabilities, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Not only are their handpicked products unique, fun, and pretty, they align with local, fair trade, nonprofit, and eco-friendly values. Owner Erica also hosts Storytime every Thursday at 10am and carries children’s books in store.
See more women owned businesses in Raleigh.
Curate
Curate showcases over 60 local artists in their cute and cozy downtown Raleigh storefront with a nice collection of handmade goods. Artists rotate monthly so there is always a reason to stop by for something new. Popular items include candles, jewelry and homemade sauces.
Pop-Up Shops On Martin St
Another excellent concept. This pop-up retail store program’s goal is to provide affordable retail space in a desirable location within Downtown Raleigh to minority-and-women-owned businesses.
Here, up-and-coming retailers can also participate in business counseling opportunities to grow their business through StartUp at Wake Tech. See more Black-owned businesses in Raleigh to support.
Munjo Munjo
Munjo Munjo is owned and operated by a Latinx artist. This design studio highlights women and BIPOC artists, through collaborative works, live art events, and other opportunities.
Inside are Munjo branded gear and products from local artists and creators. Munjo. We often pop in here to see what new designs they have. We love their stickers, mugs and graphic tees.
Unorthodox Vintage
Unorthodox Vintage is a vintage and secondhand clothing store on Wilmington St. It’s a success story from the Martin St pop ups! It pops with color and style and is a fun place to shop, for clothes and vintage items. (my teen loved it)
Read more: 25+ Places to Shop Local in Raleigh.
Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh: Warehouse District
The Warehouse District is probably our favorite of the downtown Raleigh districts and talk about a renaissance!
The six-block Warehouse District has transformed from its former red-brick industrial buildings into a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, a food hall, boutique shopping, art museums, studios and technology firms. It’s become a mecca for residents and visitors.
Plus it’s also a transit hub with the opening of Raleigh Union Station and a sought after residential location within The Dillon Building.
7. Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh (CAM)
CAM Raleigh displays new and emerging work by local and national living artists. Every exhibition is unique and thought-provoking. Free admission and popular among local residents.
8. Videri Chocolate Factory
Chocolates lovers rejoice! Tour the fully-operational Videri Chocolate Factory and retail space on a self-guided tour. Sample yummy chocolate and witness all the chocolate-making from cacao bean to finish.
There’s an outdoor patio to relax and enjoy one of their signature chocolate bars – and allergy friendly chocolate! It’s a place for any chocolate lover, no matter your taste.
Local Color Gallery
Run by local artists, Local Color is a women’s artist cooperative featuring work in a variety of mediums. Here you can meet and interact with the artists who all live in the area.
Joel Lane Museum
Visit Wake County’s oldest home and what is considered the Birthplace of Raleigh. The Joel Lane Museum House was built in 1769. Joel Lane sold 1,000 acres to the state in 1792 to be used as the new state capital. Pre-arranged tours are provided by costumed docents.
9. Where to Eat in the Warehouse District
If you’re looking for vibrancy and a lively atmosphere, then you’ll want to dine in the Warehouse district! Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the area..
Morgan Street Food Hall
22,000 square feet of space inside a repurposed warehouse, Morgan Street Food Hall is the first of its kind in Raleigh. A popular hangout with 20 different food concepts housed in food stalls or free-standing kiosks. Our faves; CowBar Burger and Raleigh Rolls.
The Pit BBQ
North Carolina is a BBQ state, and you might have to loosen your belt here. The Pit proudly serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked Eastern-style barbecue with all the Southern sides from collards and fried okra to candied yams and coleslaw.
Parkside Restaurant
Across from historic Nash Square and housed and under the longest running neon restaurant sign in N.C. is Parkside, a Retro-industrial restaurant and bar serving American comfort food and 25+ beers on tap.
Boulted Bread
Bread and pastry lovers rejoice. Boulted Bread is a chic bakery featuring pastries and loaves of bread made with local, organic grains. A true locals favorite, they serve craft bread and pastries ranging from flaky croissants and sweet, fruit-filled tarts to savory breakfast quiches.
