UPDATED: November 14, 2024
Planning a trip to Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill? We've got you covered!
If you've never been to North Carolina, it's worth a trip. From the rolling mountains of Asheville and winding road of the Blue Ridge Parkway, to the heart of the state in the Research Triangle with its museums and delicious foods, to the beaches on the coast that welcome you with miles and miles of quiet sands. No matter what you're looking for, North Carolina's got it.
Today we're focusing on the Research Triangle: Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Let's just get right into it!
Maybe you've heard people refer to the "The Triangle" in North Carolina. While many states have areas where multiple cities intersect and form a larger community out of multiple smaller ones, the North Carolina Research Triangle Area is different in that each city is very different but also incredible similar. Let me explain...
There are three cities that make up the Triangle: Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. To start with the similarities, each city is home to a major university that each has a large impact on its individual city, specifically when it comes to basketball. Each of the towns houses a top tier basketball team and there are fierce rivalries between them (especially between UNC and Duke). Everyone has a team and they'll let you know who they're for. Each of the three towns is also very southern in feel. Maybe not so much the politics or traditions, but the friendliness and delicious southern food can all be found in the Triangle Area.
You may have noticed I referred to it as "The Research Triangle" and that's because it's an incredible education and scientific driven community. From the universities to medical and tech companies moving into the area, there's always something new being discovered and, you guessed it, researched.
Let's start with Raleigh. Raleigh is not only home to North Carolina State University (primarily an engineering school), but it's also the state capital of North Carolina. It's the largest of the cities in the Triangle and it's an unusual combination of young and vibrant thanks to the thriving college and young professional scene and serious and political due to it being the base for all government affairs in the state. Personally I'm not much for politics (although I respect them) and I still really enjoyed living in Raleigh.
Up next is Durham. Durham is the more industrial feeling of the three cities. In its past it was a major hub for tobacco. While its tobacco days are in the past its redefining itself as a young, artistic, and vibrant city that still appreciates the past and where it all started. Duke University has called this town home for years and the student population has a large impact on the city as a whole.
The last of the three cities is Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill is definitely the smallest of the three cities which is why I love it. I'm always partial to a good college town! The University of North Carolina is home in Chapel Hill and its beautiful, sprawling campus gives the entire city a feeling of home. It also makes me want to crack open a book at a coffee shop and sit and read for hours on end.
These are our top picks for where to stay in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Nestled in the heart of Cary, North Carolina, The Umstead Hotel and Spa exudes luxury and tranquility. This AAA Five Diamond property is renowned for its impeccable service, elegant accommodations, and serene surroundings. Guests can indulge in world-class dining, rejuvenate at the award-winning spa, or explore the scenic Umstead State Park nearby.
Address: 100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary, NC 27513 | Google Maps
Located in the vibrant heart of Raleigh, The Casso seamlessly blends modern design with classic Southern hospitality. This chic boutique hotel features uniquely styled rooms and suites, offering guests a comfortable and stylish retreat. With its central location, visitors can easily explore Raleigh's bustling downtown, including the nearby State Capitol, museums, and a multitude of dining and entertainment options.
Address: 603 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603 | Google Maps
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Located in the upscale North Hills area, Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel combines modern sophistication with Southern charm. Guests can enjoy stylish rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and easy access to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. This hotel is perfect for both business travelers and vacationers seeking a luxurious stay in Raleigh.
Address: 4100 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh, NC 27609 | Google Maps
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Positioned on the picturesque shores of Lake Raleigh, The StateView Hotel, Autograph Collection offers guests a unique blend of natural beauty and contemporary comfort. This exquisite property boasts thoughtfully designed rooms, sophisticated meeting spaces, and a delightful on-site restaurant. Its serene location provides a perfect escape while still being conveniently close to North Carolina State University and downtown Raleigh.
Address: 2451 Alumni Dr, Raleigh, NC 27606 | Google Maps
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These are our top recommendations for places to stay in Durham, North Carolina.
Located in the heart of downtown Durham, The Durham Hotel offers a blend of modern amenities and vintage charm. Guests can enjoy a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the city skyline, a locally-sourced restaurant, and well-appointed rooms designed for comfort and relaxation. The hotel's prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of Durham.
