Raleigh is North Carolina's capital city and enjoys quite a few distinct neighborhoods and districts with their own vibes and attractions to offer visitors. Take a minute to read through the tabs below and gain a better idea of Raleigh's layout and what is offered where.
Overview
Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina and second largest city in the state, is home to a marvelous selection of numerous attractions and entertainment options, all of which are sprawled across the large city. The urban sprawl of Raleigh has contributed to the creation and/or revitalization of many pockets and districts within the city. The city center is growing rapidly and houses quite a bit of, while possessing the best proximity to, a growing number of attractions. However, the large area of the city allows different neighborhoods and areas the distinctions they create for themselves by possessing different niches and opportunities for entertainment.
Raleigh is currently encompassed by one completed belt- line, the I-440 loop, and is the process of completing a second larger loop, I-540. In part because it is completed as well as smaller, the I-440 loop is easier to navigate and houses many of the attractions downtown and the surrounding areas within its circular dimensions.
Downtown Area
Downtown Raleigh has undergone a revitalization project over the last decade bringing in many new businesses, entertainment and attractions, and festivals. The downtown area in itself is composed of four districts, all located within a mile or two at most from one another and combining to form the area downtown where tourism destinations exist.
Glennwood South District
This section of downtown is generally where you will find the college students hanging out. With numerous excellent restaurants, over a dozen bars, and even several locally owned and operated shops, the Glennwood South District is arguably the place to see and be seen if you're looking for the hip section of town. Glennwood South, as the name entails, can be found on and a little east of the southern section of Glennwood Ave. Everything is located roughly within a half mile from one another and is accessible by foot should you choose to walk.
Warehouse District
The Warehouse District begins only a block away from the southern end of Glennwood Ave. and is another up-and-coming district within the downtown district of Raleigh. Most attractions here are limited to converted warehouses, historically old homes of the nineteenth century, and some top nightspots. If you're looking for upscale restaurants or flashy bars and nightclubs, you'll find them here in addition to the Glennwood South district.
Fayetteville Street/Moore Square District
Raleigh's newest completed project, Fayetteville Street's new finished look inspires visitors to casually stroll through the array of local shops, restaurants and bars. Enjoy free concerts every Thursday evening throughout the summer here as well as festivals focused on everything from barbeque to beer. Moore Square also houses quite a few bars, restaurants, and local shops but has a little more older and traditional feel. Collectively, this area is another favorite of the local college students.
Capital District
The Capital District sits to the north, directly adjacent from the Fayetteville Street/Moore Square District across Morgan St. This is the section of downtown that houses many of the state's museums, the State Legislative Building, the Capitol, the Executive Mansion where the governor resides, and the beginnings of the Historic Oakwood District which offers 20 blocks of original Victorian era homes.
Other Areas
N.C. State University/Cameron Village District
The university area and Cameron Village both lie roughly a mile northwest of downtown. North Carolina State University is the state's largest institution for higher education with nearly 35,000 students. With that being said, the area surrounding the university has quite a few options for dining and nightlife. The newly renovated and nearby Cameron Village is home to many restaurants, new and old, as well as numerous upscale shopping choices. There isn't a whole lot here from a tourism standpoint besides N.C. State activities, however, a large majority of Raleigh's attractions and entertainment lie within a short drive from the university.
North Raleigh
The North Raleigh District is a general location used to designate the northern sections of the city. Within North Raleigh exists a couple different shopping malls and eating options, however, the area mainly consists of residential neighborhoods and businesses with very few attractions for tourists.