A Place at the Table
Love the concept here. A place at the table brings us all together to eat. It’s a pay-what-you-can and pay-it-forward cafe. With multiple options to pay and to pay-it-forward you can. It’s a sandwich shop and coffee bar and popular for brunch – listen to our podcast chat with founder, Maggie Kane.
Other places to eat in the Warehouse District:
- Oak Steakhouse
- O-Ku Japanese
- Heirloom Brewshop
10. Breweries & Bars in the Warehouse District
For nightlife enthusiasts, you’ll want to make sure you check out some of these incredible bars and breweries in the Warehouse District, downtown Raleigh NC.
Crank Arm Brewing
These guys are passionate about beer and bikes. Crank Arm’s mission is to brew delicious innovative beer and support the cycling community. Sample their beers with a flight or pick from one of three flagship beers and relax with indoor and outdoor seating and an open garage door.
Whiskey Kitchen
Another of our fave bars in Raleigh. Part whiskey bar, part Southern kitchen, Whiskey Kitchen is a beautiful open space and hip venue featuring over 300 whiskies, craft cocktails, and inventive Southern fare.
There’s an inviting atmosphere and a cool outdoor patio which booms in the warmer months. Not sure which whiskey to drink, try a flight.
Boxcar Bar + Arcade
If you’re into games, at Boxcar you’ll find all the best classic and modern arcade games, plus 24 constantly rotating American craft draft selections, a full liquor bar and seasonal cocktails. A fun place to hang out with friends and meet some new ones!
Trophy Brewing & Pizza
Beer + pizza makes Trophy Brewing & Pizza one of the popular breweries in Raleigh featuring a wide selection of house made beers (they like to experiment with their beers) plus creative pizzas made by hand every day.
Lively atmosphere and a ‘neighborhood hangout’ type joint with indoor and outdoor seating.
Vita Vite
Premier wine bar that doubles as an art gallery. Vita Vite offers a great selection of wine and a classy and relaxed atmosphere. The cozy lounge-style wine bar is furnished with plush, fireside couches and there’s a nice outdoor porch. Decent beer selection for a wine bar. Check out their Midtown location in our North Hills guide.
Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
Brews with incredible views! Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing offers craft brewed beers and delicious and innovative meals with a healthy twist, and our favorite view of downtown Raleigh from the outdoor patio – one of our favorite things to do in Raleigh NC is sit here and enjoy a drink.
Other bars in the Warehouse District:
- Barcelona Wine Bar
- Junction West
- Circa 1888
- Aunty Betty’s Gin and Absinthe Bar
Check out these other wine bars we love in the Raleigh area.
11. Coffee Shops in the Warehouse District, Downtown Raleigh
For coffee lovers, be sure to check out some of our favorite coffee shops in the Warehouse district.
Heirloom Brewshop
In our opinion, Heirloom Brewshop makes the best latte in downtown and is one of the best coffee shops in downtown Raleigh.
This specialty coffee shop, premium tea house, and sake bar offers a variety of drinks from brewed coffee and pour overs, to cortados, loose leaf teas, sake, draft beers and cocktails. Read our full review of Heirloom Brewshop.
12. Where to Shop in the Warehouse District
The Warehouse District is where you need to be to find antique and vintage items. Be sure to check out these quirky shops…
The Flourish Market
LOVE this place and its mission. The Flourish Market is a unique women’s + gift boutique store where all of their products have a higher purpose. You can shop 60+ cause-based brands and use your purchasing power for good – clothing, jewelry, bags, shoes, greeting cards and more!
Father & Son Antiques
10,000 square foot antique shop that sells modern furnishings, vintage clothing and accessories, records and books. Father & Son has one of the best best vintage clothing selections in Raleigh.
Retro Modern Furnishings
With a focus on vintage and upcycled products and new products that support local and up-and-coming craftsmen, at Retro Modern Furnishings you’ll find many selections of unique furniture and accessories. Related Post – 48 hours in the Warehouse District.
