Looking for fun, food, or a chill weekend plan? This list highlights some of my favorite things to do in the Raleigh/Durham area—with a few gems from nearby spots like Cary, Morrisville, and Apex too. Whether you're local or just visiting, there's so...
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Sections
8
Parks and Trails
Restaurants
Book Shops
Museums
Coffee Shops
Sweet Treats
Parks and Trails
From peaceful walking paths to scenic greenways, these outdoor spots are perfect for a stroll, jog, or picnic—and a great way to unwind in nature.
A great neighborhood park with tennis courts, a dog park, and access to the American Tobacco Trail—perfect for an active afternoon.
Southern Boundaries Park
A newer, family-friendly space with fun play areas and creative features. Great for kids and those young at heart!
Gipson Play Plaza
Peaceful lake views, walking trails, and spots for kayaking or picnics—ideal for an easy nature escape.
Lake Crabtree County Park
One of Cary’s largest parks with trails, paddle boats, and open green space. A solid all-day outing option.
Fred G. Bond Metro Park
Another great park with trails and amazing scenery in Raleigh!
Lake Johnson Park
Umstead State Park is home to beautiful trails for beginner and advanced hikers!
William B. Umstead State Park: Home
Restaurants
A mix of local gems and must-try spots serving everything from comfort food to global flavors. These are some of my favorite places to grab a bite.
A cozy spot with Mexican-inspired dishes and dreamy cocktails—great for brunch or date night.
La Buena Vida - Raleigh
Chic and bright with a plant-filled vibe. Expect delicious small plates, espresso drinks, and chill energy.
Pineapple Sol Cafe
Italian with a rooftop view! Perfect for a relaxed evening with wine, pizza, and a beautiful sunset.
La Terrazza
A German bakery-meets-bistro with hearty brunches, craft cocktails, and patio seating you’ll want to linger on.
Guglhupf
Tex-Mex meets wood-fired flair. Great tacos, margaritas, and casual vibes with a stylish twist.
Little Rey
Lowkey wine bar meets social lounge. Ideal for catching up with friends or sipping something new.
Postino Village District
Local sports bar with comfort food classics and a great location downtown—perfect for game days.
Tobacco Road Sports Cafe & Brewery
A classic downtown hangout with rooftop seating, solid pub fare, and a rotating beer list.
The Raleigh Times
Book Shops
Independent bookstores, hidden treasures, and welcoming spaces to get lost in a new read—perfect for book lovers of all kinds.
A Raleigh staple! Thoughtfully curated, locally loved, and full of charm—great for browsing or catching an author event.
Quail Ridge Books
Cozy, community-centered, and welcoming. Coffee + books = yes, please.
Daughters Coffee and Books
Used books, comfy couches, and craft drinks. A hidden gem for laid-back book lovers.
Beow's Books & Brews
Museums
Thought-provoking, fun, and family-friendly museums that offer a little something for everyone—whether you’re into science, history, or the arts.
A beautiful space with indoor galleries and an outdoor art park—free admission and always inspiring.
North Carolina Museum of Art
Fun for all ages with interactive exhibits, fossils, and live animals. A downtown favorite!
North Carolina Museum of History
Coffee Shops
Whether you’re working remotely or catching up with a friend, these cozy cafes and coffee bars serve up great drinks and even better vibes.
Sleek, stylish, and full of natural light. Great espresso drinks and a calming atmosphere.
Fare&Fellow - Coffee + Table - RTP
Warm, quirky, and beloved by locals. Known for bold coffee, community feel, and homemade pastries.
Bean Traders
Double-listed because it’s that good—come for the coffee, stay for the cozy, inclusive vibes.
Daughters Coffee and Books
A hidden gem with Vietnamese iced coffee, sweet treats, and Insta-worthy interiors.
Sweet Talk Cafe
Great coffee, amazing energy, and a community-driven mission.
Cafe Soul Cups
Creative drinks and churros in a welcoming, artsy setting. A Durham must-stop.
Cocoa Cinnamon
Bright and airy with a minimalist vibe. Great spot to read, work, or people-watch with a latte.
The Optimist Raleigh: Specialty Coffee
A chill neighborhood spot with strong coffee and even stronger community roots.
NoRa Cafe
Such a cute, drive-thru coffee spot! Scooter's has a great selection of refreshers and snacks too!
Scooter's Coffee
Sweet Treats
From ice cream and cookies to donuts and beyond—these dessert spots satisfy every sweet tooth and make the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Award-winning ice cream with unique flavors and fun toppings—totally worth the hype!
Andia's Ice Cream
Old-school donut shop with fresh, fluffy classics. Go early for the best picks!
Baker's Dozen Donuts: Home
Known for their beautiful cream puffs and Asian-inspired desserts—light, airy, and delicious.
Brecotea
A dreamy mix of French and Korean pastries. Croissants, cakes, and everything in between.
Paris Baguette
Gourmet donuts with bold flavors and eye-catching designs. Fun and flavorful!
Tepuy Donuts
Don’t miss the glazed croissants! A cult favorite for a reason—flaky, gooey, and unforgettable.
Burney's Sweets & More
Rooftop Bars
Great views, good vibes, and tasty drinks. These rooftop spots are perfect for date nights, sunsets, or catching up with friends.
Trendy and lively with skyline views, creative cocktails, and a great evening vibe.
AVA Rooftop Bar
Romantic, relaxed, and perfect for sipping wine under the stars. Bonus points for Italian snacks.
La Terrazza
Arts & Culture
Live performances, public art, local galleries, and creative events that celebrate the Triangle’s vibrant arts scene.
Big Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy in a sleek space. Worth dressing up for a night out!
