About Raleigh
Raleigh is the capital city of the U.S. state of North Carolina. It is the second-most populous city in the state, tenth most populous city in the Southeast, the largest city in the Research Triangle area, and the 39th-most populous city in the U.S. Known as the "City of Oaks" for its oak-lined streets, Raleigh covers 148.54 square miles (384.7 km2) and had a population of 467,665 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Wake County and is named after Sir Walter Raleigh, who founded the lost Roanoke Colony.
Places to visit in Raleigh
-
North Carolina Museum of Art
Museum · 4 mi from centreA light-filled museum with European, American and African art and an extensive outdoor sculpture park with trails, all free to enter outside special exhibitions. The park suits picnics.
-
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
MuseumA large downtown science museum with dinosaur fossils, live animals and a research wing where visitors can watch scientists at work, with free general admission.
-
North Carolina State Capitol
LandmarkA Greek Revival capitol from the nineteenth century, with restored legislative chambers and monuments around Union Square in the heart of downtown. Free guided tours run on many days of the week.
-
Pullen Park
Park · 1 mi from centreA family-friendly park near N.C. State University with a historic carousel, a miniature train and pedal boats on a small lake. It is ideal for young children and makes a pleasant picnic stop.
-
William B. Umstead State Park
Nature · 10 mi from centreWooded trails, creeks and lakes between Raleigh and Durham, a popular place for hiking, mountain biking and canoeing close to the city. It is right next to the airport, handy for a layover walk.
-
JC Raulston Arboretum
Park · 3 mi from centreA university-run garden showcasing a wide range of plants suited to the Southeast, with themed garden rooms that are free to explore. It is a favorite with local gardeners seeking ideas.
-
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Park · 22 mi from centreOn the Duke University campus in Durham, terraced gardens, a pond and Asian and native plant collections make a lovely half-day trip from Raleigh. Entry is free.
Best time to visit Raleigh
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Raleigh is October, when average daytime highs are around 71°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Raleigh weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 68° 46° 0%
- Thu 22 Oct 72° 51° 0%
- Fri 23 Oct 69° 52° 0%
- Sat 24 Oct 67° 50° 0%
- Sun 25 Oct 69° 49° 0%
- Mon 26 Oct 72° 53° 0%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/New_YorkUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Raleigh
These are the airports closest to central Raleigh. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- RDU Raleigh–Durham International Airport11 mi (17 km) from the city centre
Getting around Raleigh
Within the I-440 Beltline are mostly fashionable older neighborhoods and the NC State University area. The North Raleigh neighborhoods are aligned along the "spokes of the wheel"—major thoroughfares emanating from the I-440 loop and passing through the northern edge of the much larger I-540 loop.
By bus
For information on routes, schedules and fares, check GoTriangle.org, for a helpful trip planner.
By taxi
There are 36 licensed taxi operators in Raleigh of varying quality. Spanish speakers will appreciate Amigo taxi ☏ +1 919-862-6162.
Raleigh travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Raleigh?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Raleigh is October, when average daytime highs are around 71°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
What is the weather like in Raleigh?
July is usually the warmest month in Raleigh, with average highs of 90°F (32°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 32°F (-0°C). The wettest month is typically July, with about 208 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Raleigh?
Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU) is the closest airport, about 11 miles (17 km) from the centre of Raleigh.
What time zone is Raleigh in?
Raleigh uses the America/New_York time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Raleigh?
Within the I-440 Beltline are mostly fashionable older neighborhoods and the NC State University area. The North Raleigh neighborhoods are aligned along the "spokes of the wheel"—major thoroughfares emanating from the I-440 loop and passing through the northern edge of the much larger I-540 loop.
What are the best places to visit in Raleigh?
Top sights in Raleigh include North Carolina Museum of Art, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, North Carolina State Capitol and Pullen Park. A light-filled museum with European, American and African art and an extensive outdoor sculpture park with trails, all free to enter outside special exhibitions. The park suits picnics.
