great day trips from raleigh nc

15 Fun Day Trips from Raleigh NC (within a 2-hour drive)

While we love Raleigh and all its glorious attractions, we also love its position in East-Central NC, because it means there are so many options you can take as day trips from Raleigh .

There are so many great getaways you can take from Raleigh, whether you desire a beach break, a foodie paradise, or somewhere historic and full of cultural immersion.

We love living in Raleigh and always find it hard to leave, but if you’ve followed us for a while you know we’re globetrotting travelers at heart, so we also love a short getaway as much as anyone!

We’ve taken many day trips and getaways to explore other interesting places in North Carolina, and so we have listed some of our personal favorite destinations that you can visit in under 2 hours drive from Raleigh.

Best Day Trips From Raleigh NC

We also have a podcast episode on our top five day trips mentioned in this guide, which you’ll find it at the bottom of the post.

1. Wilmington

• Drive time from Raleigh: 2 hours
• Distance: 129.4 miles (208.2 km)

A two hour drive straight down I-40 brings you to the charming port city of Wilmington, NC. Ever since we first moved to Raleigh in 2004, Wilmington has been one of our favorite getaways from Raleigh because it offers something for everyone.

Located on the Cape Fear River, Historic Downtown Wilmington is one of the oldest cities on the east coast with plenty of historical attractions, funky breweries, speakeasies and wine bars, farm-to-table restaurants, galleries, museums, and Victorian-era homes and gardens to explore.

You could say that Wilmington is like a mini version of Savannah and Charleston. 

This city is very walkable and just wandering around town is a great way to take in the pulse of the city.

When you arrive, I suggest grabbing a coffee from the cool local cafe, Bespoke Cafe , they will fuel you up for the day ahead. 

Suggested Activities:

• Stroll the 2 mile scenic Riverwalk and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Cape Fear River. Stop in at markets, unique boutiques, art galleries and locally owned cafés and restaurants.
• Explore the area’s historic roots on a horse-drawn carriage ride of downtown. 
• Visit some of the finest examples of historic antebellum architecture at the Bellamy Mansion , built on the eve of the Civil War.
• Explore The World War II Battleship NORTH CAROLINA , named one of the “Best Museum Ships” by USA TODAY.
• End your day with drinks/dinner whilst taking in sunset at one of the fantastic restaurants along the Riverwalk such as Elijah’s , Pilot House or The George . 
• Explore Wilmington’s 16 breweries on a self-guided brewery tasting tour along the Wilmington Ale Trail. 
• Airlie Gardens , one of the premier gardens in the South and home to the famous nearly 500-year-old Airlie Oak.
• Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park features a waterpark with a wave pool, speed slides and lazy river
• Sip on classic cocktails at The Blind Elephant, a 1920’s Prohibition speakeasy tucked away in a hidden alley. 
• Local musicians frequently play on the back deck at Ogden Tap Room , a family-friendly restaurant with 40 beers on tap and a lawn.
• Cape Fear Riverboats offer daily, narrated one-hour sightseeing tours from March through October.

Read more : Guide on best things to do in Wilmington NC and read more about Wilmington in our suggestions for easy spring break destinations from Raleigh.

2. Wrightsville Beach

• Distance : 131.6 miles (211.7 km)

We’re beach people and we know a good beach town when we see one, and Wrightsville Beach is our favorite of the beach towns in North Carolina.

Although famous for its beach, the town has a lot more going for it than just sand and ocean!

Again, it’s an easy 2 hour drive straight down I-40 and Wrightsville is right right next door to Wilmington (12-miles from downtown).

You could combine it with ½ a day in Wilmington and ½ a day in Wrightsville, but I believe there’s plenty to do in each location to warrant a full day in each.

Wrightsville Beach is a sandy barrier island only 4-miles long and 1,000 – 5,000 feet wide.

It presents the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the calmer waters of the intracoastal waterway on the other.

It has everything we love about a beach and island life – beautiful shoreline, laid back vibe, surf culture, cafes, jaw dropping sunrises and sunsets, and fresh, delicious seafood.

When summer comes, this is one of our most popular Raleigh day trips since we love the beach!

Suggested activities:

• Start your day with an excellent coffee at the cool local cafe, SUNdays, located above the surf shop opposite Crystal Pier. Alternative coffee spot is The Workshop .
• Walk over from SUNdays to Crystal Pier for beautiful views of the beachfront, go for a swim, play in the sand, read a book. 
• Adapt Kitchen & Juice Bar has the tastiest, most diversely nutritious smoothie bowls.
• Lunch at Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill . Popular place to eat for the locals. Other options include Shark Bar & Kitchen , Poe’s Tavern , South Beach Grille .
• Beach Time at Johnny Mercer’s Pier (the only concrete fishing pier in the state of North Carolina and extends more than 1,200 feet into the Atlantic) or at the Crystal Pier section!
• Go kayaking or paddle boarding through the salt marshes on a guided tour with Wrightsville SUP .
• Wrightsville Beach Brewery for great beers and pub food.
• Lighthouse Beer & Wine – one stop shop with dog-friendly Beer Garden
• Enjoy sundowner drinks at the bar on Crystal Pier.
• Watch the sunset at the South End. 
• Dinner at Ceviche’s – probably the best restaurant in Wrightsville. Hello Panama, I now want to visit your country (or one of the lunch places options).

Related Reading: 1 day itinerary for Wrightsville Beach and an ultimate list of things to do in Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Highlights Video

• Drive time from Raleigh: 30-40 minutes
• Distance: 26 miles (41.8km)

Southern Living magazine calls it “the South’s tastiest town”.

And Forbes.com ranks it one of “America’s Smartest Cities” .

If you haven’t given Durham much thought, pay attention because it has plenty of cool and interesting things to do, and the food scene is next level. 

This is a vibrant city, offering sports, history, the arts and a community of over 300 restaurants and 40+ annual festivals. All in less than a 45 minute drive.

Durham continues to evolve. It’s where tobacco factories have given way to a hip entertainment district. It’s where Duke University lives, where the Durham Bulls play baseball, and where top shelf musicals like Hamilton perform at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC).

Being so close, this is one of our most frequent day trips from Raleigh and we always find something new to do.

• Grab a signature coffee and churros at Cocoa Cinnamon (there are 3 locations).
• Breakfast at iconic Elmo’s Diner on 9th Street.
• Visit Duke University Chapel and walk around the campus.
• Picnic in Sarah P. Duke Gardens (ranked one of the ten best public parks in the US), 
• Basketball fan? Don’t miss the Duke Basketball Museum & Sports Hall of Fame
• Explore, shop and eat at the American Tobacco Campus .
• Enjoy a beer in the beer garden at Bull McCabes Irish Pub
• Burgers & beers at Bull City Burger & Brewery
• Civil War buff? Check out the Bennett Place State Historic Site .
• Art lovers can visit Duke University’s Nasher Museum , known for housing one of the most expansive collections of Medieval art.
• Don’t miss a Durham Bulls baseball game! This is minor league baseball at its best!
• Get some comfort food at the “Almost” World Famous Dame’s Chicken & Waffles .
• Walk Black Wall Street which was the hub of African American financial activity in the late 1800s and early 1900s. 
• Take in a show at DPAC (over 200 performances a year).
• Run or walk on one of the many trails in Duke Forest .
• High Tea at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
• Shop and dine at Brightleaf Square that encompasses two restored tobacco warehouses.
• Pizza from Pie Pushers or Pizzeria Toro
• Ninth Street District is a college enclave complete with unique shops and restaurants along a quaint street – our fave, shop for vinyls and drink beer at Hunky Dory Records on 9th Street
• See the most endangered mammals on earth at Duke Lemur Center .
• Love bakeries? Visit Ninth Street Bakery or Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten .
• Quench your thirst at one of these local Durham Breweries . 
• Families will love The Museum of Life + Science with hands-on and interactive exhibits.
• Learn more about Durham at the Museum of Durham History

4. Chapel Hill

• Drive time from Raleigh: 40 minutes
• Distance: 28.3 miles (45.5km)

This famous university town is known as one of the top 10 best college towns in the USA, and the “Southern Part of Heaven” .

It’s also known for its famed music scene and as “America’s Foodiest Small Town” by Bon Appetit because of the high quality of farmer’s markets, restaurants, and farms.

Home to the campus of the University of North Carolina – the nation’s first public university and its basketball team – Chapel Hill has a little bit of something for everyone.

The heart of Chapel Hill is Historic Franklin Street , home to more than 200 restaurants, bars, and retail stores.

You can spend 1/2 a day to a full day here and see all the highlights.

• Coffee and treats at Epilogue Books Chocolate Brews – cool locally owned cafe, book store, chocolate shop right on Franklin St.
• Eat and drink at the Carolina Coffee Shop , North Carolina’s Oldest Restaurant.
• Brandweine’s Bagels – classic NY style bagels.
• Walk the UNC campus. Look for historic landmarks like the Davie Poplar and the Old Well ( self-guided tours available ).
• Basketball fans, don’t miss the Carolina Basketball Museum .
• Catch a star show at the Morehead Planetarium & Science Center .
• Al’s Burger Shack – possibly the best burgers in CH.
• Merritt’s Grill – Great sandwiches. Double or triple decker with pimento cheese on rye!
• Time Out – an institution and famous for Chicken ‘n Cheddar Biscuit and Southern comfort food.
• Drinks and a bite to eat at the iconic Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery (TOPO) that boasts a panoramic view of downtown. 
• Ackland Art Museum consists of more than 18,000 works of art.
• Do a free walking tour or self-guided driving tour of Chapel Hill.
• Legendary Sutton’s Drug Store has been serving up shakes, burgers & more since 1923.
• Quench your thirst at the Carolina Brewery , a mainstay for Chapel Hill residents.
• He’s Not Here – a legendary bar and home of the Blue Cup. 
• For garden lovers, the North Carolina Botanical Garden is a conservation garden.
• Discover over 30 murals in the downtown area.
• Explore 17 miles of urban greenways and trails .
• The Carolina Inn’s Fridays on the Front Porch series features live music on the lawn of this charming historic hotel. 
• Spend an afternoon lounging at The Honeysuckle Tea House , built on shipping containers.
• Dinner at IL Palio (the only 4 diamond Italian restaurant in the state) inside the Sienna Hotel is amazing!

5. Winston-Salem

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 40 minutes
• Distance : 103.4 miles (166.4 km)

Head west on I-40 for just under 2 hours and you’ll arrive in Winston-Salem, a charming city that’s home to historic attractions.

From cobblestone streets, to museums, breweries, restaurants, art galleries, eclectic shops, outdoor adventures and more than 40 wineries in the neighboring Yadkin Valley, Winston-Salem is worth a day trip from Raleigh. 

There’s interesting history here. The Moravians (Protestants who spoke German) settled this region in the 1750s. Salem is the original, if quieter, half of the twin city.

Winston-Salem is also a town built on tobacco, often referred to as “Camel City” after the world-famous cigarette brand created by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company.

This city is also the home of Wake Forest University .

• Grab a hot cup of locally roasted coffee and farm-fresh breakfast at a Winston-Salem original, Krankies .
• Historic Bethabara Park – the very first Moravian settlement in North Carolina.
• Old Salem Museum and Gardens – founded in 1766 and one of the country’s most well-documented historic sites.
• Historic West End – where early 1900s Victorian-style homes meet the hustle and bustle of downtown Winston-Salem.
• Reynolda House Museum of American Art – explore the restored 1917 mansion of Katharine and R.J. Reynolds.
• Grab a gourmet sandwich or Moravian Chicken Pie at Muddy Creek Cafe .
• Visit one of the 45 wineries located in neighboring Yadkin Valley .
• Tour the city by Segway, SUP Tours, e-BIKE Tours, Trolley Sightseeing with Triad Eco Adventures
• Take home some specialty dark chocolate from Black Mountain Chocolate .
• The town of Bethania is the only remaining example of an open field agricultural village in NC
• Salem God’s Acre Cemetery –  active graveyard of the Salem Congregation, a group of 12 Moravian Churches. It has been in continuous use from 1771
• Ryan’s Restaurant – Steaks,Chops & Seafood, nestled in a wooded setting minutes from downtown
• Drink a brew at Foothills Brewing , one of the largest craft breweries in the Southeastern USA.
• The Tavern In Old Salem – a restored 1816 house and the waiters wear traditional Moravian costumes.

6. Johnston County (Clayton, Benson, Smithfield)

• Drive time – Clayton: 25 mins, Smithfield: 40 mins, Benson: 35 mins
• Distance: 32.8 miles (52.7 km)

Don’t overlook Johnston County (JoCo) when looking for places to visit near Raleigh NC.

JoCo is one of the biggest counties in North Carolina , and the next county south of Raleigh.

The I-95, running along the north-south corridor of the country, runs close by. The I-40 runs through the east-west corridor of the county JoCo.

So it’s location is important, but you don’t want to make it just a place to grab some fuel and pass on through. JoCo is worth stopping in for a while.

The below three towns you could easily incorporate into one day trip, going in a triangle like direction from Raleigh > Clayton > Smithfiled > Benson > Raleigh.

Clayton is a small town community that has been booming with transplants and where you’ll find boutique stores, historic buildings, charming southern homes, and hipster cafes and bars. 

• The Market at Three Little Birds – a store selling unique, handcrafted items from over 70 local artists.
• Boulevard West – hipster café experience where you’ll find locals on their laptops at the bar drinking all manners of coffee concoctions.
• Dinner at Crawford Cookshop (Clayton), amazing food by Raleigh’s award-winning chef, Scott Crawford.
• Drinks at Revival 1869 (Clayton), awesome whiskey and cocktail bar.
• Lunch at The Gildered Pear Brew House (Smithfield) locals favorite spot.
• Boutique shopping at The Dragonfly (Smithfield)
• Shop for cool home decor items at Twisted Willow (Smithfield)
• Ava Gardner Museum (Smithfield)
• Nancy Jo’s Homemade (Clayton) – a local’s favorite for many years. Famous for its chicken salad
• Clayton General Store – cool milkshake bar and home decor items
• Main Street Community Market (Clayton) – Volunteers help maintain this tranquil, artistic space

Smithfield has small-town charm. Situated along the Neuse River, it’s the seat of the county and the hub of business activity.

70 million visitors enjoy the savings at Carolina Premium Outlets every year.

So while you are popping in to shop while you drop, be sure to visit these other places.

• Ava Gardner Museum – known as the most beautiful movie star of the 40’s and 50’s. Ava was from JoCo and this museum is dedicated to telling the story of her life, loves and careers.
• Simple Twist – one of the most popular restaurants in Smithfield NC
• Oak City Collection – filled with local artist’s creations of signs, T-Shirts and jewelry.
• Double Barley Brewery – If you’re looking for local craft brew, this family-friendly brewery has won multiple awards for their beers.
• Bentonville Battlefield – The largest Civil War battle happened near Bentonville and it’s now an historic site and part of the Civil War Trail.

Benson is well known for hosting Mule Day on the 4th Saturday of September, a festival that attracts over 60,000 people each year.

• Jp’s Pastry – a thriving bakery business that is the only certified gluten free bakery in North and South Carolina.
• Dixie Divas Boutique – women’s clothing store. Check out the boots!
• Salvaged Heirlooms – an eclectic little general store is filled with local artists that remind you of the warmth. 
• Cornerstone Cafe & Coffee – known for its waffles, mac & cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Redneck BBQ Lab – award winning BBQ joint, everything smoked on the property, nothing is grilled or fried.

7. New Bern

• Distance: 116.1 miles (186.8 km)

Founded in 1710, historic New Bern (named after Bern, Switzerland) is a charming riverfront town set along the picturesque Trent and Neuse Rivers, and was the first state capital of NC.

Home to Tryon Palace and the birthplace of Pepsi Cola, New Bern is also filled with quaint restaurants and cafes, art galleries, antique stores, riverfront attractions and outdoor activities and offers something for everyone.

Romantic movie lovers will be interested to know that in 1996 The Notebook was set in New Bern and written by New Bern resident, Nicholas Sparks!

Bern is the old Germanic word for Bear, and the bear became the symbol of the city.

• Visit Tryon Place , the first permanent capitol of North Carolina and home to the Tryon family.
• Do a self-guided tour including Historic Homes Tour, Civil War Tour, Architectural tour and more.
• Or a guided tour by trolley, boat, or ghost walk. 
• Visit the signature Pepsi Store. Pull up to the fountain bar and enjoy a glass of Pepsi
• Enjoy the scenic 6 acre waterfront, Union Point Park
• Go kayaking up the Neuse River with Stillwater Kayaks
• Cow Cafe for sandwiches, salads, and over 60 flavors of their famous HOMEMADE ICE CREAM!
• Visit the very place Pepsi-Cola was invented . Step back in time enjoying a fountain Pepsi. 
• Chase bears all over town . Don’t worry, these bears are made of fiberglass. 
• The interior of Christ Episcopal Church was designed in the style of Christopher Wren, the famous English architect. A must see for visitors.
• New Bern Battlefield Park (if you love Civil War History)
• Firemen’s Museum – tells the story of the oldest fire company in NC
• North Carolina History Center
• Carolina Creations – an art gallery with artworks from over 300 local and international artists
• Baker’s Kitchen – for delights like sweet potato biscuits, Dutch potatoes, and biscuits and gravy.
• Morgan’s Tavern & Grill – for seafood in an historic setting.
• Brewery99 – first brewery in Craven County.
• Beer Army Burger Company – for unique and interesting burgers, Bacon appetizers, and tater tots.
• Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant – expect good food and the best outdoor dining experience in town!

8. Fayetteville

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour
• Distance: 64.6 miles (103.9 km)

Fayetteville’s tourism slogan is, “Welcome to America’s Hometown: History, Heroes, A Hometown Feeling!”

You might know of Fayetteville as home to the U.S. Army’s most populous base, Fort Bragg. The community wears this distinction proudly and shows its appreciation by actively pursuing the freedoms those soldiers protect.

Here you will find museums and monuments dedicated to telling the story of the service of many of the men and women in the area who sacrificed, and they are one of the most moving things to see in North Carolina.

But Fayetteville’s ongoing revitalization also offers a vibrant and modern city with interesting cultural activities, historic sites and natural beauty.

• The Airborne and Special Operations Museum – the only museum that tells the comprehensive history of US Army Airborne and Special Operations troops.
• North Carolina Veterans Park – honors veterans from all branches of service throughout North Carolina.
• Cape Fear Botanical Garden – 80 acres nestled between the Cape Fear River and Cross Creek.
• Poe House – peek into the past.
• Lunch or dinner at Huske Hardware Brewing Company – locals fave gastropub. 
• Lunch at Scrub Oaks Restaurant – contemporary American menu common to a neighborhood pub but with flare.
• Lunch at New Deli Restaurant – specialty grilled cheeses, to pizzas and paninis.
• Winterbloom Tea – a unique, customized tea experience.
• Zipline through the trees with ZipQuest Adventure – one of the Top 10 ziplines
• Carvers Creek State Park – It houses James Stillman Rockefeller’s winter estate and the rare longleaf pine ecosystem.
• Cape Fear River Trail – winds for 5 miles through a beautiful blend of trees, plants and wildlife.

9. Greenville, NC

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 20 minutes
• Distance: 84 miles (135.1 km)

Greenville is known as a thriving cultural, educational, economic, and medical hub of Eastern North Carolina, and of course, the home of East Carolina University (ECU).

It’s a place where you can experience vibrant art, live music, and the culinary scene in the Uptown Greenville and Dickinson Avenue Districts.

There’s outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking the Greenville Greenway, agricultural experiences at local farms, plus antique and boutique shopping, live music concerts and festivals.

You can taste test your way through local restaurants and breweries in the walkable Uptown and Dickinson Avenue Districts.

Throughout the year there’s craft beer festivals, indoor and outdoor farmers markets, and food truck rodeos.

• Explore over 7 miles of the Greenville Greenway
• Paddle the Tar River with Knee Deep Adventures
• Visit East Carolina University
• River Park North – canoe, walk the trails, fish, have a picnic, or just enjoy nature!
• The Scullery Coffeehouse and Creamery
• Dickinson Avenue Antique Market
• Uptown Brewing & Pitt Street Brewing
• B’s Barbecue – a Greenville landmark
• Brew & ‘Cue Trail
• PirateFest (April) their largest festival
• See a concert at Whirligig Stage
• The Venue – vintage shoppes & antique mall
• Greenville Museum of Art
• Greenville Antique Market

10. Hillsborough

• Drive time from Raleigh: 45 minutes
• Distance: 37.9 miles (60.9 km)

Established in 1784 and located along the Eno River, Hillsborough has served as a focal point for major historic events, including the Revolutionary War and Civil War.

Located in Orange County, between Greensboro and Durham, it’s easily accessible via I-40 near Chapel Hill, and I-85 near Durham. 

Hillsborough’s downtown historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features more than 100 homes, churches, schools, and other structures from the late 18th and 19th centuries.

Today, Hillsborough is a haven for artists and writers, for barbecue lovers attending the annual Hog Day, and owntown comes alive Friday evenings with arts and entertainment during Last Fridays celebrations. 

Its scenic appeal, graceful architecture, and convenient location provide a charming getaway from Raleigh. Go and explore history, live music, unique shops, and award winning restaurants.

Suggested activities: 

• Explore the historic, and small, downtown
• Riverwalk – about 2 miles long
• Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
• Ayr Mount Historic Site
• Burwell School Historic Site
• Eno River Farm – for strawberry picking in season
• Occoneechee Speedway – NASCAR’s first Superspeedway, now hiking trails!
• The Visitor Center – an old farmhouse built around 1790 
• Last Fridays Art event – beginning in April
• Old Town Cemetery – dates back to 1757 with over 180 grave markers
• Cup-A-Joe (local institution for coffee lovers)
• Saratoga Grill (seafood, salads and sandwiches)
• Panciuto (farm to fork menu)

11. Pilot Mountain State Park

• Drive time from Raleigh : 2 hours
• Distance: 122 miles (196.3 km)

Located 20 miles northwest of Winston-Salem near the border with Virginia, Pilot Mountain State Park centers around the iconic geologic knob that serves as a beacon to the surrounding Piedmont. 

Once a navigational landmark for the Saura tribe, the Big Pinnacle can be viewed from the park’s summit area which also provides panoramic views of the Piedmont and the Sauratown and Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Pilot Mountain has miles of trails to explore, and you can journey through the park on foot, on horseback, or in a canoe.

• Hiking – trails take hikers around the mountain base, up Little Pinnacle, and along the Yadkin River. Two of North Carolina’s state trails traverse the park:  the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail, and the Yadkin River paddle trail.
• Bicycling – for experienced cyclists, the main park road is popular for hill climbing by bicycle. The road averages a 10 percent grade for 2.5 miles and has sections of 16 percent grade.
• Horse riding – The Corridor Trail, Yadkin Islands Trail, and Yadkin River Park Trail are all open to horseback riding.
• Paddling – Paddle the Yadkin River through the park on a segment of the Yadkin River State Trail
• Rock climbing and rappelling are allowed on portions of the park’s steep cliffs.

• Drive time from Raleigh:   15 – 20 minutes
• Distance : 12.1 miles (19.4 km)

The closest day trip from Raleigh is Cary. When we first moved to Raleigh in 2004, we never visited Cary, in fact, we didn’t even know there was a downtown Cary.

Fast forward to today and you can easily spend a full day in Cary, not just downtown, but the surrounding area.

The downtown area has been through major changes in recent years and we’ve grown to love how charming and vibrant and fun downtown has become with new restaurants, breweries, bars and cafes.

Cary is now home to some of the best places to eat and drink in the Triangle, and there’s some great nature trails and parks in Cary too.

If you have overlooked Cary downtown in the past, it’s time to take a look. 

• Get your coffee fix at BREW
• Stroll downtown: S. Academy and East & West Chatham Streets
• Big Dom’s Bagel Shop for great bagels
• La Farm Bakery
• 2 mile loop walk around Bond Lake
• Soda Fountain (Ashworth’s Drugs),a Town of Cary institution 
• Ashworth Village – local boutiques, art galleries, consignment shops and eateries
• Cotton House Craft Brewers
• Academy Street Bistro
• FRESH Local Ice Cream
• Explore Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
• Bond Brothers Beer Company
• Pharmacy Bottle Shop
• SideBar Cocktail Bar
• Di Fara Pizza Tavern
• Hanks Dive Bar
• Chatham Street Wine Market
• The Cary Theater – a 175 seat art house and theater 
• Bosphorus Restaurant – great Turkish food
• Kababish Cafe – good Indian food

13. Southern Pines (Pinehurst)

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 15 minutes
• Distance : 70.2 miles (112.9 km)

The small southern town of Southern Pines is a town in Moore County among the sandhills.

Originally founded in 1884 as a winter health resort for northerners, the town has a rich history and has seen lots of growth in recent years. 

Internationally known as the home of American golf (the famous Pimehurst is 10 minutes away), but it’s not just for golfers! Southern Pines is also nationally known and referred to as “Horse Country” for its abundance of horse farms in the area, plus there’s nice parks and a growing number of craft breweries.

As for downtown Southern Pines, it is embodied in its unique array of shops including historic buildings. Enjoy these Moore County trails while in the Pinehurst area.

• Stroll around downtown
• Pinehurst Resort (visit the resort or play golf)
• Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities (stunning gardens)
• Hiking or biking the trails on the Boyd Round Timber Tract or Weymouth Woods Sandhill Nature Preserve
• Southern Pines Brewing – great local beers
• Bell Tree Restaurant and Tavern (stylish, old-school watering hole with pub food)
• The Ice Cream Parlor Restaurant (traditional small town ice cream shop)
• The Sunrise Theater (for new and classic films, and concerts)
• SoPies – low-key counter-serve outlet offering NY style pies
• Sandhills Horticultural Gardens
• Aberdeen Lake Park (walking path around the lake, playground for kids)
• Sly Fox Pub (British classics with an innovative twist)
• Take a drive over to North Carolina Zoo to see more than 1,700 animals

14. Eno River State Park

• Distance: 35.5 miles (57.1 km)

Located just 15-minutes northwest of Durham, Eno River State Park is composed of more than 4,200 acres and offers nearly 30 miles of trails along a swift, shallow stream. 

If you’re looking for day trips from Raleigh that involve a day in nature, there’s plenty to do here from hiking, paddling, fording the river, bouldering, picnicking, swimming/wading, hammocking, and general exploration. 

The river winds through hills and bluffs with shrubs and pines that are ready to be hiked and enjoyed through one of five access points. 

• Hike one of the 17 trails, good for all levels
• Canoeing and kayaking are permitted, but sometimes challenging due to shallow water.
• Swimming: our friend’s from Durham took us to Eno Rock Quarry
• Fishing: a great place for fly-fishing, casting lures, or baiting with the ever reliable worms and crickets
• Picnicking: two picnic areas provide the perfect spot for enjoying a meal in the open air.
• Camping: there’s backpack and group camping options

15. Kinston

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 30 minutes
• Distance: 81.6 miles (131.3 km)

Set along the banks of the Neuse River in the coastal plains region of eastern North Carolina, Kinston is one of the oldest towns in the state and has been the county seat of Lenoir County since its formation in 1791.

If you’ve heard of Vivian Haward’s Chef and the Farmer, and Mother Earth Brewing, that’s Kinston.

Here you will discover 300 years of history, an impressive food scene, arts scene, and Kinston’s musical roots run deep. 

There’s no shortage of war history, including the Tuscarora War, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War, and is part of the African American Musical Heritage Trail with a fascinating music history – during its tobacco days, Kinston was a hotbed of music, and musicians traveled from all over to play in the tobacco warehouses, including James Brown.

• Pop into the Kinston visitors center (Mon – Sat) conveniently located downtown for local advice on what to do, maps, and guides. Then take a stroll around downtown. 
• CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center – an educational museum that tells the story of the Civil War in the United States and the CSS Neuse, one of 26 ironclad ships commissioned by the Confederate navy.
• Chef and the Farmer – eat at Vivian Howard’s restaurant, known for thoughtful, creative cooking rooted in this region’s ingredients and traditions.
• Mother Earth Brewing   – a green-conscious craft brewery with a solar-powered taproom, lively beer garden, really good barrel-aged brews and interesting seasonals.
• Community Council for the Arts (CCA) is a non-profit organization and a gallery featuring local artwork and offering educational programs
• African American Music Trail – great way to learn more about Kinston’s African American music scene.
• Historic Harmony Hall – a restored pre-American Revolution home built in 1772 and housed the first governor of North Carolina, Richard Caswell, served as a Civil War hospital, church, public library, and is said to be haunted.
• King’s BBQ – offering world famous chicken and barbecue since 1936
• Sugar Hill Pizzeria – pizza by the slice, Brooklyn style pizza
• Boiler Room Oyster Bar- another Vivian Howard restaurant. Oysters, burgers and beer.
• The O’Neil – a 1920s bank turned boutique hotel.
• Pearson Park – part of the Pearson Park Trail that runs parallel to the Neuse River for about 3/8’s mile from the southern end of Pollock Street ending onto South Heritage Street. Largest part is the Loch Neuse Dragon Playground.
• Mitchelltown Historic District – listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with fine examples of the Queen Anne, Classical and Neo-Classical Revival, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and Spanish Mission Revival styles and numerous illustrations of the American Foursquare and the Bungalow. Northwest of the city.

Raleigh Day Trips Podcast Episode

For those who may prefer watching a video of us podcasting, we filmed that for you too, which you’ll find on  YouTube each week .

You can also find all of these locations on this helpful map. You can download this map and see suggested drive times by clicking the square icon on the top right corner.

I hope this list of day trips from Raleigh helped you find some interesting and fun getaway ideas? Let us know which day trip you love in the comments!

About The Author

Craig Makepeace

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19 Fun Day Trips from Raleigh, NC (You Will Love)

Taylor Martin --> November 6, 2023

Raleigh is incredible and there’s always something to do, but it can be nice to take a break from the city, and with the many amazing day trips from Raleigh , there are a lot of options you can choose from.

