The spot of one of our first dates and where we took our engagement photos! We love going to Dorothea Dix on a beautiful day for a picnic, visiting the sunflower field in the summer, and taking our dog Maggie to the dog park. This park is just a few minutes drive from downtown Raleigh and offers large fields, playgrounds, walking trails, a beautiful view of the downtown skyline, and so much more! Make sure to check out the 5 new trolls in the park, created by artist, Thomas Dambo.
Where Louisa and Mack both have undergraduate degrees and met just before graduation in May of 2021. Some of our favorite spots on campus are the bell tower, Court of the Carolinas, the Brickyard, and Talley Student Union. Be sure to try Howling Cow ice cream, made fresh from NC State's dairy farm and served in Talley Student Union.
One of our very first date spots. A beautiful and free arboretum and botanical garden near downtown Raleigh.
A large, indoor and outdoor farmer's market with local farmers, fresh produce, bread, and more. Less than a 10 minute drive from downtown Raleigh!
A shopping center with nice restaurants, boutiques, and high-end chain stores about a 15 minute drive from downtown Raleigh.
A beautiful, and free art museum open to the public with beautiful green spaces and walking trails surrounding it.
A great pizza restaurant & brewery combo!
Louisa's favorite restaurant for her birthday dinner! A wonderful wine selection and delicious tapas.
An NC State themed sports bar and local institution. This restaurant has become one of our favorites to meet friends for dinner or to watch a game. And it is right across from the NC State bell tower.
One of our favorite brunch spots for southern breakfast foods. There is a small location downtown or a larger location in north Raleigh. Go early or be prepared to wait for a table.
One of our favorite breweries in Raleigh and very close to downtown and NC State's campus. If you visit, be sure to try Mack's favorite beer 'The First Squeeze', or Louisa's favorite, a sour beer called 'Passion Project'.
A large, indoor/outdoor bar with over 350 beers and good food, right on Glenwood Avenue, the college kid's downtown.
If you're checking out the downtown Raleigh bar scene, be sure to visit Yacht Club. A dive bar right off the main street of bars. If you visit, you must try the slide out front.