The 19 best places to propose in Raleigh

Such a beautiful garden tucked into a neighborhood with free street parking and no entrance free. So many types of roses that were blooming more than how pretty it was the lovely floral smell wafting in the air was extraordinary. It had rained heavily earlier in the week damaging many of the flowers or knocking the petals off the flowers and it was still stunning. We walked around for about an hour enjoying the flowers including butterfly weed, peonies and many other flowers. On the back side of the rose garden, there is a lovely outdoor theater that I’d love to go back to see an outdoor play. This is a treasure in Raleigh and highly recommend a visit when the flowers are in bloom. Would highly recommend a visit.

Such a beautiful tucked away garden. We loved looking at all of the different types of roses. Great spot for nature photos. We went at about 2-3pm on a Sunday and it was so quiet and peaceful!

This part of my life is called " Stopping to smell the roses". The opportunity presented itself when I planned to take myself on a date for the evening to see The Color Purple at the Raleigh Little Theatre. The Rose Garden is located on the property and is a peaceful place to have lunch or take photos. A romantic date or proposal destination as well. The garden is located below the amphitheater. As soon as you arrive, you are instantly transported to an English garden. The promised land of peonies ! For those of you who don't know, pink roses are my favorite flower. This was pure bliss for me ! Be sure to spend time visiting while in the Oberlin Village area.

The rose garden is one of my favorite local gems! There are so many different species of roses that have scattered blooms throughout the spring, so you can keep coming back for more. It’s a relatively small garden but worth it because it’s free. There are some picnic tables and open grassy areas too.

This was the last week April 2025. Such a lovely array of flowers. Very serene. Not many people on a weekday after work. A great place for a short stroll, a picnic, or to read.

Beautiful, peaceful, well maintained, large garden behind the Raleigh Little Theater. Great place to relax, admire the many roses, meditate, have a picnic, etc.

Sweet little spot that is as pretty as it is serene. Wonderful place for a picnic or photo shoot. There are a couple of large grassy areas, multiple benches, and an abundance of street parking. I will likely pack up a picnic and a good book for my next visit. The garden also welcomes leashed pups.

The North Carolina Museum of Art is an outstanding cultural destination that blends art, nature, and community. The permanent collection is beautifully curated, offering a wide range of works from European classics and African art to modern and contemporary pieces. Each gallery is spacious, thoughtfully arranged, and enhanced with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. The museum park is equally impressive, with miles of walking and biking trails accented by large-scale outdoor sculptures. It provides a unique opportunity to enjoy art in a natural setting, making the museum experience extend beyond the building itself. Staff and volunteers are consistently friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming, which adds to the overall positive experience. Another highlight is that admission to the permanent collection is free, making the museum highly accessible to the public while still offering high-quality exhibitions and events. Overall, the North Carolina Museum of Art sets a high standard for museums in the region. It is a place where art and community intersect in a meaningful way, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting or living in North Carolina.

This is a beautiful art museum! And it’s free. Except for some special exhibits. But the large portion of it is free. And stunning. The building itself is beautiful and they have some wonderful pieces. I was not expecting for this place to be so big. I will be back.

This is an amazing museum and we didn’t get to explore all of it because of how huge it is. We love art so we spent about 3 hours walking around learning & looking at African American art, European art, WWII art, Christian art, and many more other powerful artistic pieces with a historical background. The museum is absolutely free to explore which is great but no food and drinks inside the place. There’s about 2-3 different buildings to go into.

The free night event was wonderful. Plenty of exhibits . A variety of mediums. A quiet ,clean friendly atmosphere and plenty of on-site parking. The special exhibit...The book of Esther was informative and well put together. The African American exhibit was full of color and very eye-catching. The various mediums (wood, wire, paper, metal)will keep a person intrigued. There are benches throughout for time to reflect or just rest. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. There is a gift shop with a variety of items for sell such as books, jewelry, artwork and trinkets. There is also a dress up photo opportunity near the book of Esther exhibit.

On Sunday I went to experience the walking trails at the NC Museum of Art, and loved it! There are so many interesting art pieces in view while walking! The paths are measured and posted in the Welcome Center area and also on the Blue Path (sponsored by BCBS). I posted an image of that map. It felt safe with families, couples, and singles all around. I ended up walking on most of the paths, and it tired me out. Luckily, I was parked in the edge by the entrance with the Reedy Creek stoplight on Blue Ridge Road. A plethora of parking there!!! So great!

I love the museum park and all the installations and sculptures. Love the landscaping too. I love the design of the west building. Not so much about the collections though. Highly recommend the museum park. There is similar museum park which is the Glenstone Museum in Maryland.

As a couple’s photographer, I love shooting at the NC Museum of Art in Raleigh. The mix of modern architecture, beautiful trails, and sculptures provides endless creative backdrops. Golden hour here is magical, with soft light perfect for intimate, romantic shots.

Great park for hiking 🥾 with a multitude of sights to see 👀. There is a waterfall of sorts near where sycamore trail enters its big loop that is a bit out of the way but a worth while trek. It has a good range of beginner and advanced trails but there could be more. Overall good and a must-visit if you are in NC

Amazing! Well marked trails, interesting history. Yes it's close to RDU and some spots you can hear the plans more then others but it's not bad. Frankly at one of the water fronts you can practically watch the plans take off. Was pretty neat. Beautiful scenery! No complaints.