There’s a lot you can do during a day trip from the city, including admiring architecture, having food at a local restaurant, seeing famous sights, and visiting museums.

From beautiful small towns to large cities, I added a large variety of incredible destinations you can visit to this guide. So if you’re looking for the best Raleigh day trips, I got you covered!

Day Trips from Raleigh

Myrtle beach, sc.

Distance from Raleigh: 3 hours

Myrtle Beach, a resort city that is located on the Atlantic Coast of South Carolina, is a great destination for a day trip that you can get to from Raleigh in 3 hours.

The city is home to many attractions, such as the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach , which is a large Ferris wheel located on the oceanfront, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, which is a large aquarium with many marine animals.

You can also find the Hollywood Wax Museum here, which is a museum with wax sculptures.

Another sight to check out in the city is Mt. Atlantic Minotaur Goff . At this place, you can find two 18-hole miniature golf courses with many unique elements, including water elements.

There are also many places to see a show in Myrtle Beach, such as The Carolina Opry.

New Bern, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 2 hours

New Bern, NC, is a small town that makes for a very fun day trip from Raleigh. You can reach it from the city in less than 2 hours. This town was founded in the year 1710 and is named after the canton of Bern in Switzerland.

The town served as the first capital of the state of North Carolina for a period of 22 years in the 18th century.

The town is home to many historic structures, including places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. An interesting historic sight is Tryon Palace, which was the official residence of the British rulers of the state.

An interesting place to check out during a day trip to the town is the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola , where the original formula for the drink was invented.

Richmond, VA

Distance from Raleigh: 2.5 hours

By car, you can get to the city of Richmond, VA, in about 2.5 hours from Raleigh. The city, Virginia’s capital, is home to many interesting things to do and see, including great museums, historic landmarks, and performing arts theaters.

When doing a day trip to the city, you have to go to one of the city’s great museums, but you likely only have time to go to one. Interesting museums in the city include the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts , the Science Museum of Virginia, and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture.

You can also go to an event at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden if you like nature.

An interesting historic site in the city is Agecroft Hall & Gardens, which is a historic manor home that was built in England in the 15th century and moved to the city of Richmond.

Furthermore, a great place to see a show at the end of your day is the Altria Theater , which is a historic theater where lots of different types of shows take place.

Black Mountain, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 3.5 hours

Black Mountain, a small town that you can find very close to the city of Asheville, is a place that you can reach from Raleigh in less than 3.5 hours.

From shopping at specialty shops to exploring the town’s breweries to going to a cozy shop, there’s a lot to do in Black Mountain, NC. There are also several great art galleries in the town and there are good options for entertainment.

Furthermore, you can go to Black Mountain Escape to play an escape game and have a lot of fun, or attend a concert at the White Horse Black Mountain live music venue.

Virginia Beach, VA

From Raleigh, you can get to the city of Virginia Beach, by car, in about 3 hours.

This city, which is located on the Atlantic Ocean, is a city with great things to do throughout the year.

You can explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and enjoy views of the ocean. When you are here, you can also go to one of the city’s restaurants that offer delicious food and ocean views.

Furthermore, when you are in Virginia Beach, a place you have to visit is the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center . You can find thousands of animals here, and there are fun hands-on exhibits for all ages.

Other places that you can consider going to during a day trip are the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and the Military Aviation Museum.

Hillsborough, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 45 minutes

You can get to Hillsborough by car from Raleigh in about 45 minutes. The scenic town is a perfect if you’re looking for day trips from Raleigh.

From exploring the town’s art scene by visiting the town’s art galleries to enjoying live music to seeing historic architecture, there’s a lot to discover in Hillsborough.

Furthermore, lots of events take place in the town throughout the year, including events with live music and art.

Distance from Raleigh: 30 minutes

Durham, NC, is a large city that is home to Duke University which you can find very close to the city of Raleigh. From Raleigh, it is just a short journey of 30 minutes to get there.

From going to a museum to attending sporting events to seeing historic structures, there are many fun things to do in Durham .

When you are in Durham, you have to check out the American Tobacco Campus. This is a former tobacco factory that was transformed into a complex with restaurants, shops, and venues for live entertainment.

Doing a guided tour of the Sarah P. Duke Gardens is another must-do activity in the city. You can find beautiful nature in the gardens.

Furthermore, you could go to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and enjoy a great baseball game here.

There are also great performing arts theaters, such as The Carolina Theatre, in Durham.

Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC, is the capital city of South Carolina and the city was founded in 1786. You can reach the city from Raleigh in about 3.5 hours.

In Columbia, there are many interesting museums to visit. For example, you can find the South Carolina State Museum here, which is a museum with permanent and changing exhibitions through which you can learn about the state.

Other museums to visit are the Columbia Museum of Art , where you can see great art, and EdVenture, a children’s museum with interesting exhibits.

You can also find the Colonial Life Arena in the city, where you can see basketball games and attend a variety of other events.

The Soda City Market, a weekly European-style street market with more than 150 vendors each week, can be great to go to as well. This market takes place every Saturday.

Greensboro, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 1 hour and 15 minutes

From Raleigh, you can reach the city of Greensboro in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is a wonderful city and you can find many great things to do in Greensboro .

Whether you want to see interesting objects at a museum, attend a show at a historic theater, or learn about history, you can do it in Greensboro.

One of the city’s best sights to check out during a day trip, especially when you are going to Greensboro with kids, is the Greensboro Science Center. Here, you can find various exhibits related to science and natural history.

When there happens to be a baseball game when you are doing a day trip, you can go to the First National Bank Field to see a game of the Greensboro Grasshoppers, which is a baseball team that competes in Minor League Baseball.

There are also many great places to go if you want to end your day trip from Raleigh to Greensboro by seeing a performance. For this, you can go to the beautiful, historic Carolina Theatre of Greensboro or the modern Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts .

Lynchburg, VA

Distance from Raleigh: 2 hours and 45 minutes

From Raleigh, it takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to get to the city of Lynchburg, VA, which is a city with many interesting things to do and see.

One of the city’s best sights is the Lynchburg Museum , a local history museum.

You can also go to SeaQuest Lynchburg and see and learn about various marine animals.

Lynchburg also has many art galleries, art museums, and art centers that can be great to check out during a day trip.

Furthermore, a good place to see a show at the end of your day is the Academy Center of the Arts . Lots of performances take place here, including magic shows and concerts.

Fayetteville, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 1 hour

From interesting museums related to the military to historic buildings to incredible performing arts theaters, there are many great things to do and see in Fayetteville, making it one of the best day trips from Raleigh.

From Raleigh, you can get to Fayetteville, by car, in about 1 hour.

One of the best museums in Fayetteville that you can go to during this day is the Airborne & Special Operations Museum , which is a museum where you can learn about the Airborne section and Special Operations of the U.S. Army.

Furthermore, you can go to the Cameo Art House Theatre . You can see the latest independent films at this movie theater and attend various other types of events, including concerts.

When going to the city, the Market House, a building that was built in the year 1838, is worth checking out too.

Wilmington, NC

It will take you less than 2 hours to go from Raleigh to the city of Wilmington.

The city has a beautiful historic district where you can see all kinds of historic buildings, including the Bellamy Mansion, which is a building that dates back to the end of the 19th century and is one of the best examples of antebellum architecture.

The Wilmington Riverwalk is another must-see sight in the city. You can go for a walk here while enjoying views of the Battleship North Carolina and the Cape Fear River.

There are also interesting museums in the city, such as the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum.

Furthermore, going to the Thalian Hall is also one of the best things to do in Wilmington . This is a historic performing arts theater, where lots of shows take place throughout the year.

Pawleys Island, SC

Pawleys Island, a beautiful barrier island and town that you can find on South Carolina’s Atlantic coast, can be reached by car from Raleigh in about 3.5 hours, which is a bit farther away than other day trips on this list, but it is still doable.

From having dinner at incredible restaurants, such as Frank’s & Frank’s Outback, to shopping at The Hammock Shops Village, a historic shopping center, there is a lot to discover in the town.

There are also great golf courses and many places with ocean views.

Winston-Salem, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 1.5 hours

Winston-Salem is a city that can be reached from Raleigh in about 1.5 hours.

From historic buildings to interesting museums to stadiums where you can enjoy sports, there’s a lot to do in Winston-Salem that you can choose from during a day trip to the city

For example, you can go to The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art , which is a museum focused on contemporary art, craft, and design. The Reynolda House Museum of American Art is another place to check out if you want to see art.

When doing a day trip to Winston-Salem with kids, there are many interesting things to do to choose from as well. For example, you can go to the Kaleideum children’s museum.

Truist Stadium is a ballpark that is the home field of the Winston-Salem Dash, a minor league baseball team. Seeing a baseball game here can be very exciting.

Roanoke, VA

You can get to Roanoke by car from Raleigh in about 3 hours. This city, which is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a lovely small city with many diverse sights.

For example, you can see the Mill Mountain Star here, which is the largest freestanding neon star in the world.

Roanoke is also home to the Mill Mountain Zoo , a zoo with close to 100 animals that was opened in the year 1952.

The Roanoke Pinball Museum , a museum where you can find playable pinball machines and where you can learn about the history of pinball museum, and the Taubman Museum of Art, are two museums in the city that you can consider for your day trip.

Furthermore, a great place to have dinner during your day trip is the Roanoke City Market Building, which is a food hall that you can find in Downtown Roanoke.

Charlotte, NC

North Carolina’s most populous city is a great destination for a day trip from Raleigh. You can get to Charlotte from Raleigh in about 2.5 hours.

There are too many things to do in Charlotte that you can do in one day, so you’ll need to choose which sights you like best.

For example, there are many great museums in Charlotte to choose from when you are doing a day trip to the city. Great ones include The Mint Museum , the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and Discovery Place Science.

It can also be great to see a sports game when you are in Charlotte. You can go to Truist Field to see a baseball game or the Bank of America Stadium for a game of football.

There are many great restaurants in Charlotte that you can go to. A great place for dinner is Optimist Hall, which is a food hall with several vendors.

There are also many great performing arts theaters in Charlotte. For example, you can go to the Knight Theater for great shows.

Blowing Rock, NC

Blowing Rock, NC, is a scenic small town that you can get to by car from Raleigh in about 3 hours.

One of the town’s highlights is the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum where you can see both permanent and temporary exhibitions of art without an admission fee.

Furthermore, the town is great if you want to shop because of the unique boutique shops that you can find there. You can also admire art at one of Blowing Rock’s amazing art galleries.

There are also many incredible coffee shops where you can relax with a cup of coffee during your day trip. Two great ones are Bald Guy Brew Blowing Rock and Camp Coffee Roasters.

Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville is a city in Virginia that is home to the University of Virginia, a university with a campus that was partly designed by Thomas Jefferson. You can get to the city by car from Raleigh in about 3.5 hours.

In the city, you can also find Monticello, which was the home of Thomas Jefferson.

Charlottesville is great for its Downtown Mall as well. This is the pedestrian-only city center of Charlottesville where you can find lots of great shops, local restaurants, and historic buildings. You can also find The Paramount Theatre there, which is a historic performing arts venue that used to be a movie theater when it opened in the year 1931.

Asheville, NC

Distance from Raleigh: 3 hours and 45 minutes

You can go to Asheville from Raleigh in about 3 hours and 45 minutes.

The city of Asheville is known for its arts scene, and you can find many art galleries and museums in the city. For example, you can find Lexington Glassworks in the city, which is an art gallery and studio where you can see beautiful works of glass art and see glass-blowing demonstrations.

Other great places in the city to see art include Grovewood Village and the River Arts District.

Another one of the best things to do in Asheville during a day trip is to go to the Asheville Pinball Museum. This is a museum where you can find 70 playable, vintage pinball machines.

When you are visiting the city, you should see the Biltmore House as well. This is a very large mansion, the largest privately owned house in America, that dates back to the 19th century.

Furthermore, an incredible place to have dinner in Asheville is The S&W Market , a food hall that you can find in downtown Asheville inside of the historic S&W Building.

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Raleigh Day Trips Tips

Some of the small towns that I mentioned in this article about Raleigh day trips are located near larger cities on this list. If you plan on seeing a lot in one day, you can also combine going to these small towns and going to the larger city. You’ll not be able to see all the sights, but it can be a lot of fun to experience both places in one day.

Day Trips from Raleigh Map

I hope I helped you find some great places to visit. Thanks for reading my guide to the best day trips from Raleigh, NC!

20 Places To Visit Near Raleigh (BEST Day Trips from Raleigh)

While there are so many great things to do in Raleigh , sometimes it’s nice just to escape the capital city for a bit. Whether you’re looking for another North Carolina city to change it up, an escape to the ocean, or after some hiking in nature there are plenty of day trips from Raleigh to enjoy!

It’s amazing how many activities are within a short driving distance from Raleigh, offering opportunities to explore museums, gardens, beaches, restaurants, wineries, and a wealth of other options! These amazing places to visit near Raleigh all offer something unique for visitors!

Best Day Trips & Places to Visit Near Raleigh

  durham, north carolina.

• Distance from Raleigh : 25 miles
• Driving Time: 30 minutes

A 30-minute drive from Raleigh will take you on one of the best day trips in Durham. With state-of-the-art research facilities and scholarly institutes located inside neo-gothic buildings, Durham is a haven for dark academia fans, history buffs, and tech aficionados.

In fact, Durham caters to the interests of every visitor with a wide array of offerings. From engaging in thrilling sports activities to embarking on historical tours and immersing oneself in artistic displays, this city gives a sense of belonging to everyone. 

Also, the city has a top-tier food scene. Among its myriad of attractions, the Museum of Life and Science, Duke University Chapel, The Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and The American Tobacco Campus stand out as must-visit destinations.

Hillsborough, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 38 miles
• Driving Time: 42 minutes

Take a 40-minute drive from Raleigh and you’ll find yourself in the idyllic small town of Hillsborough right next to the Eno River. It’s the perfect destination for those who only have a day to unwind before going back to the daily grind. Not only is it close by, but Hillsborough has a lot of fun-filled activities to offer, and it has those small town vibes that exude serenity.

Although small, the town is packed with history and your first stop should be the downtown historic district that has well-preserved edifices from the 18 th and 19 th centuries. The town is filled with artists and writers, and weekends come with lots of musical events, art displays, and celebrations.

We suggest finishing off your trip with a leisurely stroll in Eno River.

Wilmington, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 130 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours

Wilmington is an enchanting port city on the Cape Fear River and is only two hours from Raleigh. There’s a long list of fun things you can do on your day trip to one of the oldest cities on the east coast, and topping that list is the Carolina Beach State Park near Carolina Beach, walk the Riverwalk, visit the Fort Fisher Aquarium, and see the endless number of homes and gardens from the Victorian era.

We love spending the day at Wrightsville Beach before making reservations at one of the best Wilmington restaurants.

Roanoke, Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh : 155 miles
• Driving Time: 3 hours

Roanoke, Virginia, nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, offers an idyllic escape from Raleigh for avid road trippers and autumn enthusiasts seeking rustic splendor.

The two hours and 50 minute-long drive may seem long, but it unfolds like a visual feast as you cruise alongside the streams, waterfalls, mountains, and green rolling hills.

Upon arrival, a world of adventure awaits. Begin your journey at the iconic Roanoke Star, a luminous, man-made beacon at the top of Mill Mountain. Make sure to explore the captivating Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Taubman Museum of Art , and the Roanoke Pinball Museum , where interactive games ensure fun-filled times for the entire family.

Greensboro, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 80 miles
• Driving Time: 1.15 hours

A little over one hour of driving on I-40 from Raleigh and you’d be in the city of Greensboro . The city is teeming with all types of attractions such as American Discovery Zoological Park, Greensboro Science Center, the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum, and the iconic Guilford Courthouse National Military Park.

The latter is the location of a real battle that took place during the Revolutionary War. The city also has a buzzing nightlife scene and a food culture that will awaken your taste buds.

Duke Forest, Durham

One of the best places to visit near Raleigh that many people don’t think about is this enchanting forest. When you only have a short part of the day left for a getaway, we recommend grabbing your outdoor gear and making a beeline for Duke Forest .

Located just 30 minutes from Raleigh, this privately owned forest, managed by Duke University, is open to the public. Spanning 7,000 acres, the forest offers a serene escape with its natural woodlands, flowing streams, and open fields—a perfect remedy for rejuvenating the mind and soul.

Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany you on your exploration. We recommend exploring the various trails and immersing yourself in nature through activities such as running, hiking, mountain biking, or even horseback riding.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 180 miles

If you are craving a proper destination vacation but only have a day or two to spare, we suggest packing your car and making a little over three hours’ journey to the Atlantic Coast and its resort town, Myrtle Beach. It’s doable as a long day trip, but we highly recommend trying to stay for a weekend!

Myrtle Beach offers everything that is needed for an unforgettable weekend getaway. There are cruise dinners accompanied by pirate-themed shows, malls, and boutiques for shopping galore, and 60 miles of breathtaking coastline for you to take in.

Don’t forget to visit Bookgreen Gardens, Broadway at the Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, and the Sky Wheel.

Salisbury, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 125 miles

Salisbury is only two hours from Raleigh and offers a perfect change of scenery for those craving it. It is the birth city of Cheerwine and is renowned for its famous Cheerwine Festival in May !

It is also home to five historic districts, offering a lot of things for visitors to explore and enjoy. Make sure to stop by the historic Hall House, test your courage at Piedmont Skydiving, and enjoy the novelty of Lee Street Theater.  

Chapel Hill

• Distance from Raleigh : 30 miles
• Driving Time: 35 minutes

The legendary college town of Chapel Hill is only 30 minutes from Raleigh. It is indeed home to America’s oldest public university. The center of the town called TOPO is the place to be, where you can grab a coffee, some snacks, and enjoy the contagious liveliness of the town.

For all the good food, head over to Historic Franklin Street. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Ackland Museum of Art , and you’d miss your chance to see 19,000 historic pieces from a mere distance away.

The city has something exciting going on throughout the year. Spring and summer bring Beer Month at the breweries, and street parties take over the city where music, art, and food are celebrated by locals and tourists alike. July is for fireworks and August drives everyone towards the UNC campus where a life-sized puppet show becomes the talk of the town. 

September is for welcoming all the new students flocking to the city. The festivities are arranged by the locals to help the students get familiar with the local businesses. The year ends at Chapel Hill with legendary Festival Arts Festivals, Film Fest 919, and the Twelve Days of Christmas at the Carolina Inn!

Great Dismal Swamp, North Carolina/ Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh : 160 miles

Escape the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with one of the best day trips from Raleigh – to the Great Dismal Swamp. Just a three-hour drive away, this National Wildlife Refuge spans both North Carolina and Virginia. 

As you venture into this enchanting sanctuary, you’ll encounter dense forests, 25-foot-deep swamps, and a plethora of unique plant species. The swamp teems with wildlife, including American Black Bears, bobcats, white-tail deer, river otters, and a variety of bird species such as warblers, ducks, geese, swans, and the red-cockaded woodpecker. 

Embark on hiking or biking trails or enjoy guided tours and family-friendly birding classes.

The Biltmore Estate

• Distance from Raleigh : 246 miles
• Driving Time: 4 hours

A nearly four-hour drive from Raleigh might sound daunting, but it’s worth it because, at the end of it, you’d be standing before America’s largest home, The Biltmore Estate .

Constructed in 1889, this architectural marvel showcases the remarkable French Renaissance style. The estate’s historical significance is palpable, adding to its allure.

Once you step foot inside, you’ll be captivated by the sheer vastness and intricate details of the Biltmore House. The house was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II and to this day, belongs to his descendants. If you want to rest a bit and explore the surrounding areas, you can even book a cottage at the Biltmore Village and book a stay at one of these Asheville cabins .

Southern Pines, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 70 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a delightful day trip to Southern Pines, located just an hour away from Raleigh. You have the option to drive or hop on the Amtrak line to reach this charming town. 

Southern Pines offers a serene retreat, boasting vast green spaces and a tranquil atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the area by visiting the iconic Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning surroundings. 

Don’t miss the breathtaking Weymouth Woods, home to majestic century-old pines, and the enchanting Sandhills Horticultural Gardens.

New Bern, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 115 miles

Looking for a classic family road trip with snacks on the road and a beautiful riverfront destination at the end of it? Head off to New Bern . A two-hour drive from Raleigh will take you to this European-American colonial town that was once the capital of North Carolina.

Discover the city’s relaxed charm as you stroll through its streets, where the iconic Pepsi-Cola was born. Immerse yourself in history at the Tryon Palace, now a fascinating museum. Spend the remainder of the day exploring picturesque parks, Civil War battle sites, and art galleries, and savoring southern cuisine while sipping on an authentic Pepsi.

Eno River State Park

• Distance from Raleigh : 40 miles
• Driving Time: 40 minutes

Eno River State Park near Hillsborough, a mere 36-minute drive from Raleigh, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its many trails catering to all skill levels, this day trip offers an experience that will make you feel like the “George of the Jungle” for a day.

Embark on invigorating hikes, exhilarating biking adventures, or set sail in a canoe or kayak. If you have a North Carolina fishing license then cast your line and enjoy a peaceful fishing expedition, or simply bask in the serenity of nature while dipping your toes in the cool river waters.

Wrightsville Beach

If you are already going to Wilmington, you must add on Wrightsville Beach! Experience unparalleled tranquility and rejuvenation at the magnificent Wrightsville Beach, just a two-hour drive from Raleigh. T

his coastal gem offers a serene escape like no other and Wrightsville Beach is easily one of the best beaches in North Carolina ! What sets Wrightsville Beach apart is its ability to retain its small-town beach charm, despite its huge popularity.

Here, you can have the beach all to yourself, with only the locals and a handful of tourists on the shores, especially if you visit outside the summer months. You can spend your day playing in the water, sunbathing under the North Carolina sun, or having a drink at the Wrightsville Beach Brewery – one of the best Wilmington breweries!

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 103 miles

An hour and a half drive from Raleigh will take you to one of the most interesting North Carolina cities – Winston-Salem. Especially popular amongst children, the city offers tons of fun activities that will keep you busy and entertained. S

tart off with a visit to the immersive science center, Kaleideum North. Don’t miss out on the family entertainment and reserve a portion of your day for Adventure Landing. Then there’s the Reynolda House, ARTivity on the Green, the Old Salem , and lots of eateries and art galleries for you to enjoy this vibrant city.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 60 miles

Just under an hour from Raleigh is a highly underrated city of Rocky Mount . Families should head straight off to this day trip destination for some fun times. No matter where you go, you just can’t skip the Imperial Centre for the Arts & Sciences, the Rocky Mount’s Children’s Museum, and Science Center.

History buffs will love the city just as much as the youngsters as it’s home to Stonewall Manor, a 19 th -century plantation house that will take you back in time. Rocky Mount Mills, Books and Beans, Sunset Park, and so many wholesome attractions are found in this beautiful city.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 65 miles

If you are under a time constraint but your heart desires freedom and fun, make an hour’s drive to Fayetteville , one of the best places to visit near Raleigh.

Here you can lose sense of time at the ZipQuest, get interactive at Fayetteville’s Fascinate-U children’s Museum, expand your knowledge at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum, and find tranquility at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

Hanging Rock State Park

• Driving Time: 2.15 hours

The stunning Hanging Rock State Park is about a two-hour drive from Raleigh and one of the best state parks in North Carolina . During all months it offers the most exquisite scenery, with its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. The 7869-acre park has plenty of hiking trails for all levels of experience. 

Make the most of your time here and hike to the top of Hanging Rock, go horseback riding, mountain biking, swimming, or paddling in one of the park’s waterfalls.

Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area 

• Driving Time: 45 hours

Only 40 minutes from Raleigh, Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers a quick getaway into the wild. It also happens to be the only place in Central North Carolina where you will find a mountain peak. 

Climb the mountain so you check off being at the top of Central North Carolina off your bucket list. Embark on one of the many hiking trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic, and catch some fish at the State Natural Area to cook on the weekend.

  Pilot Mountain State Park

• Distance from Raleigh : 90 miles
• Driving Time: 1.5 hours

Replace car fumes and noise pollution with fresh air and nature sounds with one of the best day trips from Raleigh – Pilot Mountain State Park. Located just over an hour away from Raleigh, it offers a variety of activities for all ages. 

The iconic Pilot Mountain is the cornerstone of this park, which is a quartzite dome that rises over 1,400 feet above sea level. In the past, the landmark was used for navigation by Native Americans. 

Visitors can climb to the top of the mountain for stunning views, or they can take a hike from Pilot Mountain to the Yadkin River. The park also offers a campground, picnic areas, an equestrian trail, boat launches, fishing piers, paddle boats, and a visitor center. 

About Natasha

Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and seven continents. After, many years of international travel they settled down a bit and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina.

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6 Fantastic Day Trips From Raleigh, North Carolina

• Destinations
• North Carolina
• United States

I love a good day trip. For me, about a one-hour drive from my town is the perfect distance, but I am willing to drive two to three for a good destination. The Raleigh-Durham area makes a great base to explore North Carolina. Heading south of Raleigh for these day trips, once you exit the highways, you will find country roads through farmland and rural areas. It is a nice change of pace from the big city and traffic.

Note: Some of the information in this article was obtained during press trips in the area. All opinions are my own.

1. Pinehurst

Just an 80-minute drive from Raleigh, Pinehurst is known as “The Cradle of American Golf and legendary golfers such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and many more have played here. Before there was golf, founder James Walker Tufts established the Village of Pinehurst with a plan by legendary landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in 1895. His plan created the lovely village streets and green space you can now enjoy today and most of the original buildings still exist. The best way to explore this lovely village is on foot. Print out the Cherokee Route walking tour or drop into the visitor center and purchase the Village of Pinehurst: A Historic Walking Tour for a more in depth tour. There are darling local shops and many yummy places to eat in the village. The Pinehurst Greenway meanders for six miles on pedestrian and bicycle-only trails. There’s easy access to shops, restaurants, and parks. Make sure to stop at the Pinehurst Arboretum with its beautiful walking trails and gardens.

The Village of Pinehurst is a very upscale community with all kinds of amenities. Indulge in a spa day at the Spa at Pinehurst . The luxurious Carolina Hotel is known as the “Queen of the South” and is the epitome of historic grand dame hotels steeped with elegance and Southern charm. Drop into the Carolina Coffee Shop to enjoy a coffee or a light lunch on the hotel’s front veranda.

2. Southern Pines

Southern Pines is a little over an hour’s drive from Raleigh. Start your visit at the Southern Pines train station located in the heart of downtown. Built in 1898, it is still an active train station with Amtrak service to Raleigh. It is also the location for the visitor center where you can get some great information about what to do on your visit. That’s how I found out about the Taxidermy Hall of Fame. What an experience. It is in the Christian Book Store, and you can buy some homemade fudge then look at the mishmash of a museum with over 200 animals preserved by taxidermy. It also houses the world’s oldest rock according to the owner. Plan to spend some time exploring downtown. It is an old railroad town, so the tracks run right through the middle with shops and restaurants on either side.

If you like golf, stop in for a visit to the Carolinas Golf Association Hall of History. It has an interesting collection of clubs, photos, trophies, and memorabilia from the many people who made this area one of the most historic golf locales. The Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities is a beautiful way to spend a day. The center is on a 26-acre estate that was once the home of James and Katharine Boyd. In the Boyd house, you can visit the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame (note the historic home is not ADA compliant) which is in James’ former study. The mansion also has cultural events such as music concerts and poetry readings. Outside, you can stroll the beautiful formal gardens or for a longer hike, access the Boyd Round Timber Tract with an extensive trail system. This is part of the Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve.

3. Fayetteville

There is so much to see and do in Fayetteville that this destination could easily be multiple day trips. I recommend going to the Visit Fayetteville website and choosing one of the Cultural Heritage Trails. These are themed drives that will take you around Fayetteville and into Cumberland County. There are so many choices it can be tough to choose. Fayetteville is known as “America’s Hometown,” and it is filled with history. Many of the trails focus on that history with an American Independence Trail, a Civil War Trail, and many more. There are cultural trails and even an International Food Trail.

One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens which is just two miles from downtown and situated on 80 acres. It contains so many gorgeous specialty gardens including Camellia, Daylily, a Shade Garden, a Butterfly Stroll, and a Heritage Garden. Make sure to go in the morning before it gets too hot. Be certain you allow enough time to explore the Cape Fear Museum Complex. In addition to the two-story museum, you can take a tour of the historic 1897 Poe House and explore Arsenal Park .

4. Moores Creek National Battlefield

I love a National Park site for a day trip. The Moores Creek National Battlefield is about a two-hour drive from Raleigh. The site commemorates a Revolutionary War battle that took place in February 1776 and lasted only about 3 minutes. It was the first decisive victory for the patriots in the American Revolution. Plan to tour the small museum and watch the movie about the battle. Head out to walk the two interpretive trails, the History Trail and the Tarheel Trail which combined, are one mile. The park and trail are really beautiful, especially in the morning hours. Also, on site is a picnic area if you wish to extend your visit.

The park is very accessible. The two interpretive trails are wheelchair accessible with benches along the way for resting or just enjoying the natural surroundings. The visitor center has ADA- accessible doors.

Pro Tip: You can combine this trip with a visit to Burgaw for a longer day trip.

The quaint little town of Burgaw is known for its picturesque settings that have caught the eye of Hollywood. Several television shows and movies were filmed here. It is about a 90-minute drive from Raleigh. Begin your day with a stop at the Pender County Visitor Center. It is on the first floor of the old Pender County Jail which was built in 1924. The second floor of the building was the jail and was restored to its original condition. Pick up a walking tour of downtown and enjoy the morning exploring the shops and viewing the 18th and 19th centuries architecture. A must stop is the Burgaw Train Depot which is the oldest in North Carolina and a site on the Civil War Trail.

