Wander at your leisure through North Carolina's premier art museum. The NCMA is home to world-class galleries, outdoor sculpture exhibits, and a sprawling park filled with walking trails and spots perfect for a picnic in the sun.

If you’re into dinosaurs or free admission, you’re in luck! This science museum is right in the heart of downtown Raleigh and absolutely stacked with cool displays, plus a very picture-worthy globe outside. Great way to spend an afternoon.

The best steakhouse in Raleigh. The Angus Barn will leave you more stuffed than a Thanksgiving turkey. Don't forget to order the famous chess pie — though some might argue Leah makes it better!

The grown up version of a Wonka chocolate factory, complete with a killer coffee shop, leveled up soft serve window, and nice outdoor space attached. Take a tour, visit the gift shop, or just get a coffee soda. You really can’t go wrong.

An incredible park covering seven acres of downtown Cary complete with a "Bark Bar" where you can grab a beverage to sip as you explore. Great for kids and adults alike, and very close to downtown Cary's main street.

The proposal spot, so obviously one of our favorites in the whole world. Always gorgeous, totally free, and packed with cool plants and even cooler photo spots — plus a ton of good romantic vibes, of course.

Ooo, pretty flowers. The Duke Gardens' shady paths and colorful flora make it the perfect spot for an early morning stroll. The campus of Duke University is right next door, so make sure to check it out.

A recently opened nod to Raleigh's industrial district, this outdoor areas boasts a great selection of local restaurants and shops, and a ton of outdoor space to enjoy. Some of our favorites are Ponysaurus for pizza and beer, East Cut for sandwiches, and Andia's for ice cream!

A fun food hall right in downtown Raleigh with local vendors, a large bar, and outdoor seating! We love Makus for empenadas, CowBurger for burgers and loaded fries, and the chocolate covered strawberries from The Panini Co. Pro tip: don't miss Aunty Betty's speakeasy right through the door near Iyla's Southern Kitchen!