Thinking about moving to Raleigh, North Carolina? There’s no better way to determine if it’s the right fit than by visiting and experiencing the city firsthand. Raleigh and the surrounding Triangle region (which includes Durham and Chapel Hill) offer a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures, thriving shopping districts, renowned museums, and a booming food scene. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your first visit to North Carolina’s capital.
Embracing the Outdoors
Raleigh is known for its natural beauty, and with generally mild weather, you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round (though be prepared for hot, humid summers in July and August!).
Greenway Network
Raleigh boasts an impressive 150+ miles of greenways, perfect for biking, walking, or scootering. One of the best trails to explore is Crabtree Creek Trail, particularly the stretch from Anderson Drive to Lassiter Mill Road. This scenic route takes you across charming bridges, alongside beautiful homes, and through wooded areas, offering a peaceful escape from city life. Explore the full map of the Raleigh Greenway Network here.
Umstead Park
For hiking enthusiasts, William B. Umstead State Park is a must-visit. This 5,600-acre park, nestled between Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, features 35 miles of hiking trails and 13 miles of biking and horseback riding trails. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature while still being just minutes from the city. Learn more about Umstead Park here.
Lake Johnson & Other Scenic Lakes
Another favorite is Lake Johnson Park, featuring a 3-mile loop that takes you through a wooded trail, across a dam, and along a scenic bridge. If you have time, take a drive to Falls Lake to the north or Jordan Lake to the west—both offer picturesque views and excellent trails for exploration.
Dix Park & Duke Gardens
Raleigh’s Dix Park is a sprawling 300-acre green space that offers a skyline view of downtown, walking trails, a dog park, and a stunning sunflower field in the summer. Over in Durham, Duke Gardens provides a breathtaking 55-acre botanical experience with over 2,500 plant species spread across four distinct gardens. It’s especially beautiful in the spring!
Shopping Hotspots
If you’re considering moving to Raleigh, you’ll want to explore the best shopping destinations to get a feel for the area.
North Hills
Located just north of Raleigh’s beltline, North Hills is an upscale outdoor shopping district featuring high-end brands like Bonobos, Warby Parker, Anthropologie, and Restoration Hardware. The area is expanding rapidly with new retail, dining, and residential spaces under development.
Fenton in Cary
A newer addition to the Triangle, Fenton in Cary offers a high-end, walkable shopping experience with Lululemon, Arhaus, Williams-Sonoma, and Rejuvenation, alongside incredible dining options like M Sushi and a new concept by celebrity chef Scott Crawford.
Streets at Southpoint
For a mix of indoor and outdoor shopping, Streets at Southpoint in Durham has everything from Crate & Barrel and West Elm to Nordstrom and an Apple store. It’s a great option for higher-end shopping, people-watching, and dining.
Museums & Cultural Attractions
Raleigh is often called the “Smithsonian of the South” due to its abundance of museums. Two of the best to explore are:
North Carolina Museum of Art: Home to an expansive outdoor art park, open fields for picnicking, and indoor exhibits featuring European and African collections. Admission is free! Visit here.
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Four floors of exhibits featuring dinosaurs, live animals, and interactive science experiences—a great indoor option if the weather isn’t ideal. Learn more here.
For a list of museums in the area, click here.
Exploring Downtown Districts
If you’re thinking about relocating, checking out Raleigh’s downtown and surrounding urban hubs is essential.
Downtown Raleigh
Downtown Raleigh is incredibly walkable, with plenty of green spaces like Nash Square and the historic Capitol Building. For unique local finds, check out Deco Raleigh, a boutique gift shop with North Carolina-inspired goods.
Downtown Wake Forest
Downtown Wake Forest is a charming and historic area that offers a small-town feel with modern conveniences. Centered around South White Street, the district features locally owned shops, boutiques, and cozy cafés. Take a stroll through Joyner Park, a scenic 117-acre green space perfect for picnicking and walking. With a growing food scene and an inviting atmosphere, Wake Forest provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling downtown Raleigh area.
Downtown Durham & American Tobacco Campus
Durham’s American Tobacco Campus is a revitalized historic area with office spaces, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Nearby, you’ll find the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) and Durham Bulls Athletic Park, home to the city’s beloved minor league baseball team.
Making Raleigh Your New Home with NC Triangle Connection
If Raleigh impresses you during your visit and you’re considering a move, NC Triangle Connection can make your transition seamless. We specialize in fully furnished, short-to-mid-term rentals, perfect for professionals, relocating families, or anyone exploring the area before committing to a long-term home.
Explore available properties and start your journey in the Triangle area today at NCTriangleConnection.com.
Welcome to Raleigh—we think you’re going to love it here!