For lunch, Mema’s Chick’n & Ribs is a must. It’s only been open since 2017 and its reputation has been spread by word of mouth. Make sure to check out the map where people from all over the world have left notes about their visit. Owners Myra and James McDuffie have created a very special place. I felt like I had a nice warm hug after eating here which is a pleasant feeling during these COVID times. The menu is heavy on Soul food and based on James’ mother Mary McDuffie’s recipes. She still comes in every day to cook. Everything is super fresh. Mary actually picks the collard greens from the fields so that they meet her exacting standards. James starts smoking the meat at 4:30 a.m. There are no leftovers, once they are out that’s it. His ribs are the best I have ever had. The barbecue sauce is served on the plate because it is so good people kept taking the bottles. The area is also known for its seafood. You will find only local, fresh, and never frozen Stump Sound oysters, shrimp, and catfish. Before you leave, children get a pick from a toy box and adults choose a card from the Blessing Box.

6. Have A Beach Day

There are so many beautiful beaches in North Carolina that make a great day trip from Raleigh. Get an early start. Pack all your beach gear, a picnic lunch, and a cooler full of ice-cold drinks. Plan to have dinner at one of the many great seafood restaurants along the coast before heading home. Check this article out for some beaches that are a 2-3 hour drive from Raleigh: 7 Best Beaches To Visit Near Wilmington, North Carolina .

Raleigh has everything a big city has to offer but sometimes it’s nice to get out of the city on a day trip. Driving country roads away from the traffic and crowds is a great way to unwind. These are just a few examples of the many day trips you can take from Raleigh.

The Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina gives visitors the chance to experience some of the best attractions the state has to offer:

• Not To Miss Activities In Raleigh, North Carolina
• 11 Reasons To Make Durham, NC Your Next Destination
• 5 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In Fayetteville, North Carolina

She currently lives in the Pacific Northwest. Her work can be found in Northwest Travel & Life Magazine , 253 Lifestyle Magazine , and other regional publications. She is the author of 100 Things to Do in Tacoma Before You Die , Reedy Press, and a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA). The name of her travel blog came about from her friends constantly asking her, "Peggy, Where Should I Go?"

The 21 Best Day Trips From Raleigh for Every Style of Adventure

These day trips from Raleigh will help you get a feel for the region’s unique southern culture and magnificent landscape. Find your favorite!

Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital city, is centrally located in the southeastern United States. This lively city manages to create a brilliant mix of heritage buildings with a vibrant culture that is firmly looking forward into the 21st century. From the Greek Revival North Carolina State Capitol Building to the renovated Warehouse District, it is easy to lose yourself in Raleigh’s past, present, and future as you explore the walkable city center.

However, as much as we love everything this place has to offer, we also love getting out and seeing the surrounding area. Luckily, there are some great day trips from Raleigh to help you get a feel for the region’s unique southern culture and magnificent landscape.

Explore the City of Oaks on a scavenger hunt !

If you’re looking for some new and interesting activities in the Raleigh area, download our app and try one of our exciting scavenger hunts ! Race your way to local attractions, search for street art , or grab some friends and head out on a pub crawl . You’ll learn new things and have a ball making memories and snapping pics of your adventure!

Day Trips From Raleigh

Below, you will find the best day trips from Raleigh, North Carolina ranging from gorgeous state parks to small towns and everything in between. Nearly all of the destinations are within a two-hour drive of Raleigh or can be combined with another destination if you want to create your own mini North Carolina road trip. 

1. Wilmington, North Carolina

Distance: 129 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours

This charming port city on the Cape Fear River was founded in 1739, making it one of the oldest cities on the east coast. Often referred to as a smaller version of Savannah or Charleston, Historic Downtown Wilmington is full of interesting heritage buildings and fascinating historic sites including many Victorian-style homes, eclectic microbreweries, farm-to-table restaurants, museums, and galleries. 

One of the best things about visiting Wilmington (aside from the Wilmington Ale Trail and its 16 microbreweries!) is that the historic district is easily walkable, so you don’t have to worry about driving around looking for a parking spot everywhere you go. This gives you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the charm of the city.

A stroll along the two-mile-long Riverwalk is one of the highlights of visiting the city. Make sure to leave plenty of time to wander, though, as you may find yourself being drawn into all the cute cafes and welcoming restaurants. 

If you want to get a more in-depth view of the river and learn more about Wilmington’s history, you can also jump onto one of the Cape Fear Riverboats , which offer daily hour-long sightseeing tours as well as sunset cruises. There is also a bi-monthly, four-hour-long nature cruise that takes you further into the Cape Fear region.

2. Bellamy Mansion

Located in the heart of Wilmington, the Bellamy Mansion should be at the top of your to-do list while you are there. Built in 1859, it is the residence of well-known doctor, businessman, and plantation owner Dr. Bellamy and his gigantic family. 

The Bellamy Mansion is a remarkable example of antebellum architecture with wraparound porches, Greek revival columns, and tranquil gardens. During the American Civil War, it was actually taken over by Union troops and used as their Wilmington headquarters. The family had to fight to get the house back at the end of the war and it stayed within the family until the mid-20th century. However, at that point, the house was already in poor condition. It was left to crumble until a charitable corporation was finally formed in the early 1970s to help maintain it. 

Today, it is possible to take a self-guided audio tour or a guided tour of this stately home, and you can learn more about the family that once lived here as well as their harrowing period in American history. It offers an interesting look into the lives of the social elite in the mid-19th century, and it’s an interesting place for all of the history buffs and culture vultures out there. 

3. Battleship North Carolina

Distance: 133 miles

Lying just across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, Battleship North Carolina provides a fascinating diversion for anyone with an interest in military history. Built for the United States Navy in 1937, the battleship has been authentically restored to its World War II glory and serves as a memorial for the 11,000 men and women from North Carolina who died during the war. 

During a self-guided tour, you can visit the ship’s observation deck as well as nine levels of mess decks, living spaces, the sickbay, gun turrets, powder storage, and more to try and envision what life was like on the vessel when it was out to sea. 

4. Airlie Gardens

Distance: 130 miles

Created in 1884, the Airlie Gardens are another great attraction located just outside of downtown Wilmington. Originally created as a series of formal gardens, Airlie is home to a 500-year-old Airlie oak tree which is beautifully draped with an array of natural “necklaces” formed from Spanish moss. 

While here, you can also find historic structures, soaring trees, walking trails, and magnificently arranged gardens that burst into color with seasonal blooms throughout the year. The gardens also offer special birding hikes throughout the year so make sure to check the schedule and book your tickets online to avoid any disappointment. 

The Airlie Gardens are located just a few minutes’’ drive away from the beautiful Wrightsville Beach. The two destinations can easily be combined into a one-day trip, or add a stop in nearby Wilmington for the perfect overnight getaway.

5. Wrightsville Beach

Distance: 132 miles

Wrightsville Beach lies on a sandy barrier island stretching four miles long and just a few thousand feet wide. On one side of the island, you have the chilly waters of the Atlantic Ocean while on the other, you can explore the intracoastal waterway. 

The town is one of the quintessential southern beach towns with a laid-back vibe mixed with surf culture, delicious cafes where you can grab freshly-roasted coffee or a light lunch, and plenty of space where you can watch the area’s beautiful sunrises. Widely considered to be one of the best beaches in North Carolina, it is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or you can simply spread out your towel on the beach’s golden sand and enjoy the feel of the ocean breeze as it kisses your skin. 

6. Cape Fear Botanical Garden 

Distance: 64 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour

Situated just slightly east of Downtown Fayetteville, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden is spread across an impressive 80 acres of land between the Cape Fear River and Cross Creek. The garden is divided into smaller specialty sections, including a heritage garden complete with a late-19th century homestead, agricultural tools, a butterfly stroll, and a children’s garden. 

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden hosts several events, including yoga and tai-chi so make sure to check their schedule before you head over to see what is going on while you are there!

7. Airborne & Special Operations Museum

Distance: 65 miles 

The enormous Airborne & Special Operations Museum brings the stories of heroic soldiers to life! It allows visitors to walk through the battle-torn streets of Normandy, experience the sounds of helicopters roaring overhead in Vietnam, and immerse themselves in the complexity of fighting a war on terror against an enemy who could be any man, woman, or child. 

As you learn more about the past 80 years of military struggles, you can view artifacts from the Parachute Test Platoon of 1940 which were the first men to take this “jump into history,” the Korean War, Cold War, and Vietnam. A visit to the museum offers an intriguing look into the brave paratroopers who played a key role in the American military. 

Admission is free of charge, but make sure to allow yourself two to three hours to fully explore this fascinating museum! 

8. Chapel Hill

Distance: 28 miles

Travel Time: 34 minutes

Home to the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is a young, vibrant city with a lively cultural scene and plenty of great attractions. Many of them are associated with UNC and offer free admission, which also makes Chapel Hill a pretty cost-effective day trip!

While you are there, you can check out the Ackland Art Museum which is home to more than 19,000 different works of art from around the world including pieces by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Max Weber as well as an impressive collection of Asian art.

Nature-lovers should also stop by the North Carolina Botanical Garden . Spread across 1,100 acres of land, the gardens are dedicated to conserving the unique ecosystem of North Carolina and safeguarding endangered plant species. 

The botanical gardens feature both display gardens exhibiting wildflowers and carnivorous plants, along with more than three miles of nature trails running through 88 acres of North Carolina forest. Here, you can completely immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. 

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center opened in 1949 and is located on the UNC campus just off of Chapel’s Hill historic Franklin Street. It’s one of the largest and oldest planetariums in the country! 

With a large array of hands-on exhibits and interesting planetarium shows, a trip to the science center is great for people of all ages. While you’re there, you can even visit UNC’s Breakthrough Hub. Learn more about the research the university conducts, which focuses on public health, marine science, biomedical engineering, and astronomy. 

Distance: 24 miles

Travel Time: 26 minutes

Although often considered part of the greater Raleigh metropolitan area and referred to as one point of “The Triangle,” Durham has a lot to offer visitors and has played an important role in American history and culture. It also just happens to be the home of Duke University, one of America’s most prestigious colleges, which gives the city a youthful, sophisticated vibe. 

Some of the town’s most popular places to visit include world-class museums such as the Nasher Museum of Art , which has more than 13,000 pieces in its collection, the Museum of Life and Science , and the beautiful Sarah P. Duke Gardens , offering more than five miles of walking trails that weave through the garden’s wooded and landscaped sections. 

History fans won’t want to miss the Bennett Place State Historic Site , a simple farmhouse that was the site of the final surrender of the American Civil War, or the American Tobacco Campus, a former tobacco factory area and the previous headquarters of the American Tobacco Company. 

The district showcases 17 historic structures, dating from 1874 all the way up to the mid-20th century. It’s now home to restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops, and the Duke campus is home to the Durham Performing Arts Center , where you can catch a number of big-name performers as well as traveling Broadway shows. 

Animal lovers should also head straight over to the Duke Lemur Center , the world’s largest sanctuary for endangered and rare prosimian primates. Since it was founded in 1966, the center has taken care of more than 4,000 primates including not only lemurs but also lorises and tarsiers. The center is currently home to around 250 primates from 21 different species, making it the home of one of the most diverse populations of lemurs outside of Madagascar. To visit the facility, you must make a reservation in advance. Tours are operated seasonally so make sure to check the most up-to-date information on their website before you plan your visit. 

If you feel like getting out into nature, the American Tobacco Trail runs 23 miles along an old railroad bed that was once part of the Norfolk Southern Railroad. The railroad was used to transport tobacco from the small agricultural communities of North Carolina to Durham for processing. The rail trail passes through forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife, including beavers, waterfowl, and woodpeckers, and is a great spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. 

10. North Carolina Zoo 

Distance: 76 miles

Travel Time: 1 ½ hours

One of the most popular attractions near the town of Asheboro is the North Carolina Zoo , home to more than 1,600 animals including lions, bears, chimpanzees, alligators, and more housed in regional habitats. The zoo is nestled amongst 2,600 wooded acres of land and features an old-fashioned carousel, a playground, a ropes course, and a butterfly garden. The zoo is located about a 15-minute drive southeast of Asheboro, making it easy to combine the city and the zoo into one fun-filled day trip. 

11. Richland Creek Canopy Zipline Tour 

Distance: 73.0 miles

Located just a 10-minute drive from the North Carolina Zoo, the Richland Creek Canopy Zipline Tour is a great little side trip if you want to get your heart rate going a bit. The course takes you through the treetops of the Uwharrie Mountains and past the idyllic Mendenhall Falls, following more than 1.5 miles of cable and four rope obstacles. Tours usually last around one and a half to two hours, making it easy to combine the zipline with a visit to the zoo. 

12. Smithfield

Distance: 31 miles

Travel Time: 35 minutes 

Famous for being a foodie haven, the small town of Smithfield is THE place to go for BBQ fanatics. With a slew of top-rated restaurants located right along the town’s main street, downtown Smithfield also offers the Ava Gardner Museum. This institution offers visitors a glimpse into the late star’s fascinating life. Finally, the Neuse River Walk is the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll before you grab lunch, dinner, or coffee at one of the nearby restaurants. 

13. Greensboro

Distance: 77 miles

Travel Time: 1 ¾ hours

As the third-largest city in North Carolina, Greensboro has an incredibly diverse mix of attractions and a walkable downtown area that make it well worth the drive. When you want to grab a bite to eat or take a break from sightseeing, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. This makes it a great spot for a day trip! With that said, if you have some extra time to play with, you may want to spend the night so that you can experience the city’s buzzing nightlife scene. 

Featuring North Carolina’s only inland aquarium in addition to the Animal Discovery Zoological Park, the Greensboro Science Center is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers or families traveling with children. The zoo is home to a large array of animals, and this all-in-one attraction is perfect to keep kids of all ages entertained.

Meanwhile, Greensboro has plenty to offer history lovers. The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park marks the location of a Revolutionary War battle that changed the course of history in just two and a half hours. During your visit, you can view exhibits relating to this important battle through artifacts, such as weapons, everyday items, military equipment, and musical instruments. 

The International Civil Rights Center and Museum has preserved the original Woolworth’s lunch counter that started the sit-in era of the Civil Rights Movement. What occurred at this little counter proved instrumental in improving social equity in the United States! The museum also displays personal narratives, artifacts, and interactive exhibits to help visitors learn more about this chilling time period in our not-so-distant history. 

14. Old Salem Museum and Gardens

Distance: 103 miles

With an attractive downtown, historic homes, and a thriving gastronomy scene, Winston-Salem is the perfect day trip for culture vultures. While there is a lot to do here, one of the highlights of any trip to the city is a visit to the Old Salem Museum and Gardens .

The Historic Town of Salem is a restored 18th-century village complete with shops, churches, and community buildings. It was originally settled by the Moravian community in 1766 and currently operates as a living history museum. Here, you can find costumed interpreters demonstrating the various crafts, trades, gardening, and cooking techniques of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. 

15. Charlotte

Distance: 167 miles

Travel Time: 2 ½ hours

With a thriving uptown full of fantastic museums, mouthwatering restaurants, and sports fields, Charlotte packs a lot into a small area. It’s the perfect day trip from Raleigh, and we encourage you to park the car and go for a little wander. As North Carolina’s largest and arguably most cosmopolitan city, it’s easy to find enough to do to fill a few days, so, if you have the time, this is one destination that warrants a bit extra. To find out more about what there is to do there, don’t forget to check out our Charlotte travel guide !

16. Yadkin Valley

Distance: 179

Travel Time: 3 hours

The lush Yadkin Valley is North Carolina’s version of Napa—it’s absolutely overflowing with world-class vineyards and wineries! Thanks to the microclimate created by the Yadkin River and the region’s fertile soil, it’s possible to grow a wide array of grapes there. This leads to the production of some of the country’s best (and also most underrated) wines. While in the area, you can stop by one of the 20 different wineries along the Surry County Wine Trail for a tasting or to join one of the local tours. 

The region is also home to some extraordinary hiking and kayaking trails, allowing visitors to have a morning of adventure out on the trails followed by a relaxing afternoon sipping delicious wine overlooking serene vineyards. 

Although the long drive may make it a bit tough to do the Yadkin Valley as a day trip, it’s easy to combine it with an overnight stay in Winston-Salem, which lies about halfway in between the valley and Raleigh, or you can add it as a side trip while traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

17. Blue Ridge Parkway

Distance: Varies

Travel Time: Varies

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the 469-mile long Blue Ridge Parkway offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as plenty of places where you can stop and jump onto one of the many hiking trails. It’s also in the vicinity of amazing natural attractions, such as Mount Mitchell, the Linville Gorge, or Whitewater Falls. 

The parkway passes by Asheville and Winston-Salem, and you can drive sections of it or, if you are feeling ambitious, conquer the entire thing as part of a long road trip. While it may seem overwhelming to start planning, the Blue Ridge Parkway website offers plenty of resources and itineraries to help you get started. 

18. Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

Distance: 219 miles

Travel Time: 4 hours

Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, the Linville Gorge is located in the beautiful Pisgah National Forest. While the gorge is certainly jaw-droppingly beautiful when viewed from a distance, there are many other highlights in the gorge that can be accessed via well-maintained hiking trails. These include the Linville Falls, one of North Carolina’s most photographed waterfalls, Hawksbill Mountain which offers breathtaking views over the gorge, and the Chimneys Hike, which takes visitors through stunning rock formations perched along the rim of the gorge.

19. Outer Banks 

Travel Time: 3 ¼ hours

With its sandy beaches and the beckoning Atlantic Ocean, a trip to the Outer Banks may be hard to resist during the hot North Carolina summers. This breathtaking region has everything that you could want ranging from family-friendly activities to romantic bed and breakfasts. While exploring, you can climb up the Currituck Lighthouse to get sweeping views of the ocean, visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum to learn more about the area’s maritime history, or go kayaking at Ocracoke Island. 

Be sure to keep an eye out for the famous Corolla wild horses while you are there! The ancestors of these equine treasures were originally brought there by some of the first European settlers, and their descendants have been happily roaming along the beaches, sand dunes, and forests ever since. They are an icon of the Outer Banks! 

If the Outer Banks make it to your itinerary, it’s a good idea to book any accommodations well in advance, as this is one of the most popular vacation spots in the southeastern U.S.

20. Hanging Rock State Park

Distance: 122 miles

Travel Time: 2 ¼ hours

Located about 30 minutes north of Winston-Salem, Hanging Rock State Park offers 20 miles of hiking trails that meander their way along babbling creeks and past rushing waterfalls. After your hike, cool off with a swim in the park’s very own lake. There’s also a large campground, where you can pitch a tent for the night and relax to the sounds of nature. 

21. New Bern

Distance: 116 miles

If you’re looking for something unique to do, you may want to head over to New Bern . Famous for being the birthplace of Pepsi, New Bern is proud of its quirky claim to fame. While there, visit The Pepsi Store, which is located on the exact same spot as the New Bern Drug Store, where the fizzy drink was first created! The store is part soda shop, part museum, and 100% kitsch, which makes it a fun place to pop into. After you are finished drinking a glass of Pepsi, stick around to visit the wide array of antique shops selling authentic Pepsi memorabilia.

Ready to roam?

We hope that you have found this list of fantastic day trips from Raleigh inspirational and that you are ready to go hit the road to see what lies beyond the city limits. As always, we would love to hear your feedback. Let us know if we have missed any of your favorites!

To learn about all of the great activities and attractions in the area, make sure to review our list of the 30+ Best Things to Do in Raleigh , or try one of our exciting scavenger hunts !

Frequently Asked Questions

The City of Oaks is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, but there are also great day trips from Raleigh for history buffs! Visit Old Salem, the Battleship NC, or the International Civil Rights Center.

There are idyllic day trips from Raleigh for nature lovers! Visit the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, explore the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, have fun in the Outer Banks, or hike in Hanging Rock State Park.

There are many family-friendly things to do in Raleigh ! For starters, take the gang on an app-guided scavenger hunt . Then, hit up the Marbles Kids Museum, hike in Lake Johnson Park, or plan a day trip !

Featured Products & Activities

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Raleigh, North Carolina

Last Updated By VI in NC Day Trips on November 16, 2023

Mayberry - Mount Airy

Outer banks.

• Complete List & Map

The Andy Griffith Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of Griffith memorabilia, and is located next door to the Andy Griffith Playhouse. Once Mount Airy’s first public school, the 1920’s building is now home to art camps, theater productions, live music and acting classes.

New Bern has the distinction of being the birthplace of Pepsi. The drink was first mixed in 1893 at Bradham’s Drug Store. Visit the Birthplace of Pepsi Store in New Bern’s historic downtown.

On land, enjoy hiking, off-road driving, and wildlife viewing in the great outdoors. Visit the many art galleries, shops, and restaurants in each town from Hatteras Island to the south, to Duck towards the north.

Asheboro, NC 27203

Bennett Place State Historic Site

4409 Bennett Memorial Rd, Durham, NC 27705, Phone: 919-383-4345

Blue Ridge Parkway

North Carolina and Virginia

Cape Hatteras

1401 National Park Drive, Manteo , NC 27954, Phone: 252-473-2111

Carolina Tiger Rescue

1940 Hanks Chapel Rd., Pittsboro, NC 27312, Phone: 919-542-4684

Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Chimney Rock State Park

743 Chimney Rock Park Rd., Chimney Rock, NC 28720, Phone: 800-277-9611

Eno River State Park

6101 Cole Mill Rd., Durham, NC 27705, Phone: 919-383-1686

Grandfather Mountain

2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646, Phone: 800-468-7325

Greensboro, NC

Hanging Rock State Park

1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC 27016, Phone: 336-593-8480

Linville Gorge and Falls

Warrior Lane, Marion, NC 28752, Phone: 828-298-0398

North Carolina Botanical Garden

100 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, Phone: 919-962-0522

900 Old Salem Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, Phone: 336-721-7300

Pilot Mountain

Pilot Mountain, NC

Pittsboro, NC

Smithfield, NC

The Biltmore Estate

Virginia International Raceway

1245 Pine Tree Road, Alton, VA 24520, Phone: 434-822-7700

Wilmington, NC

Yadkin Valley

• 1. Mayberry - Mount Airy
• 2. New Bern
• 3. Outer Banks
• 4. Asheboro
• 5. Bennett Place State Historic Site
• 6. Blue Ridge Parkway
• 7. Cape Hatteras
• 8. Carolina Tiger Rescue
• 9. Chapel Hill
• 10. Chimney Rock State Park
• 12. Eno River State Park
• 13. Grandfather Mountain
• 14. Greensboro
• 15. Hanging Rock State Park
• 16. Linville Gorge and Falls
• 17. North Carolina Botanical Garden
• 18. Old Salem
• 19. Pilot Mountain
• 20. Pittsboro
• 21. Smithfield
• 22. The Biltmore Estate
• 23. Virginia International Raceway
• 24. Wilmington
• 25. Yadkin Valley

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30 Best Weekend Getaways From Raleigh — Quick Trips!

By: Author Piper Cook

Posted on Published: January 12, 2023  - Last updated: July 27, 2023

Eager to escape your bustling life for a revitalizing break? 

Well, let me guide you on some of the most unforgettable weekend escapes from Raleigh, right from the heart of my home state.

With my insider’s perspective, I’ve handpicked the crème de la crème of getaways tailored to every traveler’s taste. 

Whether you’re yearning for solitude, a romantic escapade with your sweetheart, or a joy-filled family expedition, you’ll discover your perfect match right here.

Raleigh’s location is a treasure trove of splendid tourist hotspots, resplendent natural vistas, and bustling entertainment hubs to guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Ready to traverse pulsating cities and tranquil towns?

Trust me, I’ve experienced them all, and each one is worth exploring.

Check out this list of the best weekend getaways from Raleigh, and let your journey of a lifetime commence. 

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Best Weekend Getaways From Raleigh Compared

These weekend getaways from Raleigh I’ve selected are pure magic. 

Every destination, filled with joy, wonder, and unique experiences, will inspire you to live fully and love your family time even more.

Editor’s Choice

Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte

Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte is a luxury hotel that opened in 2009, featuring a spa, rooftop bar, and eco-friendly amenities.

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 1/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

North Beach Resort & Villas

North Beach Resort & Villas is an oceanfront property on a 7.5-acre island in Myrtle Beach, featuring towers, a 2.5-acre water park, and five-star amenities.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Location: 3/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Graduate Chapel Hill

Graduate Chapel Hill is a boutique hotel in Chapel Hill celebrating local culture and featuring unique, collegiate-inspired decor.

• Location: 5/5

Here are top 30 weekend getaways from Raleigh.

1. Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte (Editor’s Choice)

201 E Trade St Charlotte, NC 28202 (704) 547-2244 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Luxury and elegance: Ritz-Carlton is known for its luxurious accommodations and high-end amenities, providing a lavish experience to guests.
• Convenient location: Located near Raleigh, guests at Ritz-Carlton can easily access the city’s attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Expensive: Ritz-Carlton is a luxury brand, and with that comes a high price tag. The rates for rooms and services may be beyond the budget of many travelers.
• Less personalized experience: The hotel’s large size and popularity could result in a less personalized experience than smaller boutique hotels.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Uptown Charlotte, it stands out from the usual crowd. 

While the city offers a plethora of eateries and attractions, nothing compares to the luxury and ambiance of this gem. 

I’ve dined at the finest spots, but the gourmet treats here? 

Oh, it’s pure culinary artistry.

And that rooftop bar? 

The sunset view will capture your heart. 

Plus, what makes my soul dance about this hotel is its eco-friendly amenities.

It’s like this perfect blend of opulence meets responsibility. 

So, if you’re seeking a slice of heaven with a touch of mindful luxury, the journey from Raleigh to Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte, is worth it.

2. North Beach Resort & Villas

719 North Beach Boulevard STE 3 North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (877) 397-3771 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Beachfront location: As the name suggests, this resort is located on the beach, providing guests easy access to the sandy shores and beautiful ocean views.
• Variety of accommodation options: The resort offers a range of accommodation options, including villas, which can cater to different group sizes and preferences.
• Seasonal crowds: The resort can experience high tourist traffic during peak seasons, leading to crowded facilities and potentially reducing the serenity of the stay.
• Additional resort fees: Some amenities or services at the resort might come with additional fees, which guests should be aware of when planning their budget for the trip.

Amidst the plethora of attractions in the area, this resort stands out like a diamond tiara on a Monday. 

It’s perched on its 7.5-acre island, offering an oceanfront like no other.

The 2.5-acre water extravaganza is more than just a pool—it’s an oasis. 

Compared to other spots, it brings a five-star game with its amenities. 

Your soul and family will thank you for this luscious escape.

3. Graduate Chapel Hill

311 W Franklin St Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (919) 442-9000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Boutique experience: As a boutique hotel, Graduate Chapel Hill can offer a more personalized and intimate experience compared to larger chain hotels.
• Nearby dining and entertainment: The hotel’s location puts guests within walking distance or a short drive from various dining options, bars, and entertainment venues.
• Room availability: Due to its smaller size, room availability at Graduate Chapel Hill may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Noise level: Depending on its location and surroundings, the hotel’s proximity to popular areas or nightlife spots may result in higher noise levels.

From Raleigh, an excursion to Graduate Chapel Hill is an absolute must. 

The hotel is an ode to nostalgia and local charm. 

Nestled in the iconic Chapel Hill amidst a medley of eateries and spots, this boutique haven truly shines. 

I’ve meandered through the region, tasted bites, and sipped delights. 

Yet, the collegiate-inspired vibe at Graduate? 

Simply unmatched. 

Dive deep into those cozy corners, and you’ll feel the essence of Chapel Hill’s spirit.

4. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC (919) 245-4320 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Chapel Hill, nicknamed the Southern Part of Heaven, is a picturesque town located in three counties, Chatham, Orange, and Durham.

This delightful town is the ideal destination on your short trips from Raleigh because it is a mere 40-minute drive from the city.

Start your tour by heading to the University of North Carolina, one of the oldest universities in the country, dating back to the 1700s.

Visit a one-of-a-kind specialty museum by exploring the exhibits at the Carolina Basketball Museum, exhibiting artifacts, photos, and game videos related to UNC Basketball.

Stroll along its downtown district, shop at boutique stores, dine at upscale eateries, explore art galleries, and much more.

Make your way to the North Carolina Botanical Garden and discover more than 2,500 plant species naturalized or native to South and North Carolina.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Chapel Hill

5. Fayetteville

Fayetteville, NC (910) 483-5311 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Fayetteville, nicknamed the All-American City, is a bustling metropolis resting on the banks of the Cape Fear River in North Carolina.

This city is a fantastic choice when looking for places near Raleigh for vacation because it is just over an hour’s drive away.

Bond with your older kids by touring places like the Airborne and Special Operations Museum with exhibits, aircraft, and so on related to the Special Operations and Airborne community.

Have a thrilling time indoors at The Climbing Place, a premier family-owned rock climbing and bouldering facility for the adventurous at heart.

You can also have a terrific bonding experience with your kids at the Cross Creek Mall, offering at least 150 stores and four anchor tenants.

Spend quality time with your little ones at Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, featuring hands-on exhibits, interactive projects, and fun educational programs.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Fayetteville South, an IHG Hotel

Related: Hotels in Raleigh

6. Greensboro

Greensboro, NC (336) 274-2282 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Greensboro, previously named Greensborough, is the seat of Guilford County and one of the most populous cities in North Carolina.

I recommend making your way to this city when looking for places to visit on your Raleigh area weekend getaways, roughly an hour and thirty minutes drive.

This vibrant metropolis holds an endless array of fun-filled possibilities so that you can create memories to last a lifetime.

Prepare to be amazed as you tour the wonders of the Greensboro Science Center, boasting a zoological park with live animals, an immersive full-dome theater, a science museum, and more.

Beat the heat at Wet’n Wild Emerald Pointe, a spectacular water park featuring one of the largest wave pools in the US, forty attractions and rides, and so much more.