Address: 315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701 | Google Maps
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Nestled on the scenic campus of Duke University, the JB Duke Hotel offers a sophisticated retreat for both business and leisure travelers. This contemporary hotel features spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and productive stay. Guests can savor exquisite dining at the on-site restaurant or unwind at the stylish bar. With close proximity to academic buildings, athletic facilities, and cultural attractions, the JB Duke Hotel serves as a convenient and luxurious accommodation choice in Durham.
Address: 230 Science Dr, Durham, NC 27708 | Google Maps
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A unique blend of art and hospitality, the 21c Museum Hotel Durham offers an immersive experience for its guests. Located in a meticulously restored historic building, the hotel features a contemporary art museum open 24/7, a chic restaurant, and stylish rooms with a modern design. Its prime downtown location makes it perfect for exploring Durham's vibrant art scene and cultural attractions.
Address: 111 North Corcoran St, Durham, NC 27701 | Google Maps
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These are our top picks for places to stay in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Nestled in the vibrant Franklin Street district, Graduate Chapel Hill exudes collegiate charm and Southern hospitality. The hotel features unique decor inspired by the local university culture, providing guests with a distinctive and memorable stay. Whether traveling for business or leisure, visitors can appreciate thoughtful amenities, including a 24-hour fitness center, cozy communal areas, and a pet-friendly environment.
Address: 311 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 | Google Maps
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Situated amidst lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, Rizzo Center, A Destination by Hyatt Hotel, offers a serene retreat just minutes from downtown Chapel Hill. The hotel boasts elegantly-appointed rooms, sophisticated meeting spaces, and a range of recreational facilities, including a sparkling outdoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center. Guests can also enjoy gourmet dining options and scenic walking trails that enhance the overall relaxing experience.
Address: 150 Dubose Home Ln, Chapel Hill, NC 27517 | Google Maps
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Inspired by the classic elegance of Italy's Tuscany region, The Siena Hotel, Autograph Collection, offers a luxurious escape in the heart of Chapel Hill. This boutique hotel features richly appointed rooms with European-style decor and upscale amenities, ensuring a comfortable and sophisticated stay. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the acclaimed Il Palio restaurant, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional service. The Siena Hotel also provides convenient access to Chapel Hill's top attractions, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Address: 1505 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 | Google Maps
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Ah, Raleigh. This was the town we called home when we were dating and it's where we got engaged. This place holds a lot of nostalgia for us and every time we return we enjoy walking down memory lane eating at our favorite restaurants, visiting our favorite hotspots, and catching up with a few old friends.
While the whole Triangle Area is a wonderful place to visit (and/or call home), personally we think Raleigh is the best of the three cities. It certainly has the most to offer given that it is the largest of the three cities, but aside from that it's more diverse in its offerings. here are our favorite things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina!
The North Carolina Museum of Art is a great place to visit when in Raleigh. It features an impressive collection of artwork from a variety of different time periods and cultures, including ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and contemporary works. The museum also has a number of interactive activities for visitors to enjoy, such as art classes and workshops.
Bonus: During the summer months the museum hosts a summer concert series and movies on the lawn. Be sure to check the schedule if you're planning to visit during the summer months!
Getting there: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is one of the most popular attractions in Raleigh. It features a wide range of exhibits focusing on natural history, including dinosaurs, mammals, birds, insects, plants, fossils, and more. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the museum's collections up close.
Getting there: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Pullen Park is one of the oldest parks in Raleigh and it offers plenty of outdoor fun for visitors. There are two playgrounds for kids to enjoy, carousel, as well as a miniature train ride around the park grounds. Other activities include paddle boats on the lake, bike rentals, tennis courts, and more.
Getting there: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Historic Oakwood Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Raleigh and is home to some fascinating gravesites from various wars and conflicts throughout American history. Visitors can take guided tours through the cemetery or explore it at their own pace to learn more about its history and inhabitants.
Getting there: 701 Oakwood Ave, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Cameron Village Shopping Center is one of Raleigh's premier shopping destinations with over 100 stores ranging from high-end boutiques to local shops selling unique items from around town. There are plenty of restaurants located within the center as well where visitors can grab a bite after shopping or just relax with friends over coffee or drinks. We recommend grabbing a cup of frozen custard from Goodberry's on a hot day (Goodberry's is one of our 35 favorite places to eat in Raleigh!).
