Where to cry in Raleigh

Take a deep breath and let it all out. Let yourself weep in public at these eight places to cry in Raleigh.

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

Look, life gets tough. Taking a moment to let it all out can be cathartic and much needed, and we’ve got eight spots to cry in Raleigh from a solitary greenspace sob to a bustling traffic weep.

Blackbird Books & Coffee, 323 Blake St.
Bring your own book or purchase a new one to get your emotions flowing. If you start to feel embarrassed, just use that same book as a face shield to hide those tears.

Boylan Bridge
Take a good look at one of the best views of Raleigh and let the tears flow — a passing train might drown out your sobs. Once you’ve let it all out, pick up a croissant from Boulted Bread or pickle pimento cheese from Wye Hill as a pick-me-up.

Dorothea Dix Park, 1030 Richardson Dr.
Wide open spaces. This 300+ acre park is home to plenty of cry-worthy spots, including the Big Field, the chapel, and lots of historic locations. Bring your picnic blanket and bawl as much as you need to.

The Rialto, 1620 Glenwood Ave.
City Editor Allie here — I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t shed a few tears in this historic theater. It’s up to the other film-goers to figure out if its because of the movie or your personal life.

Wade Avenue
Sometimes you just don’t know when this road will go up, down, left, or right... just like life. While you’re dodging other cars and trying to keep up to speed, feel free to turn on the waterworks — other stressed drivers might be doing the same thing.

Watts & Ward, 200 S. Blount St.
This speakeasy-style bar is fairly dim and has all sorts of nooks + crannies to hide away in and let yourself wail.

YoBa Studio, 5003 Falls of Neuse Rd., Ste. G + 2201 Iron Works Dr., Ste. 105
Is it sweat or tears? Only you know. Plus, a good yoga, cardio, or barre session can help you work out your feelings.

Got a secret crying place you’re ready to share? Let us know.

More from RALtoday
Raleigh restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, mimosas, and other brunch favorites you want to eat.
Give your kiddos a summer filled with fun at these local summer camps.
Oscar Diaz, from Durham’s Little Bull and Aaktun, is one of 15 “cheftestants” on season 23 of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” and we learned more about his favorite local spots at the Charlotte premiere.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
Discover the top Raleigh business podcasts, voices, and local resources our readers are tuning into — from must-listen interviews to expert insights.
Visit The Magic of the Fourth Ward: A Journey Through Time and Culture at the Martin Marietta Center to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood destroyed by urban renewal.
Microsoft, the world’s No. 4 most valuable company, will bring a data center to a large parcel in Person County.