Watch a mesmerizing live show at the historic Carolina Theater showcasing concerts, theatrical plays, ballet productions, and the like.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Greensboro Downtown

7. Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, NC (336) 728-4200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Winston-Salem, nicknamed the Twin City, is the seat of Forsyth County and the third-largest urban area in the state.

Go on a cool overnight trip with your friends, loved ones, or significant other by having a magnificent time touring this city, about a two-hour drive from Raleigh.

It has several local agencies offering a myriad of guided tour experiences, like scavenger hunts, ghost tours, and countless others.

Do you want to enjoy a historically rich experience?

Then, visit the Old Salem Museums & Gardens, exhibiting displays on Indigenous peoples of the Southern Woodland and free and enslaved people of African descent.

View eye-catching American art installations from the colonial era to the present by looking through the many exhibits at the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

Recommended Hotel: Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, an IHG Hotel

8. Seagrove

Seagrove, NC Open in Google Maps

Seagrove is a land-locked town in Randolph County, roughly a 1-hour and 35-minute drive from Raleigh.

It is the perfect choice for cheap vacations from Raleigh because it offers several budget-friendly attractions for you to discover.

Tour places like the North Carolina Pottery Center boasting an impressive selection of eye-catching pottery and interactive classes on selected days.

Explore its many other pottery shops and galleries, like Ray Pottery, specializing in fine gas-fired stoneware, and Seagrove Creations, featuring hand-crafted items of 70 local potters.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Asheboro

9. Cabarrus County

Cabarrus County, NC (704) 920-2100 Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cabarrus County, founded in 1792, is a county nestled in the south-central region of North Carolina.

Make memories you will never forget by taking your travel buddies to this county, about two hours and twenty-five minutes from Raleigh.

Have a thrilling time at the Charlotte Motor Speedway watching famous races, like the annual Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day weekends and several NASCAR events.

Do you want to have a fabulous time indoors?

If you do, head to the famous Great Wolf Lodge Water Park.

It has plenty to offer you, such as slides of every length and size, kid-friendly splash areas, thrilling rides, several pools, and so much more.

Enjoy other activities like spending the day outdoors at a park, touring specialty museums, sipping locally crafted beer at a brewery, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Concord/Kannapolis

Related: Weekend Getaways From Charlotte, NC

10. Yadkin Valley

Yadkin Valley, NC (336) 526-1111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Yadkin Valley, established in 2002, is an American Viticultural Area in the northwestern region of North Carolina.

Go on one of the best romantic getaways from Raleigh, roughly three hours away, by heading to this gorgeous area.

Have an intimate weekend trip with your significant other by checking into a bed and breakfast and exploring this wine country.

Spend some much-needed quality time with your beloved as you go wine tasting, strolling through scenic vineyards, and taking pictures backed by the gorgeous natural landscape.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Lenoir Hwy 321 Northern Foothills

Related: North Carolina: Weekend Getaways

11. Morganton

Morganton, NC (828) 438-5280 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This city is a superb choice for your long weekend trips from Raleigh because it offers several leisure activities and is about a 3-hour drive away.

Have a relaxing afternoon as you sip top-quality wines at the Silver Fork Winery and bike along the over three-mile-long Catawba River Greenway.

Another must-visit is the Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill, offering homemade cider prepared from apples grown at its farm, seasonal fruit picking, and delectable treats.

You can also head to the Catawba Meadows Park to bond with your kids, featuring various ball fields, paved trails, a disc golf course, zip lines, a playground, and numerous other facilities.

Learn about local history by looking through various rotating displays of artifacts at the History Museum of Burke County.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites Morganton Historic Downtown

12. Asheville

Asheville, NC (828) 258-6101 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Asheville , incorporated in 1797, is the seat of Buncombe County in the western region of North Carolina, roughly four hours from Raleigh.

Kick-start your tour by visiting one of its most famous attractions, Biltmore, an opulent, historic, Châteauesque-style house museum owned by the wealthy Vanderbilt family.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the 434-acre North Carolina Arboretum, boasting differently-themed garden sections and an impressive bonsai collection.

Get a break from sightseeing by visiting the New Belgium Brewing Company, serving award-winning craft beer and offering guided tours of its facility.

View various animals at the Western North Carolina Nature Center, home to numerous wildlife, like black bears, barn owls, wolves, bobcats, red pandas, rattlesnakes, cougars, and lots more.

You can also play on retro machines at the Asheville Pinball Museum and watch talented glassblowers at Lexington Glassworks.

Recommended Hotel: Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville

13. York County

York County, SC (803) 329-5200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

York County, founded in 1785, is one of the most populous counties in South Carolina, about a 3-hour and a 30-minute drive from Raleigh.

Have an outstanding summer weekend trip at Southtown Wake Park, where you can enjoy wakeboarding in a glimmering lake.

Enjoy a more educational and meaningful experience by visiting the Catawba Cultural Center and learning all about the richness of the history and culture of the Catawba Indian Nation.

Go on a relaxing stroll in nature at the award-winning Glencairn Garden, featuring colorful flower-filled walkways, showcase gardens, ponds, charming fountains, boardwalks, and so on.

You can also try other thrilling activities like ax throwing at Vikings Axe, jumping on trampolines at Adventure Air Sports, and zip lining across the treetops at Camp Canaan.

Recommended Hotel: Cambria Hotel Rock Hill – University Center

14. Asheboro

Asheboro, NC (336) 626-1201 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Asheboro is the seat of Randolph County and was named after the 9th governor of North Carolina, Samuel Ashe.

Are you looking for places to include in your Raleigh weekend getaways?

Then, I recommend exploring the nearby Asheboro, roughly one hour and twenty minutes away.

Visit sites like the state-owned North Carolina Zoo, housing more than 1800 animals, such as snapping turtles, ocelots, zebras, giraffes, grizzly bears, vampire bats, chimpanzees, and more.

Sample delicious craft beer at Four Saints Brewing Company, featuring visiting food trucks offering tasty treats and live music on selected days.

Head to the Collector’s Antique Mall to have a fantastic time antiquing and N.C. Aviation Museum to view authentic aircraft of varying shapes and colors.

Enjoy other activities like golfing at the picture-perfect Tot Hill Farm Golf Club and hiking through the 5,160-acre Birkhead Mountains Wilderness.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Asheboro, an IHG Hotel

15. Scotland Neck

Scotland Neck, NC (252) 826-3152 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Scotland Neck is a quaint land-locked town in the Halifax County of North Carolina.

Are you getting ready for your inexpensive weekend getaways near Raleigh and searching for places to include?

If you are, consider driving about one hour and thirty minutes to Scotland Neck, offering tourist hotspots at reasonable prices.

Visit a one-of-a-kind attraction by heading to Sylvan Heights Bird Park, boasting one of the largest collections of waterfowl worldwide from all over the globe.

The Calvary Episcopal Church is a must-see on your budget-friendly tour because it is a historic church erected in 1855 with a Gothic Revival architectural design.

It also offers several dining choices and lodging facilities catering to every budget.

Recommended Hotel: Scotland Neck Inn

16. Lake Gaston

Lake Gaston, NC (252) 535-1687 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Gaston is a 20,000-acre hydroelectric reservoir located in three counties, Northampton, Warren, and Halifax.

Consider heading to Lake Gaston when searching for places to go for a weekend trip near you to enjoy a plethora of water activities with your group.

It features a breathtaking landscape with glimmering water and enthralling nature backdrops.

Here, you can try all sorts of enjoyable activities, such as wakeboarding, boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing, and much more.

Recommended Hotel: Goose Island Retreat

17. Wilmington

Wilmington, NC (877) 406-2356 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Wilmington , nicknamed the Port City, is the seat of New Hanover County in the southeastern coastal area of North Carolina.

Take your loved ones on a long-awaited weekend vacation by driving over two hours to this gorgeous city.

Tour interesting places like the Battleship North Carolina, a battleship commissioned in 1941 for World War II, and the Bellamy Mansion, an architecturally stunning building constructed in 1861.

Have a chill time with your family by strolling through Airlie Gardens, a beautifully landscaped public garden encompassing 67 acres.

The Wilmington Railroad Museum is a must-visit if you have train enthusiasts in the family because it has scale models, a full-size steam engine, a Thomas the Tank play area, and more.

Bond with your older kids as you explore its downtown district, featuring terrific dining choices, numerous locally-owned shops, and captivating views of the Cape Fear River.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

18. New Bern

New Bern, NC (352) 637-3111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

New Bern, resting on the banks of the Neuse River, is a metropolis in Craven County, roughly two hours from Raleigh.

Here, you can go on a spectacular weekend trip with your family or friends as you enjoy a superb sightseeing experience.

Have a fun, educational tour at the North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace, exhibiting rare artifacts, rotating displays, and tons more.

Another must-visit for museum buffs is the New Bern Firemen’s Museum, one of the oldest fire companies in North Carolina, dating back to the mid-1950s.

View various artwork at Carolina Creations, an art gallery and gift shop showcasing paintings, contemporary art, hand-crafted potter, woodworks, jewelry, and countless others.

End your tour by heading to the New Bern Civic Theatre, offering captivating live performances like musicals, theatrical plays, and much more.

Recommended Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern – Riverfront

19. Mount Airy

Mount Airy, NC (336) 786-6116 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Mount Airy, incorporated in 1885, is a delightful city in Surry County, about two hours and twenty minutes from Raleigh.

Make the most of your weekend by exploring this charming metropolis with your travel buddies.

Tour attractions like the Andy Griffith Museum, where you can learn all about the life and career of American actor and comedian Andy Griffith.

Enjoy walking around Downtown Mt. Airy as you enjoy activities like dining at local eateries, antique shopping, visiting local art galleries, and watching a show at a music venue.

Are you having difficulty deciding where to go or what to do?

Then, I recommend visiting Mount Airy Visitors Center, where you can book a guided tour, look through informative brochures, and talk to knowledgeable staff.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon as you sip award-winning wine while taking in stunning views of the scenery or an alluring sunset at Round Peak Vineyards.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn Mount Airy

20. Topsail Island

Topsail Island, NC Social Media Open in Google Maps

Topsail Island, nestled on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, is a barrier island spanning 26 miles.

Do you finally have time to go on a much-deserved oceanfront weekend trip?

Then, consider driving roughly two hours and thirty minutes to Topsail Island.

Spend the day basking under the sun at Sea Haven Beach, where you can sunbathe on the powdery white sand, swim in the cool water, or help your little ones make towering sandcastles.

Visit the North Topsail Beach Town Park for a more family-friendly experience because it has amenities like picnic shelters, a playground, sports courts, a kayak launch, and more.

You can also have a fun time dining at a waterfront eatery, checking into a luxurious hotel, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Loggerhead Inn and Suites by Carolina Retreats

21. Richmond

Richmond, NC (910) 895-9057 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Richmond , incorporated in 1742, is a riverfront city and capital of the state of Virginia, about a two-hour and thirty-minute drive from Raleigh.

It is also known by its nicknames, RVA, Fist City, and River City.

It has something brilliant to offer whether you are interested in history, science, nature, art, shopping, and so on.

Start your tour by exploring one of its most well-known attractions, Maymont, a historic Victorian house museum erected in 1925.

Get the chance to explore at least twelve differently themed gardens by strolling through the magical 50-acre Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

Take in awe-inspiring artwork at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest museums of its kind in North America, boasting pieces from Africa, the Himalayas, Britain, and more.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Richmond Downtown

22. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, SC (800) 356-3016 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Myrtle Beach is a magnificent resort city in Horry County on the east coast of South Carolina.

Are you planning your Raleigh vacations and looking for a fantastic destination to go on a superb beach trip?

If you are, consider driving roughly three hours to this coastal city with your family, partner, or friends.

Have a blast at the coastline as you work on your tan, enjoy a quick dip in the cool water, try surfing, and so much more.

It also has many fabulous oceanfront attractions to guarantee the perfect beachfront adventure, like Broadway at the Beach, a lively entertainment complex, and a shopping mall.

Another outstanding tourist hotspot is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, featuring an observation wheel, countless eateries, and annual festivals.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean 22 Myrtle Beach

23. Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 385-4700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Virginia Beach is an independent coastal city on the southeastern coast of Virginia.

Get a little further from Raleigh on your weekend vacation by driving about four hours to Virginia Beach.

It is home to countless local agencies offering kayaking, zip-lining, history walking, ghost, and eco-tours.

It has several coastlines, like the more secluded Sandbridge Beach, the more lively Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and many others.

Have a fun time with your companions at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, offering a thrilling amusement park, specialty museums, various dining choices, and much more.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

24. The Outer Banks

The Outer Banks, NC (877) 629-4386 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Outer Banks, also known as OBX, is a string of barrier islands spanning roughly 200 miles.

Get a break from the hustle and bustle of city life as you take in the fresh ocean breeze at the OBX.

Here, you can enjoy various water sports activities, like surfing, going on guided scuba diving excursions, signing up for kayaking trips, and many others.

Go on an outdoor adventure at Jockey’s Ridge State Park as you learn how to hang-glide or try sandboarding, and head to the Roanoke Sound to go kiteboarding, windsurfing, and lots more.

Climb up the 220 steps of the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the landscape.

You can also enjoy a more laid-back beach experience by heading to Currituck Beach and watching wild horses roaming its shoreline from a safe distance.

Recommended Hotel: Saltaire Cottages

25. Umstead State Park (Also Known As William B. Umstead State Park)

8801 Glenwood Ave Raleigh, NC 27617 (984) 867-8240 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Umstead State Park, encompassing 5,599 acres, is a state park established in 1937 in Wake County, Raleigh.

Get a break from the routine cycle of your daily life by going on a nature adventure at Umstead State Park.

Some of its onsite amenities include seasonal boat rentals, picnic shelters, a visitor center with educational exhibits, a bathhouse, multi-purpose trails, and more.

Enjoy activities like biking, hiking, camping, horseback riding, fishing, picnicking, signing up for educational programs, and numerous others.

Recommended Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Durham Airport Brier Creek

Cary, NC Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cary, founded in 1750, is a charming town in two counties, Chatham and Wake.

It is a mere fifteen-minute drive from Raleigh, making it the perfect destination if you don’t want to drive long hours.

It has a handful of picturesque parks, like the 310-acre Fred G. Bond Metro Park, where you can enjoy watching a lakefront outdoor movie, go pedal boating, fly kites, and so much more.

Are you an avid hiker looking for the ideal place to visit?

Then, I highly recommend the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve because it has at least four trails of varying difficulties.

Enjoy other activities in the area, like watching a sports game at the WakeMed Soccer Park or a live show at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Cary I-40 (PNC Arena)

Apex, NC (919) 249-3400 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Apex, incorporated in 1873, is a town in the Wake County of North Carolina, roughly twenty minutes from Raleigh.

Go on a quick weekend getaway with your friends or loved ones in this neighboring town.

Have a fun, leisurely day outdoors at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy hiking, boating, camping, or splashing in the cool water of a swimming beach.

The Crowder County Park is a terrific option when vacationing with kids because it has a colorful playground, a pond with a boardwalk, designated picnic shelters, and other amenities.

Catch up with your friends or significant other by enjoying a round of golf at the Knights Play Golf Center, boasting 27 holes and a well-landscaped setting.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Apex – Raleigh, an IHG Hotel

28. Falls Lake State Recreation Area

13300 Creedmoor Rd Wake Forest, NC 27587 (984) 867-8000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Falls Lake State Recreation Area, spanning over 5000 acres, is a state park in Wake Forest in Durham County.

Go on the ultimate getaway for outdoor enthusiasts by heading to this natural attraction.

Prepare to create new memories as you enjoy observing passing wildlife, hiking, mountain biking, and endless more.

You can also enjoy various recreational activities in the water, such as kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, jet skiing, swimming, paddle boarding, and the like.

It has several camping areas, ideal for camping in a tent, trailer, or RV, featuring shower areas, firewood, and dump stations.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Raleigh/Town of Wake Forest

29. Wake Forest

Wake Forest, NC Open in Google Maps

Wake Forest, incorporated in 1880, is a scenic town in three counties, Granville, Franklin, and Wake.

It is about a 30-minute drive from Raleigh and offers many enjoyable attractions.

You can spend the day outdoors at the Falls Lake State Recreation Area, view various animals at the Winterpast Farm, and hike along the picturesque Horseshoe Farm Nature Preserve.

Bond with your travel buddies at Downtown Wake Forest as you sip coffee at a cafe, shop at its various boutiques, tour art galleries, dine at a highly acclaimed local eatery, and so on.

Make sure to drop by the White Street Brewing Co. to sample award-winning craft beer before leaving.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Raleigh Wake Forest

30. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

280 State Park Rd Apex, NC 27523 (919) 362-0586 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is a state park in Chatham County in Apex.

Enjoy the best weekend getaways from Raleigh at this outdoor attraction with your loved ones.

Bond with your family by enjoying a leisurely swim at its beaches, camping under the stars, going on boating excursions, and hiking through picturesque trails.

You can also have a delightful picnic backed by the gorgeous scenery, tour its visitor center featuring fascinating exhibits about the area, teach your kids how to fish, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Suites Apex-Holly Springs

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Let me take you on a sweet little journey near Raleigh, starting with the classic luxury of the Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte. 

Ah, the sweet scent of plush carpets, the hushed whispers of the elite, and the endless pampering.

It’s nothing short of a dream. 

It’s a little like eating caviar every day, you know?

Then, imagine the shift as you step into the magnificent oceanfront presence of North Beach Resort & Villas. 

It’s like changing from a tuxedo to a flowy sundress barefoot on the beach. 

You’ve got this sweeping 2.5-acre water park, private cabanas, and a golf course.

It screams luxury but with a side of frolic.

Finally, let’s take a detour to the quirky, spirited Graduate Chapel Hill. 

There, it feels like staying in a Wes Anderson movie—beautifully offbeat yet cozy and familiar.

Three unique experiences, each deliciously different. 

Only you can decide which tickles your fancy the most. 

So, choose your adventure, and make it unforgettable.

How I Picked The Destinations 

Picking these destinations wasn’t just a whim. 

Living in the gorgeous North Carolina state, I’ve personally experienced each spot’s magic. 

I’ve curated this list by blending my insights with extensive research and heart-to-heart chats with fellow locals and passionate travelers. 

Trust that every recommendation is packed with love, joy, and the promise of unforgettable family moments.

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What city is 2 hours away from raleigh, nc.

Wilmington, NC, is approximately 2 hours away from Raleigh, NC. Another city within this reach of Raleigh is Charlotte, NC.

Are There Mountains Near Raleigh?

The Appalachian Mountains are located near Raleigh, NC. While mountains do not surround the city itself, the western part of the state, including areas close to Raleigh, is in proximity to the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

How Far Are The Weekend Getaway Destinations From Raleigh?

The distance varies depending on the chosen destination. Asheville is approximately 230 miles from Raleigh, Charleston lies about 220 miles away, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are within a 3 to 4-hour drive, offering a range of options for memorable weekend escapes.

What Are Some Budget-Friendly Weekend Getaways From Raleigh?

For those looking for more affordable options, destinations like Virginia Beach, VA, offer a range of budget-friendly accommodations and a lively boardwalk experience. Wilmington, NC, is another cost-effective choice with its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and reasonable lodging options.

Conclusion 

After my whirlwind of experiences through these divine retreats, it’s evident that each spot offers enchanting allure. 

But if we’re talking crowning jewels, Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte, near Raleigh, certainly holds the scepter. 

As a local in this stunning state, I’ve sampled the serenades of numerous spots.

But the elegance and unparalleled luxury of Ritz-Carlton is simply on another level. 

So, if you’re contemplating the best weekend getaways from Raleigh, trust this heart that beats for all things travel and indulgence: set your sights and heart on the Ritz. 

It’s not just a getaway; it’s a getaway experience to remember.

More joy. More adventure. More life.

Georgia , North Carolina , North Carolina , Road Trips , South Carolina , Tennessee , Travel , USA Travel , Virginia

20+ Best Weekend Trips from Raleigh NC for an Unforgettable Getaway

Weekend Getaways from Raleigh North Carolina

Need a getaway? Same!! I mean, who doesn’t love a weekend getaway? If you’re looking for somewhere new and different to explore, today I’m sharing some of the best weekend trips from Raleigh NC.

We’ve got ideas on the best things to do, tips, tricks and more for over twenty destinations within a five hour drive of Raleigh, North Carolina. Whether you’re looking for an active weekend, some time with the family, or a little rest and relaxation, there is literally somewhere for everyone!

In this post, we’ll cover over 20 ideas for east coast weekend getaways to inspire your next mini vacay. Not only are these some of the best weekend trips from Raleigh, but really in the general Mid-Atlantic east coast region of the USA.

• Wilmington, NC
• Charlotte, NC
• Richmond, VA
• Roanoke, VA
• Bald Head Island, NC
• Blue Ridge Parkway, NC
• Williamsburg, VA
• Wintergreen Mountain Resort, VA
• Outer Banks, NC
• Myrtle Beach, SC
• Charlottesville, VA
• Virginia Beach, VA
• Columbia, SC
• Asheville, NC
• Greenville, SC
• Massanutten Resort, VA

Washington DC

• The Greenbrier Resort
• New River Gorge National Park, WV
• Charleston, SC
• Savannah, GA
• Gatlinburg, TN

So, the only question is…which of these weekend trips from Raleigh will you plan next?

This post contains affiliate links which means I could earn a small commission, if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my full Disclosure  HERE .

Weekend Trips from the Triangle within 3 hours:

While there are a ton of fun things to do in Raleigh , I’m all about exploring the world around you!

If you’re looking for quick weekend getaways in NC from the Triangle area, here are some of our favorite vacation spots perfect for families, couples, or even to go solo! You can get to each of these weekend getaways in less than three hours drive time!

Wilmington, North Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Wilmington is 2 hours 15 minutes drive time (144 miles)

While Wilmington is doable as a day trip from the Triangle area, we happen to think it’s one of the best weekend getaways in NC! You are definitely going to want more than just a day to explore this cute coastal town and area beaches.

Suggested activities in Wilmington:

• Hit up Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, or Kure Beach
• Explore the downtown area and Riverwalk
• Grab a coffee in Wilmington at Bitty & Beau’s or Bespoke Coffee & Dry Goods
• Hop on the Ale-Trail- visit one or more of Wilmington’s 16 different breweries
• Get your history lesson at Fort Fisher, the Battleship North Carolina, Cape Fear Museum or Bellamy Mansion
• Visit Carolina Beach State Park, Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Garden, and Airlie Gardens

Suggested places to stay in Wilmington:

Depending on which area you want to be in, in Wrightsville Beach we like the Holiday Inn Resort or a VRBO vacation rental in Kure Beach . Downtown we like The Hive or The Courtyard Wilmington Downtown .

Wilmington is like our second home…so I’ve got all the inside scoop for you! Read more in our detailed guides to Wilmington , Wrightsville Beach , and Carolina Beach . Looking for romantic getaways from Raleigh? Wilmington is the perfect NC destination! Find out where to eat in Wilmington , where to brunch in Wilmington , and then watch the sunset together!

Charlotte, North Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Charlotte is 2 hours 20 minutes drive time (157 miles)

Also known as The Queen City, Charlotte is a vibrant city full of fun things to do and amazing places to eat! We love Charlotte as it is one of the easiest quick getaways in NC from Raleigh.

Suggested activities in Charlotte:

• See a NASCAR race or visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame
• US National Whitewater Center
• The Mint Museum
• Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens
• Day trip to Statesville and go hot air ballooning in the “ballooning capital of the east!”
• Get shopping at any of the super cute boutiques and local shops!
• Dive in to the newly exploding craft beer and brewery scene (there’s also several wineries nearby too!)
• Get your adrenaline pumping at Carowinds amusement park

Suggested places to stay in Charlotte:

We really like staying at the AC Hotel Charlotte City Center if we’re looking to stay downtown or the Courtyard Charlotte Concord if we’re looking to stay near the racetrack for your NC weekend trip!

Beat the road trip boredom blues before they start! Check out our list of 250 fun road trip questions to keep the whole car entertained!

Richmond, Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to Richmond is 2 hours 30 minutes drive time (161 miles)

From city life to fun outdoor activities to incredible bites, there is no doubt you’ll have plenty of fun things to do in Richmond! An easy weekend getaway from North Carolina, Richmond is also a great stop on any east coast road trip!

Suggested activities in Richmond:

• James River Park – get outside by biking, climbing, hiking and more!
• The Footbridge and Belle Isle
• Check out the amazing street art on the Canal Walk
• Explore all the Museums! We think the Poe Museum is super cool!
• Visit historical St. John’s Church
• Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

Suggested places to stay in Richmond:

The Graduate Hotel and The Berkeley Hotel are both great options for where to stay in Richmond!

Let’s face it…a weekend getaway can still go awry without a little planning! Grab our FREE planning worksheet and road trip essentials checklist before you hit the road!

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Roanoke, Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to Roanoke is 2 hours 50 minutes drive time (145 miles)

Roanoke is a great destination is you’re looking for a weekend trip from Raleigh. As part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, this is a great starting point for an epic scenic drive or weekend getaway for beautiful fall foliage.

Suggested activities in Roanoke:

• Start or end your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip in Roanoke!
• Visit Mill Mountain and take in the epic views of the city (also don’t forget to get a photo of the famous Roanoke star!)
• Visit an apple orchard or local winery
• Find the “LOVEworks” sign- this is such a fun photo opp!
• Check out the Taubman Museum of Art

Suggested places to stay in Roanoke:

The Courtyard Roanoke or The Historic Roanoke Hotel are both great options for places to stay in Roanoke, Virginia.

Have you been bit by the travel bug? If you’re constantly dreaming of travel (like me) you might also love these wanderlust captions and quotes .

Bald Head Island, North Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to the Bald Head Island Ferry is 2 hours 45 minutes drive time (177 miles) plus a 20 minute ferry ride.

Warning! You might fall in love with this charming little North Carolina town where no cars are allowed and you have to get around via golf cart, bicycle, or on foot. Only accessible via ferry, Bald Head Island is one of the best weekend trips from Raleigh for rest and relaxation! (We also happen to think it’s one of the best romantic getaways near Raleigh!)

Suggested activities in Bald Head Island:

• Go to the top of Old Baldy
• Soak up some vitamin D and enjoy the pristine beaches
• Rent bicycles and explore!
• Get out on the water with a kayak or SUP tour or even a fishing excursion
• Indulge your sweet tooth with a famous ice cream sandwich from Nye’s!

Suggested places to stay on Bald Head Island:

There really aren’t any hotels on Bald Head Island. You’ll likely need to get a vacation rental . Pro Tip: Make sure your rental is actually on Bald Head Island. A lot of search results will show you Southport, Wilmington, Carolina Beach and further which are not exactly where you want to be!

Want more info? Check out our full guide to visiting Bald Head Island !

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Blowing Rock is 3 hours drive time (184 miles)

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive”, the Blue Ridge Parkway spans 469 miles through North Carolina and Virginia. Lovely any time of year, it is definitely one of the more popular vacation spots near Raleigh for fall foliage! While there are endless places to stay, we like Blowing Rock in particular as a weekend getaway from Raleigh. We also happen to think it’s one of the best weekend trips from Raleigh NC we can think of!

Suggested activities on the Blue Ridge Parkway:

• Explore downtown, visit “the blowing rock”, and check out the fun shopping.
• Explore the nearby town of Boone, grab a bite at the Dan’l Boone Inn, and treat the kids at Tweetsie Railroad
• Check out Grandfather Mountain and Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
• Visit Linville Gorge and Falls
• Check out the many epic scenic viewpoints along the Blue Ridge Parkway- get out and hike if you can!

Suggested places to stay in Blowing Rock:

You can’t go wrong staying at The Chetola Resort or renting one of these cozy mountain cabins !

We love a good road trip and we love this area of the south! If you do too, read more in our NC road trip guide and southeast road trip itineraries !

Weekend Trips from Raleigh within 4 hours:

We’re so lucky to have so many awesome vacation spots within an easy four hour drive of Raleigh, NC. From the mountains to the beaches, there’s something for everyone! History, outdoor fun, winter activities and more can be at your fingertips with any of these weekend trips from Raleigh NC!

Make sure to add any of these southern vacation spots to your USA bucket list ! They’re worth it- trust us!

Williamsburg, Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to Williamsburg is 3 hours 15 minutes drive time (187 miles)

Step back in time into the world’s largest living history museum in Williamsburg, Virginia, where history is actually fun and educational!

S uggested activities in Williamsburg:

• Colonial Williamsburg: Walk down Gloucester St, visit the Governor’s Palace, and the George Wythe House
• Have an authentic colonial meal at the King’s Arms Tavern
• Try drinking chocolate at R. Charleton’s Coffeehouse
• Visit Historic Jamestown settlement and Yorktown
• Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, or Great Wolf Lodge

Suggested places to stay in Williamsburg:

We love Kings Mill Resort or The Griffin Hotel for a weekend getaway to Williamsburg!

Wintergreen Mountain Resort, Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to Wintergreen is 3 hours 20 minutes drive time (188 miles)

Wintergreen Mountain Resort is one of the best and most convenient winter weekend trips from Raleigh, NC! And although I always think of them as a winter destination, there are actually a ton of fun things to do year round.

Suggested activities at Wintergreen Mountain Resort:

• Winter fun: skiing, tubing, and snowboarding (If this is your first time, I highly recommend taking a lesson!) Not into snow sports? Just relax with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate by the fire!
• Hiking, swimming, tennis, golf, and even tubing during the summer!
• Hang out by the lake or the river and swim or try your hand at fly fishing
• Visit one of many nearby breweries, wineries, and even cideries!
• Visit the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and get outside!

Suggested places to stay in Wintergreen:

Wintergreen Resort !! LOL. There are also some great vacation rentals to choose from!

Is one of your goals to travel more? Try using these powerful travel affirmations !