Things to Do in The Capital District of Downtown Raleigh
Being the capital city of North Carolina, of course there’s a historic capital district. It’s also where you’ll find some of the city’s biggest tourist attractions and museums.
This area is home to stately buildings and some of N.C.’s most iconic public landmarks such as the North Carolina State Capitol Building, the North Carolina Executive Mansion (Governor’s mansion), and the State Legislative Building (home of the North Carolina General Assembly).
13. State Capitol Building
Built in 1840, the State Capitol building is a National Historic Landmark and one of the best-preserved examples of Greek Revival-style architecture. Tour all three floors of the building, plus the monuments and statues on display outside in the grounds. Self-guided and guided tours available.
14. North Carolina Executive Mansion
The North Carolina Executive Mansion has been the official residence of the Governor’s of NC since 1891, and is a beautiful Victorian-style mansion. Franklin D. Roosevelt (F.D.R) once described the mansion as having “the most beautiful governor’s residence interior in America.”
15. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is North Carolina’s most visited museum with over 4 floors of exhibits, live animals, and 3D movies. It’s one of the best things to do in downtown Raleigh.
It’s split into two areas, the Nature Research Center and the Nature Exploration Center, and offers educational programs on the natural world for all ages.
We love their permanent collection of dinosaur skeletons and whale skeletons. And don’t forget your photo with the giant globe out front. Read our full review here.
16. North Carolina Museum of History
The Museum of History is a history museum that was founded in 1902 and welcomes more than 400,000+ visitors a year.
On display are more than 14,000 years and 150,000 artifacts of history. One of the most impressive exhibits showcases Raleigh’s history from its origins up to to today’s world. Part of this exhibit houses a replica of the 1903 Wright Brother’s place, Wright Flyer!
17. Where To Eat & Drink in the Capital District
There isn’t much in the way of places to eat in the Capital District, but we do love…
The Daily Planet Cafe
This cafe prides itself on fresh and local produce from N.C. farmers, coffee from Larry’s Beans in Raleigh and beer and wine from across NC. Daily Planet Cafe is locally owned serving breakfast and lunch.
Things to Do in The Moore Square District, Downtown Raleigh
Moore Square has been a place of gathering, entertainment, and recreation for locals and visitors to Raleigh since 1972.
This four-acre urban green space was originally conceived as one of five public green spaces for the City of Raleigh and the park/square and surrounds is a charming mix of old and new in the heart of downtown Raleigh.
After playing a significant role throughout Raleigh’s 225+ year history, Moore Square was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Here you will find the old City Market, restaurants, cafes, bars, art galleries, a kids museum, the GoRaleigh transit station, high-density residential, and of course the park – recently underwent a $12 million renovation.
Don’t visit Raleigh without taking a stroll around here, and grabbing a drink or bite to eat at award winning bars (such as Brewery Bhavana) and restaurants (like Bida Manda).
Regular special events at Moore Square include the Raleigh Arts Festival, Movies in the Park, the Street Painting Festival and the Moore Square Farmer’s Market.
18. Historic City Market
Browse the historic cobblestone-streets with galleries, restaurants, bars and specialty shops.
19. The Pour House Music Hall & Record Store
See a band at The Pour House, one of Raleigh’s favorite live music venues since 1997. Or drop in and buy a record from their upstairs record store and one of the best record stores in Raleigh!
20. Marbles Kids Museum
Got young kids? Marbles is a premier kids’ museum and one of the best things to do in Raleigh with kids. There’s two levels of kid-focused museum activities with dozens of hands-on exhibits and the state’s only 3D-capable IMAX theater
21. Relax in Moore Square Park
Two open lawn areas, magnificent trees, numerous benches, a shaded “treehouse” area for kids, 30-foot-wide sidewalks on the south edge of the park, and a small splash pad for children during the warmer months.
22. Art Space
Artspace is one of the largest open studio environments and arts venues in the country and home to 30+ artists working in a variety of media.
23. Pope House Museum
This is the only African-American house museum in North Carolina and is a great place to learn about the history and contributions of the African American community in the City of Oaks.
