Indeed, if you are of the belief that the magic of the night is best savored with a drink in hand and a panoramic view of the glittering horizon, then Raleigh has the perfect meeting points just for you. Let’s allow ourselves to ascend several stories, and take an elevated escape to some of the city's best rooftop bars. I've lived in Raleigh for over a decade now, and I continue to fall in-love with its charm. As a true North Carolina gal, I’m excited to share with you the wonder that is Raleigh nights, dusted delicately with stardust and remarkable bustling energy.
We'll start our journey with Boylan Bridge Brewpub. This one is located perfectly to afford you a spectacular view of downtown Raleigh. Offering a choice of hand-crafted ales and tasty bites, there is always a homey familiarity here, regardless of the crowd. From old friends catching up, to first dates, to engaged couples holding hands under the twinkling fairy lights – the essence of everyone's stories here is captured and mirrored against the city's skyline. I’m a big fan of their signature pumpkin ale, it dances delightfully with the crisp autumn air.
Moving along, there is no missing The Raleigh Times Bar. This historic bar located in the old Raleigh Times newspaper building, offers a unique blend of the city’s past and present. Their terrace provides an authentically urban view overlooking downtown’s bustling Hargett Street. What are my personal favorites here, you ask? Well, dear reader, I would highly recommend their spicy Bloody Mary or the Gin Daisy, both are perfect drinks to unwind that city stress away while the Raleigh times, quite literally, pass you by.
Next up is Galaxy Fun Park’s Skywalk Bar & Grill. Possibly Raleigh's best-kept secret. Don't let the family fun vibe fool you, it moonlights as one of the coolest rooftop spots in town. Overlooking a vivid landscape of the amusement park, think thrilling lights and kids gleefully engaging in a myriad of activities, this place has a unique energy like no other. Their sweet margarita perfectly complements the buoyant vibe I’ve come to love here.
If you're looking for a touch of elegance in your nights in Raleigh, let me guide you to The Durham Hotel. Although not strictly in Raleigh, this place is just too wonderful to ignore. Known for their regional craft beers and classic cocktails, the view from their deck is intimate, engaging and utterly calming. It combines the tranquility of a rooftop paradise with the vibrance of the Durham landscape. I always cherish the moment where I sit back, savoring the honey tones of their Bourbon Sour while the sun dips low and the city lights emerge, like quiet whispers of life in the night.
Another gem hidden in Raleigh’s sparkling night crown is Taverna Agora. It's Greek to us locals, both in cuisine and environment. If you have a love for Mediterranean vibes, this rooftop bar and restaurant draped in white, blue and lush greens, make you feel like you've escaped to Greece for the evening. Their Ouzo Mojito, an ingenious blend of Greek spirit and traditional Mojito, makes for an excellent companion as you lose yourself in the laughter and conversations that punctuate the starry night sky.
The Level7 Rooftop Lounge in North Raleigh is another great stop for those seeking a somewhat quieter atmosphere away from downtown’s hustle. Styled with sleek modern interiors and panoramic glass walls, it's the epitome of sophistication. Here, the cosmos seems to embrace Raleigh's twinkling skyline, as you sip their exquisite Spanish-inspired cocktails or one of their locally brewed drafts. It's a perfect paradise for those in love with the concept of 'less is more'.
Lastly, if you believe that jazz and city lights are a match made in heaven, then C.Grace is definitely your playing field. Although not a rooftop bar, this speakeasy-style haven in the heart of Glenwood South, with its dim lights, velvet curtains, vintage décor, and soul-touching live jazz performances, is one-of-a-kind. It's an intimate retreat where you can lose yourself to rhythm and rhymes of the city's heartbeat. And before you ask, I’d suggest savoring the romance of Raleigh nights with their signature cocktail, "Gin and Jazz".
Raleigh is imbued with a unique magical charm that few other cities possess. Its starry nights, embellished with the soft hum of city notes, paint the perfect backdrop for cozy, or buzzing, evenings spent on rooftop bars. While each of these locations offers a different taste of Raleigh, they all share one thing - the joy of city life enriched by nightfall.
So, dear readers, strap on your favorite pair of dancing shoes or slip into your most comfortable sweater - Raleigh at night awaits. Find your corner in the cityscape, pour yourself a glass of your favorite drink, and watch as the city sleeps and dreams, beneath your watchful gaze, and the star-studded cosmos above. Until next time, raise a glass to Raleigh’s rooftop bars; they’ve most certainly raised the bar.