This is one of the most beautiful park I have ever been to. I been there after my first time more then 50 times never get enough of this beautiful park, you need to be in shape to go there , it is a long walk and if you go biking 🚴 it take a good hours if you have a fast bike you can do it in 30 minutes if you not that fast it will be one hour to get out. It worth tt

Umstead park is a fun place to explore in Raleigh. We went with three littles. We parked and did the oak rock trail which is a .6 mile loop. Then we went to the next parking lot and took the trail that said 150 yards to Big Lake. We found a picnic table under a pavilion and ate lunch. Potts Branch trail looked fun as well. It’s a 1.3 mile loop. However, we decided to go and look for the chainsaw log art. To do this, park at the sycamore road parking lot. The trail is on your left. There are signs that lead you to the log art which is located on the Grayln multi use road. It’s about a mile trek round trip on big gravel roads. It is not a loop so once you see the log turn around and come back 😉. It’s the purple trail on the map in the picture. The chainsaw log is really cool. It’s starting to get eaten by bugs but is still cool to see.

Went to Raleigh because my wife had a work type workshop, and I had like six hours to kill. I chose to spend my whole day here and absolutely loved it. Peaceful, beautiful, and fun trails. I got lucky enough to visit when I did because I was told the carved log was being taken due to it degrading. It was still beautiful. I would love to visit the park again and do other trails I missed out on.

Free entry, the 2.8ish mile loop that starts/ends at the welcome center/ranger station has a good mix of relatively light-to-moderate terrain, and a lake to see (no area to walk around the perimeter of the lake per se). Short drive from the city center, a decent amount of parking spots, but I can see it be packed during peak hours.

A beautiful park. Undisturbed by progress or development. Many miles of trails to enjoy on your own or with your dogs. The only criticism is that due to its close proximity to RDU, there is a lot of noise from aircraft overheard, but the dogs don’t seem to mind.

I saved this location in maps to explore one day with my children and all I can say is WOW!! This park is absolutely beautiful! From the ground being well kept and fun to walk around to the different types of parks to play in based on age. We didn't get to experience the paddle boats because we arrived a little later than expected but the train and carousel were a lot of fun and only $2 a person, ya'll!! We're already looking forward to going back again soon... Thank you to all of the staff as well for being helpful and friendly when needed!

This park is so cute. You have a very cheap train ride for the kids. A nice quick loop around the water with a gorgeous fountain at the center and a couple of bridges crossing the water. There is some food and drinks too and a small playground as well. I believe they have paddle boats but only during the weekends and in good weather. Definitely a great place to go alone or with family and pets!

Pullen Park is such a charming and family-friendly spot in Raleigh! The park is beautifully maintained with scenic walking paths shaded by tall trees, plus a peaceful pond that makes for a relaxing stroll. It’s well organized and offers plenty of activities that children and adults alike will enjoy. We had planned to try the pedal boats, but since they’re only available on weekends, we opted for the train ride instead. The train was a delightful experience and a fun way to see more of the park while enjoying the breeze. Although the day was a bit too hot for us to stay long, we still had a wonderful time. On a cooler day, this would be the perfect place to spend hours enjoying the outdoors, picnicking, or simply exploring. Overall, Pullen Park is a gem in the area and a must-visit for families. We can’t wait to return! Cheers 🥂

Took my kiddos here who are 8 and 9. They did have a lot of fun. I’d say it’s geared more for younger. But they still had a blast! Road the train multiple times, played at the parks and did the carousel. We got lunch at the cafe, which everyone loved. Was very clean and well kept all over. We had fun just wondering and looking.

One of the oldest parks in Raleigh. Carousel, train, little boats to ride, Caboose, and paddle boats. Paddle boats are seasonal. Cafe with outdoor seating. Great place to spend morning or late afternoon. Nostalgia

We visit Raleigh frequently and had never been here. It was pretty crowded, but a well maintained park. We spent a couple hours here letting our kids play at the “big kid” playground and then we rode the train (only $2 a person, bought tickets online). Not sure if we would return though as my kids were a little “bored” from not having as many options to play on at the playground versus other ones but it was fun for that day!

Pullen Park is a beloved treasure in Raleigh, founded in 1887 by philanthropist Richard Stanhope Pullen, who drew inspiration from New York’s Central Park. As North Carolina’s first public park, his generous land donation created a free, welcoming space for everyone, a legacy that still thrives today. Over 150 years later, Pullen Park remains a vibrant heart of the community, where families create lasting memories. The miniature train ride, chugging through scenic paths, sparks joy in kids and adults alike, while the beautifully restored carousel spins out nostalgia with its hand-carved animals. Towering oak trees provide cool shade for picnics, playtime, or quiet moments, making it a perfect escape from summer heat. Playgrounds buzz with laughter, and winding trails invite leisurely strolls. As a Raleigh local, I feel immense pride visiting Pullen Park. It’s more than a park—it’s a living piece of our city’s history, blending nostalgia and joy. Whether you’re a family seeking fun or a visitor craving Raleigh’s charm, Pullen Park delivers warmth and wonder every time.

A beautiful garden. They are many spots and plants. Flowers, trees , beautiful paths . You can spend an hour or two to fully explore and enjoy the place . Have your water with you as they don't have anything in the store

This small arboretum is such a charmer. It’s a delightful place to take a walk and explore plants. Because it seeks to determine the viability of new introductions in our area it’s also great for professionals seeking to expand their plant palette. Besides, it has my favorite Japanese maple in the world. I was surprised to see the lathe house has been largely rebuilt, and the White Garden has a new fountain.