Set in a former home of a prominent African-American resident, it features the original furnishings and household items, and you can also partake in guided tours.
24. Where to Eat in Moore Square
The Moore Square district has lots of great places to eat. Be sure you check out the following restaurants in this area!
Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant
Looking for the best breakfast in Raleigh? Big Eds Raleigh is popular for their breakfasts (especially the hot cakes and country ham). Get a taste of Southern comfort and hospitality in a 170-seat restaurant displaying historical memorabilia in City Market. See our full review of Big Ed’s here.
Cafe Luna
Tuscan-accented Italian fare served in an airy, art-filled space since 1996. It’s not just the authentic cuisine at Cafe Luna that will transport you to Italy, but also the original artwork hanging on the walls.
MOFU Shoppe
What started as a popular food truck selling dumplings and pho (and a participant on the Food Networks Season 6 of the reality TV show, The Great Food Truck Race) MOFU is now a brick and mortar restaurant bringing the flavors of Asia to downtown Raleigh.
Transfer Co. Food Hall
A five minute walk from Moore Square brings you to Transfer Co. Food Hall, one of the two food halls in downtown Raleigh.
Housed in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shops, there’s 50,000+ square feet of renovated warehouse space that’s now home to 12 vendors and a place for the local community to gather through food.
Vic’s Italian Cafe & Pizzeria
Owned by real Italians, Vic’s serves authentic Italian cuisine and New York style pizza and a wide variety of delicious pastas and entrees in healthy portions. Some great lunch specials under $9.
25. Breweries & Bars in Moore Square
There aren’t too many bars in Moore Square, but we do love…
Watts & Ward
Watts & Ward is easily one of our favorite bars in Raleigh downtown. It’s a craft cocktail bar founded upon the underground spirit of 1920s America.
A 6,000-square-feet space of seemingly endless cavern, with room after room of leather seating, rustic tables, dim lighting and bookshelves full of history. An inventive cocktail menu and low-key jazz events.
26. Coffee Shops in Moore Square
42 & Lawrence
42 & Lawrence is an espresso bar and coffee lab serving up specialty espressos, cold-brew coffees, draft lattes, and tasty experiments. Modern and industrial vibe and lots of natural light and glass windows for people watching.
Things To Do in the Glenwood South District, Downtown Raleigh
South Glenwood Ave is one of downtown Raleigh’s signature streets, and the streets of Glenwood South are known as the entertainment district of Raleigh.
Glenwood Ave is lined with a mixture of new and old Raleigh restaurants and bars (including the world record holding Raleigh Beer Garden), cool boutique stores, art galleries and studios.
This district also offers unique beauty salons and fitness studios, and a mixture of people who live and play here, from college students to young professionals and artists eating, drinking, creating, and living.
27. Where to Eat on Glenwood Ave South
Glenwood Ave South has a lot of great restaurants and cafes to eat at. Here are some of our favorites!
MoJoe’s Burger Joint
Craving a burger? Head to MoJoe’s, a classic neighborhood burger joint serving some of the best burgers in Raleigh (GF buns available). Hand made patties, choose from a 6 ounce, 10 ounce, or “Hall of Fame” one pounder. 12 local beers and kids menu.
42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
The 42nd St. Oyster Bar has been a Southern Seafood tradition since 1931 and is one of the most popular and famous places to eat Raleigh downtown. If you love oysters, seafood, atmosphere, and good service then dine here.
Hibernian Restaurant & Pub
Get your Irish pub fix at The Hibernian, a staple in the Glenwood South district. Traditional Irish pub grub plus great wings and reuben sandwiches. Cozy nooks plus an upstairs deck with one of the best views in the city.
Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern
Incredible dining experience. Second Empire is one of the top restaurants in Raleigh and a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award and an elegant American restaurant set in a historic, circa-1879 Second Empire house.
Spectacular service plus history, atmosphere, and gourmet cuisine. Read our review for date nights at Second Empire.
Sushi Blues Cafe
Sushi bar offering traditional Japanese dishes, plus sake and specialty cocktails, in a blues-themed setting and fun atmosphere.
Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar
Authentic Greek dining experience with an atmosphere and vibe on the lovely rooftop patio that will remind you of your trips to Greece. Hand-crafted cocktails, a gourmet marketplace, Sunday brunch, and possibly the best Lamb Burger in Raleigh. Read our full review of Taverna Agora.
Carolina Ale House
If you’re looking for a casual restaurant and fun sports bar in Raleigh, it’s hard to go wrong at Carolina Ale House. Good pub fare, a long beer list, kids’ menu, big screens on every wall, and a rooftop patio.
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
Classic steakhouse, Sullivan’s offers the finest hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, signature cocktails, jazz music and friendly, familiar atmosphere. A little expensive, like most steakhouses.
Char-Grill
A Raleigh tradition, think local version of Shake Shack. Char Grill is a local fast-food chain serving charcoal-grilled burgers since 1959. True old-fashioned feel and just placing your order is a part of the experience. Our kids love their shakes and fries! Check this list for other burgers we love in Raleigh.
Anise Pho
For Vietnamese cuisine, Anise Pho make delicious bowls of pho and top notch banh mi, plus noodle bowls and vegetarian options. Reasonably priced and authentic tasting dishes.
Vidrio
On offer at Vidrio is upmarket Mediterranean cuisine and handcrafted cocktails served in stylish surrounds. Sharing plates are made with the freshest ingredients, plus the purest Greek olive oil, and 50 wines on tap.
The Cupcake Shoppe
Cozy, stylish bakery whipping up bespoke cakes & cupcakes using fresh, high end, local ingredients and proudly serving locally roasted Joe Van Gogh coffee and espresso. Even the gluten free cupcakes are delicious. Try the red velvet with cream cheese icing!
28. Breweries, Bars and Pubs on Glenwood South
We have some of the best bars and breweries in Glenwood South. Whether you love sipping craft beers in the beer garden or you’re looking for a sophisticated venue for date night, be sure to visit these places…
Raleigh Beer Garden
350+ beers on tap and world record-holder for largest selection of draft beer. Raleigh Beer Garden is a massive 8,500-square-foot venue with 3 levels, tons of outdoor space, a back garden patio and a rooftop bar – the perfect warm-weather hangout.
Hibernian
Traditional Irish pub with dark wood interiors, old world charm, cozy booths and tables. Hibernian has multiple bars, a second-floor patio and bar area overlooking downtown. Good for all people; professionals, sports fans, families.
Tin Roof
A place to support live music and where musicians have a place to play. The Tin Roof has a first-floor stage for live music, and a second level with a rooftop patioIs there anything better than enjoying a drink with some live music? Daily drink specials.
Dram & Draught
Over 300 whiskeys from around the world at Dram & Draught, plus nice hand-crafted cocktails, wines, and draught beer from Raleigh and beyond. Great selection of bourbons and whiskeys, plus knowledgeable staff to help you choose! Read our interview with owner, Kevin Barrett
Clouds Brewing
Clouds Brewing is an industrial craft beer bar and one of the popular brunch spots in Raleigh featuring a German inspired menu. 40 guest taps from around the world plus a 10 tap self-pour beer wall — the first of its kind in the triangle.
State of Beer
Cool bottle shop offering an extensive list of craft brews + some of the best gourmet sandwiches in Raleigh that pair perfectly with your beer. At State of Beer there’s a laid back patio seating outside perfect for sunny days! Part of the Trophy brewing family.
Milk Bar
Located in the Historic Pine State Creamery Building, the Milk Bar is an open-air hip cocktail bar and lounge with live music. Local beer on tap, and frozen cocktails are their specialties. Live music Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
29. Where to Shop on Glenwood South
Glenwood South is a great place to shop for boutiques and find independent stores. Here are some shops we love in the Glenwood South area of downtown Raleigh…
Revolver Consignment Boutique
Revolver is an upscale consignment/vintage shop for men and women featuring clothing, jewelry, and art.
Union Camp Collective
Not your average retail experience. Union Camp Collective has hand-picked vintage and antique furnishings from every era, style and price. Part vintage and antique store, part creative co-op, part event space, part workshop and art gallery.
