Raleigh’s summer 2022 bucket list

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The sunflower field in full bloom at Dix Park. | Photo by RALtoday

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 .

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Catherine (Cat) is a Chesapeake, VA native who moved to Raleigh, NC in 2017. With a background in journalism, marketing, and PR, she has created digital content for over eight years. When she isn’t writing or journaling, she enjoys spending time with her family, walking her dog Tucker to the NCMA, grabbing lattes from local coffee shops, and connecting with local business owners.