Outer Banks of North Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Nags Head is 3 hours 20 minutes drive time (211 miles)

Simply put, we think the Outer Banks is one of the best weekend getaways in NC. Strong statement, maybe? But honestly, there are so many fun things to do year round in the Outer Banks, you just can’t go wrong with a weekend trip here.

Suggested activities in the Outer Banks:

• See the wild horses of Corolla- truly a unique thing to do in NC!
• Visit Jockey’s Ridge- the tallest living sand dune system on the east coast!
• Get your history lesson at the Wright Brother’s Memorial or go see The Lost Colony performance and explore the grounds.
• Go lighthouse hunting for any of the five area lighthouses!
• Visit the NC Aquarium and explore the ever so charming town of Manteo
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches and sound! Go surfing, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, rent jet skis, boats, parasailing, hang gliding, and more!
• Try your hand at fishing. Whether you’re a first timer or more seasoned, there are fishing opportunities galore! Book a private deep sea fishing charter or grab your own gear and fish at the beach or off of the popular Jenette’s Pier.

Suggested places to stay in the Outer Banks:

The Outer Banks consists of ten different small towns and spans over 175 miles of North Carolina coastline and barrier islands. We usually stay in Duck or Nags Head, but have stayed all over. While there aren’t too many hotels along the OBX, we do recommend the Hilton Garden Inn if a hotel is your preference. Otherwise, most people stay in vacation homes like these . We also recommend The Saturday House Airbnb !

We have been visiting the Outer Banks annually for twenty years. Read our full guides to Corolla , Nags Head , and the Outer Banks .

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Myrtle Beach is 3 hours 20 minutes drive time (197 miles)

One of the best weekend trips from Raleigh for some fun in the sun, Myrtle Beach is actually a great year round destination. It’s one of those places people either love or hate, but there’s no denying, there’s a lot to do in Myrtle Beach!

Suggested activities in Myrtle Beach:

• Go to dinner and a show! Medieval Times and Pirate’s Voyage are both fun options for all ages!
• Go shopping!! Endless shopping options from Christmas shops to outlet malls to boutique stores galore!
• Golf! Whether you’re into real golf or miniature golf- this is the golf capital of the world.
• Brookgreen Gardens- a can’t miss attraction in Myrtle Beach…beautiful year round!
• Get your beach on! Whether you like to splash in the waves or just search for seashells, enjoy Myrtle Beach’s 60 miles of gorgeous coastline.
• Check out the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and take a ride in the climate controlled Sky Wheel!

Suggested places to stay in Myrtle Beach:

Popular options in Myrtle Beach are vacation home rentals or The Marriott Myrtle Beach .

Read our full guide to the best things to do in Myrtle Beach !

Charlottesville, Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to Charlottesville is 3 hours 30 minutes drive time (179 miles)

Home to the University of Virginia, there are so many fun things to do in Charlottesville and it’s a perfect weekend getaway from NC!

Suggested activities in Charlottesville:

• Get a history lesson by visiting Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello (If that’s not enough history for you, visit James Monroe’s Highland which is close by too!)
• Get schooled at the University of Virginia- we love checking out college campuses when we travel!
• Explore the Historic Downtown Mall – a fun spot for dining, shopping and entertainment in Charlottesville
• If you’re a Dave Matthews fan (like us!), grab a bit to eat at Miller’s Downtown, the restaurant where Dave worked and the band was formed!
• Grab a bagel from Bodo’s! YUMMM
• Get outside and explore the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park

Whether you’re looking to soak up some of the local history or get outside, this is an easy weekend trip from Raleigh NC!

Suggested places to stay in Charlottesville:

Popular options include The Omni Charlottesville Hote l and vacation rentals in Charlottesville . If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, we liked The Courtyard Charlottesville .

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to Virginia Beach is 3 hours 30 minutes drive time (216 miles)

Virginia Beach is a great spot for a weekend trip to the beach! A great destination if you’re looking for some fun in the sun and time outdoors. But don’t worry, there are still fun things to do in the area even if you’re visiting during the off season too!

Suggested activities in Virginia Beach:

• Go to the beach! While you’re at it, visit the Virginia Beach Boardwalk too. Looking for a quieter option? Go to Sandbridge Beach.
• Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Check out the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
• Explore First Landing State Park- rent jet skis, paddle boards, kayaks, boats and more!
• Get your adrenaline fix at The Adventure Park
• Check out Cape Henry Lighthouse

Suggested places to stay in Virginia Beach:

Popular places to stay in Virginia Beach include the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront and The Historic Cavalier Resort. Of course we also recommend vacation home rentals when staying at the beach- we’ve had the most luck with VRBO!

We love a beach vacation! Need some more inspo? Read our full guide to the best family friendly beaches up and down the east coast!

Asheville, North Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Asheville is 3 hours 40 minutes drive time (237 miles)

Asheville is our favorite western NC town!! Such a fun and hipster vibe, awesome outdoor activities, and a great foodie scene, we cannot get enough of Asheville! (Pssst…We also highly recommend Asheville if you’re looking for romantic getaways near Raleigh!)

Suggested activities in Asheville:

Arguably one of the best fall destinations in the US , here are some fun things to do year round in Asheville:

• Visit The Biltmore Estate! You don’t want to miss this one!
• French Broad Chocolate Lounge
• The Pinball Museum
• Western NC Nature Center
• Go hiking! Some of our fave hikes nearby are Craggy Pinnacle, Catawba Falls, and Chimney Rock State Park.
• EAT & DRINK! Seriously…Asheville has so many great restaurants and breweries. Our personal fave is Biscuit Head.

Suggested places to stay in Asheville:

We love The Omni Grove Park Inn , the Renaissance Asheville , and these super cool treehouses for your next NC weekend trip!

Need more info? Grab our best tips on visiting The Biltmore Estate and Asheville with kids .

Columbia, South Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Columbia is 3 hours 40 minutes drive time (242 miles)

Another of our favorite college towns, Columbia, SC is a fun and vibrant city with a ton of southern charm. We personally have visited several times as a home base for a visit to Augusta, Georgia to see a practice round at the Masters Golf Tournament. Columbia SC has tons of family friendly things to do and is a perfect weekend getaway from Raleigh.

Suggested activities in Columbia:

• Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Gardens – a smaller zoo that packs a big punch is a beautiful setting.
• Explore the University of South Carolina
• Visit the South Carolina State House & State Museum
• Take the kids to EdVenture Children’s Museum – trust me, they won’t want to leave!
• Visit the Columbia Museum of Art
• Get active along the Columbia Canal & Riverfront
• Check out one of the world’s largest deciduous forests at Congaree National Park !
• And don’t miss the world’s largest fire hydrant at Busted Plug Plaza!

Suggested places to stay in Columbia:

Popular places to stay in Columbia are the Aloft Columbia Downtown or The Graduate Columbia for your perfect weekend getaway!

Greenville, South Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Greenville is 4 hours (249 miles)

Greenville, SC is one of those cities that has really gained a lot of popularity over the last few years- it was even voted one of the “top small towns in America”! With a beautiful and walkable downtown area, there are a lot of fun things to do making it an awesome weekend trip from NC!

Suggested activities in Greenville

• Eat! Greenville has an incredible foodie scene. Check out Bacon Brothers Public House, Grill Marks, Soby’s, and Maple Street Biscuit Company to name a few.
• Walk around and explore Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown Greenville
• Grab coffee at Spill the Beans
• Rent bikes and ride the Swamp Rabbit Trail
• Grab a craft beer at Birds Fly South or Swamp Rabbit Brewery
• Go beyond the city and explore Paris Mountain State Park, Pretty Place, and Traveler’s Rest.

Suggested places to stay in Greenville:

Downtown Greenville is extremely walkable- so if possible try to stay downtown. We suggest the Hyatt Regency Greenville or the AC Hotel Greenville .

Weekend Trips from NC within 5 hours:

Everyone’s tolerance for drive time is different. We personally are willing to drive five hours for a fun weekend getaway so we have included several options of weekend trips from Raleigh that are within five hour road trip.

Be sure to grab our road trip essentials checklist before heading out!

Massanutten Resort, Virginia

Distance: 4 hours and 10 minutes drive time (231 miles)

Looking for a fun mountain getaway from NC? Massanutten is a popular choice for families because of the abundance of activities and of course, the waterpark!

Suggested activities at Massanutten Resort:

• Doesn’t matter what time of year you visit since they have an indoor and outdoor waterpark to enjoy!
• Swim, fish, hike, horseback rides, mini golf, bumper cars, and more! Heck you can even take a carriage ride.
• Canoe, kayak, or tube the Shenandoah River
• Do all the winter things: skiing, snow boarding, tubing, ice skating, and more!
• Relax at the onsite spa
• Try your hand at a game of golf at one of the two 18 hole courses

Suggested places to stay near Massanutten:

Well of course we recommend staying at Massanutten ! But here are some other nearby properties and rentals to consider!

Distance: Raleigh to Washington DC is 4 hours 15 minutes drive time (269 miles)

Washington DC is a must visit and belongs on every bucket list ! So why not make it into a weekend getaway? Perfect for families and more, this is an easy weekend trip from Raleigh that everyone should do!

Suggested activities in Washington DC:

• Visit the White House and Capitol Building
• Visit the National Monuments and Memorials
• Visit the National Zoo
• Try a Georgetown cupcake- I mean, you just have to!
• Catch the cherry blossoms if you’re visiting during springtime.
• Grab brunch at Founding Farmers- you won’t regret it!
• Check out the ever changing art scene!
• Visit the National Harbor or hang out at the new Wharf
• Get outside! Check out some of the local parks or rent a kayak and explore the Potomac River
• Pay your respects at Arlington National Cemetery- this is a stop you won’t ever forget. And if you have time, definitely consider exploring the fun town of Arlington too!

Suggested places to stay in Washington DC:

So many great places to stay in the DC area depending on your budget. Need budget friendly? Check out the Residence Inn Washington DC (so you can walk or take the metro most places!). Luxury but still family friendly? Check out the Willard Intercontinental Washington .

The Greenbrier Resort, West Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to The Greenbrier is 4 hours 20 minutes drive time (228miles)

Also known as “America’s Resort”, the Greenbrier is a weekend getaway made easy! Get pampered, step back in time, and enjoy the endless activities at The Greenbrier Resort.

Suggested activities at The Greenbrier Resort:

• Maximize your R & R with a trip to the on site spa
• Make time for afternoon tea- it’s a must!
• Check out any of the five world class golf courses.
• Keep busy with the many activities from swimming, tennis, horse back riding, escape rooms, carriage rides, pickle ball, shopping, and more. Be sure to check the daily schedule.
• Indulge your cravings at the amazing restaurants!

S uggested places to stay at The Greenbrier:

The Greenbrier ! Duh!

New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

Distance: Raleigh to New River Gorge National Park is 4 hours 15 minutes drive time (252 miles)

If a visit to the nation’s newest National Park isn’t on your radar, it should be!

Suggested activities at New River Gorge National Park:

• Try the world famous white water rafting
• Hike, rappel, and even climb inside the park!
• If you’re into fall foliage, this is another great option, but make sure to check out the New River Gorge Bridge any time of year!
• Try mountain biking since this is one of the few national parks to allow it!
• Find some yummy food options (like The Cathedral Cafe) and explore the adorable town of Fayetteville
• Check out nearby Summersville Lake
• Be sure to stop by the Visitor’s Center, grab a Junior Ranger Badge if you have littles, and of course always remember to Leave No Trace

Suggested places to stay near New River Gorge National Park:

There are no lodging options besides some primitive camping inside the park. There are some really cute mountain c abin rentals and Adventures on the Gorge has some accommodation options too!

Charleston, South Carolina

Distance: Raleigh to Charleston is 4 hours 20 minutes drive time (295 miles)

Charleston is the ultimate weekend getaway to me!! It is just one of those towns I can’t get enough of! Whether it’s a romantic getaway for two or a whole family weekend, I just love it!

Suggested activities in Charleston:

• Explore the City Market, Waterfront Park, and Downtown Charleston
• Eat at SNOB, Callie’s Little Biscuit, Husk, or High Cotton
• Immerse yourself in history at Fort Sumter and Patriot’s Point
• Take a carriage tour!
• Check out the SC Aquarium
• Stand in awe of the Angel Oak Tree- one of the nation’s oldest living organisms!
• Soak up the sun and play at one of several beautiful area beaches

Suggested places to stay in Charleston:

We personally like the Courtyard Charleston/ Mount Pleasant and The Restoration Hotel in downtown Charleston.

Visiting Charleston with your family? Read our guide to Charleston with kids !

Savannah, Georgia

Distance: Raleigh to Savannah is 5 hours drive time (338 miles)

Suggested activities in Savannah:

• Visit Forsyth Park
• Explore the City Market
• Play a round of golf
• Shopping on Broughton Street
• Wormsloe Historic Site
• Try an architectural tour, ghost tour, or food tour
• Wander the Riverwalk
• Visit the SCAD Museum of Art
• Sample Byrd’s Famous Cookies
• Venture over to Tybee Island
• Hang out a rooftop bar – we had a blast at the Electric Moon Skytop Lounge & The Moon Deck

Suggested places to stay in Savannah:

Really get an authentic experience and stay in a historic home while visiting Savannah. Looking for a traditional hotel? For more of a resort feel, try the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside . For a budget friendly option, try the Fairfield Inn Savannah Downtown.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Distance: Raleigh to Gatlinburg is 5 hours drive time (316 miles)

The Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area have a ton of things to do! Slow down and escape into nature or jam pack your itinerary full of fun activities, there is literally something for everyone here. This area is a little further away for a weekend getaway, yet still worth the drive if you’re up for it!

Suggested activities in Gatlinburg:

• Get lost in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (well…please don’t really get lost! LOL). Go hiking, chase waterfalls, and
• Go to Dollywood!!
• Do the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud- fun entertainment for the whole family
• Visit Anakeesta – an outdoor family these park for all ages! Don’t forget to cross the longest pedestrian suspension bridge at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
• Catch views at the Gatlinburg Space Needle

Suggested places to stay in Gatlinburg:

Popular places to stay in Gatlinburg include The Courtyard Gatlinburg Downtown and The Park Vista. I would also check out mountain cabin rentals in the area!

I f you love road tripping like we do, check out our guide to road trips in the southeast USA . Many of these southern destinations are perfect additions to your next road trip!

Weekend Getaways

Whether you’re looking to have a quiet weekend away from all the normal day to day hustle and bustle or you’re looking for an adventure, there are some pretty epic weekend trips from NC here to choose from! Now all you have to do is sit down, take a look at your calendar, and start planning! Which of these weekend getaways will you choose as your first mini vacation?

Share your getaway on Instagram ! Use my best nature captions , adventure captions , or motivational captions on Insta to make life simple! Come say Hi and tag me while you’re at it!

About The Author

Julie is the founder and author of the lifestyle and travel blog, More than Main Street. Always exploring, she and her family have traveled to 38 US states, over 20 countries, and feels fortunate to call North Carolina home. Julie’s all about gratitude, mindset, self love, seeking out new experiences, and living life to the fullest. Read more about Julie HERE .

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This is a great list of places to see! I hope I can visit soon the US and get inspired!

I visited the Great Smoky Mountain NP and the Parkway last Fall. It was so awesome. I would love to go back and explore more of the area.

There are a lot of great places to choose from – I wouldn’t know where to start! I haven’t had the chance to visit this part of the states before but I’m excited to use this post as a guide for when I do!

Awesome post! I just got back from a road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway and had the chance to see a few of the places you listed. But it looks like I also missed some cool cities/states. Especially South Carolina. I never gave it much thought, but it looks really cool. Gives me a reason to go back. 🙂

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » North Carolina (NC) » 15 Best Day Trips from Raleigh, North Carolina

15 Best Day Trips from Raleigh, North Carolina

The capital of the beautiful state of North Carolina, Raleigh has long been a verdant and green city with a dedication to preserving as many parks and trees as possible, which led to the nickname “The City of Oaks”. As a result, the city is a wonderful place to live, keeping in tone with the rolling forests that populate the state and attracting artists and performers who enjoy the natural touch among the urban surroundings.

Leaving the capital, however, you’ll find the wealth of national parks, mountains and coastal getaways that North Carolina is famous for. There’s also no shortage of quaint towns and settlements, each offering something new and exciting that you won’t find in Raleigh.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Raleigh :

Only an hour away from the busy capital, you’ll find the peaceful town of Durham, home to some incredibly significant American history, cuisine and culture in equal measure.

One of the highlights is the Bennett Place State Historic Site which is bursting with historic monuments and structures dedicated to memorialising the last days of the Civil War.

It’s incredibly popular with history buffs and inquisitive visitors alike, and hosts re-enactments throughout the year to give an even more immersive experience.

You’ll also find a thriving art scene in Durham, spearheaded by the Nasher Museum, which is known for having a vast collection of over 10,000 pieces along with fascinating rotating exhibits.

2. Asheboro

The city of Asheboro offers a combination of activities that are perfect for family days out that will most definitely keep everyone entertained for hours.

First, head over to North Carolina Zoo which has a menagerie of over 1600 animals housed in meticulously planned habitats based on their regions of origin.

Prepare to be blown away by lions in the Africa habitat and grizzlies in the North America space and keep an eye out for special events that occur throughout the year, such as the chance to feed the animals.

For something a little more adventurous, day-trippers can also experience a heart-stopping flight through the trees at the Richland Creek Canopy Zipline Tour.

Including a stop at the breathtakingly beautiful Mendenhall Falls, this trip is the perfect adrenaline fuelled family day out.

3. Wilmington

Conveniently located only a couple of hours away from Raleigh you’ll find the gorgeous port city of Wilmington, home to numerous beach getaways like Wrightsville and other gems along the Cape Fear Coast.

If you don’t want to spend all day at the beach, there’s also a fascinating historic district where you can find the picturesque Riverwalk, a pretty route through downtown that’s lined with shops, restaurants and galleries.

Known for the quality of their dishes, the restaurants along Riverwalk are an ideal place to grab a bite before heading back to the capital.

4. Greensboro

If you want a taste of Broadway outside of New York, then head over to North Carolina’s third largest city to catch a show.

Greensboro has long been hailed as the theatre capital of the state and it’s no surprise why.

A must-see venue is the acclaimed Triad Stage, putting on performances throughout the year and recognised nationwide as being a melting pot of talent.

Be sure to grab tickets early to avoid disappointment.

For something slightly less formal, try out the Barn Dinner Theatre which puts on concerts and theatre presentations.

5. Smithfield and Selma

A mere hour to the southeast of Raleigh lies one of the state’s most revered foodie destinations, catering specifically to diehard barbecue enthusiasts.

The stretch of road connecting the two towns of Smithfield and Selma is the place to go to familiarise yourself with the mouthwatering delights of whole roasted hogs – prepared in Eastern NC fashion, of course.

Between the small-town charm of both Smithfield and Selma respectively, and the incredible food found at both, you’ll be hard-pressed to not visit once or twice more to get another taste.

6. Yadkin Valley

North Carolina’s very own prime destination for world class wineries and vineyards, Yadkin Valley has a rich history of wine production that was started by Sir Walter Raleigh himself.

The Yadkin River, besides being stunningly beautiful, offers a unique microclimate in which to grow special varieties of grapes found nowhere else in the country.

Crowds of connoisseurs and day trippers alike can be found here throughout the year, enjoying not only the fine wine, but the vast range of other attractions including everything from hiking and musical performances to special events.

7. Blue Ridge Parkway

Boasting the impressive title of “America’s Favourite Drive”, it’s easy to see why so many people are infatuated with the 469-mile stretch of landscaped road known as Blue Ridge Parkway.

With absolutely gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the route is popular with motorists and cyclists alike, not to mention hikers who stop off at any one of the numerous checkpoints for challenging hikes or relaxing picnics.

Highlights include The Folk Art Center, exhibiting galleries and demonstrations of folk arts and crafts, and the Museum of North Carolina Minerals detailing the region’s exciting mineral history.

8. The Biltmore Estate

Found in the city of Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is an 8000-acre compound housing the famed Vanderbilt Mansion, officially the largest private home in the United States.

Boasting 250 rooms filled to the brim with artwork, vintage antiques and clothing, the mansion is partially accessible to visitors who want to explore the stupendously large estate.

The exterior of Biltmore is no less impressive, the highlights being the Italian Garden and the Rose Garden, both complete with opulent sculptures and ornate pools that you can wander around at your leisure.

9. Morehead Planetarium

At the prestigious university town of Chapel Hill lies the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, opened in 1949. Packed with every type of show, demonstration and talk imaginable, the Center is incredibly popular, having seen seven million people pass through the doors since it opened.

Expect over 15 planetary shows and experiences showcased throughout the year covering everything from black holes, astronaut training exhibits and celestial navigation.

10. Linville Gorge and Falls

Affectionately nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East”, you can find Linville Gorge in the Pisgah National Forest.

It can be reached from Blue Ridge Parkway and is an unmissable place if you happen to be passing by.

The highlight, however, is the view of Linville Falls that can be reached from several trailheads, all less than a couple of miles each.

The cascading Linville River is impossibly picturesque, flanked by steep rock walls and beautiful oak forests that turn gold in the fall.

Other highlights include a short hike to Duggers Creek Falls, Crabtree Falls and some truly breathtaking views from Table Rock Mountain.

11. Outer Banks

Though you could easily spend a few days exploring the 200 miles of islands known as the Outer Banks, they also make for a perfect day trip.

Stunningly beautiful and peppered with charming towns, the coastal destination offers a wide variety of activities, from scenic drives to learning about lost colonies.

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a gorgeous drive that gives rise to some truly unforgettable sunsets and is a great way to get from place to place.

Along the way, you’ll find the fascinating Outer Banks History Centre and if you venture further afield to Roanoke Island, you can visit a living history museum to learn about the lost colony that once lived there.

12. Chimney Rock State Park

One of the most majestic sights in the entire state, Chimney Rock State Park is home to an enormous 315-foot granite spire that attracts tourists from all over the country, who marvel at the imposing geological formation.

The park itself is full of moderate hiking trails up and down the mountain through the surrounding woodland, but the highlight is the spire.

Within the mountain itself is a 26-storey elevator that was built for ease of access and is a popular way to enjoy the spectacular views without working up a sweat.

13. Grandfather Mountain

Home to the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a visit to Grandfather Mountain gives visitors the chance to ogle at not only incredible 360-degree mountain vistas, but also marvel at the amazing feat of human ingenuity that is the bridge itself.

Connecting two peaks, it’s a popular way to grab some great photo opportunities, combined with the heart-stopping sensation of being suspended high above the ground.

Hikes in the area can range from leisurely to challenging, but all will reward you with gorgeous panoramic views.

14. Battleship North Carolina

Located in Wilmington and moored at Cape Fear River, the battleship is a day trip for those not only interested in the nation’s military prowess, but in historical feats of human and technological ingenuity.

The USS North Carolina was one of the first battleships commissioned to the American fleet that joined World War Two and she still stands proud to this day.

Visitors have the chance to wander the bowels of the ship and have close encounters with the intimidating guns above deck, a once in a lifetime experience that gives a rare insight into a tumultuous moment in history.

15. Cape Hatteras

Found in the Outer Banks Region, Cape Hatteras is famed for being a coastal preservation area, and the result is a thriving natural stretch of coast teeming with wildlife and gorgeous beaches that make an excellent getaway from the city.

From seal and turtle watching to scaling historic lighthouses, there is something for every beach lover at Cape Hatteras, both in winter and in summer.

15 Best Day Trips from Raleigh, North Carolina:

• Smithfield and Selma
• Yadkin Valley
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• The Biltmore Estate
• Morehead Planetarium
• Linville Gorge and Falls
• Outer Banks
• Chimney Rock State Park
• Grandfather Mountain
• Battleship North Carolina
• Cape Hatteras

6 Fantastic Day Trips from Raleigh, North Carolina

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If you’re looking for a fun place to visit in North Carolina, check out Raleigh! Even though it’s a huge city with plenty of things to do to keep you occupied for days or even weeks, there are also some fun day trips from Raleigh you can check out while in the area. 

Some of the best day trips from Raleigh include visiting nearby cities like Durham and Chapel Hill. Raleigh is also close to a few state parks where you can see some of the state’s wildlife and go hiking. 

To make the most out of visiting this fantastic city, I recommend spending about 2 to 3 days in Raleigh. This should give you enough days to see the sights and museums.

It should also give you enough nights to visit some of the bars and explore the nightlife scene if you’re interested. Then, take another three days to do a few day trips or as much time as you can manage. 

Here are my top recommendations for the best day trips from Raleigh. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to see even more of one of my favorite states! 

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Looking for a Day Trip from Raleigh? 

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and one of the largest cities in the state. There is plenty to see and do, including attractions that bring visitors from all over the country. Raleigh is also a great destination for families and kids since there are many museums and outdoor places to explore. 

Once you’ve had your fill of Raleigh, you can explore other areas of the state with a few day trips. Here are some of the best places to visit just outside of Raleigh:

• Go hiking in Eno River State Park 
• Go hiking or cycling in Pilot Mountain State Park
• Explore nature in Brumley Forest Nature Preserve  
• Spend a day in the sun at Wrightsville Beach  
• Visit Yadkin Valley wine country in Winston-Salem 
• Check out the cool art museums in Greenville  

1. Eno River State Park 

If you want one of the top day trips from Raleigh, where you can spend the day enjoying the outdoors in nature, definitely head to Eno River State Park. The park has over 17 trails, from easy to difficult, so there is one for all skill levels. 

Here are some of the most popular hikes:

• Cox Mountain Trail : About an hour and a half hike with a place to launch canoes or sit by the river bank. 
• Bobbitt Hole Trail: Less than an hour’s hike with nice views of the trees and the lake. 
• Cabelands Trail: One of the more difficult trails in the area where you can get a serious workout with the elevation gain. 

You can also canoe and kayak in the park, depending on the recent rain. Some parts of the creeks and lakes get very shallow, and the canoe rental places will be closed if there hasn’t been enough rainfall. 

There is also fishing allowed in the park if you have a fishing license. You will need to bring your own rods and bait. 

One of the best parts of the park is the picnic spots. You can bring a blanket and have a picnic while hiking or eat at one of the tables near the entrance of the park. 

Eno River State Park is located at 6101 Cole Mill Rd, Durham, NC 27705, United States. They’re open every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The park is free to enter. 

2. Pilot Mountain State Park 

Pilot Mountain State Park is another great place to get out and experience nature. It’s about two hours from Raleigh, making it one of the popular day trips from Raleigh. So, head out in the morning so you can get to the park before it gets too crowded. 

Pilot Mountain is definitely geared toward adrenaline junkies. Here are some of the top activities in the park:

• Rock Climbing : There are certain portions of the cliffs that allow climbing. You need to be an experienced climber and have your own gear. Check out this guide from the Carolina Mountains Coalition to learn more. 
• Hiking : There are many trails throughout the park, but the most popular are Pilot Knob Trail, Horne Creek Trail , and the Grindstone and Ledge Spring Loop trail. 
• Cycling : You can bring your bicycle and bike to the main park road that is paved. There are some steep elevation areas, so it’s best for bikers with experience. 
• Horseback Riding : You can visit the visitor’s center to ride on some trails, including the Yadkin River Park Trail. The park itself does not have horse rentals, but you can plan a ride with a guided tour guide at nearby places like Bregman’s Trail Riding. 

Pilot Mountain State Park is located at 1792 Pilot Knob Park Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043, United States. They’re open every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. There are no entrance fees for the park. 

3. Brumley Forest Nature Preserve 

This is another great place for hiking and exploring the nature of North Carolina. I also recommend this place if you are interested in environmental preservation, as they offer classes and tours on how the preserve positively impacts the community and the environment. 

There is also a really cool spot called The Healing Labyrinth . It’s a small place in the middle of the preserve where people come to meditate or reflect on life. 

Brumley Family Nature Preserve is only a short drive to Hillsborough. I definitely recommend going there afterward since you’re in the area. Some cool things to do in Hillsborough include:

• Pick strawberries at the Eno River Farm .
• Have a coffee at Cup of Joe , where you can meet tons of locals and hear some live music.
• Walk along the paved 3.1-mile Riverwalk to see the town and the river.
• Visit the visitor’s center to learn more about the town and its history.

Brumley Forest Nature Preserve is located at 3055 New Hope Church Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States. It’s open every day from dawn to dusk. There is no entrance fee. 

4. Wrightsville Beach 

While you might think of Florida and California as the top US beach destinations, North Carolina also has some beautiful beach towns worth visiting. 

One of the main reasons why I love Wrightsville Beach is because it still has that small local beach town vibe rather than swarming with tourists like the beach towns in Florida where I grew up. 

Here are my favorite things to do in Wrightsville Beach:

• Go fishing at Johnny Mercer’s Pier . My father and brother insist on always going fishing. It’s a huge concrete pier with plenty of space for you to cast your rod. 
• Go paddleboarding. I bring my own paddleboard, but there are places to rent them. Wrightsville SUP has friendly prices, and they also offer guided tours. 
• For drinks, I recommend Lighthouse Beer & Wine . They have great locally-made beer as well as festivals in the summer. The garden in the back is dog-friendly. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash! 
• Meet some locals at SUNdays . This is a great little cafe where the locals love to hang out. You can grab some coffee or some sandwiches and then head to the beach. 

5. Winston-Salem 

Winston-Salem is just under two hours from Raleigh. It’s a young, hip town, making it a great destination to visit solo, with friends, or with young children. 

Winston-Salem has something for everyone. With over 30 breweries, many people come here just to brewery hop and try all the local offerings. There are also plenty of art galleries, museums, and fun boutique shopping. 

