We are all for the idea of an endless summer. With the help of some of our readers, we put together a bucket list of 30 things to do in Raleigh to help you plan the perfect summer.
🚣 Outdoor adventures
- Kayak at Lake Johnson
- Downtown scooter art tour
- Sunset picnic at Dix Park
- Outdoor yoga class at the NCMA
- Watch Raleigh’s Fourth of July fireworks show
- Sunflower photoshoot at Dix Park (full bloom is mid-July)
- Take a hike at Umstead State Park
- Experience a sunset at Centennial Campus’ Lake Raleigh Recreation Area
- Zip line at TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park
- Ride an electric bike on the Greenway
🎲 Fun and games
- Play bingo at The Longleaf Lounge
- Crack codes at an escape room
- Bouldering at Triangle Rock Club
- Dance at the Architect, Ruby Deluxe, and Legends in the same night
- Mini-golf at the ParTee Shack
- Watch a movie at The Rialto Theatre
- Race go-karts at Frankie’s Fun Park
- Practice your aim at Crazy Axe
- Try out disc golf (peep these eight courses)
- Play soccer in City Plaza (micro pitch coming soon)
Bonus: More spots to play games
🍷 For the foodies
- Tropical cocktails at The Ark Royal
- Share a bottle at Short Walk Wine
- Visit three local spots during Drink Up Week (July 25-31)
- Dinner at Pooles Diner
- Grab ice cream from Fresh Local Ice Cream
- Cocktails at The Parlor at Heights House (reservations required)
- Rent a Trolley Pub with a group of friends
- Eat a reuben sandwich at Mitch’s Tavern
- A French-bistro style meal at Jolie
- Wine tasting at The Willard
For more recommendations: Check out local author Alli Hurley’s book, 100 Things to Do in Raleigh Before You Die.