Getting there: 2034 Cameron St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Moore Square is located in downtown Raleigh and has a rich history as a gathering place for locals since the 1700s. Today the area is home to Moore Square Market (a farmers market that runs Sundays May-October), regular events, and is surrounded by some of Raleigh's best restaurants.
Getting there: E Hargatt St and S Blunt St | Google Maps
William B Umstead State Park is located just outside downtown Raleigh and it offers plenty for nature lovers to enjoy including miles upon miles of trails perfect for hiking or biking along with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities in its forested areas . There are also picnic areas located throughout the park where visitors can stop for lunch before continuing their exploration.
Getting there: 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
The Duke Energy Center For The Performing Arts is located right next door to William B. Umstead State Park. This venue hosts a variety concerts, plays, musicals, comedy shows, dance performances, lectures, symposiums, film screenings, art exhibitions, family events, festivals, workshops, special events, etc throughout its calendar year.
Getting there: 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
The North Carolina State Capitol building was built in 1840 and today serves as both an historic landmark as well as one housing various government offices . Visitors can take guided tours through this building which will provide them with insight into both state politics as well as local history.
Getting there: 1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
PNC Arena is home to both NHL ice hockey team, the Carolina Hurricanes, which the city loves. If you want to feel a part of the community, be sure to catch a lively 'Canes match. PNC Arena also hosts concerts and other events, so be sure to check their calendar to see what's on the agenda.
Getting there: 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Marbles Kids Museum offers plenty for children & families alike ! This interactive museum features multiple exhibit halls filled with hands-on activities designed specifically for kids ages 1-10 such as building blocks & giant bubble makers ! They even have special theme days during certain weeks so be sure check their website ahead time plan your visit accordingly!
Getting there: 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Lake Johnson Park provides visitors with access gorgeous wetlands full diverse wildlife such migratory birds & turtles. Here you'll find multiple trails perfect walking & jogging along with canoeing & kayaking opportunities available rent nearby marina. Additionally there's also fishing allowed certain times year depending season so make sure familiarize yourself regulations before heading out!
Getting there: 4601 Avent Ferry Rd, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Morgan Street Food Hall houses over 20 different eateries all under same roof making it great spot grab quick bite eat without having worry about choosing just one. We always recommend a this spot for families and/or large groups where different people might be craving different things. At a food hall everyone is sure to find something that fits their fancy!
Getting there: 411 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
NCSU is home to a vibrant student life scene with plenty of clubs, organizations, sports teams, and social events happening year round on campus. Visitors can take a tour or attend one of the university’s many cultural events such as concerts, plays, lectures, films screenings, art shows, etc., which are open to both students and non-students alike! We always recommend people checkout the James B. Hunt Jr. Library (it's pretty cool!) and grab a cup of coffee at Jubala (or favorite!) just across the street from the schools iconic Memorial Belltower.
Getting there: 101 Current Dr, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
CAM (Contemporary Art Museum) is dedicated solely to contemporary art from around the world with rotating exhibitions featuring works from emerging artists as well as established ones like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein among many others. Visitors can explore CAM's permanent collection or attend one of their lectures or workshops that cover topics ranging from photography to video art installation pieces.
Getting there: 409 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
This 5,000 seat amphitheater is located right in the heart of downtown Raleigh. During the summer months this venue hosts some of the biggest names in music. Our idea of the perfect summer date night in Raleigh is grabbing dinner at Poole's Diner then walking across the street to Red Hat Amphitheater for a show.
Getting there: 500 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Raleigh is home to miles and miles of paved trails for cyclists and pedestrians alike. One of my absolute favorite things to do in Raleigh is to look at the map, pick a trail, and just start running. The trails have always felt incredibly safe and they're very well maintained. My favorite trails are the Neuse River Trail and the Crabtree Creek Trail.
Discover Raleigh's Greenway System
Mordecai Historical Park is another great attraction located near downtown Raleigh where visitors will learn about local history dating back centuries. The park features the birthplace of US President Andrew Johnson, who's home is now a museum. Visitors can also catch a trolley tour of the city from this location.
Getting there: 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Located in downtown Raleigh, the Governor’s Mansion is an iconic landmark in North Carolina and a great place to visit when you’re in town. Tours are available but must be booked at least two weeks in advance.
