4 day itinerary for Raleigh, North Carolina

Itinerary

Raleigh is a fantastic city with a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor fun, making it perfect for a family-friendly adventure. Let’s dive into a fast-paced, four-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and engaged!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Raleigh

Morning:

• Breakfast at Big Ed’s City Market: Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast. Try their famous biscuits and gravy!
• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: This is a must-visit! The kids will love the dinosaur exhibits and the interactive displays. Plus, it’s free!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the State Farmers Market: Grab some fresh, local food. There are plenty of options, from BBQ to fresh produce. Don’t forget to try some homemade ice cream!
• North Carolina Museum of History: Just a short walk away, this museum is packed with fascinating exhibits about the state’s past. The kids will enjoy the hands-on activities.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Pit: Treat your family to some authentic North Carolina BBQ. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.
• Stroll through Pullen Park: After dinner, let the kids burn off some energy at this lovely park. There’s a carousel, playgrounds, and even a small train ride!

## Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Science Fun

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Morning Times: Enjoy a cozy breakfast with great coffee and pastries.
• William B. Umstead State Park: Get your day started with some outdoor fun! Hike or bike on the trails. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the park: Pack a picnic or grab sandwiches from a nearby deli to enjoy in the great outdoors.
• North Carolina Museum of Art: Head over to this museum, which has beautiful outdoor sculptures and trails. The kids can explore the art while you enjoy the scenery.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar: This unique spot offers a fun fusion of sushi and burgers, perfect for picky eaters and adventurous eaters alike.
• Catch a show at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts: Check the schedule for family-friendly performances or concerts. It’s a great way to end the day!

## Day 3: History and Hands-On Learning

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Rockford: Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a local twist.
• North Carolina State Capitol: Take a guided tour of this historic building. The architecture is stunning, and the kids will love learning about state history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Raleigh Times: This historic newspaper building turned restaurant has a great vibe and tasty food.
• Marbles Kids Museum: This interactive museum is a hit with families! There are tons of hands-on exhibits that will keep the kids engaged for hours.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Capital Grille: Treat yourselves to a nice dinner. They have a great kids’ menu, and the atmosphere is lovely.
• Ice Cream at The Chocolate Boutique: End your day with some delicious homemade ice cream or chocolate treats!

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe: Start your day with some fluffy biscuits and a hearty breakfast.
• Visit Historic Oakwood: Take a stroll through this charming neighborhood filled with beautiful Victorian homes. It’s a great way to soak in some local history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Pit: If you didn’t get enough BBQ, this is a great spot to revisit!
• ## Day Trip to Durham: Just a short drive away, visit the Duke Lemur Center to see some adorable lemurs. It’s a unique experience that the kids will love!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory: On your way back to Raleigh, stop for dinner at this family favorite. With a huge menu, there’s something for everyone.
• Wrap up with a Movie at Alamo Drafthouse: End your trip with a fun family movie night. Enjoy some popcorn and relax after a busy few days!

There you have it! A fast-paced, family-friendly itinerary that will keep everyone entertained while exploring the best of Raleigh and its surroundings. Enjoy your trip! 🌟