Here are the top things to do in Winston-Salem, according to my friends who live there:

• Visit the Old Salem Museum and Gardens. It’s one of the best ways to learn about the city and the surrounding areas. The tours are self-guided through both the historic building and the gardens in the back unless you request an adult group tour in advance. 
• Have coffee at Krankies . This coffee shop is right downtown. They have a beautiful patio where you can sit and people-watch. In the evening, it becomes a popular bar spot serving alcohol and featuring live music from local bands. 
• Drink wine in the Yadkin Valley . This is just a few miles west of Winston-Salem. It’s over 1.4 million acres and has over 45 wineries to visit. There are also hiking trails, festivals, and craft fairs throughout the area. 
• Take a tour of the city. If you want to learn more about the history of the city and see the best parts of the town, consider taking a tour. Triad Eco is one of the best tour companies because it offers walking tours, trolley tours, and segway tours. 

6. Greenville 

Greenville is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Raleigh, depending on traffic. It’s a large city with plenty to see and do. East Carolina University is located here, making it a destination for many students and young professionals. 

One of the main attractions is the Greenville Parkway . It goes through various parts of the city for over seven miles. It’s a great place to exercise, whether it be jogging, cycling, or walking your dog. 

If you feel like exploring downtown, the most popular areas are Dickinson Avenue and Uptown. They’re both full of restaurants, farmers’ markets, and craft breweries. 

After exploring the parkway and downtown, here are some other things not to miss:

• Tour the Greenville Museum of Art. They have a ton of rotating exhibits centered on political and social issues around the world, which are worth checking out. They also host events and festivals in the spring and summer. 
• Go canoeing in River Park North . I love canoeing and kayaking when I’m on vacation because I’m always looking for an excuse to be in the water. If you aren’t interested in canoeing, though, the park also offers boat rentals, picnic spots, and a few short hiking trails.  
• If you’re here in April, go to the PirateFest . Make sure to wear your best pirate costume! They have live music, a beer and wine garden, fine art vendors, and pirate sword-fighting shows. 
• Do some shopping at The Venue . I love this place. It’s an antique mall, but they also have vintage shops and small boutique vendors. The entrance to the store is fun with its super colorful paint, and there are always fresh flowers on the porch. They also refurbish old furniture with paint they make there at the shop with clay and chalk. If you are road-tripped and have your car to bring home a handmade piece of furniture, don’t miss this!

7. Fayetteville

I really recommend Fayetteville as a Christmas day trip, but you can still visit this city any time of the year. It’s just extra special during Christmas because they decorate the entire downtown area and have tons of Christmas festivals and activities.

While here, make sure to visit the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, as it’s known to be one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the southeast. They also decorate the gardens for Christmas.

There are tons of breweries in Fayetteville. Since the city has a large veteran population, many of the breweries are owned by them. Grabbing a few drinks is a great way to taste the local craft beer and support the economy.

The most popular breweries are Dirtbag Ales Brewing , Gaston Brewing Company , and Bright Light Brewing Company.

8. Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve

If you want to visit a national park in North Carolina but want to avoid some of the overcrowded ones, Weymouth Woods is a nice place to go, over an hour from Raleigh.

There are many hiking trails to choose from for all different skill levels. Some hiking trails only take about 20 minutes, and others are a few hours long.

To see all the different trails and get a map of the nature preserve, I recommend starting at the visitor’s center, which is near Weymouth Tract near the entrance.

Here are the most popular trails people tend to visit and walk the most:

• Pine Barrens : Easy, 1.1 miles, Loop
• Gum Swamp : Moderate, 1.4 miles, Loop
• Paint Hill: Easy, 1.3 miles, Loop
• Round Timber Trail: Easy, 1.4 miles, Loop

North Carolina is full of little charming towns that seem like they’re still stuck in the past. Apex is one of them, just 20 minutes from Raleigh.

They have the cutest little downtown area with historical buildings, boutique shopping, and even an old pharmacy.

The best street for food and shopping is Salem Street. Anna’s Pizzeria is the most popular place for locals to grab a slice of pizza, so definitely head there if you want to meet locals and support a local restaurant.

The people of Apex are very friendly, and since the town is small, everyone seems to know each other. It’s definitely a different environment compared to some of the larger cities of North Carolina.

How to Get to Raleigh 

Raleigh has a large airport (RDU). It has daily flights from most domestic airlines. 

For international flights, it can be expensive to fly into RDU. Many international visitors choose to fly to a larger airport, such as Atlanta or New York, and then connect to Raleigh. 

If you’re coming from somewhere in the southeast, you can easily drive to Raleigh since it’s well-connected by major roads and interstates, including I-40 and I-85. 

When to Visit Raleigh 

Raleigh can get cold in the winter with some snow days, but most people from up north find the winter pretty mild. Summer has that typical southern humidity, which can make visiting some of the state parks very uncomfortable. 

Raleigh is incredible in the spring and fall, but especially in the fall. The leaves are always changing colors, and the weather is crisp but still sunny. 

Most of the days in the spring are in the 70s F (21° C). This is great weather to explore the outdoor attractions without getting too hot. 

You will see large crowds in Raleigh during the holidays, and hotel prices tend to get higher during this time, too. I would avoid going around Christmas time if you’re on a budget or don’t love crowds, though the city is nice during this time. 

Don’t Miss These Fantastic Day Trips From Raleigh!

There are so many Raleigh day trips less than two hours from the city, giving you plenty of options when choosing which ones you want to take! I recommend doing a mix of seeing another city as well as visiting a few parks so you can enjoy nature. 

Have you been to Raleigh and explored the surrounding areas? What was your favorite day trip? 

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• Charlotte Day Trips—8 Top Places to Visit
• Best Places to Stay in Charlotte, North Carolina: Top Areas & Accommodation  

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This post was contributed by Natalie Castle. Natalie has been traveling mostly solo for the past 6 years internationally and across the United States. She loves seeing new destinations, especially where she can go to the beach or go for a long hike. She discovered her love for travel writing a few years ago and hopes to encourage other people to begin solo traveling through her writing. When she’s not working, you can find her with a glass of red wine planning her next trip.

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11 BEST DAY TRIPS from Raleigh [Hidden Gems!]

Raleigh – the youthful capital of North Carolina – has everything you need for a rocking vacation.  A mash-up of modern wonders and historic treasures, this burgeoning metropolis offers an endless medley of thrills and fantastic experiences for its visitors. 

World-class museums? Check! Nature spots? Absolutely! Name it, and you’ll find it in Raleigh. But still, no Raleigh vacation is complete without a day trip to the nearby cities, towns, and parks. 

With a favorable central location, Raleigh gives you access to a bevy of destinations that will surely add more flavor and color to your getaway. 

If you want to make your adventure more interesting, take any of these recommended day trips from Raleigh. 

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Raleigh

• Best romantic day trip from Raleigh for Couples – Wilmington, NC
• Best day trip from Raleigh by train – Durham, NC
• Best day trip from Raleigh with kids – Asheboro, NC
• Best cheap day trip from Raleigh – Raven Rock State Park, NC
• Best day trip from Raleigh by car – Fayetteville, NC

#1 – Wilmington, NC

Best romantic day trip from raleigh for couples.

• Romantic feel 
• Historical attractions 
• Gorgeous beaches

They don’t call Wilmington the “Hollywood East” for nothing. For years, hundreds of movies and TV shows have been filming in this riverfront city. But, guess what? Wilmington is equally known for its romantic vibe, historical treasures, and proximity to stunning beaches. 

For a romantic day trip in Wilmington, explore its historic district and see its old-world homes and museums, such as the Bellamy Mansion Museum. What’s more, you can visit the Battleship North Carolina and tour one of the city’s most beloved attractions. 

Don’t forget to enjoy a romantic stroll with your partner along the city’s Riverwalk.

Need more info? Here’s a rundown of things to do in Raleigh  to fill your time there!

#2 – Durham, NC

Best day trip from raleigh by train.

• Vibrant and hip town 
• Tons of nature spots
• Home to historical treasures 

From Raleigh, you’ll have to travel for 30 minutes by train to North Carolina’s hippest city, Durham. From a flourishing scene and beer gardens to park trails, this city will satisfy your wanderlust in various trails. 

For a healthy dose of nature, stroll along the 54-acre Sarah P. Duke Garden. Likewise, hit the trails of Duke Forest, Al Buehler Trail, and Horton Grove Nature Preserve. 

Fond of historic attractions? Don’t forget to check out the Bennett Place State Historic Site, which bursts with structures and monuments dedicated to highlighting the final Civil War days.

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#3 – Asheboro, NC

Best day trip from raleigh with kids.

• Kid-friendly attractions 
• Picturesque natural scenery 
• Fantastic educational museums 

Nicknamed the “Heart of Carolina,” Asheboro is home to the largest natural habitat wildlife haven in the state, North Carolina Zoo. Home to more than 1,600 animals, this sprawling zoo will enthrall families with its charming creatures. 

Not to mention, the zoo offers informative and interactive activities for its visitors. After you visit the zoo, spend time exploring the city’s top museums, including the American Classic Motorcycle Museum and N.C. Aviation Museum. 

If you need a break from your hustle bustle city life, you may unwind at North Asheboro Park, Bicentennial Park, and Pisgah Covered Bridge.

MUST READ! We’ve organized the best places to stay in Raleigh  for all types of trips!

#4 – Raven Rock State Park, NC

Best cheap day trip from raleigh.

• Budget-friendly day trip 
• Full of striking nature sights
• Tons of outdoor pursuits 

You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a memorable day trip from Raleigh. With an adventurous spirit and a pair of sturdy hiking shoes, you can experience a day filled with mesmerizing sights and amazing experiences. 

Though it’s just a short drive from Raleigh, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into another dimension at Raven Rock State Park. Of course, the park overflows with activities for adventurous and nature-loving travelers. 

With a variety of trails and terrain, this state park is perfect for all levels. As a bonus, there are interactive programs and museum-quality displays at the park’s visitor center.

#5 – Fayetteville, NC

Best day trip from raleigh by car.

• Diverse attractions 
• Superb local breweries 
• Military town 

Although it’s known as a military town, Fayetteville offers something special for travelers of all stripes. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, history buff, or foodie, Fayetteville offers you a slew of attractions and things to do. 

You can start your trip in Fayetteville by immersing yourself in the town’s military history at one of the numerous local military sites. Afterward, spend some time exploring the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens. 

End your day trip on a high note by visiting a local brewery – and did we mention that Fayetteville has more than 700 miles of historical driving trails?

#6 – Chapel Hill, NC

A very cool and hip spot.

• Know for its prestigious universities
• Vibrant college town 
• Full of cultural attractions

Don’t let its size and small population deceive you. Sure, it’s a little small compared to the other cities in the area, but it nevertheless buzzes with the youthful energy of a typical small college town. 

While there, visit the country’s oldest public university, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As you see the university, take a tour of its remarkable attractions, including the Carolina Basketball Museum and North Carolina Botanical Garden. 

After your university visit, head to Franklin Street, Chapel Hill’s social hub, to see more museums, listen to live music, and eat at an award-winning restaurant.

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#7 – Charlotte, NC

Recommend day trip for sports enthusiasts.

• Sports fan’s paradise 
• Full of museums 
• Ideal for outdoorsy types

Sports connoisseurs will find bliss in Charlotte, North Carolina. The city features the NASCAR Hall of Fame and is a city where pro sports teams play. Not only is it home to the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA, but it also has the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. 

But the city isn’t just a sports fanatic’s nirvana. History and art enthusiasts can spend the whole day perusing the displays at the Levine Museum of the New South and Mint Museum Uptown . 

Outdoorsy travelers, meanwhile, can hit the Freedom Park’s sports courts and trails. Alternatively, they can try adventurous pursuits like ziplining and whitewater rafting at the US National Whitewater Center.

#8 – Hanging Rock State Park

A must-do for nature lovers.

• Packed with outdoor adventures
• Natural wonders galore
• Serene charm 

Want to spend a day exploring scenic mountains and hills? Head to Hanging Rock State Park and be amazed by the beauty of Mother Nature. Perfect for nature lovers, this state park captivates visitors with its cascading waterfalls, quiet forests, bare rock peaks, and sheer cliffs. 

Of course, you can also enjoy the stunning Piedmont plateau views that stretch for miles. If you’re aching for a hike, hit the state park’s trails and let Mother Nature put the hectic pace of life into perspective. 

You might want to join an interpretive program at the park and discover something new and interesting about the bounty of nature.

#9 – Greenville

Foodies will love this day trip.

• Exceptional barbecue
• Features outdoor attractions
• Cultural treasures 

Greenville is quite a big deal in North Carolina, and there’s no better place in NC to enjoy this culinary goodie than Greenville. For years, this college town has been luring foodies from all over the country with its juicy and extremely delectable barbecue varieties. 

For a hearty and tasty experience in Greenville, visit Skylight Inn, Sam Jones BBQ, or B’s BBQ. Once you’re done appeasing your palate, spend time checking out the other attractions and diversions in Greenville. 

For art enthusiasts, make a pit stop to the admission-free Greenville Museum of Art and be wowed by beguiling exhibits. You could also stop by the Dickinson Avenue Antique Market to find vintage stuff.

#10 – Greensboro

Recommend day trip for history buffs.

• Civil War spots 
• Big city feel 

Greensboro is a dream destination for travelers into history and culture. From a famed civil rights movement lunch counter sit-in to a Revolutionary War battle, the city has experienced many historical events. 

Today, travelers can get a deeper insight into the city’s past by dropping by museums, such as the International Civil Rights Center and Museum. Plus, they can watch a few battle reenactments at the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. 

After getting your history fix, relax and stroll through the beautiful gardens of Greensboro. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to visit the family-oriented Greensboro Science Center.

#11 – Winston-Salem

Everyone will enjoy this day trip.

• Exciting twin-city 
• Historic charm 
• Blooming arts scene 

There’s something for everyone in Winston-Salem. Founded in the 1700s, this NC twin city beckons visitors with its delightful wines, electric art scene, and historical charm. 

For a pleasurable day trip, make your way to the Old Salem Museums & Gardens to catch some artisans’ work. Don’t forget to try some Moravian pastries and tour the city’s restored buildings. 

To keep the momentum going, pop into studios and galleries of the Downtown Arts District or visit the Reynolda House Museum. Before you head home, relax and enjoy a glass of wine at any of the nearby wineries and vineyards at Yadkin Valley. 

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Raleigh

The opportunities for adventure from Raleigh are limitless. Truthfully, the places mentioned on this list are just the tip of the iceberg. Just drive a little farther down south, and you’ll arrive at one of the country’s beloved beach destinations – Myrtle Beach. 

Don’t limit your vacation within the borders of Raleigh. Sure, it’s packed with activities and attractions to keep you occupied for weeks, but there’s a world of fun and adventure awaiting you once you begin exploring the areas nearby towns and cities. 

Is there something you’d like to share with us? Please feel free to share your thoughts using the comment section.

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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Day Trips From Raleigh – 10 Great State Parks To Visit

The Triangle area of North Carolina is an awesome place to live. There are plenty of ways to play, tons of great food options, and awesome parks to visit. However, sometimes you still want to get away from it all. If you are looking for some quick day trips from Raleigh (and the Triangle) this is the place for you.

This edition focuses on State Parks. There are 41 State Parks in North Carolina and we recommend visiting all of them, you will learn a lot ! There is not a State Park you could not visit in one day from Raleigh, but you might be in the car for hours upon hours! For instance, we have taken a day trip for Jockey’s Ridge but we were in the car for about 7 hours that day.

This list focuses on the 10 best State Parks to visit if you are taking a day trip from Raleigh. The farthest you should have to drive is a little over two hours if you use this list – so, very doable. Hope you have a blast going the adventure way on your day trips from Raleigh!

Medoc Mountain State Park

Medoc Mountain is an hour and fifteen minute drive northeast or Raleigh in Hollister. This is one of our favorite parks in all of the Piedmont area of North Carolina. Medoc Mountain is a great place for hikers of all skill levels – some of the trails are even paved so they are accessible to everyone. Pretty much every trail is great here, but we like to do the Summit Loop Trail which takes you to the old ridge line of Medoc Mountain. To get there, you will need to take the Stream Loop to Discovery Loop to Summit Loop. In all it is about 4.5 miles.

Near the visitor’s center you can check out the Air Awareness Trail. This is an awesome kids track trail with a ton of hands on activities. The adult have just as much fun when challenging the kids. When you are in the visitor’s center, stop in and check out the corn snake. If you are in there at the right time, you might even be able to hold it yourself. Medoc Mountain is near the historic town of Halifax , so check it out when you are there.

Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock is one of the most popular parks in the whole state. This park is about two hours and fifteen minutes from Raleigh – so it is one of the longer drives on our list. There is a ton to do in this park so if you want to experience it all you will need to leave early and stay late. Of course, the Hanging Rock Trail is an absolute must do. This is a 2.6 mile trail up to the rock and back. This is a great place to eat lunch and enjoy the views. There are some steep spots and you need to be careful around the cliffs, but there is a ton of room up at the top.

If you took the Hanging Rock out of the State Park there would still be a park here because there are so many other things to do. Hanging Rock has a great set of waterfalls. These are not the biggest falls in the state, but they are some of the closest to Raleigh. Hidden Falls, Window Falls, and Upper Cascade Falls are our favorites. And don’t sleep on Wolf Rock and Cook’s Wall – those are great places to visit. If you are feeling super adventurous, see if you can do the five peak challenge – it is on our list to do soon.

Pilot Mountain State Park

Pilot Mountain is an awesome park to visit if you have a day to explore. Pilot Mountain is about a two hour drive from Raleigh to the west. It is one of the most famous landmarks in the state. Pilot Mountain is a great place to hike especially if you want some mountain landscapes but don’t have the time to go all the way there. The Jomeokee Trail is our favorite trail at the park. It is less than a mile, but it takes you to the base of Pilot Mountain and gives you some killer views. If you have more time and are a little more seasoned, start at the old visitor’s center and head up the Grindstone Trail.

This park has a brand new visitor’s center. We haven’t been yet but are excited to check it out soon. There are two main sections to this park. Most people only go to the mountain section, but there is a river section as well. Plenty of things to do on the water and they have an operating historical farm, a great place for kids and adults. If you are going to Pilot Mountain, check out nearby Mt. Airy .

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

We love Cliffs of the Neuse. This park is about an hour and fifteen minutes southeast of Raleigh just outside of Goldsboro. This is one of the best parks to hike in the eastern part of the state. Our favorite trails are the Spanish Moss Trail and the Galax Trail. This park also has a really awesome lake to swim in. The water is really clear here. There is a small charge for day use. When you are there, obviously don’t miss the cliffs overlooking the Neuse River. There is not a ton of space here, but there are some pretty cool views.

Carvers Creek State Park

Carvers Creek State Park is a fun little park with some historical significance. This park is about an hour south of Raleigh in Fayetteville. There are two access points to this park – the Sandhills Access and the Long Valley Farm Access. Long Valley is the main access is home to the Rockefeller House, the one time vacation home of James Stillman Rockefeller. The home is being restored and one day will be open to the public. You can walk the grounds and the nearby pond. This is a good spot for an east 1-2 mile hike.

The Sandhills has about 10 miles of hiking in total. This is a great place to explore the Sandhills area of North Carolina. This is one of the few places you can find the federally endangered red cockaded woodpecker. It is so cool to see these birds flying around, they are beautiful!

Morrow Mountain State Park

Morrow Mountain is just under two hours to the east or Raleigh in Albermarle. This park literally has something for everyone. That is why it ranked so high in our State Park rankings . You can rent kayaks and hit the Yadkin River Trail. They have bald eagles towards the dam on the river. Very cool to go searching for them.

This park also has a museum that explains the unique geology and history of this area. There once were American Indian tribes living in this area and you might even be able to find some artifacts while you are there. There are a ton of trails here as well. Fall Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain Trails are really great. If you don’t have a ton of time, check out the Three Rivers Trail which gives you some good water views. Whether you hike or drive, make sure you get up to Morrow Mountain Overlook. The views from up there are super rad. Definitely check that out, especially now that there is a new deck up there.

Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve

Weymouth Woods is another park about an hour south of Raleigh in Southern Pines. It has many trails for you to check out the long leaf pine forest that cover this part of the state. One thing we enjoyed about this park were the amount of birds we could check out. It is an ideal place for this, especially woodpeckers. If you are a beginning hiker this place is perfect because it offers plenty of flat, easy trails for you to build up your strength on. We recommend heading here in the fall because of all of the colorful ground cover.

Raven Rock State Park

Raven Rock is an awesome park 40 minutes southwest of Raleigh near Lillington. There are a lot of really great places to visit at the park. If you go you have to hike down to Raven Rock. This is a 2.6 mile trail that takes you down to the banks of the Cape Fear River under the Raven Rock. This is an awesome rock formation that is great to climb all over. Once you get back on the trail, you can head to an observation area that gives you a great view of the river below. It is almost like you are in the mountains (almost).

Speaking about the mountains, the best hikes don’t involve the Raven Rock. Campbell Creek Loop Trail and Lanier Falls Trail are both incredible. Some of the best hikes near Raleigh. They have incredible vegetation and wonderful water features along the river and creeks.

There is a great visitors center here with a bunch of hummingbird feeders outside. On our last trip we saw about 20 of them flying around. It was so cool! This park gets super crowded. It is always a good idea to show up to this one early.

Mayo River State Park

Mayo River was one of the parks that made us fall in love the the North Carolina State Park system. This park is an hour and 45 minutes northwest of Raleigh. We visited this park on our way for a VERY LONG day trip to southwest Virginia . We were just going to stop in real quick, check it out, and burn up the road. When we visited the visitor’s center we found out that there was a separate section of the park with a waterfall. We had to check it out and were so glad we did!

This waterfall is called Fall Creek Falls and it is one of the coolest waterfalls we have been to. Not a tall one, but a fun wide one you can climb all over. We went on a day that nobody else was there so it was awesome! This is a great place to enjoy a picnic and play in the river.

Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area

Occoneechee is a State Park site that took time to grow on us. This park is only 45 minutes to the west of Raleigh. The first time we went there all we did was take the short trail to the overlook and we were gone. The overlook was great but we didn’t check the rest of the park out. The next time we went we did the whole Occoneechee Mountain Loop Trail and it was wonderful. There is a great quarry that you can explore, a winding river, and plenty of elevation change. This feels like mountain hiking real close to Raleigh. If you are this way, make sure you check out the nearby Occoneechee Speedway , an old dirt race track from another era.

There you go! 10 great State Park day trips from Raleigh! We hope that this has been helpful. How many of these have you been to? Have you done any of these in a day? Let us know how your trip went in the comments!

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8 Perfect Day Trips From Raleigh To Take With Kids

If you need to weigh your options when it comes to day trips from Raleigh, we’ve got you covered! Although Raleigh is a beautiful and fun, kid-friendly city that you will seriously adore visiting, it’s also so much fun to explore the cities surrounding Raleigh. I want to share with you some great day trips from Raleigh that are perfect for family travelers. The reason that these cities in particular make such good day trips from Raleigh is that they have a good number of points of interest that are appealing to adults and ones that are appealing to children, and some that are appealing to both as well. As well as unique and interesting restaurants that you can’t find just anywhere. Please keep in mind that when it comes to driving times, they are just estimates. They can change depending on your start and end points, traffic, etc. Let’s get started!

Let’s start by answering some of your most commonly asked questions about Raleigh!

What Beach Is Closest To Raleigh?

The closest beach to Raleigh is Wrightsville Beach, which is about 2 hours and 15 minutes away. Topsail Beach, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, and Ocean Isle are all less than three hours away from Raleigh.

Where Should I Go On A Road Trip To Raleigh?

There are countless things to do in Raleigh, including many free museums, coffee and sweet shops, and amazing restaurants like Taverna Agora!

What Is The Closest Mountain Town To Raleigh NC?

If you want to visit a stunning mountain town near Raleigh, go with Boone! It is an outdoor lovers’ dream town.

8 Perfect Day Trips From Raleigh With Kids

Raleigh – Durham: 30 minutes If you like to spend a lot of time outdoors when you travel, then Durham is one of the best day trips from Raleigh that you can take! Get an up-close view of lemurs at the Duke Lemur Center, take a hike Falls Lake State Recreation Area, or kayak down the Eno River. One of the coolest things to do in Durham with kids is the Museum Of Life And Science. You can walk among black bears, red wolves, and hundreds of tropical butterflies in their 84-acre center. When it comes to food, OH MY GOODNESS Durham is a treasure trove. We don’t even know where to start! Let’s start with the best part.. the sweets! If you’re looking for something sweet, head to Sugar Koi. You’ve probably seen the iconic soft sugar koi fish shaped cones before. They serve their creamy ice creams in these cones and they are DELISH! Craving something Spanish? Head to Mateo Bon De Tapas . Maybe you’re more of a Mexican food fiend. In which case I recommend stopping at Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas ! If you are looking to try a true southern delight, head to Dames Chicken and Waffles !

Chapel Hill

Raleigh – Chapel Hill: 40 minutes Chapel Hill is one of the most fun day trips from Raleigh! Start your day trip to Chapel Hill by spending some time in nature! Walk through the Coker Arboretum or the North Carolina Botanical Garden at the University of North Carolina. For the adults and/or art lovers in your travel party, head to Ackland Art Museum. It’s free for everyone and the museum has dedicated itself to providing a welcoming space for both adults and children. Next, stop at Kidzu. It’s an interactive children’s museum and play space for infants up to tweens. It’s truly so much fun for kids and they even have an indoor rock wall! Let’s eat! Chow down on mouth-watering Turkish food at Talullas. Or get your grub on with some delicious Greek cuisine at Kiplos Greek Taverna. If you aren’t in the mood for foreign cuisine, head on over to Al’s Burger Shack. Try their “mookie” burger, bacon-onion jam with blue marble cheese, and roasted garlic aioli on NC pasture-raised, no antibiotic, no hormone burger! Before you head back to Raleigh, stop for dessert at the Blue Spoon Micro-creamery. This is a must-visit sweet shop in North Carolina because of its unique flavors. They have brown sugar banana, green tea, and strawberry balsamic, just to name a few!

Fayetteville

Raleigh – Fayetteville: 1 hour

Love adventure? If so, Fayetteville will be one of your best options for day trips from Raleigh, NC. Fayetteville is the home of ZipQuest – Waterfall & Treetop Adventure . For anyone 8 years old or older is allowed to participate at ZipQuest. Walk between tree tops on rope bridge over Carver’s Creek and zip line over Carver’s Falls! If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground you can take part in interactive play with your kids at Fayetteville’s Fascinate-U children’s Museum or head over to Cape Fear Botanical Garden to enjoy their showcase of over 2,000 varieties of plant life. Most of the best restaurants in Fayetteville can be found downtown. Your first choice should be The Blue Moon Cafe ! They have a great wine selection, SERIOUSLY delicious food, and you can eat outside on the patio and have a gorgeous view of downtown. A good downtown option for beer lovers is Gaston Brewing Company on Hay Street!

Raleigh – Charlotte: 2 hours 35 minutes Quite possibly the fan favorite of all the awesome day trips from Raleigh is the city of Charlotte. Charlotte is a diverse city in all ways. The attractions, the people, the food options. Seriously, Charlotte is the best. However, it is kinda expensive. As a budget traveler, you may find yourself avoiding cities like Charlotte. Although it’s a wealthy city, there are enough variety and budget-friendly options that any type of traveler would be happy to visit! For adventure seekers, you will love Carowinds theme park and the U.S. National Whitewater Center. If you’re like me and more of a history lover and museum buff, Charlotte has a ton of options. We’d start with the Mint Museum Uptown and the Historic Latte Plantation . If you are lucky enough to have pleasant weather while you are in Charlotte, you can go for a walk at the McDowell Nature Preserve or the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens. And finally, for the kiddos. Young kids are usually by cars, animals, trains, planes, etc. If your kids are the same, then YOU ARE IN LUCK. The NASCAR Hall of Fame , Carolinas Aviation Museum, and the Carolina Raptor Center are all located in Charlotte. If you’re traveling with toddlers you may like to visit SEA LIFE Centre Charlotte . It’s an aquarium inside a shopping mall and is a toddler’s favorite. Then there’s Discover Place Science . It’s a hands-on museum and IMAX theatre that’s perfect for a rainy or hot southern day in Charlotte.

There’s an overwhelming amount of food options in Charlotte. Don’t waste your time searching for a place to eat while you’re in town; choose one of these delicious and kid-friendly spots! The city has a lot of upscale options, but since this post is for travelers like myself who are on the go with kids in tow… We’re going to exclude them from this post. Because, toddlers. First up is Lupie’s Cafe. This restaurant is so laid back and has cross-over vibes, somewhere between hipster and old country store. It’s made this list because it serves up old-school southern comfort food that you should experience while in North Carolina. Lupie’s is also a good budget option as well. The vegetarian platter has 5 veggie dishes that comes with a large piece of cornbread and it was only 7 bucks! If you love Mediterranean food, Zeitouni Mediterranean Grill is a must. And what would a trip to North Carolina be without trying some famous Carolina barbecue? Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q is a great family-friendly AND budget-friendly option. For something sweet, I can’t recommend Amelie’s French Cafe and Bakery enough. We got the hot chocolate, chocolate croissants, and apple tarts. We are dying to go back. They were all so good!

Winston-Salem

Raleigh – Winston Salem: 1 hour 40 minutes Keeping your kids happy in Winston-Salem is easy. You can have a blast with your kiddos at the hands-on science center and nature park, Kaleideum North as well as the water-themed park and family entertainment park, Adventure Landing. If you like to visit museums while you travel, Winston-Salem is probably one of the best day trips from Raleigh for you. Winston-Salem is home to the Museum of Anthropology. You can about global cultures and see ancient artifacts right in Winston-Salem. We would also feel like we weren’t doing our job if I didn’t recommend the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art. Get some fresh air while you’re in the city at Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden or in the beautiful gardens of a former estate, at the Reynolda Gardens. When it’s time to eat, try some famous Carolina barbecue at Slappy’s. Finish with something sweet from Black Mountain Chocolate. This is also a great place to buy a few things to bring home with you from your trip to Winston-Salem.

