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Newsletter Editor Allie’s 24 favorite things in Raleigh

To celebrate her 24th birthday, Allie wanted to share her 24 favorite things in Raleigh — from foodie faves to hidden gems.

RAL_AllieFireEngine_JULY2025

While learning all about Oak City at Raleigh Neighborhood College, I got to jump into the front seat of a real Raleigh Fire Department fire truck.

Photo by RALtoday

Hey Raleigh — Allie here. Today just so happens to be my 24th birthday, so I thought I’d celebrate by sharing my 24 favorite things in and about Raleigh. Do we share some faves? Let me know.

And for the record, these are in no particular order love them all too much to rank.

PNC Arena during a Carolina Hurricanes game.

Take warning — the Carolina Hurricanes and PNC Arena are back for a new season.

Photo by Josh Lavallee

24.

Carolina Hurricanes | I’m a relatively new Canes fan, this team + fanbase is like none other, and I know a Stanley Cup is coming our way soon.

23.

Gussie’s | Catch me here enjoying a Biggest Pickle cocktail and animal fries — come morning, I’m grabbing a BBL from Left Hook.

22.

NC Museum of Art | I always find something new to love here and never miss a chance to visit during Art in Bloom.

NC State Fair resized

21.

The NC State Fair | There’s something special in the air during the state fair — and it’s not just the scent of kettle corn. I never miss the cute farm animals and an odd snack.

20.

Blackbird Books & Coffee | The vibes are immaculate at this bookstore-meets-coffee shop, and I can’t resist a latte and a fresh hardcover.

A view of Raleigh's skyline from Boylan Bridge.

This skyline view from Boylan Bridge might inspire tears for any loyal Raleighite.

Photo by @raleigh.good

19.

Boylan Bridge | The best views in town. Pro tip: Grab a locally made snack from Rebus Works and watch the sunset.

18.

NC State | Are you even surprised? I feel in love with Raleigh as a student, and I’ll always back the Pack.

17.

Benchwarmers Bagels | If you want to be like me, order a bacon, egg, and cheese on a za’atar bagel and the seasonal fruit spread on a grits bagel to share with a friend.

People walking in to the Rialto Theatre.

Artists like Tori Amos, Melissa Etheridge, and Devo have all performed at the venue.

Photo provided by Bill Peebles

16.

The Rialto | I’m a movie lover, and this historic theater has so many good memories for me — and some of the best popcorn in town.

15.

Chinese Lantern Festival | This fest always blows my mind with its ever-changing lanterns, food choices, and top-notch performers.

14.

Cheeni Durham| Yes, it’s in Durham — but it’s worth the drive for the mint chutney cocktail alone. Serious about Indian food? This is the place to go.

13.

Edge of Urge | I cannot tell you how many candles, gifts, and trinkets I’ve grabbed from this hip store. Pro tip: Stop by Yellow Dog Bread Co., Two Roosters, or Wine Authorities for a treat after.

12.

State of Beer + The Bend Bar | This newer spot has the picture-perfect patio for a casual lunch with friends or an after-work Trophy Wife.

The NCMA Park during fall.

The NCMA Park during fall.

Photo by Martha K.

11.

Autumn | Something about fall just hits different in NC. I especially love walking through Boylan Heights for all the fall colors.

10.

Dorothea Dix Park | This park also just celebrated its birthday, and it’s simply one of the best greenspaces in town.

9.

Cat’s Cradle | It’s not in Raleigh, but I have to mention the best music venue in the area. Intimate, legendary, and vibey, I never miss a favorite artist’s show here.

8.

(ish) delicatessen | My go-to at this sandwich shop is the BLT with blue cheese, especially when they opt for roasted tomato instead of fresh.

The lab of Dueling Dinos, with fossils and heavy machinery in the background and four people around a table in the foreground.

The kids on the tour with me were just as fascinated by the fossils as I was.

Photo by RALtoday

7.

NC Museum of Natural Sciences | If you haven’t been to Dueling Dinosaurs yet, you’re missing out.

6.

Pullen Park | Picture this: Pullen, picnic lunch, and pedal boats = a perfect day to me.

RALtoday Farmers Market

Shopping locally can often get you a bang for your buck.

Photo by RALtoday

5.

State Farmers Market | I never know what I’ll find here, but I always come home with perfect produce. Plus, the restaurant is my go-to spot for out-of-towners.

4.

Boulted Bread | Treat yourself to a citrus morning bun, ham + cheese croissant, and a loaf to take home.

3.

JC Raulston Arboretum | This plant-lover’s paradise is nationally acclaimed, and I love visiting during special events like Moonlight in the Garden.

2.

Copperline Plant Co. | I can’t help but pick up a new plant baby or two every time I visit this sunny, friendly shop.

Black & White coffee's outdoor patio

Work remotely on Black & White’s patio.

Photo by RALtoday

1.

Local coffee | I can’t choose just one. You really can’t beat Raleigh’s coffee scene, and I feel so lucky to have a wide variety in town.

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