A FIVE STAR visit to Raleigh’s nationally acclaimed JC Raulston Arboretum, located on Beryl Road near the intersection of I-440 and Hillsborough Street. First-time visitors should use GPS to easily find Beryl Road. The stainless steel main entrance is stunning, and the meticulously maintained grounds are truly impressive. Bring snacks or a meal, take a break, and enjoy walking through one of North Carolina’s largest and most diverse collections of landscape plants! Admission is FREE, and the gardens are open 365 days a year—yes, every single day!

Went here on a Saturday morning and no line to enter, also no admittance fee! This is excellent that these beautiful gardens are open to the public. Today, there were multiple weddings hosted here and what a beautiful venue. Would we return to JC Raulston Arboretum? Absolutely yes! Plus we're going to visit every season and look into volunteering.

We stopped at the arboretum on a spring road trip and I'm so glad we did. The flowers, bushes and trees were stunning as they were beginning to grow and bloom. We got so many amazing photos and the walk was so pleasurable and the scents of some of the flowers, like the Korean Spice Viburnum were intoxicating!!! A must stop during spring and they didn't charge for admission.

I had my wedding at the arboretum, and couldn't be happier with how everything turned out. The staff is kind, professional, and helped make my wedding perfect. It also helps that the gardens are a beautiful backdrop. The Arboretum is a wonderful place to visit and explore.

Beautiful arboretum and garden place. There are some areas still under construction like the Japanese theme garden. They have a small visitor center with clean restrooms. Also, they have plants for sale at the entrance.

A beautiful place to be at with family! A sea of beautiful sunflowers in full bloom facing the sun, it was a sight to be behold. And then on the other side of field of other mixed variety of flowers. Beautiful Park, along with the hammocks between the trees and plenty of shade under the trees I loved it. It gets really hot and the best time to go would be the earliest you can. Plenty of parking and other amenities, such as bathrooms.

Dix Park is a huge area where everyone can find something to enjoy — from nature lovers to art fans, or families with kids. The park itself is beautiful, but I especially want to highlight the playground area. It’s one of the best we’ve ever seen! It’s very large and divided into sections for different age groups. The design feels like a real piece of art made for play, exercise, and discovery. My son spent an hour just in the water mill area! We were really impressed by how many different things kids can do and learn there.

I absolutely love every part of this park! They're is something for everyone!! I have been 3 times in the last 3 months. This place is perfectly crafted. The splash pad, the play area, the mirror maze, the sand pit, the water works area, the kiddie obstacle course. I love how they have kept several of the wild flower areas. The store is cute and quaint. I liked the selection of snacks they have. The Trolls are a cherry on top!! Don't walk, but run to this place and bring the whole family, young to old.

Gorgeous but caution to those who have mobility restrictions or trouble with walking up steep dirt/rocky terrain. Maybe 25-30 feet but it is the only entrance/exit to get to the tall vast area of sunflowers. Small area with short sunflowers and wildflowers in front of parking lot. Still beautiful though. Cannot use wheelchairs/walkers or any kind of vehicles up and down the steep hill.

Awesome park there is so much here. They have big fields trails hammocks flower forests. It is all amazing they have giant trolls made of wood that you go around and look at. It has great views of downtown raleigh. I definitely recommend coming to Dix Park its beautiful with plenty to do. They have a dog park playgrounds and many more. My favorite it so to have a picnic and then relax in the hammocks while enjoying the nature around you.

Dix park is very huge and has many things to do for everyone from kids to adults.recently,trolls came to dix park and found their home. They are very huge and troll-ifc 🧌 must visit with kids to know better about nature and trails are very good and kid friendly.we found 5 trolls with our kids.they had fun finding trolls and play along the way 🤩there is a map for finding the trolls easily if you are with kids and elderly.

The playgrounds and water play areas are a great escape for a summer day. The concessions in the house of many porches are priced like a theme park so bring your wallet or pack your own drinks and snacks.

The service was impeccable. Waiter was very knowledgeable about the menu and the history of the restaurant. Ambiance is on the fancier side with white table cloths and an emphasis on fine dining. The menu is varied with each dish being very complex with lots of flavors going on at once, borderline overly so. However, they are all in balance so everything still tasted good. I will note that seafood Paella was more of a jambalaya with Latin flavor profiles. But was still tasty. Definitely worth going at least once to experience the ambiance and the chef’s menu.

Best fine dining restaurant in Raleigh! My husband took me here to celebrate my birthday. The food was exquisite and the ambience was amazing. They even gave me a signed menu by the chef as a birthday gift. Truly loved the whole experience. Highly recommend it!

My family and I went there to celebrate. It was an amazing dinner. The food was so flavorful and different than any other place. The chef is very talented at combining flavors. The desserts were very unique, but very good. For example, their was a chocolate and apricot cake which I’ve never had before and it was amazing. It seemed like the chef put his own touch. Our family all ordered different dishes. The highlight of the night was definitely all of the desserts lol, the ribeye, and calamari. Also shouout to Amanda for remembering all of the dishes and specials lol 😂

Really cool restaurant with great food. Started with a 3 cheese plate. The sheep's milk blue cheese was the star of the show. They had a dinner course special of foie gras and a filet mignon. Both were paired with too many things to remember but everything paired really well together in every bite. A great balance of savory and sweet.

