The kids on the tour with me were just as fascinated by the fossils as I was. | Photo by RALtoday
Museums are the cultural hubs of Raleigh — we’re known as the Smithsonian of the South, and for good reason. We’ve got 17 museums to visit here in Oak City.
City of Raleigh Museum | The City of Raleigh Museum preserves the capital city’s unique history. Exhibits include a general history of Raleigh and an overview of the local political scene, as well as ever-changing galleries.
Raleigh Fire Museum | Open every second Saturday, this museum preserves the firefighting history of the City of Oaks. Plus, visit antique fire engines housed across the city, owned by the museum and the City of Raleigh Fire Department.
This bell is the oldest artifact of the Raleigh Fire Department and was installed at City Hall in 1870.
Photo by RALtoday
NC Museum of Natural Sciences | This is the largest science museum in the Southeast and oldest established museum in NC. Check out larger-than-life dinosaur fossils and learn about everything the Earth has to offer. Pro tip: Be sure to try the Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit, a a live paleontology project.
Mahjong at Sunset: A Beginner Series | Tuesday, May 13-Thursday, May 15 | 6-9 p.m. | Home for Entertaining, Cary | $225 | This three-part Mahjong series will be taught by a expert with 25 years of experience under her belt and is fit for beginners.
Wednesday, May 14
Spring Wellness Wednesday | 6-7 p.m. | North Hills | $6 | Get your move on with this weekly event — this week, stretch it out with Dose Yoga.
Wednesday Night Music Bingo | 7-10 p.m. | Wolfe & Porter | Free | Test your music knowledge + compete for prizes like Wolfe & Porter gift certificates.
In honor of Great Outdoors Month, Columbia’s natural beauty is calling — whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun. | Photos provided by Experience Columbia SC
Pack your bags for a road trip to Columbia, SC this summer, when the city’s natural playground invites explorers of all ages to celebrate Great Outdoors Month in June.
From lush forests to sparkling lake shores, here are four can’t-miss ways to make the most of your outdoor adventure in this capital city:
Explore the old‑growth forest
Walk along elevated boardwalks situated beneath towering loblolly pines and bald cypresses in Congaree National Park. Keep an eye out for playful squirrels, migrating warblers, and the park’s famous swamp lilies in bloom.
Bask in sparkling waters
Whether you’re casting a line from a shaded pier, renting a boat for a day on the water, or simply soaking up the sun on the shore, Lake Murray encompasses spring serenity.
Float down the river
For a splashy afternoon, grab an inner tube and drift beneath leafy canopies on the Saluda River. Gentle currents and scenic vistas make for the perfect adventure. Pro tip: Check out this guide for more river fun.
Camp under the stars
Pitch your tent on one of three serene islands in Lake Murray. Then, enjoy evening campfires, wildlife sightings, and epic sunrises over the water.
No matter which option you choose, Columbia’s great outdoors awaits — ready to inspire, refresh, and connect you with nature all month long.
ICYMI, local coffee shop Lucky Tree is opening a new branch at Moore Square, and it’s celebrating with a grand opening this Saturday, May 17. Expect free samples, live music, and collaborative art to celebrate.
Sports
The Canes face Washington tonight at home, and if you’re going, like one of your City Editors, you’ll probably face a barrage of traffic cones before you enter the Lenovo Center. The News & Observer learned more about just how traffic works at the arena — give it a read.
Announced
Home Run Derby X will be coming to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park on Aug. 9, and so will MLB legends and stars from Duke, UNC, and NC State. Join the waitlist to get tickets as soon as they go on sale.
Ranked
Herons at the Umstead in Cary was ranked as one of the top brunch spots in the nation, according to OpenTable. The Forbes Five-Star restaurant offers specialties like a spring hot pot, steak + eggs, and crab cake Benedict as part of its brunch service. (The News & Observer)
Mansion Monday
This North Ridge home knows how to make an entrance — and the stunning front door is just the start. This eclectic yet refined limewashed brick home includes huge windows, built-in bookcases, and a warm + inviting interior. This six-bed, four-bath home can be yours for just short of $3 million.
Cause
Your neighbors are in need of clothes for summer, and Food Not Bombs has three Raleigh donation spots for socks, shoes, new underwear, and summery attire. Visit Clouds Brewing, Union Special, or Foot Not Bombs’ Moore Square distribution area to donate.
Weather
The City of Raleigh will distribute NOAA weather radios at upcoming events that offer alerts on adverse weather events. Grab yours at the Southeast Raleigh YMCA this Saturday, May 17 or at Green Road Park on June 28.
Outdoors
Serenity — the new award-winning community in Fuquay Varina — is hosting a Homes & Gardens event on Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The public is invited to enjoy food trucks, live music, DIY gardening workshops, home tours + more.*
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings in the city. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event coming soon to Raleigh.
Drink
Maximize hydration and relaxation when you try Antivdote’s THC-infused electrolytes. They’re third party tested + come in three delicious flavors. Use code 6AMCITY20 for 20% off your order.†*
A cotton wrap dress that boasts an elegant halter neckline and chic wrapping at the waist. We love it for summer grill outs, casual afternoons by the beach, and warm weather weekend hangouts.
Speaking of museums, I visited the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts while in Richmond and was stunned by their collection. I loved their sculpture garden and the limited-time Frida Kahlo exhibit — it’s only a two-and-a-half hour drive, and I wouldn’t miss it.
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