Things To Do
Cup-A-Joe
This run down coffee shop is super special to us! This is an NC State cult classic is where Parker’s been getting his caffeine fix for nearly a decade HAS to visit every time he's in town. It may not look like much, but it is the site of our first date over 5 years ago! We highly recommend their latte (be warned, it is strong!). Parker has yet to find espresso he likes more.
Boulted Bread
Another Raleigh favorite. You can find their bread served at restaurants all around town — but we recommend getting it from the source. They sell out quickly, so go early!
Jolie
One of our favorite restaurants in Raleigh serving incredible French dishes and a cozy atmosphere. We recommend reservations and parties of 4 or less. Best to park at Christ Church and walk over. Honorable mention to the downstairs bar, Sous Terre — ask the hostess for the key!
Guglhupf Restaurant
Unique German restaurant located in Durham with both indoor and outdoor seating, so a great spot if you are staying near the airport. We highly recommend combining this with Sarah P. Duke Gardens (see below).
Cookout or Char-Grill
Classic Raleigh/North Carolina fast food. Char-Grill is a Raleigh-based burger place! Cook Out has great shakes and classic fast food — check out the menu online.
State Farmers Market Restaurant
Another Raleigh classic with cool history, serving up classic Southern comfort food and located right near NC State on the site of the weekly State Farmers Market.
Trophy Brewing & Pizza
A great place to grab a beer and some great pizza. There are multiple locations, so if you want pizza make sure you check out the Morgan Street location.
Prime Barbecue
Arguably the best barbecue in the state, located in Knightdale. Award-winning and nationally recognized. We recommend you get there when they open on Saturday, because they sell out quickly!
Two Roosters Ice Cream
Raleigh’s favorite ice cream! Check out their fun local flavors — multiple locations around the Triangle, depending on what’s most convenient for you.
Howling Cow Dairy Education Center and Creamery
Another NC State staple located on the university’s dairy farm. All their dairy products are from the cows on site! It’s especially fun to grab some ice cream and sit on the porch to watch the cows graze.
Krispy Kreme
Born and raised in North Carolina — this location is especially cool if you visit during the Hot Now hours. You can watch all the donuts getting made!
Videri Chocolate Factory - Chocolate Bean to Bar
A unique little chocolate factory located in downtown Raleigh. The chocolate is delicious, and depending on when you visit, you can catch a glimpse of the chocolate being made. Honorable mention to Black & White Coffee located inside!
Raleigh Iron Works
A cool multi-use space that used to be an artillery shell factory during WWI, followed by a steel factory. Now, it houses multiple restaurants, breweries, and shops.
Wake County Speedway
Experience North Carolina the loudest way possible at Raleigh's NASCAR-sanctioned local short track, AKA the "Bullring". If you are in town on Friday evening (April 10th), you can catch the Zaxby's 175. Bring ear protection and beer! We recommend you buy tickets in advance, but they may also be available at the door.
Fenton
Another neat mixed-use shopping center located in Cary. There are multiple restaurants and shops that we enjoy walking through on nice weekends.
North Carolina Museum of Art
If you’re into art, this is the place for you. It houses a large collection and variety of art — you could easily spend hours here. Aside from the indoor portion, the grounds surrounding the museum feature large outdoor art installations and a beautiful park.
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
This is a must-see, and entry is free! It is home to a plethora of cool things, including the Dueling Dinosaurs.
JC Raulston Arboretum
An obvious attraction! Not only is it the site of our wedding ceremony, but it is also a beautiful research garden where Dani interned and worked during her undergraduate years. If you have the time, we recommend arriving early and taking a stroll through the gardens prior to the ceremony.
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Another great visit located in Durham (located on Duke University’s campus) if you are staying near the airport. The gardens are absolutely beautiful and definitely worth the trip. Free admission (parking is paid).
The Trolls at Dix Park
A unique art exhibition showcasing five giant trolls constructed out of reclaimed materials. On a nice day, it’s a fun walk around Dix Park to check them all out.
WRAL Azalea Garden
A small, quaint garden full of azaleas and other flowers. The flowers are expected to be in peak bloom during our wedding weekend, so it will be the best time of year to visit and stroll through the gardens! Note, it may be busy.
NC State University
Home to both of our undergraduate and graduate school years. Lots of places to walk, and the Hunt Library on the engineering campus features a neat “bookBot” that is worth visiting.