Our visit to Second Empire was absolutely phenomenal! Elegant Victorian house, the ambience set the tone for a perfect dinner. Every dish we tried was a masterpiece! Just amazing! Impeccable service!!! We felt like VIPs! It was our anniversary dinner and everyone at the restaurant made sure we had an excellent experience. I can’t wait to return! If you are looking for an upscale dining experience in Raleigh with unforgettable food and service, Second Empire is a must visit. Highly recommend!!!

We came to celebrate our anniversary, and the staff did several things to help us celebrate. Derek was our waiter, and he was very knowledgeable about not only the menu, but the history of the restaurant as well. Staff was very accommodating, checking in frequently but not too much. The food was delicious, and the presentation was fantastic. We started with the French onion soup and the roasted duck leg at pineapple salad. For entrees, we had grilled moroccan seasoned swordfish and the New Hampshire crabcake. Both were perfect! In addition to the delicious food, we enjoyed some of their signature drinks. To top things off, Derek gave us a tour of the home/restaurant. It was an excellent experience.

This is truly an exceptional dining experience. We enjoyed the atmosphere and the service very much. This is a special occasion restaurant. They made our 39th wedding anniversary very special!. We even had a signed menu from the chef waiting for us! Highly recommend for those special occasions!

Highly recommended. Has picnic areas and rentable room for events. Also has easy to moderate paved route suitable for walking, running, dog walking, cycling, or whatever else. The lake is beautiful and colors are amazing in the fall season. There is also possibility for fishing and kayaking. Parking is hard but there is another parking lot past the bridge. Pictures don’t do it justice!

Such a beautiful place! The lake is gorgeous and I saw three Great Blue Herons in one day. The walking trails around the lake are great, most of the path is paved and pretty wide. There is more parking on the other side of the bridge. The main lot gets fill really fast.

This park has both natural and paved trails. My favorite is the side with natural trails that include multiple trails through the more densely wooded area west of the Lake. If you take the main natural trail (Shoreline Trail) that connects to the unpaved Greenway Trail that wraps around around the north end of the Lake (boardwalk) then back to Avent Ferry Road, across the footbridge to the south parking lot, I record a distance around 2 miles. However, if you become familiar with the many secondary (unnamed) trails in the wooded area around the Shoreline Trail, one can easily garner over 2 miles in that section alone. That is what I like to do when I walk our dog on this section of trail. I like the woods, hills, nice views of the lake, and water birds. The shade on the trail is especially nice in the summer. The dog likes the paw-cooling water of the streams we walk through. The paved trail sections around the east and south part of the Lake are nice and I do enjoy them as well. All in all, Lake Johnson has nice trails that can be enjoyed by cyclists, runners, walkers, and strollers of all ages.

My favorite park in the area to walk around. There is a very nice paved trail that goes all the way around the lake. You can see the lake fro. The majority of the trail. They also have kayak rentals through a third party. I always see wildlife here including two great blue herons.

This was part of our morning walk on the Walnut Creek Trail starting from the Farmer's Market. The trail is beautiful, well maintained, and fairly flat. Our two-way 8-mile walk ended at Lake Johnson. The lake, beach, restroom, and grounds are well kept. We took a 15 minute break here to enjoy the site and view before trekking our return trip. If you haven't walked on this trail, give it try, you will enjoy it.

Recently went to Lake Johnson Park for the first time, and it was a lot nicer than I expected. The trail I went on was about 3 miles long, and the scenery was so pretty. The trail is all paved and smooth, very nice to run on. We started at the parking lot and went clockwise around the lake. Towards the end, there were many steep hills, but at the end was the beautiful bridge over the lake! I highly recommend going to Lake Johnson in the fall, where there is a slight breeze in the air and all the trees are changing colors. It was so relaxing! (PRT 220)

Such a nice getaway in the heart of Raleigh. Great balcony, lots of picnic tables, and long trail along the lake. 4 stars as they need more rocking chairs - in was there when they were having a private event and all the chairs were in their roped off section.

🌸 5-Star Review – A Hidden Gem in Raleigh! 🌸 The WRAL Azalea Garden is truly one of Raleigh’s most beautiful and peaceful spots. From the moment you step in, you’re surrounded by vibrant blooms, well-kept pathways, and a sense of calm that makes you forget you’re right in the city. The variety of azaleas, seasonal flowers, and shaded trees make it perfect for strolls, photos, or just a quiet moment of reflection. It’s also incredibly clean and well-maintained — a clear sign that the caretakers put a lot of love and effort into preserving its beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, this garden is a must-visit. The WRAL Azalea Garden is not just a place to see flowers — it’s a place to breathe, recharge, and appreciate nature’s art. 🌺💐

I had a wonderful experience visiting WRAL Azalea Park last weekend with my family. It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot that’s open to everyone with no entry fee, which is a big plus! There’s ample parking available, making it very convenient. The park is best known for its gorgeous landscaped gardens filled with vibrant azalea plants and a variety of other colorful flowers. It’s a great place for a relaxing stroll, family outing, or even just some quiet time in nature. Everything was well-maintained and clean. Highly recommend visiting during bloom season—it's truly a hidden gem in Raleigh!

July 2025 I went about 2 weeks and I enjoyed myself there. Very pretty and both sides. I almost missed on the other half of the garden! The day I went I witnessed 2 photoshoots. One appeared to be maybe an anniversary/ wedding announcement and a graduation.

I went to the WRAL Azalea Garden in early October with a few of my classmates and it was really beautiful. Many of the flowers were still in bloom and stood out brightly against all the green. The garden is well maintained, and the paths make it easy to explore and take everything in. It’s a peaceful spot that feels tucked away from the noise of the city, even though it’s right in town. It’s a great place to relax, take photos, or just enjoy a quiet walk. I’d definitely recommend visiting, especially in the spring or early fall when everything is in bloom.