Things to Do in the Seaboard + Person Street District, Downtown Raleigh
North Person Street in the northern end of downtown Raleigh is another area that continues to improve, and one that has more of a neighborly feel.
Along with the nearby Seaboard Station area, on N Person Street you will find unique locally owned businesses including a bakery, burger bar, brewery and wine store, ice cream shop, bookstore, pizza joint and some of the best restaurants in downtown Raleigh. And this area is right next to the Historic Oakwood neighborhood (see below).
30. Mordecai Historic Park
Once known as the largest plantation in Wake County, Mordecai Historic Park is home to many interesting pieces of North Carolina and Raleigh’s history.
Here you can see the Mordecai Historic House, the oldest residence in Raleigh still on its original foundation, and the birthplace of Andrew Johnson, the 17th President. It’s on our top Raleigh attractions list.
31. Explore Historic Oakwood
Check out the lovely neighborhood of Historic Oakwood by foot or car. We like to wander the streets and dream of owning one of the Victorian and 20th-century homes.
Be sure to check out Historic Oakwood Cemetery which has served as a noble resting place for Raleigh residents for more than a century. Check out this cool historic Oakwood Christmas candlelight tour
32. Where to Eat & Drink in the Seaboard + Person Street District
Crawford & Son
A casual and cozy neighborhood restaurant, Crawford & Son is located in historic Oakwood and serves honest food that ranges from the familiar to the unexpected.
Known as one of the best restaurants in Raleigh for outstanding service, ambiance, food presentation, and craft cocktails. Check out our date night experience at Crawford and Sons.
The Station at Person Street
A corner bar and restaurant that originally served as an Amoco gas station, The Station pays tribute to Raleigh’s rich past as well as present. Boasting one of the city’s best outdoor dining and drinking patios, they offer updated United States food, beer and cocktails.
Two Roosters Ice Cream
Founded by an North Carolina State University alum, Two Roosters has been roaming the streets of Raleigh in a turquoise 1965 Ford truck since 2014 and was such a hit they opened brick-and-mortar locations in 2017.
Their handcrafted ice cream features seasonal and permanent flavors – often inspired by local events and restaurants. More ice cream places to live in Raleigh
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
Crave a burger? Their burgers here are fantastic and massive with gourmet toppings and hand-cut fries, plus cool decor and friendly staff. And Bad Daddy’s commit to sourcing local and fresh ingredients whenever possible.
Yellow Dog Bread Company
Coffee shop and bakery specializing in handmade artisan breads and southern influenced pastries. Popular items at Yellow Dog include their almond croissants, sticky buns and maple bacon scones. READ More: 6 bakeries to love in Raleigh
Pelagic Beer & Wine
A craft retail beer store and tasting room, Pelagic Beer & Wine offer an extensive selection and was voted to have the “Best Retail Beer Selection in Wake County” in the local Indy Week’s 2018 Best of the Triangle competition.
Person Street Bar
A stylish, local, independent neighborhood bar, Person Street Bar has a jukebox and covered patio offering cocktails and craft beers on tap.
Yellow Dog Bread Company
Go to Yellow Dog Bread Company for your coffee fix (espresso/latte/drip), chai latte, hot tea or hot chocolate when in this area!
33. Where to Shop in the Seaboard + Person Street District
Edge of Urge
A boutique store for men and women, Edge of Urge specialize in handmade and independent designer clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories. And check out the new concept, Unlikely Professionals – a Men’s General Store and bar!
The Centerpiece
Check out the friendly and inviting art gallery and workspace, The Centerpiece, which displays fine art from emerging and nationally-recognized artists.
So & So Books
A small independent book store, So & So carries a carefully curated selection of the owners favorite titles in all the major genres that you probably won’t find easily elsewhere. Read More: 15 things to do on Person Street Raleigh
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide on the best things to do in downtown Raleigh helps you plan a trip to visit Raleigh? Stay tuned, as we’ll be updating this guide over time.
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