With Spring in full bloom, temperatures on the rise and finals quickly approaching, I’ve found myself going a bit stir crazy on campus. When looking for a nearby escape, I often find myself downtown. Not only is it conveniently located close to campus, but there is something for everyone.
Here are some of the best places to hang out, shop and eat in downtown Raleigh.
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
I spent most weekends here as a kid, so I’m a bit biased, but the science museum is the perfect place to go if you’re looking forward to learning and having a bit of fun indoors.
The Museum has weekend-long events like my personal favorites, Astronomy Days and BugFest.
Oakwood Cemetery
Being the oldest private, nonprofit cemetery in Raleigh, Oakwood Cemetery is not only a place to explore history, but also has a beautiful park if you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax outdoors. Free street parking available, which is always a plus.
Copperline Plant Company
Raleigh is home to many plant shops, but Copperline is conveniently located downtown, close to other stores on this list, and is home to a wide variety of houseplants and gardening supplies.
Deco Raleigh
Right around the corner from Copperline, Deco Raleigh is a cute novelty shop selling everything from Raleigh souvenirs to flasks shaped like fish and candles shaped like noodles.
City of Raleigh Museum
A free museum hosting local artifacts, history and monthly events. The best place to visit if you are trying to expand your Raleigh trivia.
The month of May has a couple of exciting events like Lunchbox Lectures, Family Fun Day and the monthly Raleigh’s First Friday.
Unorthodox Vintage
A really cute little thrift shop. Some of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe have come from Unorthodox.
The Roast Grill
If you’re ever on your way towards downtown and see a sign that says “Hot Weiners,” that is for The Roast Grill – a cute vintage hotdog shop! Order up a piece of the past, just don’t ask for ketchup!
Raleigh Raw
Raleigh Raw is like if Whole Foods had a baby with HGTV, and I love it. They have really good organic food options, and I’m actually obsessed with their Mangonada smoothies.
Gringo A Go-Go
Because the restaurant is inside and outside of an old automotive shop and your meal is backed by old cowboy tunes, the atmosphere is unlike anything else in the city. Not only is the vibe good, but their burritos and salsa are delicious. Parking on site.
The Optimist
Similar to its sister location near Crabtree Valley Mall, The Optimist downtown has a bit of a spookier vibe in terms of decor, but the drinks are just as good if you’re looking for a hangout or study space. Parking on site.
Blackbird Books and Coffee
A study spot of all time. Closer to campus than the other coffee shops on this list, Blackbird Books has just the right vibe to make me feel like I’m in an episode of Gilmore Girls.
Boxcar Bar + Arcade
A bit like a locally owned Dave and Busters. Home to a host of classic arcade games. Good for when you want to spend a night out having some low-key fun with your friends. 21+ to enter unless otherwise specified.
The London Bridge Pub
As a fan of the Premier League, I’m at the London Bridge, or as my friends and I so lovingly call it, “the soccer pub,” weekly. A great environment for getting to know people and watching sports.
Two Roosters Ice Cream
Having originated in the Triangle area, Two Roosters is my go-to for ice cream when I’m not on campus and absolutely tearing up some Howling Cow. Their menu changes pretty often, but I recommend Blackberry Hibiscus from their permanent menu. Parking on site.
Videri Chocolate Factory
After paying a visit to Videri, I can confidently say that chocolate factories are not nearly as scary as Willy Wonka led me to believe. Guests are able to walk through the factory and see step-by-step how the chocolate is made and packaged, with your tour ending in their chocolate shop!
Lucettegrace
Lucettegrace is a cute little pastry shop downtown. Perfect for simple dates or as a place to go when you want to look cute and get yourself a sweet treat.
