Oh, sweet Raleigh, how you continue to capture our hearts! As much as we love a good out-of-town trip, it can be so restorative and uplifting to play tourist in our own city. This post is dedicated to all ardent local dwellers and those blessed visitors who are enamored with Raleigh just like us. Here is our mini guide to the ultimate staycation in Raleigh, the heart of North Carolina.
There is something genuinely thrilling about waking up to the prospect of discovering new corners of your city, or becoming reacquainted with old, beloved spots with fresh eyes. And guess what, you don’t even need to pack! So, friends, let’s embark on the urban retreat we all deserve, without crossing the city limits.
Day One - Leisurely Strolls and Foodie Delights
Start off your staycation with a leisurely morning walk around Pullen Park, sipping on your favorite latte-to-go. You’ll appreciate the peacefulness of the park early in the morning, with gentle sunlight filtering through the trees and birds singing their sweet morning melodies. It's surprising how a simple activity can ground us, preparing the mind and body to embark on the day's adventures.
Once you've worked up an appetite, hop over to Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant for a hearty Southern breakfast. Fill up on biscuits, grits and all the fixings that make us grateful to be in the South. The homestyle cooking and warm environment here reflect true Southern hospitality, making Big Ed’s a beloved spot among locals.
After breakfast, make your way to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. This isn’t just for the kids—we adults have our fair share of curiosity as well! Get lost in the wide variety of exhibits, learning about everything from local ecosystems to distant galaxies. It's a fabulous, enlightening way to start the day while staying within city boundaries.
For lunch, pop into The Fiction Kitchen. Here, Chef Caroline Morrison offers up an impressive, imaginative menu for vegetarians, then adds some loved Southern flair. Dive into a plate of vegan barbecue or enjoy a towering vegetarian burger. Trust me, you will not miss the meat!
Finally, wrap up your day with the gentle hum of nightfall at the Raleigh Rose Garden. Enjoy the evening air, the scent of blooming roses, and engage in the timeless art of cloud watching. It’s surprisingly therapeutic and an ideal way to transition into the tranquil part of your staycation.
Day Two - Cultural Immersion and Artful Encounters
The next morning, it's time for some cultural immersion. Our destination? The North Carolina Museum of Art. The vast collection of art, ranging from classical pieces to contemporary installations, is bound to leave you marveling at human creativity and inspiration. The Museum Park, a lush outdoor space dotted with dramatic art pieces, is the perfect spot to continue your cultural exploration.
Feeling hungry? Make your way to Crawford and Son, Chef Scott Crawford’s tribute to comfort food. Choose from mouthwatering options like beef tartare, roasted oysters, and croquettes. The beautiful blend of flavors will have you thinking about your meal long after you're done.
After this memorable dining experience, head over to the Historic Yates Mill County Park. The fully restored 18th-century mill is a sight to behold, but don't just stop there. The park spans over 170 acres, with peaceful trails that lead through fields, forests, and wetlands.
To end this artful day, step into the vibrant and dramatic world of local theater. Raleigh Little Theater often stages productions ranging from classic plays to bold, contemporary works. The intimate setting allows for a deeply personal theater experience, and the passionate performances by the local talent are a testament to Raleigh's thriving arts scene.
Day Three – A Date with History and Local Brews
For the final day of your Raleigh staycation, it's time to engage with our city's rich history. Begin your day at the Historic Oakwood neighborhood. The collection of Victorian-style homes is downright picturesque. Stroll past ornate iron gates, charming porches, and peeking turrets, all while learning about Raleigh’s storied past.
After all the walking, it's time to satiate the growing hunger at The Pit, a renowned barbecue restaurant in Raleigh. Enjoy the succulent pulled pork or smoky ribs, paired with comforting sides like mac'n'cheese and hush puppies.
Post lunch, visit the North Carolina Museum of History. Traverse through time while learning about the struggles, innovations, and spirit of North Carolina's people from the early settlements to the present day.
To cap off your staycation, head to one of Raleigh's many celebrated local breweries. Lynnwood Brewing Concern not only boasts diverse and high-quality brews (from dainty pale ales to robust stouts), but its friendly, relaxed vibe makes it the perfect place to wind down.
Staycations are treasures nestled in the fabric of everyday life, reminding us to pause, explore, and appreciate our familiar surroundings anew. So to all my fellow Raleigh dwellers, let's revel in our city's abundance and celebrate Raleigh for the urban retreat it indeed is.
