Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a rich history, thriving arts scene, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, Raleigh has something to offer everyone. And with its warm and sunny weather in August, there’s no better time to visit this charming city.
If you’re planning a trip to Raleigh in August, be sure to check out these seven impressive things to do:
1. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art
The North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the southeastern United States. The museum’s collection includes over 5,000 works of art from around the world, spanning from ancient times to the present day. Highlights of the collection include works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The museum also has a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
2. Explore Pullen Park
Pullen Park is a historic amusement park and recreation area located in the heart of Raleigh. The park features a carousel, a train ride, a paddle boat lake, and a playground. Pullen Park is also home to the Pullen Aquatic Center, which offers a variety of swimming pools and water slides. The park is a great place to spend a day with the family, and it’s also a popular spot for picnics and birthday parties.
3. Take a Walk Through Historic Oakwood
Historic Oakwood is a beautiful neighborhood located just north of downtown Raleigh. The neighborhood is home to over 500 historic homes, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Oakwood is a great place to take a walk and admire the city’s architectural heritage. The neighborhood is also home to several museums and gardens, including the Mordecai Historic Park and the North Carolina Museum of History.
4. Cheer on the Carolina Hurricanes
If you’re a hockey fan, then you won’t want to miss a Carolina Hurricanes game at PNC Arena. The Hurricanes are one of the most popular sports teams in Raleigh, and their games are always a lot of fun. PNC Arena is a state-of-the-art facility, and it offers a great view of the game. Be sure to get your tickets early, as Hurricanes games often sell out.
5. Visit the Marbles Kids Museum
The Marbles Kids Museum is a children’s museum located in downtown Raleigh. The museum features over 200 interactive exhibits, which are designed to encourage learning and creativity. The exhibits cover a variety of topics, including science, technology, art, and history. The Marbles Kids Museum is a great place for kids to learn and play, and it’s also a popular spot for birthday parties.
6. Go for a Hike at Umstead State Park
Umstead State Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Raleigh. The park features over 6,000 acres of forests, lakes, and meadows. There are over 13 miles of hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. Umstead State Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some time in nature.
7. Shop at North Hills
North Hills is a beautiful outdoor shopping center located just north of downtown Raleigh. The shopping center features over 100 stores and restaurants, including many high-end brands. North Hills is also home to a movie theater, a bowling alley, and a skating rink. The shopping center is a great place to spend a day shopping, dining, or just enjoying the outdoors.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels
Raleigh is a city with a rich culture and a thriving arts scene. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and live music venues. Raleigh is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Raleigh Arts Festival and the Hopscotch Music Festival.
The best months to visit Raleigh are March, April, September, and October. These months offer mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Raleigh is easily accessible by car, train, or plane. The city is served by Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which offers flights to major cities across the United States.
Raleigh has a diverse culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its barbecue, but there are also many other types of cuisine available, including international fare, seafood, and vegetarian options. Some of the most popular local dishes include fried chicken, sweet potato biscuits, and collard greens.
There are a number of great hotels to choose from in Raleigh. Some of the most popular hotels include the Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley, the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, and the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants. They are also conveniently located near many of Raleigh’s attractions.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, Raleigh has something to offer everyone. With its charming atmosphere, friendly people, and endless attractions, Raleigh is a great place to visit any time of year.