I happened to come when nearly all the azaleas were past blooming. However, the gardens were still delightful with many other flowers in bloom and sculptural shrubs and trees of many kinds. Plus, the pathways are shaded by towering trees in many areas. This is very important in the heat of a southern state in late spring. I will certainly return in different seasons.

This was the second week of April 2025. Lots of free parking. Very beautiful. It was busy but the size of the place made it not feel crowded. There are restrooms. They are constructing another portion which is going to make this place even better.

Went here for a class project, but really did end up enjoying the experience. I had not heard of the Garden before going and I’m glad I know it is there now

Love this trail, its beautiful, quiet, and very long (27.5 Miles!) so you are not just walking in circles. It runs along the scenic Neuse River and connects to several auxiliary trails as well. Next time, I want to try kayaking!

Awesome trail. Easy access. Well marked. Both bike and pedestrian friendly. Miles of trails to access so you can go for as long or little as you like. Scenery along the river is beautiful. Looking forward to exploring more miles of the trails.

This is a great trail for all. Cycling, running, walking everything is possible. Not difficult. Picnic places are available. Trail is pretty much shaded with trees on the both sides. Certainly recommend this trail.

Lovely easy trail. The scenic views along the trail are well worth the visit. I would definitely revisit!

Nice river with a trail to walk or ride a bike. There are areas with access to the water to go fishing or take a few pics!!

Great bike trail to walk. Like the forest more

Love the trail and the access to the river itself. Very nice indeed!

I've heard about this place from TV and word of mouth. I tried to make a dinner reservation online but the website seemed to block typical dinner hours or their reservation was completely filled up far in advance. In any case, I've decided to try the lounge which opens at 3 and it's first come first serve. This place had great atmosphere. The decoration was unique. Totally southern barnyard feel. We ordered tomahawk ($95) and beef ribs ($40). In many reviews, people complained about their overprices, but considering the crazy inflation of beef prices these days, I thought their price was not unreasonable. However, the taste and quality of steaks were not as good as it looked. The meat was rather tough and bit dry. Unfortunately I cannot give more than 3 stars for that reason. It was a shame. I had a high expectation.

An amazing place!! From the cheese and crackers to the crudités platter to the juicy shrimp cocktail to the scrumptious filet mignon to dessert, the food was delicious! Jake was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. His sense of humor helped us relax and enjoy our meal and family time! The decorations were exceptional! It is a little pricey, but well worth it!

Visited for the first time this past Labor Day weekend. I got the surf and turf which was recommended by the server. The food was good, just slightly overcooked in most of the dishes. Something I normally don't mind, but given the price point it is of mention. I would come back as the environment is enjoyable and we did enjoy the appetizers and such. Thank you.

Awesome vibes- it truly does feel like a barn but they treat you to specular food and great portions. Even with a huge party, we had outstanding service and everything was delicious. Great spot for good meat!

Came to the angus barn for an event and man I couldn’t believe how good it was. Our event was held in the Wine Cellar, a lot intimate space for <50 people. Plated meal with an awesome Filet with bourbon sauce. Did not have choice of how it was cooked but I didn’t mind. I like a more rare steak and this was medium rare cooked to near perfection. Outstanding service by the team and worth the time to spend. Would consider this environment and service for a small rehearsal dinner or corporate dinner any day of the week. Restored by interest in coming back to dine in main dining room.

We have a fabulous time every time we visit! I recommend coming early so you can enjoy the bar space out front before your reservation. They have complimentary cheese and crackers and it is a fun space to hang out in all weather. I'm vegetarian, but I get plenty to eat here. They have two pasta choices. All of the staff is helpful and nice! The decorations and many dining rooms are so interesting and they are so fun when they are decorated for Christmas!

It was great. Wonderful service, very professional servers who seem trained in fine dining. The vibe is very "fancy farmhouse/cabin/rustic" which is a style choice I generally dislike, however this is cozy and clean and it works well for what it is. The restaurant is huge. We asked and they said they can seat up to 800 people at a time. That's wild. The inside floor has brick and the parking lot isn't smooth, just a heads up for other thin pointy high heel girlies, this isn't the spot to wear stilettos. Dress code is all over, button down and jeans or full suit, either way you'll fit in just fine. I did like that everyone tried to look nice but it's not overly formal unless you're really in the mood for that. The way they present Desserts is interesting, they show you almost all of the options. The service was phenomenal, that was my favorite part.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh is an absolute gem and a must-visit! When we went, they were hosting a special blue whale exhibition, and it was jaw-dropping. Seeing the enormous skeleton up close for the first time was unforgettable—it really gave us perspective on how massive and magnificent these ocean giants are. The museum has plenty more to explore, too. We loved roaming through the dinosaur exhibit, where life-sized displays and fascinating details bring prehistoric times to life. Standing next to those towering models was both humbling and exciting. One of the best parts is that general admission is donation-based, so you can explore the museum at no set cost, making it accessible for everyone. If you’d like to add something extra, they also offer 3D movies at a very reasonable price: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, students, and military with ID, $4 for children, and $3 for members. It’s a fun way to dive deeper into science and nature. Overall, our visit was fascinating, family-friendly, and inspiring. We’ll definitely return to see future exhibits and enjoy more of what this incredible museum has to offer. Cheers! 🥂

