I’m a pretty avid traveler. In the past two years, I’ve explored over twenty different cities and flown out of the country a few times. However, I recently discovered, I enjoy no place more than home. Now-a-days, I find myself less impressed with other cities because Raleigh, N.C. has some of the best restaurants, museums and nightlife that I’ve ever seen.
That’s why I love a staycation! There’s no place I’d rather be than home, so why not have a fun-filled weekend in The City of Oaks? My new favorite thing to do is book a hotel in Raleigh for the weekend and explore the city like I’m seeing it in a new light.
I’m sharing the ultimate 3-day Raleigh staycation itinerary for other locals planning their very own staycation. However, it’s also great for visitors coming for a weekend! There’s definitely something for everyone on the list.
Your 3-day itinerary starts Friday Night.
Friday Night
After checking in to your hotel, head on over to Level 7 for food and drinks on the rooftop. Level 7 is located at the AC Hotel in Raleigh North Hills and serves a plethora of small bites, cocktails, wine and more in a sophisticated, modern atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind after a long week and a great way to start your Raleigh staycation.
Next door to Level 7 is Kings Bowling! Kings is full of fun things to do and has a great bar menu to keep the party going! Although bowling IS in the name, there is so much more to Kings than just bowling. You’ll also find table tennis, darts and air hockey to enjoy! And if you’re still hungry after Level 7, Kings has great milkshakes.
Saturday Morning
Start your morning off right with coffee at Jubala Coffee on Hillsborough Street. Jubala is right across the street from the NC State Bell Tower and makes for a wonderful view. They also serve some of the best coffee in the Raleigh area. If you’re hungry, be sure to grab one of their delicious, home-made breakfast sandwiches as well!
Since you’re already there, you might as well get some window shopping done on Hillsborough Street too! Hillsborough St. is a pretty popular location among locals and is at the center of North Carolina State University and Meredith College. There are a lot of great stores and architecture to enjoy during your walk. Some of my favorite stores on Hillsborough Street include The Green Monkey, Insomnia Cookies, and Reader’s Corner.
Keep on walking and you’ll make your way to Pullen Park. Pullen Park is a 66.4-acre public park that has tons of great activities for kids and adults! There is a carousel, paddle boats, train and more. It’s also the perfect place to bring a picnic blanket and lounge for a bit.
Saturday Afternoon
Next up on the itinerary, head on over to the North Carolina Museum of Art. You can either grab a quick sandwich at their coffee bar or enjoy a sit-down meal at the North Carolina Museum of Art’s on-site restaurant. After lunch, take a couple of hours to explore the different exhibits (both inside and outside) at the museum. Admission to the People’s Collection in East and West buildings and the Museum Park is free.
You can not leave the Glenwood area without stopping at FRESH. for ice cream. Only about 10 minutes away from the museum, FRESH. is a locally-owned ice cream shop serving up some of the most unique ice cream flavors. Bonus: They have special ice cream for furry friends!
Saturday Evening
Head downtown for some dinner at The Pit. The Pit is my all-time favorite BBQ restaurant in Raleigh! The restaurant has great food and great service for a great price. Make sure to get the pimento cheese balls as an appetizer.
Right next door (literally) to The Pit is Boxcar + Bar Arcade. I can spend hours playing Jurassic Park, skeeball, and Mortal Combat at Boxcar. Most Saturdays, they also have live music on the patio!
Sunday Morning
There are so many great parks in the Raleigh area but Umstead B. Park is my choice for the ultimate staycation. Start your morning with a light hike. Umstead State Park is one of the most popular parks in the Triangle area. The park is enormous with 5,579 acres of woodlands to explore.
If you’re interested in checking out some other parks during your staycation, take a gander at these other 6 triangle parks.
Breakfast at First Watch
When you’re ready for breakfast, head on over to First Watch for the most delicious meal. First Watch begins each morning at the crack of dawn, slicing fresh fruits and vegetables, baking muffins and making French toast batter from scratch. Their food is not only tasty, but fresh – made from only the best ingredients!
State Farmer’s Market
The State Farmer’s Market is the best place to spend your Sunday morning. Walk around the 30,000 sq ft. open-air building and discover all the local goodies to enjoy. Pick up delicious peaches, baked goods, plants, and more during your market adventure.
Remember to also head inside to the Market Shoppes while there! Inside the enclosed climate-controlled building, you’ll find a wide variety of specialty shops with old-fashioned candies, N.C. gifts, soaps, and lotions. For lunch, you can dine-in or take food-to-go at the State Farmers Market Restaurant.
Sunday evening
End your staycation by relaxing at The Umstead Spa, acclaimed among the best spas in the area. Enjoy the rest of your day in total peace and tranquility. Whether you’re interested in a pampering massage therapy or body treatment, this is where life’s daily stresses and distractions melt away.
