Raleigh‑Durham, known as the Research Triangle, blends Southern charm with vibrant arts, historic neighborhoods, and world‑class universities. Spring and fall offer mild weather perfect for strolling gardens and outdoor markets, while the area buzzes year‑round with food, music, and sports.
Top Things to Do in Raleigh/Durham
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Getting Around Raleigh/Durham
From the Airport
Rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate 24/7 from RDU; rides typically cost $20‑$30 to downtown and take about 20‑30 minutes. Taxi. RDU Taxi Service provides flat‑rate rides to Raleigh ($30) and Durham ($35) with vehicles available at the curbside stands. Bus. GoRaleigh Route 7 runs between the airport and downtown Raleigh every 30 minutes; fare is $2.75 and the trip takes ~45 minutes.
Once You're There
Walking. Downtown Raleigh and central Durham are highly walkable, with most attractions within a 10‑15‑minute stroll. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are the most convenient for quick trips between neighborhoods and to the universities. Bus. GoRaleigh and Durham’s GoDurham bus networks connect major sites; day passes cost $2 and routes run frequently. Car Rental. Renting a car is useful for visiting parks like Umstead State Park or exploring outer suburbs; major agencies are located at the airport.
Where to Stay in Raleigh/Durham
Hotel picks for Raleigh/Durham are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Raleigh/Durham
Brewery Bhavana★ 4.7 (3,507)A celebrated brewpub serving award‑winning dim sum like the pork belly bao alongside house‑crafted beers.
Bida Manda★ 4.7 (2,477)Raleigh’s premier Laotian spot, famed for its fragrant khao soi and fresh herb salads.
M Sushi★ 4.7 (1,659)Intimate sushi bar praised for its Omakase tasting menu featuring buttery toro and uni.
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar★ 4.6 (4,961)Innovative “sushi‑burger” creations such as the Sumo Roll make this a must‑try novelty dining experience.
Poole's Diner★ 4.5 (1,932)Chef James Beard‑award winner John Currence’s upscale diner known for the crispy fried chicken and waffles.
Mateo★ 4.5 (1,438)Durham tapas bar renowned for its patatas bravas with smoked aioli and an ever‑rotating small‑plate menu.
Nana's★ 4.5 (486)Cozy Southern eatery where the shrimp and grits, finished with a hint of smoked paprika, steal the show.
Vivace★ 4.4 (1,085)Elegant Italian restaurant celebrated for hand‑made tagliatelle Bolognese and an extensive wine list.
The Federal★ 4.3 (637)Lively bar on Durham’s Ninth Street famous for the bourbon‑infused “Federal Burger” and craft cocktails.
Dame's Chicken & Waffles★ 4.2 (2,234)Durham staple serving golden Belgian waffles topped with perfectly seasoned fried chicken and maple‑chipotle sauce.
3 Days in Raleigh/Durham
Raleigh Downtown & Arts
Morning. Explore the North Carolina Museum of Art’s impressive collection and stroll the adjoining park sculpture trail.
Afternoon. Visit the interactive North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, then wander the historic Raleigh City Market for local crafts.
Evening. Enjoy live music at The Ritz and sip cocktails at a nearby rooftop bar.
Historic Oakwood & Gardens
Morning. Take a guided walk through Historic Oakwood’s restored Victorian homes and tour the Mordecai Historic Park.
Afternoon. Wander the diverse plant collections at JC Raulston Arboretum, then relax on the carousel and paddle boats at Pullen Park.
Evening. Dine on Laotian flavors while watching the sunset over the park’s lake.
Durham University & Culture
Morning. Admire the Gothic splendor of Duke University Chapel and wander the fragrant Sarah P. Duke Gardens.
Afternoon. Explore the revitalized American Tobacco Campus, then lounge on the lawn of Durham Central Park with a coffee.
Evening. Catch a Durham Bulls game (season) or a performance at the Durham Performing Arts Center before a late‑night bite.