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the best science museum we’ve ever visited! The first thing that impressed me was that the entire main area is free — no tickets are needed to explore all four floors. You only need to buy tickets for special exhibitions or movies. I’ve never seen such a wonderful free science museum before! Out of appreciation, I bought tickets for all three movies and the Blue Whales exhibit for three people — and even with that, it wasn’t expensive at all, just a little over $90. The museum is so diverse and interesting that we spent the whole day there and still didn’t see everything. You definitely need at least two days to explore it fully. There’s a café on the 4th floor that was full of visitors. The menu doesn’t really offer much for healthy eaters, so we skipped it, but it’s a great spot for a quick snack, especially for kids. On the 4th floor there’s also a bridge that connects to another building of the museum — it opens up to a huge laboratory area that was amazing to see. We’re still impressed! The museum has two gift shop areas, but honestly, the museum itself is much more exciting and full of variety than the shops. There are restrooms on every floor, plus escalators and elevators, so it’s accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is an amazing place to visit. There are so many interesting exhibits for both kids and adults, and the best part is that admission is completely free! The museum is clean, well organized, and full of fascinating displays about nature and science. Parking is also free on weekends, which makes it even better. Highly recommend for a family visit or a weekend trip!

The Raleigh Science Center is an amazing place for all ages! It’s packed with interactive exhibits that make learning fun and hands on. Right now, they have an incredible Blue Whale exhibit that’s definitely worth seeing. Whether you’re into space, biology, or technology, there’s something exciting to explore. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help or answer questions. I especially loved the planetarium shows truly out of this world! Highly recommend visitors to Raleigh to stop by and boost their experience while you’re in town. Perfect for family trips or a fun day out with friends!

Such an amazing place! It’s still a great time as an adult visiting with no kids so don’t shy away! Make sure you grab a map though, because this is a whole experience. There is loads to see and do here, so set aside 3-4 hours to fully go through the museum. It’s four stories, and two sides as well so work your way up one side and come down the other so as to not dart back and forth. Overall, I think you end up walking close to two miles so comfortable shoes are a must. There is so much care put into the exhibits and the science and working labs are just amazing to see. The gem and mineral section can’t be missed, the stones are GORGEOUS. This is a must if you’re interested at all in natural science. Loads of fossils, great explanations, and best of all it’s free!

Can't recommend this museum enough! Adults and kids found it engaging and could have spent many more hours there! Free entrance, family friendly, capitulating exhibits felt like a tour across NC. There's so much to explore! The discovery room was a great hit with the kids. The dinosaur lab was also special, paleontologist entertained all sorts of questions♥️

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is seriously one of my favorite spots in Raleigh. It’s an awesome mix of fun, learning, and just pure wonder—and the best part? General admission is free! The exhibits are super well done and cover a ton of different topics. You can check out towering dinosaur skeletons, see the gigantic skeleton of a blue whale, wander through realistic habitat displays, and even watch live scientists do their thing in the research labs upstairs. The butterfly conservatory feels like stepping into another world—it's warm and tropical, and there are so many colorful butterflies that sometimes one will land right on you! You can tell the staff and volunteers really love what they do. Everyone I talked to was friendly, super knowledgeable, and excited to share cool info. There’s a lot for kids to do, but it’s just as fun for adults. You can take your time exploring without feeling rushed, and there are plenty of quiet spots to just chill and soak it all in. If you’re in Raleigh or nearby, this museum is a must-visit. Whether you’re into science, looking for a fun family day, or just curious about nature, you’ll leave amazed—and probably already thinking about your next trip back!

I absolutely loved our meal and service at Sullivan's Steakhouse! We came for restaurant week and it was amazing. The meal included a starter, entree and dessert per person which was great for the price. Our waitress Shannon was excellent and very attentive. She made sure we had everything we needed and our drinks were always full. Can't wait to go back!

Sullivan’s Steakhouse in Raleigh is a beautiful and upscale restaurant that delivers a truly memorable dining experience. The atmosphere feels polished and inviting, with a lively yet comfortable vibe. Valet parking made arriving easy and the staff was warm and welcoming from the start. Everything felt well maintained and the bathrooms were clean. I ordered the porter steak with a lobster tail and it was outstanding. The steak was perfectly cooked and the lobster was rich and flavorful. The bread served before the meal was also fresh and delicious. Seating near the bar was a bit chilly during my visit, but when seated closer to the kitchen area it was pleasantly warmer. While Sullivan’s is very expensive, the quality of the food, the attentive service, and the elegant setting make it worth the splurge. It is the kind of place that is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an unforgettable night out. I would gladly return for another meal and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates excellent steak and seafood in a refined environment.

My son and I returned to the restaurant by invitation from Kayla Kruez the general manager to make up for a previously dinning experience. My recent visit more than made up for it. We could not have asked for a nicer, more calm and relaxing dinning experience. The service by Ryan, our server was top notch, the food was absolutely amazing, and the view from our table was stunning. The Sullivan's staff and managers Ian and Kayla went above and beyond to make sure we had one of the best dinning experiences of our lives. I look forward to dinning hear with my family for years to come. Thank you Kayla, Ian, Ryan, and the rest of the Sullivan team for such a wonderful experience!!!!

