Now that the warmer temps are here to stay (but before it gets too hot), we’re planning to get outside as much as possible. In fact, we’ve made an itinerary for spending an entire day outdoors in Raleigh without having to head inside until night falls.
Morning
Start your day by heading to one of these local coffee shops — we’re prioritizing the patios at Black & White, Left Hook, and Morning Times.
From there, rent a bike via Cardinal Bikeshare (there’s probably a station near whichever coffee shop you choose) and ride through Dix Park, Pullen Park, downtown, or near NC State. If you trek through Dix, stop by Gipson Play Plaza and the House of Many Porches market.
Afternoon
Depending on where you end your ride, we’ve got lunch options with outdoor patios. If you park the bike at...
Davie and Dawson streets | Whiskey Kitchen
Hillsborough and Harrington streets | Morgan Street Food Hall or Taverna Agora
Chavis Way | Transfer Co. Food Hall
Gateway Plaza | Giorgios Epicurean Market or Snoopy’s Hot Dogs
After eating, spend the afternoon window shopping throughout downtown. We’re partial to Deco, Copperline Plant Co., and Curate for some fun finds — and we won’t tell if you sneak inside to buy a local souvenir to commemorate your outdoorsy day.
Evening
All that time outside makes you thirsty, huh? Grab a drink at one of these bars and breweries with outdoor seating — we can’t say no to a brew at Raleigh Beer Garden. Plus, this Guinness World Record-holder now has mini golf for more fun in the sun.
End your day outdoors by heading to an outdoor concert, like Live After 5, the Midtown Beach Music Series, or a show at Red Hat Amphitheater.
Workday tips
Stuck behind a screen when the weather’s nicest? Bring the laptop outdoors to one of these spots with internet and make all your coworkers jealous on calls.