Raleigh – Greensboro: 1 hour 15 minutes Get your museum fix at what are, in our opinion, the best two museums in Greensboro, The Weatherspoon Art Museum and The Greensboro History Museum. And if you like to spend more time outdoors, I’d consider visiting Barber Park or the Gateway Gardens! Greensboro is a super family-friendly destination in North Carolina and is one of the best day trips from Raleigh for those traveling with kids. We recommend visiting the aquarium, zoo, and interactive museum called Greensboro Science Center . Let your kids play at the Greensboro Children’s Museum , or even better, visit Celebration Station , the indoor and outdoor amusement park. Gourmet tacos, burgers, and beer.. oh my! They all three await you at Crafted The Art of the Taco in Greensboro. And a trip to North Carolina wouldn’t be complete without chompin’ down on some chicken n’ waffles. Grab you a plate, at Dame’s Chicken and Waffles ! Before you head back to Raleigh, stop by Sweet Meg’s Bakery for a margarita cupcake or a churro cupcake or a honey bun cupcake.. or chocolate mint… they have it all!

Rocky Mount

Raleigh – Rocky Mount: 1 hour For family travelers, the #1 thing to do in Rocky Mount is The Imperial Centre for the Arts & Sciences . Although it’s fun for all ages, younger kids may still prefer the Rocky Mount Children’s Museum and Science Center instead. Once you’re done entertaining the kids, see something that you yourself will enjoy. If you’re a history lover that is. The Stonewall Manor is a 19th-century plantation house that is gorgeous and just such a fantastic place to learn about the history of Rocky Mount. As we travel more and more, we’ve started judging restaurants on how good their chicken sandwich is. Maybe just because we’re somewhat picky eats and love us a good chicken sandwich. And nowhere does it better than the American south! If you’re interested in grabbing a delicious chicken sandwich while you’re in Rocky Mount, LouReda’s An American Table is where it’s at. If you’re visiting Rocky Mount in the summertime, stop by Webby’s Shaved Ice to cool down!

Hendersonville

Raleigh – Hendersonville: 4 hours 5 minutes

Just wait . It’s worth it! When you consider which one of these day trips from Raleigh to take with your kids, a city that is four hours away wouldn’t be at the top of your list. Especially if you are traveling with a baby or toddler and you have to stop every couple of hours for feedings, diaper changes, potty breaks, etc. BUT with the attractions that Hendersonville has to offer family travelers, it will soon become one of your favorite day trips from Raleigh! Kids will love the Elijah Mountain Gem Mine where you can mine for your own gem stones. Toddlers and younger kids will have a blast at the Hands On! Children’s Museum as well as the Aquarium and Shark Lab. Hendersonville is also a great place to spend time outdoors. If you like hiking and breathtaking views, Glassy Mountain and Jump Off Rock are for you. Or if you aren’t interested in doing any hiking, but still want to spend some time outdoors, head to the beautiful Bullington Gardens. An awesome family activity in Hendersonville is to visit the Sky Top Orchard. Picking apples is such an awesome way to spend time together, doing something that everyone in the family can enjoy and benefit from. Did someone say Bavaria? Taste delicious German cuisine for dinner at Haus Heidelberg German Restaurant. Another great option is Dandelion. Is a budget-friendly restaurant where victims of violence are given on-the-job training. When it comes to sweet shops, Hendersonville has you covered! For macaron lovers, head to Gateaux Cakes and Pastries. If a box of mind-blowing donuts is more your speed, look no further than the McFarlan Bake Shop!

So, tell us. Will you be taking any of these day trips from Raleigh? Have you already? We’d love to hear from you! Follow along with us on Pinterest ! Other Posts You Might Like: 11 Types of Vacations To Take With Your Kids 29 Things To Do On Ocracoke Island, North Carolina With Kids

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Visit Idle Hour Coffee Roasters, Raleigh For Neighborhood Vibes + Great Coffee

A welcome addition to the Raleigh coffee scene as of August, 2020 was the boutique Idle Hour Coffee Roasters in the Oberlin neighborhood, just 3 miles from downtown Raleigh.

I love the neighborhood feel of this coffee shop. It’s the type of cafe I dream of having as my local where I just walk or bike to in the mornings for a delicious cup of coffee, a catch up with friends, or to get some work done online out of the house! 

Located on Oberlin Road, within walking distance of the Five Points neighborhoods and The Village District , this is an adorable coffee shop is just waiting to be explored!

In this guide, we share why it’s our favorite coffee shop in Raleigh and why you will fall in love with it too.

Why We Love Idle Hour Coffee Roasters NC

Yes, Idle Hour is a coffee house first and foremost, and a great one at that, but they also serve tea, baked goods that rotate frequently, plus paninis, sandwiches and other small bites.

Even if your intention is just a cup of coffee, good luck getting out of here without eating one of their delicious pastries or desserts, especially if you have kids like us! 

1. An inviting space

From the outside, Idle Hour Coffee Roasters looks like a simple and cute coffee shop, but not anything special.

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re met with an inviting interior space that’s aesthetically pleasing – clean and fresh in appearance, a lovely ambiance, and welcoming and helpful staff. 

There are comfy couches with soft pillows, and a desk bar with bar stools next to the huge windows, so you can watch the world go by whilst working on a laptop.

For remote workers, there are power plugs and free WiFi.

Inside seating consists of a few comfy couches and chairs, plus cozy booths.

The atmosphere is pleasant and well suited to conversations with friends or to do some work online – get there early if you plan on doing some work – and on nice weather days I enjoy sitting outside at one of the tables and chairs on the sidewalk. 

Upon entry you are greeted by their pastry and desserts display and let me just say, it’s all great eye candy and our taste buds are equally pleased, and one of our favorite coffee/cake pairings in Raleigh can be found here – their flour-less chocolate cake goes perfect with a hot latte of choice!

2. Large variety of coffees and tea

There’s a full coffee bar menu of staples such as espresso, latte, Americano, cappuccino, mocha, macchiato, etc but they also have a variety of speciality teas, and a delicious chai latte!

They also serve pour over coffe, as well as cold brew, and nitro.

3. The offer dairy-free alternatives

If you’re vegan, or lactose intolerant, all drinks are available with Oatley milk. I’m primarily a latte drinker, and their lattes are top-notch and worth traveling for.

Whilst I almost always drink hot coffee, when I need a refreshing iced coffee, I am a fan of their popular Iced Vietnamese coffee, which is also available with coconut milk.

Iced coffees are the perfect drink to help you cool down on a hot day in the summer in Raleigh .

4. Seasonal speciality coffees

If you visit Raleigh in the fall , don’t miss their specialty fall lattes , the maple ginger and lavender honey latte are a definite treat. 

5. Delicious food and sweet treats

All their pastries are made from scratch or by local vendors, and their popular Tepuy Donuts (handcrafted sourdough doughnuts) are a hit with the locals, and with our daughters! 

There’s also a small menu with paninis and sandwiches and bagels if you’d like something more substantial, and their Banh Mi sandwich – a short baguette with thin, crisp crust and soft, airy texture – takes me back to my time traveling through Vietnam in 2003. 

6. Locally sourced produce and suppliers

I love their focus on supporting local suppliers in the Raleigh area, and at Idle Hour Coffee Roasters they proudly serve:

• Little Blue Macaron
• Tepuy Donuts
• Union Special Bakery
• Tin Roof Teas
• Lyrix Kombucha
• Arteo Matcha
• Methodical Roasters
• HB’s homemade pastries and cheesecakes

How to Get to Idle Hour Coffee Roasters

Idle Hour is located at 1818 Oberlin Road, Raleigh . From downtown, you will need to drive along

Capital Blvd before turning onto Wade Avenue. Turn off onto to Oberlin Rd.

For parking, they have a few spots behind the building – when looking at Idle Hour from outside, you’ll see a driveway on the right of the building.

Otherwise we have parked on Oberlin Rd or on nearby Davis St with no issues.

Opening Hours

Idle Coffee Shop is open from Monday – Sunday, 7.00am – 7.00pm.

The Verdict: Would We Recommend Idle Hour Coffee Shop?

Idle Hour Coffee Roasters is a small coffee shop, but it’s definitely one of the best, especially if you don’t want to drive all the way into downtown for your coffee.

The comfy seating, cozy atmosphere, friendly staff and quiet ambiance, as well as the great cuppa Joe, make it a worthy coffee shop to visit if you need a space to work or unwind.

So, stop on in for a coffee, or even just a bit to eat. You won’t regret it! Now for our favorite coffee in Wake County – Fount Coffee & Kitchen

Did you visit Idle Hour Coffee? Let us know what you think in the comments or tell me what is your favorite coffee shop in Raleigh?

Election 2024 updates: Biden defends debate performance; Trump mocks him at Virginia rally

What to know after Biden and Trump's first debate

• President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are back on the trail today after facing off in their first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle.
• Biden delivered an energetic speech in Raleigh, North Carolina, defending himself after his poor performance in last night's debate. He also gave brief remarks in New York commemorating the Stonewall Inn.
• Some Democrats expressed concern about his ability to remain on the ticket following several major stumbles. The New York Times editorial board published an opinion piece tonight calling on Biden to drop out .
• Trump, whose debate performance was littered with falsehoods and misleading claims, spoke at a campaign rally in Chesapeake, Virginia, where he didn't waste any time mocking Biden's debate performance .
• The Supreme Court released three major decisions this morning, including a Jan. 6 case that Trump praised.

DNC spokesperson calls NYT editorial 'laughable'

Megan Lebowitz

A spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee hit back at the New York Times editorial board tonight over its op-ed saying Biden should end his re-election bid.

"It's laughable," said spokesperson Abhi Rahman.

The Biden campaign dismissed the op-ed earlier tonight.

Biden speaks at last campaign event of busy post-debate day

Biden delivered remarks tonight at a New York fundraiser, capping a day of campaigning as he attempts to rebound from last night’s debate performance.

"When you get knocked down, you get back up," Biden said, repeating a phrase he used at a campaign rally earlier in the day.

Biden also poked fun at his age, but said that it gave him the ability to get things done and tell the truth. "This is a nation that believes in honesty,” he said.

Before the fundraiser, Biden held a rally in North Carolina and delivered remarks at the opening ceremony for the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center in New York.

The Biden and Trump campaigns were hoping to appeal to Black voters in the first debate, but some expressed disappointment in both candidates after the faceoff. NBC News’ Shaquille Brewster reports.

First lady recounts conversation with Biden about the debate

Caryn Littler

In front of a New York fundraising audience this evening, first lady Jill Biden recounted a conversation she had with her husband after last night's debate.

"As Joe said earlier today , he’s not a young man," she said. "And you know, after last night’s debate, he said, ‘You know, Jill, I don’t know what happened. I didn’t feel that great.’"

The first lady said that she responded by saying, ‘Look, Joe, we are not going to let 90 minutes define the four years that you’ve been president.’”

The Supreme Court’s Jan. 6 ruling is expected to ripple through rioters’ cases but not necessarily Trump’s

Ryan J. Reilly

The Supreme Court’s ruling Friday  in favor of a Jan. 6 defendant charged with obstruction  of an official proceeding quickly triggered activity in other  Capitol rioter  cases to revisit that charge, but it’s unlikely to derail former President Donald Trump’s federal election interference case.

Justice Department officials and attorneys for Jan. 6 defendants said that the court’s 6-3 ruling in the case involving former Pennsylvania police officer Joseph Fischer would not have an immediate effect on most of the 1,000-plus convictions secured by prosecutors.

Read the full story here.

Despite Biden’s dismal debate performance, abortion care providers remain resolute

Erika Edwards

Lauren Dunn

Jessica Herzberg

Elysee Barakett Elysee Barakett is a health intern at NBC News.

Proponents of abortion rights were dumbfounded by Biden’s vague and sometimes incoherent messages on abortion access during last night’s debate, especially when he declined to rebuke Trump’s false claims that Democrats are in favor of killing babies.

“The debate was a disaster,” said Dr. Warren Hern, director of the Boulder Abortion Clinic in Colorado. “It’s going to be hard to recover from this.”

The debate should have been a layup for people in favor of abortion rights. Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, touted the fact that he nominated three anti-abortion justices to the Supreme Court while in office from 2017 to 2021. As a result, the constitutional right to an abortion was overturned in 2022, leaving states in charge of whether to allow women to terminate a pregnancy and at what stage.

Joh Fetterman responds to The New York Times' op-ed: 'f--- that'

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., slammed The New York Times' editorial board's opinion piece urging the president to drop out of the 2024 race.

His message on X was just two words: "f--- that."

Fetterman has been a stalwart supporter of Biden.

Democratic National Committee touts grassroots organizing around debate

Biden's allies are touting grassroots organizing and fundraising figures from debate night in a memo first shared with NBC News.

The memo, co-written by Biden campaign communications director Michael Tyler and Democratic National Committee communications director Rosemary Boeglin, highlighted the days ahead of the debate as "mobilizing hundreds of thousands of grassroots supports online and off."

They said that the Biden campaign and its allies organized 436 watch parties across the country, leading to more than 12,000 in-person attendees in battleground states.

Tyler and Boeglin also pointed to supporters signing up for "more than 1,500 volunteer shifts for our weekend of action in the battleground states." The campaign and allies also made nearly 1 million texts and calls to voters in battlegrounds, the memo said.

"While Republicans are in disarray and the Trump campaign continues to neglect crucial constituencies on the ground, the Biden-Harris campaign and Democrats across the country are not taking a single opportunity to engage voters for granted," the memo said. "That’s how we’ll win in November."

Georgia Democrats worry for Biden but still plan to vote for him

Nnamdi Egwuonwu

Christopher Cicchiello

Anne Fayssoux, 71, couldn't believe the Biden at the podium was the same one she saw deliver a rousing State of the Union address mere months earlier. At the debate's conclusion, she said she felt "sad, anxious and upset."

"I think he’s deteriorated since his State of the Union speech that went so well. They did say that he had a cold. But he seemed a little more disabled than just someone with a cold," Fayssoux told NBC News.

Even after noting Biden's numerous slip-ups she doubled down that Biden would receive her vote: "No, there’s no way in heaven and earth that would vote for someone who tried to overthrow our government on January 6th," she said. "I’d vote for Biden 100%."

Another traditionally Democratic voter, Andrew Rose, 50, was more critical of Biden and the debate as a whole.

"Oh, I was so disappointed in Biden. He was hoarse. He was pale. He looked really frail," Rose said. "And, I mean, Trump just lied through his teeth the entire time. It was a disaster, start to finish, both sides."

Rose said that calls to have Biden step aside for another Democrat were uncalled for and continues to have "confidence" in the president to continue his campaign.

"I think he’ll be okay," Rose said. "Just last night was just not a good look for him, but I think he’ll be okay."

Rose added that in the second face-off between Biden and Trump, he hopes the president will "play up" Trump's convicted felon status.

Democrats in swing-state Michigan divided over Biden's fitness

Emma Barnett

Democratic voters in Dearborn, Michigan, are split on whether Biden should step aside in order for the Democratic Party to nominate another candidate after a stumbling debate night.

Rashad Asoufy said it was “surprising to see the decline in Biden’s health due to his age.”

“Ideally, I would like him to step down and have someone else be the Democratic ticket,” Asoufy told NBC News. “But if he’s all we have, I would still stick with Biden because the alternative is not really   good for this country because it kind of threatens our democracy.”

Jennifer Ganem, 59, thinks it is too late for Biden to step aside.

“I think that we need to stay the course at this point of the process,” she said.

While Ganem described Biden’s performance as “sad,” she said, “We are voting for that leader, but we also need to remember we’re voting for all the people around our president, somebody who can bring together a good team, and former President Trump did not prove that he could do that.”

On the other hand, Marsha Brazil, a 71-year-old from Dearborn, is adamant that Biden should not step aside.

“Biden has the experience. Why would you want to — did they want to replace Trump? Look at all the things — he’s a convicted felon,” she said.

Brazil added that “the Democrats need to get together and stick with what they got and try to improve them with what they have instead of trying to replace it. You don’t replace nothing like that.”

Brazil described the debate as “horrible” because “Trump lied when he first opened up his mouth.”

“Biden was trying to tell the truth, but by him being a stutterer and having problem speaking properly, and having a cold, he had a problem delivering his points because he was trying to fact-check Trump on everything,” she added.

Biden addresses NYC’s LGBTQ community a day after poor debate performance

Matt Lavietes

Under the dark cloud of a lackluster debate performance and  panic among some Democrats , Biden spoke today at the opening of a visitor center for LGBTQ history in New York City.

Biden addressed several hundred LGBTQ attendees and allies, including singer Elton John, actor Neil Patrick Harris, fashion designer Michael Kors and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Courtney Act, at the opening of the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center to commemorate Pride Month.

“Today, I’m proud to unveil a new visitor center for Stonewall National Monument, the first ever LGBTQ+ visitor center in the national parks of America,” Biden said. “It matters. We remain in a battle for the soul of America. But I look around at the pride, hope and light that all of you bring, and I know it’s a battle we are going to win and continue to make progress.”

'Lock him up' chants erupt after reference to Trump at Biden-Harris rally

Reporting from Las Vegas

Stumping for the president at a Biden-Harris campaign rally in Las Vegas, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly made a comment that prompted “lock him up” chants from the crowd. 

“We have a choice between Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, who will continue to fight for you, or a convicted criminal who is only looking out for himself,” said the senator, who's a Navy veteran and former astronaut. 

On came a series of “lock him up,” chants, a variation of the “lock her up” chants originated by Trump’s own supporters in reference to Hillary Clinton in the run-up to the 2016 election. 

Kelly responded to the chants, saying, “Folks, all you have to do is vote.”

The neighboring senator was part of a high-profile lineup of Biden-Harris surrogates to speak at the rally, including New Mexico Gov. Michelle Grisham and Nevada Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen. The keynote speaker was Vice President Kamala Harris. 

Biden’s facing pressure to drop out. Trump isn’t joining in.

Allan Smith

Former President Donald Trump is not known for restrained commentary about his political opponents’ weaknesses.

But after a debate in which a number of Democrats felt President Joe Biden’s performance was  so uneven and concerning  that he should  consider getting out  of the presidential contest just weeks before the Democratic National Convention, Trump is holding back from the full pile-on.

Former HUD secretary says Biden 'less likely' to win now

Zoë Richards

Julián Castro, a former HUD Secretary in the Obama administration who then ran for president in 2020, said today that Biden had failed to clear a low bar in the first presidential debate last night.

"Biden had probably the lowest bar to clear of any presidential nominee coming into a — this time summer, usually it’s a fall debate — and he failed to clear that bar. That was obvious," Castro told host Ryan Nobles on NBC News' "Meet the Press NOW." "After last night, it became less likely that he will win. Now it’s up to him to rebuild that competence to make it more likely."

Castro said he was "never convinced" that Biden was the strongest candidate for the 2024 nomination, but he said that at each juncture over the past two years, the chance to consider an alternative to Biden was "shut down."

Castro added that the optics are also a concern, saying, "We’ve come to a point where this is a political liability that is is so difficult to overcome."

Supreme Court set to rule Monday on Trump presidential immunity claims in federal election interference case

Ginger Gibson Senior Washington Editor

The Supreme Court is set to rule Monday on whether former President Donald Trump has  sweeping presidential immunity  that would shield him from prosecution for trying to overturn the 2020 election.

The justices have left the high-profile case for their final decision day before summer break. It was the last one argued this term.

There are three other cases set to come up on Monday, two dealing with Republican-backed state laws seeking to regulate social media platforms and the other on when companies can challenge federal agency rule-making.

Bidenworld brushes off The New York Times' editorial board snub

Monica Alba

Gabe Gutierrez

There is no love lost between The New York Times and some staffers in Bidenworld after the newspaper's editorial board called on the president to drop out.

Biden campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond responded tonight to the New York Times editorial board's op-ed urging Biden to step aside after last night's poor debate performance.

“The last time Joe Biden lost the New York Times editorial board’s endorsement it turned out pretty well for him," he said.

One Biden aide indicated to NBC News that the rebuke was actually energizing for some in Bidenworld.

“That s*** is like jet fuel in my veins,” the Biden aide said. “I love it.”

The paper's editorial board ultimately backed Biden in the general election in 2020 but had selected Sens. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., during the Democratic primaries earlier that year.

Pennsylvania Republican suggests the 25th Amendment is 'worth consideration'

Pennsylvania’s Republican Senate nominee Dave McCormick thinks there is a “possibility our Commander-in-Chief is not up to the job” — and suggested the 25th Amendment, which allows the vice president and Cabinet members to write a letter to Congress declaring the president is not fit to serve, is “worth consideration.”

McCormick, sitting next to former Attorney General Bill Barr at his "America’s Future Tour: Safer Communities for Pennsylvania" event just north of Pittsburgh, described this as a “sad and scary thing to say.”

The McCormick campaign later released a video titled “Bob Casey Said Over And Over That Biden Was Fit To Be President. He Was Lying.” The video shows McCormick’s opponent, incumbent Sen. Bob Casey, defending Biden and his record, as well as Biden complimenting Casey and calling him a “close friend.”

When asked for a response, the Casey campaign referred NBC News to a comment given to PoliticsPA.com that reads, “I’m fighting for Pennsylvania against an opponent who sells out working people to enrich himself, invested in Chinese military companies, and cheered when Roe v. Wade was overturned. Pennsylvanians deserve someone fighting for working families, not for billionaires.”

Nevada Democrat: I wish Kamala Harris was running for president

Julius Tolbert, an 84-year-old Democrat, wishes that Vice President Kamala Harris was running for president instead of Biden in light of his lackluster debate performance, he told NBC News in a Las Vegas supermarket parking lot.

“I wish the vice president, I wish she was running for president. I think she’d be a good president,” said Tolbert.

“I think she — the people can understand her better because she can get up there and talk,” Tolbert added. 

Tolbert, an African American originally from Alabama born to sharecroppers, said he worries what Republicans retaking the White House will mean for Black people and people of color.

“If we get a Republican in ... it’s going to be bad for people of color,” Tolbert said. 

Tolbert was also troubled by Trump.

“The lies that he was telling, what he had done when he was president of the United States, none of that was true. Everything he said,” Tolbert said. 

Despite acknowledging Biden wasn’t an effective communicator last night, Tolbert was not panicking, even as he noted he was "worried" about Biden's health and his ability to make it through another four-year term.

“He knows what he is doing. He’s very quiet about what he does,” said Tolbert. “He was not trying to be a superstar."

New York Times editorial board calls on Biden to drop out

The New York Times editorial board published a bombshell op-ed today calling on Biden to leave the race, joining the rising chorus of concerned politicians and pundits.

"The clearest path for Democrats to defeat a candidate defined by his lies is to deal truthfully with the American public: acknowledge that Mr. Biden can’t continue his race, and create a process to select someone more capable to stand in his place to defeat Mr. Trump in November," the editorial board wrote .

The op-ed acknowledged that ending his campaign would "be against all of Mr. Biden’s personal and political instincts."

The piece highlighted that it was Biden himself who challenged Trump to the debate.

"The truth Mr. Biden needs to confront now is that he failed his own test," the board wrote.

During a conversation with CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin at the Aspen Ideas Festival, venture capitalist Peter Thiel said he would vote for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. A former backer of Trump, Thiel said he would do so begrudgingly. NBCUniversal News Group is the media partner of Aspen Ideas Festival.

Presidential debate drew 51.3M viewers, down from recent events

Jason Abbruzzese

The first presidential debate of the 2024 campaign cycle drew about 51.3 million people, according to the media analytics company Nielsen, a sharp drop from previous debates and the smallest audience since a 2004 debate between then Sen. John Kerry and President George W. Bush.

Nielsen’s audience estimate came in slightly above host CNN’s figure. The cable news company said Friday that 47.9 million people watched the debate between Biden and Trump across broadcast and cable TV as well as streaming.

While still a sizable TV audience, Nielsen’s estimate represents an approximately 30% drop in viewership from the first Biden-Trump debate in 2020, which drew 73 million viewers. At 51.3 million people, the estimate puts the most recent debate just ahead of the third Bush-Kerry debate but behind all debates from the 2008, 2012 and 2016 campaigns, according to data from Nielsen's election hub.

Vulnerable down-ballot Democrats stay quiet after Biden’s debate

Bridget Bowman

Sahil Kapur

Democrats running in competitive down-ballot races this year largely kept quiet or dodged questions today about the first presidential debate as the party grapples with the fallout from Biden’s shaky performance.

Several Senate Democratic candidates in key states took to social media not to comment on the debate, but to share footage from recent campaign events or highlight other policies. Staffers working with several of those campaigns did not return requests for comment on the debate. And a few candidates did not directly answer questions about whether Biden should continue as the party’s presidential nominee.

“I focus on my race. I’m not a pundit,” Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio,  told News5 Cleveland  when asked if party leaders, including himself, should ask Biden to step aside. “I’ve never given my colleagues about what they should do with their free time and what they should do with other politicians.”

Trump praises today's Supreme Court ruling on Jan. 6 defendant

Trump this afternoon praised the Supreme Court's ruling today in favor of J a n. 6 defendant seeking to toss out an obstruction charge for taking part in the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

"The great Supreme Court ... they did the right thing," Trump said at a rally in Chesapeake, Virginia, referring to the court's 6-3 ruling in favor of Jan. 6 defendant Joseph Fischer .

Trump also said those involved in the riot were facing persecution because of his campaign for president, although many of their charges predated his presidential bid.

"All of their persecution is only happening, and all of it has happened to me, because I’m running for president," Trump said.

Bill Clinton highlights Biden's record in post-debate post

Former President Bill Clinton commented on Biden's debate performance today, pointing to his "solid leadership."

"Joe Biden has given us 3 years of solid leadership, steadying us after the pandemic, creating a record number of new jobs, making real progress solving the climate crisis, and launching a successful effort in reducing inflation, all while pulling us out of the quagmire Donald Trump left us in," Clinton said. "That’s what’s really at stake in November."

Clinton's tweet comes shortly after Obama also lent his support to Biden on X.

Biden celebrates Pride Month at Stonewall visitor center event

"Happy Pride!" Biden said at the start of his remarks in New York at a visitor center opening event commemorating the Stonewall Inn.

The Stonewall Inn was the site of a police raid in 1969 that helped propel the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

"LGBTQ+ people are some of the most inspiring people I know," Biden said in remarks with a level of energy similar to a North Carolina rally earlier today, a stark contrast from last night's debate performance.

He also recounted a childhood story about the first time he saw two men kiss. Biden said that his dad told him, "It's simple, Joey. They love each other."

At the end of his remarks, Biden introduced Elton John.

Debate performance threatens to overshadow Biden's NYC event with LGBTQ voters

Biden is attending the opening ceremony for the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center in New York City, but several LGBTQ attendees suggested that last night's debate performance could overshadow the festivities.

Scott Dewey, an account executive at software company SAP — one of the center’s sponsors — called last night’s debate “humiliating.”

“I felt so bad for Biden, but then at the same time, I was thinking, ‘Are they doing this so early, are the Democrats trying to sabotage him?’” Dewey, a gay man, told NBC News.

“I mean, what the hell? It was a disgrace,” Dewey added. “He’s too old and he absolutely confirmed that last night."

Biden campaign launches digital ad saying Trump 'only cares about himself'

Mike Memoli

The Biden campaign is putting out a paid digital campaign following last night's debate, that uses clips from Trump's debate remarks to paint the former president as a self-serving candidate.

The 29-second ad includes snippets of Trump's comments at the debate lectern last night while discussing topics like abortion, the job market and the Capitol riot, alongside short captions from the Biden campaign that describe the former president as a candidate who doesn’t care about veterans, democracy, Black families or reproductive rights.

“Donald Trump only cares about himself," the ad says. "And if he wins, he’ll only help himself. Because he doesn’t care about you."

Trump kicks off first post-debate rally by mocking Biden

Ryan Brooks Ryan Brooks is the weekend politics editor for NBCNews.com

Kicking off his first-post debate remarks at a rally in Virginia, Trump mocked Biden's performance and said the president "didn't know what the hell he was doing."

"As you saw on televison last night we had a big victory against a man who is trying to destroy our country," Trump said. "Despite the fact that crooked Joe Biden spent the entire week at Camp David resting, working, studying — he studied so hard he didn't know what the hell he was doing."

"It's not his age, it's his competence," the former president added. "He's not respected anywhere in the world."

'He’s still on message': Georgia Democrat looks to Biden's positives

Alec Hernández

Reporting from Marietta, Ga.

Paula Billups, a registered Democrat from Marietta, said that while she is disappointed in Biden’s performance last night overall, she is “still very hopeful” that he can be re-elected this November. 

“He’s still on message,” Billups, 60, said of Biden, adding that she didn’t think the president “communicated the message as well as he could have last night.” 

Her lackluster review of his Thursday night performance, however, will not dissuade her from casting her ballot for Biden again in November. 

“I know a lot of people are discussing whether he should step down. No, he should not step down. He has a great team to support him,” she said, noting that Trump is only a few years younger. 

Billups, a professor of business administration at a local university, was also confused by Trump’s onstage comment about migrants taking “Black jobs.” 

“He made it seem to imply that maybe it was lower-level jobs, which that’s just not the case. You know, we hold jobs at all levels, but I’m not sure what he meant by that,” she explained. 

Biden supporter impressed with North Carolina rally: 'I would have loved to have seen that person at a debate last night'

Elleiana Green Elleiana Green is a Digital Politics intern with NBC News

As Democrats continue to voice concerns about Biden's performance following the Thursday night debate, Biden's energized speech on Friday provided a stark contrast for Dannie Montgomery, a Biden supporter who attended his North Carolina rally.

“I would have loved to have seen that person at a debate last night,” Montgomery said. "I would have liked to seen a little bit more fire last night."

Throughout the rally Biden made the case as to why he should remain in office and insisted that he could do the job while acknowledging his lackluster performance.

