Social district expands its downtown footprint

Raleighites will now be able to Sip n’ Stroll at more downtown businesses with the new social district boundaries.

Two people holding drinks with stickers on them.

Downtown will soon have more spots to Sip n’ Stroll.

Photo by RALtoday

Last August, the City of Raleigh adopted its first social district dubbed Sip n’ Stroll. Now, City Council is expanding the district’s boundaries after a successful pilot period.

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance reported an increase in downtown sales during the trial period. After three rounds of collecting feedback, 90% of surveyed community members are in support or strongly support the district.

A graph showing who is in favor of the social district.

The DRA showed a 77% very positive or positive impact.

Photo by RALtoday

The council adopted several changes in the Tuesday, May 16 meeting, including:

  • Adding the Warehouse District + Hillsborough Street (check out this map) to the area.
  • Extending hours of operation by an hour to 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.
  • Adding more permanent and durable signage and trash + recycling bins.

What is not included? Raleigh City Hall, Campbell Law School, plus Moore and Nash Squares, and Glenwood South are non-participating locations.

In case you need a refresher, we explained the ins and outs of downtown Raleigh’s first social district.

The new rules will commence on Sip n’ Stroll’s one year anniversary, August 15. Cheers.

More from RALtoday
With the Winter Olympics well underway, we’re craving an Italian day without having to leave the 919. Here’s how to have a Milanese staycation right here in Raleigh.
The annual Great Backyard Bird Count attracts over a million bird lovers nationwide to help record the bird population — here’s how you can get involved in Raleigh.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Don’t be caught empty-handed — use our guide to classic gifts fit for your sweetheart right here in Raleigh.
Dig into Raleigh’s must-try pizza shops including NC State hangouts, high-end Detroit-style pizza, and bagel shops moonlighting as pizzerias. Whatever style you prefer, there’s pizza in Raleigh for you.
Move aside pickleball, there’s a new racket sport in town.
Get your hats and mittens — it’s finally snow season in Raleigh. While the 919 isn’t known for its wintery weather, we’re holding out hope for some history-making snowfall soon.
The Super Bowl is right around the corner, and we’ve got five local sports bars to catch the big game at with everything from raffle prizes to a soup showdown.
Plan your next snowy adventure with these 10 resorts to ski, snowboard, and tube within five hours of Oak City.
The Olympics are nearly here, and there are plenty of Olympians with local ties, from NHL players to college students.
Raleighites can get around town and the greater area through GoRaleigh and GoTriangle. Learn how to ride the bus in Raleigh for public transportation through Raleigh + the greater Triangle.