Attractions in Raleigh

As part of the "Triangle", Raleigh is a thriving city: just what you'd expect from a state capital and a research center located in an area defined by three major universities. Research Triangle Park (RTP), located between Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, is among the largest research parks in the U.S. Some 140 companies and organizations call RTP home. Ranked by several major business magazines as one of the nation's top places to live and work, the area has attracted many new restaurants, shopping venues and cultural activities.

Exploris
201 East Hargett Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
919-834-4040
Exploris is an interactive museum about the world that utilizes hands-on, interactive exhibits, the visual and performing arts, thought provoking programs and the new IMAX giant screen theatre to help people of all ages learn to respect differences, appreciate similarities and make connections with people of the world.

Borden Building
820 Clay St, Raleigh, NC 27605
919-831-6430
The Borden Building is one of two remaining buildings on the former campus of the Methodist Home for Children. What was originally the superintendent's home is now available for public tours and functions. Admission is free.

Haywood Hall House and Gardens
211New Bern Place, Raleigh, NC 27601
919-832-8357
John Haywood, the state's first elected treasurer, built this Federal-style frame house in 1799. His descendants occupied it until 1977. This is the oldest residence built within the original city limits still on its original site with family furnishings.

Historic Oak View County Park
4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27601
919-212-7248
This antebellum farmstead features an 1855 Greek Revival house, detached plank kitchen, cotton gin house museum and two outbuildings. Included are the pecan grove, 1870s gazebo, and a Farm History Center.

Historic Oakwood
1653 Old Louisburg Road, Raleigh, NC 27604
919-733-3456
A Victorian neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with restored homes built between 1870 and 1912. This 20-block area may be enjoyed by driving or walking. Bordered by Franklin, Watauga, Linden, Jones and Person Streets.

Historic Tours of Raleigh
301 N Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
919-829-4988
One hour tour around Raleigh's finest sites.

Historic Trolley Tours
1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC 27604
919-834-4844
Trolley through the heart of the Capital City on a narrated tour with six stops. Visit historic sites, art galleries, museums, shops and restaurants. Board at any stop including Mordecai Historic Park and City Market. Unlimited re-boarding with all-day pass.

Joel Lane Museum House
728 W. Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27603
919- 833-3431
Built in the 1760's, this landmark is Raleigh's oldest dwelling. Wakefield was the home of Colonel Joel Lane, the "father of Raleigh." In 1792, representatives of the newly formed North Carolina Legislature met here to choose a site for the state's Capital City and purchased 1,000 acres of Colonel Lane's plantation for that purpose. Tours are approximately 30 minutes.