We asked readers what came to mind as the most iconic Raleigh signs. Here are five signs we love to pass by.
The Longleaf Hotel
📍 300 N. Dawson St. | You know you’ve made it downtown when you see the “Long Live Longleaf” neon light. The hotel was originally built in the 1960s and was renovated in 2019, giving it a mid-century modern look. In 2022, Thrillist named it the coolest hotel in NC.
The first Char-Grill opened on Hillsborough Street in 1959.
Photo by RALtoday
The original Char-Grill
📍 618 Hillsborough St. | This is where it all began. In 1959, restaurateur Bruce Garner opened the first Char-Grill ever. This location has been slingin’ flame-cooked burgers ever since. The eatery could be torn down to make way for a new mixed-use tower , but the developers plan to rebuild and incorporate the restaurant.
Deco’s neon sign was installed in November 2022.
Photo by @glas.work
DECO
📍 207 S. Salisbury St. | This quirky gift shop got a face lift in November 2022 to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. The star of the show is the new neon sign designed by the local makers at Glas .
Hungry for a hot dog?
Photo by RALtoday
The Roast Grill
📍 7 S. West St. | Get ‘em while they’re fresh. This 13-seat, hole-in-the-wall restaurant has been serving hot weiners since 1940. Check out seven more spots to grab a dawg in Raleigh.
The Krispy Kreme sign on Person Street.
Photo by RALtoday
Krispy Kreme
📍 549 N. Person St. | You already know where we’ll be when the “hot now” sign lights up. This is where runners down one dozen glazed donuts during the annual Krispy Kreme Challenge , a charity race supporting UNC Children’s Hospital.
Was your favorite sign left off the list? Give us a sign and maybe we’ll add five more.