Getting there: 200 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Not only is Videri one of our favorite dessert spots in Raleigh, it's also a fun place to checkout. The shop is a bean to bar chocolate factory meaning that they take the chocolate through the entire process from green bean to chocolate bar right in house. The shop features a self-guided mini tour where you can see the chocolate makers working on everything from roasting the cocoa to making delicate truffles.
Getting there: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC | Google Maps
Located just down the street from Raleigh is the town of Durham, North Carolina. Famous as being home to Duke University, Durham has a colorful history to its present day self as a quaint town with lots to do.
Duke Gardens is a 55-acre botanical garden located on the campus of Duke University in Durham, NC. The gardens feature over 5 miles of walking trails through lush gardens filled with trees, flowers and other plants from around the world. Visitors can take part in guided tours or explore on their own to discover all that Duke Gardens has to offer!
Getting there: 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC | Google Maps
Located on a 84-acre campus, Durham's Museum of Life and Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural world. The museum provides interactive exhibits, an onsite butterfly house, and a farmyard where kids can meet farm animals.
Getting there: 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC | Google Maps
Duke University's chapel is an iconic part of the University's skyline. With its gothic architecture and rich history, it is a must-see for any visitor. The chapel often hosts concerts and other cultural events which would be the perfect way to experience its incredible acoustics.
Getting there: 401 Chapel Dr, Durham, NC | Google Maps
This district, which was once the headquarters of the American Tobacco Company, has been transformed into an entertainment hub replete with restaurants, bars, shops, and even a theater. It's a great place to explore and soak up some local history.
Getting there: 300 Blackwell St #104, Durham, NC | Google Maps
Baseball fans shouldn't miss out on an opportunity to visit the iconic Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Try to catch a game if the season's right, or take a tour of the stadium if it's not baseball season. Visitors of all ages will enjoy this favorite American past time in a city that loves to support their team!
Getting there: 409 Blackwell St, Durham, NC | Google Maps
From seafood to barbecue, the Durham Food Hall has a myriad of dining options for everyone. It is a great place to taste the local flavors and enjoy a meal.
Getting there: 530 Foster St Suite 1, Durham, NC | Google Maps
Located at Duke University, the Nasher Museum of Art is recognized for its contemporary art collection. The museum hosts rotating exhibits, so there's always something new to see. The permanent collection is composed of over 10,000 works of art and the rotating exhibit fills a 65,000 sq/ft space. No matter if you're there to see the rotating exhibit or the permanent collection, you're sure to have plenty of amazing works to set your sights upon.
Getting there: 2001 Campus Dr, Durham, NC | Google Maps
The Tobacco Trail is an idyllic spot in Durham that you should not miss while visiting. This 22-mile trail, built on a historic railroad track, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts providing a peaceful setting for walking, cycling, or running. It's a trail that features natural beauty and historical significance, taking you through lush landscapes and remnants of North Carolina's rich tobacco industry past. Make sure to pack a picnic, as there are several rest spots along the way where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Getting there: Google Maps
Chapel Hill is the third city in North Carolina's Triangle Area. Home to the University of North Carolina, this is the quintessential college town. From delicious food to beautiful shaded walkways through campus and a vibrant music scene, this little town has it all.
As one of the oldest and largest planetariums in the United States, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center offers incredible star-gazing opportunities, science exhibits, and interactive displays. A visit here is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Getting there: 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps
Experience the rich biodiversity of the region at the North Carolina Botanical Garden. This 1,000-acre garden offers a stunning display of native North Carolina plants and features nature trails, carnivorous plant collections, and more.
Getting there: 100 Old Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, one of the oldest public universities in the U.S., offers guided campus tours. It's a great chance to soak up the historic atmosphere and see the famous Old Well.
Getting there: 209 South Rd, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps
Located on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, the Ackland Art Museum houses a collection of over 18,000 works of art. The museum features diverse exhibitions from Asia, Europe, and America and offers educational programs for all ages.
Getting there: 101 S Columbia St, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps
For sports enthusiasts, a visit to the Carolina Basketball Museum is a must. The museum chronicles the history of the UNC basketball program, showcasing jerseys, trophies, and other memorabilia.
Getting there: 450 Skipper Bowles Dr, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps
Franklin Street is a vibrant area in downtown Chapel Hill known for its array of shops, restaurants, and bars. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal, do some shopping, or catch some live music.
Getting there: Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC | Google Maps