“I know I’m not a young man. I don’t walk as easy as I used to," Biden told the crowd. "I don’t speak as smoothly as I used to. I don’t debate as well as I used to, but I know what I do know — I know how to tell the truth!"

Biden communications director won't say whether the campaign is changing strategy ahead of Sept. debate

Biden campaign communications director Michael Tyler told reporters on Air Force One there have been no high-level discussions "whatsoever" about the president stepping aside.

"The president said it himself today: You know, I think he didn’t have the best night on the debate stage," Tyler said. He roundly rejected any calls for Biden to step aside and said they are still definitely planning for the September debate.

Tyler wouldn’t say though if the campaign would change its overall strategy on how Biden will prepare for that one versus last night’s performance.

'What defines a Black job? A job's a job,' Black voters in Georgia react to Trump debate comments

Two Black voters in Georgia said Trump's Thursday night answer referencing "Black jobs" in a response about the role immigrants play in the U.S. economy, said it reveals the "type of person Trump is."

“They’re taking Black jobs now and it could be 18, it could be 19 and even 20 million people,” Trump said. “They’re taking Black jobs, and they’re taking Hispanic jobs, and you haven’t seen it yet, but you’re going to see something that’s going to be the worst in our history.”

"What defines a Black job? A job's a job," Ryan Beasley, a 45-year-old undecided voter from Atlanta, told NBC News.

Beasley, a Black resident from Decatur, had always voted for the Democratic Party prior to this election. Asked what he would do if the election was tomorrow, he responded, "Stay in bed."

He added, "I think it's time for new leadership; I think it's time for younger leadership."

Red Girma, a 24-year-old from Georgia, expressed similar concerns.

"It just felt like they were referencing, like I don’t want to say it, but like bottom-barrel jobs that are like supposed to be like Black jobs or like Hispanic jobs like," Girma said. "I don’t know what he was trying to get at that. I don’t know if that that was supposed to like win us over."

'We’re doomed': NV independent voter expresses concern over Biden's age and ability to beat Trump

John Luch, a 45-year-old carpenter and independent voter from Nevada, expressed concern over Biden’s age and performance following the Thursday night debate. 

“It was just a bunch of stammering, a bunch of like, grasping for an answer,” Luch said of Biden’s performance onstage with Trump.  

Luch said that he typically votes for third-party candidates in presidential elections and that his current plan is to vote for “none of the above” come November. He added that he’d be open to supporting the Democratic Party if they remove Biden from the ticket in favor of a younger candidate. 

As for Biden’s chances of beating Trump in the general election, Luch remained skeptical because of the president’s age. 

“I think you should be alive long enough to see the ramifications of your actions,” Luch said. “We’re doomed. This the best we got.”

Congressional Democrats admit Biden stumbled in the debate but stand by him for 2024

Kyle Stewart

Ryan Nobles

Rebecca Kaplan

Kate Santaliz

A  debate performance  by President Joe Biden that  set off a five-alarm fire  within  his party  Thursday gave way to a more measured public reaction the next morning from congressional Democrats, who acknowledged he did poorly but didn’t agree with those who called on him to drop out of the presidential race.

“It was a terrible debate. Joe Biden couldn’t communicate and Donald Trump lied every time he opened his mouth,” said Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., who represents a competitive district.

But when asked if Biden should step aside from the 2024 race, Craig said she’s focused on her district.

Privately, many Democrats — including  some lawmakers  — said that they are worried. But publicly, they’re putting on a brave face and downplaying the impact of a single debate.

Read the full story here .

Obama says Biden's performance last night doesn't change the clear choice in the 2024 election

Rebecca Shabad

Former President Barack Obama doubled down on his support for Biden for president in a post on X this afternoon after Democrats expressed concern over his former running mate's debate night performance against Trump.

Steve Bannon must report to prison by Monday after Supreme Court rejects last-minute appeal

Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon must report to prison by Monday after the Supreme Court rejected his last-minute bid to stave off his four-month sentence for defying subpoenas from the House Jan. 6 committee.

Bannon was convicted in Washington on two counts of contempt of Congress nearly two full years ago, in July 2022, and sentenced to four months in prison in October 2022. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols had put his sentence on hold as he pursued an appeal of his conviction, which was rejected in May . Nichols then ordered Bannon to report to prison by July 1 , saying there was no basis to continue to delay the sentence. An appeals court then rejected Bannon’s appeal of the decision, leaving only the Supreme Court to help him avoid incarceration.

PA Democratic Party chair: 'I'm with him'

Lauren Mayk

Asked by NBC News whether Biden should still be the nominee, the head of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party said yes.

"Joe Biden will beat Donald Trump and the people of Pennsylvania will support him," state Sen. Sharif Street said. "It's President Biden's decision what he wants to do in his life and so far he's decided he's our nominee and I'm with him." 

Biden won the battleground state in 2020, but polls have shown a close race going into November.

'Disgusting and dangerous': Activists decry Trump's 'bad Palestinian' comment

Rima Abdelkader

Activists and community leaders criticized Trump's comment last night that Biden is seen as a “very bad Palestinian,” in relation to the president's handling of the Israel-Hamas war.

"Using 'Palestinian' as a slur is disgusting and dangerous," said Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs.

Trump said during the debate that the president had “become like a Palestinian, but they don’t like him because he’s a very bad Palestinian. He’s a weak one."

Imam Omar Suleiman, president of the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research, criticized both Biden and Trump in response to that exchange: "Truly, you’re both just bad human beings," he said in an Instagram post.

“The fact that he called President Biden a Palestinian, a bad Palestinian, was an insult to me,” Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha wrote on Instagram .

Biden backers in N.C. disappointed in debate but sticking with him

Monica Dunn

Biden supporters at his rally in North Carolina told NBC News they were disappointed with his performance in yesterday's debate but are still standing behind him.

"I thought there was a debate between a good man and a bad man. So you know, the good man may have had an off night, but he’s still a better man, and I’m going to vote for him. Not a problem," said one attendee, John Burns.

Another, David Tillem, said Biden's performance in the debate was "a disappointment," but he thinks he's still fit for the job. Asked if he was the best person to lead the Democratic Party right now, Tillem said, "Who else is there? That’s the question. He’s the one who’s been out front. Can he do it? Yeah."

A third, Tara Waters, said Biden has been "counted out before, and he’s shown how resilient he is, and so we’ll just have to wait and see. But I am rooting for President Biden, and I’m thankful for what he’s done for our country."

Biden leaves the stage to 'I Won't Back Down'

Daniel Arkin

Biden left the podium to the tune of Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down" — an interesting song choice amid growing calls for the president to drop out of the race following his debate performance.

Biden's remarks are finished

The president spoke more clearly and forcefully than he did last night, but it remains to be seen whether the rally in North Carolina will change the post-debate narrative.

Buttigieg tells Biden to 'get down to work, get back to work'

During an interview with MSNBC, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said that Biden is "the best person to lead the country forward," despite his performance in the debate last night.

Asked about how Biden will fix the chaos in response to last night's debate, Buttigieg said Biden must "get down to work, and get back to work."

He added, "Just because you are on the right side of the American people with all the policy arguments doesn't mean you automatically get to win an election."

Biden insists he can do the job of president

"Folks, I give you my word as a Biden: I would not be running again if I didn't believe, with all my heart and soul, I could do this job — because, quite frankly, the stakes are too high."

The crowd replied with chants of "Yes, you can!"

Biden addresses age, debate performance: 'I don't debate as well as I used to'

Biden, defending himself against criticism of his debate performance and questions about his age, told the crowd: "I know I’m not a young man. I don’t walk as easy as I used to. I don’t speak as smoothly as I used to. I don’t debate as well as I used to, but I know what I do know — I know how to tell the truth!

Biden blasts Trump for not explicitly pledging to accept election results

Biden excoriated Trump for not flatly promising to accept the results of the November election.

CNN debate moderator Dana Bash asked Trump three times whether he would accept the 2024 election results. He did not directly answer the question the first two times, but on her third attempt, Trump said in part: “If it’s a fair and legal and good election, absolutely.”

Trump then proceeded to repeat a discredited allegation of voter fraud when he lost four years ago.

Biden has not alluded to criticism of his debate performance

In his remarks so far, Biden has not commented on the chorus of criticism that followed his debate performance last night. He is proceeding with fiery criticisms of Trump and describing his second-term agenda in broad strokes.

Biden is coughing occasionally but sounds less hoarse

Biden has coughed a few times in the early section of his prepared remarks, but he sounds less hoarse than he did during last night's debate.

During the Thursday night debate, a Biden aide and others familiar with his situation told reporters he had a cold.

Crowd chants 'Lock him up' after Biden calls Trump a 'one-man crime wave'

Biden, ripping into Trump's legal troubles, referred to his 34 felony convictions in the New York hush money case and derided the former president as a "one-man crime wave."

The crowd started chanting "Lock him up," as Biden continued his remarks.

Biden repeats 'alley cat' attack on Trump

Biden, recalling last night's debate, told the North Carolina crowd that he "spent 90 minutes on a stage debating a guy who has the morals of an alley cat" — repeating an attack line he used during the face-to-face confrontation with Trump.

Biden lays out second term agenda in clearer terms

Biden, who has faced criticism from Democrats for failing to lay out a clear and forceful second term agenda at last night's debate, rattled off some of his domestic priorities at the top of his remarks in North Carolina.

"We're going to stand up for the women of America," the president said. "We're going to restore Roe v. Wade as the law of the land." He also pledged to defend entitlements such as Medicare and Social Security.

Biden also interrupted by chants of 'Four more years'

Biden was beginning to explain why he is speaking in North Carolina when some of his supporters in the crowd started chanting "Four more years" to drown out a protester.

'Our options are horrible': Suburban Atlanta voters unimpressed by both debate performances

Two suburban Georgia voters were left disappointed by both candidates' performance in last night’s debate, both expressing concern for Biden’s fitness to serve and Trump’s perceived lack of substance. 

“I don’t even know how to describe it. I think it was sad and we didn’t really learn about what they would do about the issues in this country,” said Rebecca Tucker, 70, of suburban Marietta. Tucker felt “terrible for Biden” and questioned his ability to serve after watching him onstage. 

“I don’t think that he’s mentally capable of leading our country,” she said, adding that “Trump seemed more clear headed and alert.”

Daniel Savage, 54, explained that the substance of the debate was far overshadowed by the style. 

“Honestly, I just couldn’t get past the embarrassment. The first five minutes, it just was horrifying,” he said, adding that while Biden was “not cognizant,” Trump’s display was merely “average.”

“We have two candidates that I’m embarrassed to say are running for president of the United States,” he continued. 

Both Tucker and Savage voted for Trump in 2020, but were open to hearing from both candidates last night to help inform how they will cast their ballot this fall. They both are still undecided.

Biden begins remarks at North Carolina rally

The president has started giving his first public comments since last night's debate.

Jill Biden interrupted by 'four more years' chants

First lady Jill Biden, who is introducing Biden in North Carolina, was interrupted by supporters in the crowd chanting "Four more years."

Biden arrives for campaign rally in North Carolina

Biden has arrived for a campaign rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he is expected to deliver remarks amid calls for him to drop out of the presidential race following his performance at the debate.

Pence calls Biden's debate performance 'a sad spectacle'

Former Vice President Mike Pence derided Biden's debate performance as "a sad spectacle" in a post on X, then went on to tout the resilience of the American people.

Pence — who failed in his effort to secure the GOP presidential nomination last year — has said he will not back Trump, his former running mate.

Biden campaign discussed whether it was a good idea for Harris to do post-debate interviews, source says

Biden campaign advisers deliberated over whether Vice President Kamala Harris should still do media interviews after the debate, given Biden’s performance, according to a source familiar with the discussions.

During the conversations, some Biden advisers suggested that it could be a “bad look” for Harris to go on the airwaves, this source said, but ultimately she decided that she wanted to do them for several reasons.

First, Harris felt that she had a duty to speak out because her name is on the ticket with Biden and second, she wanted to “prosecute the case against Trump” while making the case that she and Biden have “delivered together” over the last three and a half years.

“She was very clear that when he succeeds, they succeed. When she succeeds, they succeed,” this source said. “Same team.”

Dean Phillips quotes Gandhi: 'Speak only if it improves upon the silence'

In his first public post since the debate, Rep. Dean Phillips, Biden's most prominent primary challenger, shared a quote from Mahatma Gandhi on X, "Speak only if it improves upon the silence."

Phillips dropped out of the primary race in March and endorsed Biden.

Biden 'absolutely not' dropping out of the race, campaign says

Kelly O'Donnell

Peter Nicholas

Asked if Biden would drop out of the race, a Biden campaign spokesperson said, "Absolutely not."

“President Biden is the only person who has ever beaten Donald Trump. He will do it again. Donald Trump did not give voters any reason to vote for him tonight. On the issues, the American people are with Joe Biden,” a Biden campaign adviser said.

Pelosi says Biden had a 'bad start' to debate, still supports him

Ava Thompson

Asked if Biden is the best messenger for the top of the Democratic ticket, Rep. Nancy Pelosi said she is a “very big supporter of President Biden."

“He got off to a bad start," she told reporters. "I thought he came through OK on the issues later.”

Major Biden fundraiser says Democrats should 'take a deep breath'

Alan Kessler, a Philadelphia-based Biden fundraiser, said today that Democrats should "take a deep breath and see how things develop in a week or 10 days."

"In the meantime, if people want to have discussions about everything from potentially having somebody else [on the ticket] to how to handle last night, maybe that should happen," Kessler said. "But before people jump off bridges or start a draft movement, let’s take a deep breath and see how things unfold."

Longtime Biden ally Rep. James Clyburn says the president had a 'poor performance' during the debate

Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., a longtime Biden ally, told reporters on Capitol Hill today that he thought the president's performance during last night's debate was "poor."

Clyburn said that Biden doesn't need to change anything on "substance," but on style, he argued that Biden is "not a show horse."

"The debate last night had some shortcomings," he said, noting that infrastructure was not brought up once even though Biden signed a major bill to rebuild the nation's roads and bridges.

"We have a workhorse on behalf of the American people. We got a show horse just trying to get him out of office," he said.

Clyburn was credited with helping propel Biden's 2020 presidential campaign forward after endorsing him before the South Carolina primary.

Biden campaign rakes in $14 million around the first presidential debate

The Biden-Harris campaign raised $14 million on debate day and the morning after, a campaign official told NBC News.

The official said the hour after the debate — between 11 p.m. and 12 a.m. — was the single best hour of fundraising since the campaign’s launch in April 2023.

Senior Biden adviser says Jan. 6 defendants must be held accountable after Supreme Court decision.

A senior Biden adviser said today that "violent insurrectionists and those who encourage them must be held accountable, but Donald Trump thinks otherwise."

The adviser's comment comes in response to the Supreme Court's decision that sided with a Jan. 6 rioter challenging an obstruction charge.

"Just last night, Trump again defended January 6 and the insurrectionists who violently assaulted law enforcement officers and tried to prevent the peaceful transfer of power," the adviser said about the debate. "Today’s ruling does not change the fundamental truth that Donald Trump will always put himself over our democracy.”

The June presidential debate, by the numbers

Nigel Chiwaya

Biden and Trump  touched on many topics during  last night’s presidential debate , from the economy and inflation to the wars in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, health care and immigration.

NBC News kept track of how the candidates used their time during the debate. The graphics below show the time dedicated to each topic, along how long the candidate spent on each.

Good inflation news for the Biden admin lost in debate fallout

There's good news about inflation this morning. The wonky-sounding personal consumption expenditures index (PCE) for May came in at its slowest growth rate in more than three years . It comes after other recent encouraging inflation data, including from the closely watched consumer price index (CPI).

PCE is also a preferred inflation gauge for the Federal Reserve, which could end up cutting its benchmark interest once or twice this year as price growth slows down. That would be good news for Americans paying credit card bills and those who are priced out of the housing market because of high mortgage rates.

But what could be seen as a boost for Biden is likely to get lost amid the fallout from his shaky debate performance last night. When pressed on inflation yesterday, Biden incorrectly said he inherited 9% inflation from Trump. CPI hit that level in the middle of 2022, Biden's second year in office. The president also stumbled in demonstrating how the annual rate of CPI growth is now down to 3.3% and is expected to keep cooling.

Biden campaign co-chair says he 'lost on style, but won on substance'

Mitch Landrieu, Biden's campaign co-chair, defended Biden's debate performance during an interview with CNN this morning.

Asked about voters' response to the debate, Landrieu said Biden had a "rough time" last night. He added, "The president might have lost a debate on style, but he won it on facts. He won it on decency."

Monday will be the final day of Supreme Court rulings

The Supreme Court is expected to issue its final rulings of the session Monday. The decision on Trump's immunity argument in one of his criminal cases remains undecided, meaning it's likely to come Monday.

Supreme Court rules for Jan. 6 rioter challenging obstruction charge

Lawrence Hurley Supreme Court reporter

Reporting from the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court today ruled in favor of a former police officer who is seeking to throw out an obstruction charge for joining the Capitol riot Jan. 6, 2021, in a ruling that could benefit Trump.

The justices on a 6-3 vote handed a win to defendant  Joseph Fischer , who is among hundreds of Jan. 6 defendants — including Trump — who have been charged with obstructing an official proceeding over the effort to prevent Congress’ certification of Biden’s election victory.

The court concluded that the law, enacted in 2002 as part of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act after the Enron accounting scandal, was only intended to apply in limited circumstances involving tampering with physical evidence.

Read more about the decision here.

Pelosi, asked for reaction to Biden's performance, says 'not right now'

Asked to react to Biden's performance at last night's debate, former House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said she "will have it, but not right now."

Pelosi, one of the most powerful Democratic elected officials in the nation, made the comments as she stepped into an elevator at the Capitol. She did not specify when she planned to make public comments about the debate.

NBC News' Chuck Todd wrote last night that he was most intrigued to hear from Pelosi and former President Barack Obama. "They are, arguably, the two most influential Democrats not named Joe Biden right now," he wrote, "and if they went public saying, 'Thank you for your service but it’s time for new blood,' I'm not sure Biden could survive as the nominee."

Supreme Court delivers blow to power of federal agencies, overturning 40-year-old precedent

The Supreme Court today overturned a 40-year-old precedent that has been a target of the right because it is seen as bolstering the power of "deep state" bureaucrats.

In a ruling involving a challenge to a fisheries regulation, the court consigned to history a 1984 ruling called Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council.

It is the latest in a series of rulings in which the conservative justices have taken aim at the power of federal agencies. The ruling was 6-3 with the conservative justices in the majority and the liberal justices dissenting.

Biden campaign commits to participating in September presidential debate

The Biden campaign said that the president still plans to participate in the second scheduled presidential debate against Trump.

A Biden aide said all systems are go for the debate and they're committed to it. ABC News is set to host that debate on Sept. 10, less than two months before Election Day.

Hillary Clinton reiterates support for Biden post-debate

In her first public reaction following the debate last night, Hillary Clinton wrote in a post on X that she'll be voting for Biden this November.

Top Democratic fundraisers sound the alarm after Biden’s debate performance

Brian Schwartz, CNBC

Rebecca Picciotto, CNBC.com

Many of the Democratic Party’s top fundraisers are privately sounding the alarm after  Biden ’s disappointing  debate  performance against Trump last night.

“Disaster,” said a Biden donor who plans to attend a fundraiser with him tomorrow in the  Hamptons .

“This is terrible. Worse than I thought was possible. Everyone I’m speaking with thinks Biden should drop out,” said the person, who was granted anonymity to recount private conversations.

CNBC began hearing from worried  Democratic  campaign donors and fundraisers less than 20 minutes into the 90-minute debate hosted by CNN.

“Game over,” said a longtime Democratic campaign adviser, who has been raising money for congressional leaders for over a decade and helped raise money for Biden’s 2020 White House bid.

Supreme Court allows Oregon city policy targeting homeless people

The Supreme Court today rejected a constitutional challenge to ordinances enacted by a small city in Oregon that punish homeless people for sleeping on public property when they have nowhere else to go.

The justices ruled in favor of the city of Grants Pass, saying the measures do not run afoul of the Constitution’s Eighth Amendment, which bars cruel and unusual punishment.

Hakeem Jeffries says Biden shouldn't step down

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries responded "no" when asked by reporters if he thinks Biden should step down following his debate performance last night.

Supreme Court to begin announcing decisions momentarily

The Supreme Court is about to begin announcing decisions. They've brought two boxes into the press room — traditionally meaning we could get more than two cases.

House Speaker Mike Johnson says Biden is 'not up to the job'

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., addressing reporters on Capitol Hill this morning, said he believes the presidential debate showed that Biden is not fit for the presidency.

"Everyone can see the objective fact that we have been discussing here for a long, long time, that President Biden is not up to the job," Johnson said.

Trump has also drawn criticism for a series of falsehoods and exaggerations during the CNN presidential debate. Johnson praised Trump's performance, saying the presumptive GOP nominee "won on every metric of measurement, I think, on the issues, on his stamina, on his temperament."

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer defends Biden while avoiding mention of his debate performance

Henry J. Gomez

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, issued a post-debate statement through her political organization this morning that praised Biden without remarking at all on his performance in last night's debate.

"For hardworking people in Michigan and across the country, this election is about which candidate can do the most to make life easier for them and their families, stand up for our rights and freedoms, and leave a better country for our kids and grandkids," Whitmer said in the statement. "On these questions, the difference between Joe Biden and Donald Trump as people, and as presidents, could not be clearer. " 

Whitmer is among the Democrats whose names routinely surface as a potential replacement for Biden on the ballot — and her name was ringing out among panicked party insiders last night after Biden stumbled through a shaky debate with Trump.

"Joe Biden is running to serve the American people," Whitmer said in her statement. "Donald Trump is running to serve Donald Trump.   The difference between Joe Biden's vision for making sure everyone in America has a fair shot and Donald Trump’s dangerous, self-serving plans will only get sharper as we head toward November." 

Another Democrat, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, raised eyebrows on X after last night's debate by sharing a photo of her and other statewide officeholders with Whitmer under the message "Mood. #TeamMichigan."

"I'm proud of our team here in Michigan. And wanted to remind people that the Democratic Party is a whole lot bigger than one moment or one person," Benson wrote in a text to NBC News, adding that she was not suggesting that Whitmer enter the presidential race. "Our team in Michigan is an example of that."

Some Democrats start calling for Biden to ‘throw in the towel’ on 2024

Jonathan Allen

Some Democrats began calling for Biden to step aside so the party can nominate another candidate after he  stumbled badly  in last night’s debate.

“This was like a champion boxer who gets in the ring past his prime and needs his corner to throw in the towel,” said a Democratic lawmaker, adding that he meant Biden should exit the race.

The options for a switch are limited : If the president doesn’t choose to leave of his own volition, there would have to be a revolt among Democratic National Convention delegates, the vast majority of whom were elected on their pledges to nominate Biden. But that’s what some Democrats were thinking about last night.

It’s “time to talk about an open convention and a new Democratic nominee,” said a second Democratic lawmaker who has been a solid Biden supporter.

Biden campaign defiant against calls for him to drop out of race

Aaron Gilchrist

Biden's campaign is defiantly pushing back against calls for the president to drop out of the race.

A source familiar with the campaign’s thinking argued that Biden has been counted out by all the same pundits and reporters before, and the anonymous Democrats doubting him are anonymous because the party is behind him 100% (When pressed about why some of the doubters were going on the record, the source countered that they were TV pundits).

“It’s a long, long campaign, and one debate, as we saw in 2012 with Obama, will not decide the results,” the source said.

Another source familiar with the campaign’s thinking flatly denied Biden would leave the race, saying, “Of course not.”

That source argued that a fair number of polls show the debate “as a wash” and that people hated Trump’s Jan. 6 lines and refusal to accept election results.

Still, one former administration official acknowledged that attention may shift to someone else.

“One thing I think this does is underscore the importance of Vice President Harris and her role in carrying her weight, and then some, on this ticket,” the source said. “It’s all eyes on Harris — and the next big media moment: Trump’s VP selection.”

Biden stopped by a campaign-sponsored viewing party in Atlanta following his debate with Trump. He later went to collect an order from a Waffle House. At both stops, he accused Trump of lying during the debate.

Sen. John Fetterman says he refuses to join 'Democratic vultures on Biden's shoulder'

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., suggested in a post on X this morning that he doesn't agree with calls by some Democrats to find an alternative to Biden after his debate performance.

"I refuse to join the Democratic vultures on Biden’s shoulder after the debate," Fetterman said. "No one knows more than me that a rough debate is not the sum total of the person and their record."

Fetterman had a similarly poor debate performance in Oct ober 2022 against Republican Senate candidate Mehmet Oz, in part because Fetterman was still recovering from his stroke. Ultimately, Fetterman won the race in the midterm election.

Gov. Josh Shapiro admits Biden 'had a bad debate night,' but stresses the president is 'up to the job'

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a possible future Democratic presidential candidate, admitted in an interview this morning that Biden didn't do well last night, but stressed that Democrats should "stop worrying."

"Look, I think Joe Biden had a bad debate night, but it doesn’t change the fact that Donald Trump was a bad president — a bad president who ripped away our freedoms, a bad president who drove our economy into the ditch, a bad president who exacerbated the problems of climate change, and a guy who stood on the stage last night and not only lied about his past, but lied about the kinds of things he’s proposing for the future," Shapiro said on MSNBC's "Morning Joe."

"That is what I took away from this debate," he continued. "That’s what I saw, and I think we still have a clear contrast in this race. Nothing about the debate changed that last night."

Shapiro, a top surrogate for Biden as a member of the campaign's national advisory board, said that Democrats should stop worrying about Biden's candidacy and focus on defeating Trump.

"I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with both the former president and President Biden, and you know what I can tell you, Joe Biden is up to the job," he said.

Pressed multiple times to address Democrats' alarm over Biden's performance, Shapiro said he had acknowledged several times that Biden had a bad debate night.

"He’s got a burden on him to show people that he is still able to move forward in these debates and in prosecuting the case against Donald Trump," Shapiro said. "I believe he can do that."

What are the candidates doing today?

Alana Satlin

Biden and Trump are back on the trail today after the first debate of the 2024 cycle. Trump will deliver remarks at an event in Chesapeake, Virginia, at around 3 p.m., while Biden and first lady Jill Biden will attend a rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, at noon.

After the rally, Biden and the first lady will head to New York for two other events. In the afternoon, the Bidens are scheduled to deliver remarks at the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center grand opening ceremony in Manhattan.

Later in the evening, they’re both expected to participate in a campaign reception in New York City.

DNC billboard to highlight Trump's reported 'losers' and 'suckers' remarks about service members ahead of his Virginia rally

Gary Grumbach

The Democratic National Committee is reminding Virginia voters of Trump’s past comments about U.S. service members, as the presumptive Republican nominee holds a campaign rally in Chesapeake, an area home to one of the largest U.S. military populations.

A montage of news reports from Trump’s presidency on the topic will be played on a mobile billboard driving around the Hampton Roads area today ahead of the rally, NBC News has learned.

Many of the news reports featured on the mobile billboard center on the September 2020 Atlantic article written by Jeffrey Goldberg, titled, “Trump: Americans who died in the war are ‘Losers’ and ‘Suckers’” — a topic that came up in last night’s debate.

“As Donald Trump heads to Virginia today, voters will remember the disrespect and pain he inflicted on service members and their families as he callously mocked them while serving as commander in chief,” DNC spokesperson Tracy King told NBC News. “President Biden is the only candidate in this election who fights for our service members and honors their sacrifice. Virginians will head to the polls this November remembering how Donald Trump disrespected our heroes, while President Biden fights for them.”

After Biden brought up the reported comments during the debate, Trump responded, "The losers and suckers story that he made up is a total lie on the military, it’s a disgrace. They made it up. It was in a third-rate magazine that’s failing, like many of these magazines. He made that up.”

Trump will be joined by Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin at today’s rally — the first time the two will share a stage.

In response to the candidate’s performance last night, Youngkin posted on X, “Could it be any clearer? Strength versus weakness. That’s why Virginia is in play. See you in Chesapeake tomorrow, Mr. President!”

‘Babbling’ and ‘hoarse’: Biden’s debate performance sends Democrats into a panic

Natasha Korecki

Biden, 81, was supposed to put the nation’s mind at ease over his physical and mental capacity with his debate showing last night. 

But from the onset of the debate, he seemingly struggled even to talk, mostly summoning a weak, raspy voice. In the opening minutes, the president repeatedly tripped over his words, misspoke and lost his train of thought.  

Democrats are talking about replacing Biden. That wouldn’t be so easy.

Ben Kamisar

Alex Seitz-Wald

Party rules make it almost impossible to replace nominees without their consent, let alone smoothly replace them with someone else. And doing so would amount to party insiders overturning the results of primaries when Democratic voters overwhelmingly to nominate Biden. He won almost 99% of all delegates.

And at the moment, there is no known, serious effort to push Biden off the top of the ticket.

Still, the Democratic National Committee’s charter does make some provisions in case the party’s nominee is incapacitated or opts to step aside, and an anti-Biden coup at the convention is theoretically possible, if highly unlikely. So how would it work?

Debate takeaways: Biden confirms some voter fears as Trump leans into grievances

Biden failed to mitigate  his biggest liability  in his re-election bid at the CNN debate last night, while Trump doubled down on his grievances and skipped past opportunities to cover his own vulnerabilities.

Biden’s biggest weakness — voter concerns about his age and sharpness, according to polls — was on display throughout the more than 90-minute debate as he struggled through answers and failed to deliver the energetic performance allies believe he needed. And Trump had no new answers for voters about the issues on which he’s weakest, including his felony conviction, his role in overturning Roe v. Wade and his actions on Jan. 6, 2021.

The first showdown between Biden, 81, and Trump, 78, in 2024 comes early in the election year, giving voters an opportunity to see the president and his challenger side by side. Here’s what they saw — and what it means for the campaign.