Raleigh

Raleigh is a city with a unique place in American history as it is the only state capital specifically planned and established by a state to serve as the seat of government. The city was founded in 1792 and named after Sir Walter Raleigh, who led the attempt to establish England’s first colony in the New World during the 1580s.

Raleigh’s founders were ambitious and determined to preserve the city’s natural beauty, reflected in its nickname “City of Oaks” due to the abundance of oak trees. This commitment to preserving wooded areas and grassy parks has helped shape Raleigh’s character and contributed to its status as the largest city in the Research Triangle region.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Raleigh, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, a music buff, or keen to join in holiday celebrations. Explore the North Carolina Museum of History, which showcases 14,000 years of North Carolina history. Red Hat Amphitheater offers immersive live entertainment in the heart of downtown with panoramic views of the Raleigh skyline. Outdoor lovers can relish the sights of William B. Umstead State Park, which offers hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Pack a picnic and enjoy music and field games before the firework extravaganza at the City of Raleigh’s July 4th Celebration at Dorothea Dix Park. Dix Park offers expansive meadows, grassy dog parks, and shaded hillsides, making it a perfect location to enjoy an afternoon outside. Appreciate dozens of galleries featuring art from around the globe at The North Carolina Museum of Art. Explore the 164-acre Museum Park at your leisure, which features an array of art installations, permanent and temporary, eco-friendly landscapes, and vibrant, modern gardens.