Made a reservation for a birthday dinner. Came early and sat in the bar. Excellent service and atmosphere in the bar! Had some appetizers and some drinks. We tried the caviar deviled eggs, beef wellington bites, and tuna poke. Literally 5 tiny eggs of caviar on the deviled eggs, not enough to even taste it. The other two were tasty. Beautiful presentation on the drinks. Finally was seated, next to the loud kitchen, in booths that definitely need to be replaced. Absolutely NO cushion at all. We ordered a cajun ribeye with family style sides and my brother got a house cut ribeye. When the staff delivered to the table they gave us the wrong steaks, which we did not realize until 1/4 way through. When the manager came by he did not offer to replace or discount or anything. Their solution was to bring more chili oil to put on the wrong steak that was served covered in house steak sauce. Our steak was not cooked to temperature and the best part of the ribeye was burnt… which is a far cry from medium rare. Disappointing service from management. The lobster mac and cheese was not worth the price either. Chef just threw lobster on top of precooked mac/cheese. The best part of the night was our server Robin. She was exceptional. Other than that, for this price point, you are better off at Capital Grill.

We came here to celebrate our anniversary. It was a romantic restaurant with excellent service and really fantastic food. They had a happy anniversary card on the table and some rose petals, a very nice reception! One of my favorite points was that I did not feel rushed at all. It was a very leisurely dinner (several hours), and we got to really enjoy each other's company. The server was very friendly and helpful but left us to ourselves as appropriate. The food was better quality and presentation than we have had in a long time. The beef wellington bites were exceptional, and the cocktail options were interesting and creative. I got the lavender limoncello martini, my husband the wagyu old fashioned, both were fun and super tasty! We leisurely worked through our four-course meal, enjoying delicious house-made salad dressings and expertly cooked steaks. The salt crusted baked potato loaded with goodies was a real treat! It's a nice bonus that they offer several complimentary sauces for your steak as well. My husband's steak, the cowboy ribeye, was exactly what he wanted and cooked exactly as he requested. Most restaurants do not live up to his expectations of steak! Our server, Shannon, was excellent! She let us move at the pace we wanted and took her time and thought to help us choose the wine we desired, which turned out to be a perfect bottle for us. She was friendly, interactive, and recommended the perfect items for what we described. We would be very happy to return to Sullivan's and have Shannon wait on us!

This was our first time dining here and it was a very good experience for us. Shannon our waitress was very attentive and wonderful! She helped us through the menu and ordering and we were thankful for that! Great ambience, music and atmosphere! Food came hot and accurate! Most importantly, it was mouthwatering goodness! Definitely coming back for more!

So we had a really good time Paul was amazing. He worked so hard. I don’t know why the other bartender in this picture didn’t work so hard but you know that’s what happens with these millennials today just kidding. That place was fantastic. No one danced on the bar, I was kind of hoping for that but didn’t know this is our sixth or seventh time here so I have to say this wasn’t the best time I’ve had here, but it was almost the best time. Our dog loves the big Tomahawk steak bone

So much history here! It was interesting to learn that some of the buildings were moved from their original locations and placed in the park to preserve them. Definitely recommend walking through and learning about everything this park has to offer!

A tiny yet lovely park. Didn't see the ghosty old lady hanging around the house! There's a humble small house where the 17th president, Andrew Johnson, was born.

Such a cool experience! We came from Utah to visit Raleigh, and I was hoping for a unique southern experience and we definitely got it here! Very cool way to learn about the history of this city. Our guide was fantastic, she was a young woman with glasses and a nose ring (she was really excited about some dishes found by the gardeners earlier that day), I wish I could remember her name, but she really made the experience so much better with her absolute love and passion for history! She should get a raise. Would definitely recommend coming here!

Great guided tour of the grounds and buildings with early history of NC and our country! Seniors are only $4 each.

Hats off to the City of Raleigh for keeping the history of the city alive through the buildings, exhibits, and displays here at Mordecai Historic Park. Plenty to see here, kid-friendly, great location, plenty of parking. I’d recommend at least 2-3 hours to see everything. Lots of neat local history. Definitely check out Andrew Johnson’s birth house, very interesting stuff. Highly recommend for anyone interested in history!

The staff were extremely knowledgeable about the history. We learned a lot. The estate and the artifacts are preserved in really good shapes. It wasn't busy when we arrived and we got a nice and very detailed tour of the entire place. You should definitely think about taking a tour. The garden behind the kitchen was so lovely with many flowers and plants.

The park is beautiful! It's a great place just to walk around. We had an amazing educator in Erin whose love for history shone through in her tour. I was disappointed that we weren't able to see inside some of the buildings; they were closed for safety reasons or had been converted to storage spaces.

It was amazing. I'm in a powered wheelchair and there were a couple of places to go down the path because of the leaves making it hard to steer going down. The place is beautifulfrom views to wildlife. Very peaceful even with so much traffic near by.

Dear Neighbor, My sister invited me to walk with her at this lake and I wasn't disappointed. Mother Nature at her best and absolutely gorgeous! The scenery makes the time go by and of course, chatting with a friend or friends. I saw plenty of dog walkers, co workers, families with children and even elderly couples getting their steps in. Everyone was friendly, some did the acknowledgement thing and most kept to themselves. There was one guy playing music on his speaker for the world to hear (I guess there's always one of those). Some of the paths looked like I was walking through a jungle but with a paved path. Nothing like hearing rustling through the trees to get your blood circulating quicker to your feet (it may even be a good place to practice your horror film running)!! Basically what I'm saying is, goo already! It'll motivate you to walk and run and exercise and enjoy nature and scenery, all at the same time! Then, then, come back and tell us about it (us. The people on the internet. Duh). Have fun! - Ruthie

Really beautiful place to take a nice walk. Love that it's paved which makes it accessable for our daughter's wheelchair. There were other greenways connecting to the main loop around the park, and the main loop is a really easy walk with pretty scenery. We saw tons of deer and squirrels, and even took pictures of a bald eagle. We went in November. It was 66 degrees out, but the shade made it feel cooler than it actually was. Gorgeous fall leaves even after the peak, and I'm certain this will become one of our go-to places for getting our steps in.

Great place to walk; it's nice, peaceful, and spacious, you're not always walking right behind someone or someone is right behind you, but if so people are good about speedwalking by you real quick or you can speedwalk by someone real quick and have some space again. I also like how there's plenty of benches and picnic tables scattered about if you have to take a break.

Beautiful park with lake view. A great place to take a stroll or just sit on a bench and enjoy the scenery.

Such a beautiful well maintained park. The bathrooms are also very nice for park bathrooms!

Lovely park with plenty of parking and a few trails, you would. It feels very safe and very well kept and clean

I found the trails really nice to walk with your family, friends or just with your dogs. It’s a 45 minutes trail. Maybe more or less, depending the way you take. It’s safe(I didn’t see wild animals, snakes etc) and you have a nice lake where you can see some ducks, birds and turtles. There are some streams too. Parking close to the lake and you can rent a hut/cabin or just bring your hammock and have a relaxing nap close to the lake. You can also find a park with games for kids and fishing area. It’s a

I love the trail around the lake. Beautiful park, awesome ACTUAL hiking trails (no asphalt sidewalks), plenty of shade, just an all around good walk.

My young daughter, small dog and I went for a good walk on the trails that were scenic and clearly marked. Also stopped at the play ground which was small but fun! The park has a public bathroom which is a HUGE bonus. And even though it was January we got to see some cool plants and a few forms of wild life.

A great place for a quick hike after I drop my kid off at the local school. Trails are well shaded and maintained. I have seen a few deer and li

Now this is a way to be with nature. To just walk around and see the lake, etc. was peaceful. My kids really enjoyed that so much that they didn't even care about going to the park that was there. As you walk the trails, the trees will be marked with a colored diamond (each trail has a different color). But the walk was gorgeous with the fall leaves. Will definitely come back especially to see how it looks during the warmer months.

A lovely place with easy parking, not many people, walking trails, plenty of seating options and beautiful views.

Lots of variation in landscape along the trails. Very peaceful.

I recently visited this restaurant and was impressed by the overall atmosphere. It was very clean, welcoming, and had a great vibe. Our waitress was friendly and provided great service. The view was beautiful, and I loved that you have the option to dine inside or enjoy the rooftop seating. As for the food, it was a bit of a mixed experience. The cedar chicken salad was a little chewy, and the seasoning was quite overpowering. The chocolate torte dessert also had a strong flavor—more like thick chocolate pudding than a traditional dessert. However, the fries were tasty (though a bit salty), and the hamburger was absolutely delicious! One downside was the wait time for drink refills. It could take up to 30 minutes, depending on how many servers were available that day. Despite that, I’m definitely open to giving it a second chance. The atmosphere and some of the food were worth coming back for.

Super cute spot for the girlies to meet up from some rooftop cocktails but I went with hubby for my bday lunch moment. Nice vibes, very windy so don’t wear dresses or hats and Be mindful of your hair but overall I’d be back! Drinks were yummy.

Atmosphere was superb and the food was delicious. I had the bbq bacon burger and the ginger island drink. The drink was a little watered down though. I wish there was more food option but besides that everything about this place is amazing. It's more of a lounge vs a restaurant. It was a little difficult to find at first bc it's located inside a hotel on the 7th floor. I would definitely be back. However, parking can be a hassle.

I recently hosted a party of six at the Willard Rooftop Lounge, and I can honestly say it was one of the most memorable evenings we’ve had in a long time. From the moment we arrived, the ambiance was nothing short of stunning, elevated views of the city, warm lighting, and a vibe that made you want to settle in and stay awhile. But what truly made the night exceptional was our server, Eric, easily recognizable by his signature mustache and unforgettable energy. Eric was phenomenal from start to finish. He guided us through the menu with enthusiasm, kept the drinks flowing smoothly, and somehow managed to make every one of us feel like VIPs. His recommendations on the adult beverages were spot-on, and the flatbreads and burgers were absolutely next-level, flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. On top of all that, Eric graciously took group photos for us when we asked. He didn’t just snap a shot; he picked fantastic backgrounds and angles that made the memories even more special. It was a night of fellowship, food, and fun, and Eric played a huge part in that. The Willard Rooftop Lounge is a true must visit in the city, and if you're lucky enough to have Eric as your server, you're in for a 10/10 experience. We’ll definitely be back whenever we're in town!

A great spot to dive and enjoy views of downtown Raleigh. Food was amazing. I had the barbecue bacon burger which was delicious and even the fries were cooked to perfection. Prices were not terrible and the views were spectacular. We will definitely be returning.

Amazing drinks and food . We had a group of 4 and each had a cocktail off the menu and some sharable appetizers and that was plenty of food for a light lunch . The view is beautiful from the roof top day or night . The tall steeples and sky high buildings are a work of art to see high in the sky . I highly recommend this place. Yes it's pricey , but it's so worth it 😁

Amber is amazing and she makes me and my boyfriend’s experience here 10 times better every time we come. The food is amazing and the service is even better. This will forever be our favorite spot. Oh, and the views are immaculate