Founded in 1934, The Sarah P. Duke Gardens offers 55 acres (22 hectares) of world-class gardens in the center of Duke University. More than five miles (eight kilometers) of pathways lead visitors on walks through four sections of beautifully landscaped terraces, gardens, and arboretums. The Duke Gardens host gardening, photography, and natural history classes, and a summer concert series. A cafe and a visitor center are on the grounds. Walking and trolley tours are given four days a week; reservations are recommended.
Pull up a bench and revel in nature's beauty in this eight-acre (three-hectare) garden wonderland. This outdoor laboratory for the Department of Horticulture at North Carolina State University is a delight for visitors and locals alike. Sit in the shade of trees from over 50 different countries, wander down the 450-foot (137-meter) long mosaic of the Perennial Garden, or bring a good book and relax in the Reading Garden. The Victorian gazebo in the Klein-Pringle White Garden is a popular choice for local brides and the Japanese and Paradise gardens are must-sees.
Hidden away from the crowded cacophony of the city life, William B. Umstead State Park stretches gloriously across 5579-acres (2257-hectare) crossing the border of Raleigh and spilling onto Cary and Durham. Endowed with tranquil lakes, picturesque pathways and dense drapes of forests, William B. Umstead State Park is a real boon for city-dwellers. An absolute delight for outdoor enthusiasts, numerous trails cut their way through the park's pristine span, offering off-road bicycling opportunities along with hiking and additional trails are also reserved for equestrians. There are numerous picnic spots scattered across the park and there are plenty of and campsites and cabins for those who wish to lodge overnight. A visitor center organizes a series of interactive exhibits, and park rangers regularly scheduled educational programs.
Lake Johnson Park offers visitors more than 5 miles (8 kilometers) of walking trails leading around a serene lake, past picnic shelters, a boardwalk, a public pool, and boat launches. Boat rentals are available through the park office. The park is a popular fishing destination, holds conference and event facilities, and hosts a public program of educational activities throughout the year.
Named after the family of industrialist James Duke, this private, independent research university sprawls over three campuses, and is an icon of research, culture, and education. The university attracts visitors for its Collegiate Gothic Architecture, the highlight of which is Duke Chapel, an active interdenominational chapel in the center of the school's campus. Other highlights include the Lemur Center–a rare and endangered prosimian primate sanctuary—a Medical Center, the Perkins Library, the Sarah B. Duke Gardens, and the Duke Forest and Golf Club. Student-led tours, and maps for self-guided tours, are available through the undergraduate admissions office.
Frankie’s is an amusement park designed for children and game-minded adults. Just about every amusement park activity is available here: flight simulators, bumper boats, ropes courses, rides, laser tag, go-karts, arcades, batting cages, and more. If that doesn’t sound fun enough, rumor has it that Frankie’s has the best mini golf in Raleigh. Please note that Frankie’s does not charge general admission. Rather, guests pay for each activity.
Founded in 1934, The Sarah P. Duke Gardens offers 55 acres (22 hectares) of world-class gardens in the center of Duke University. More than five miles (eight kilometers) of pathways lead visitors on walks through four sections of beautifully landscaped terraces, gardens, and arboretums. The Duke Gardens host gardening, photography, and natural history classes, and a summer concert series. A cafe and a visitor center are on the grounds. Walking and trolley tours are given four days a week; reservations are recommended.
Pull up a bench and revel in nature's beauty in this eight-acre (three-hectare) garden wonderland. This outdoor laboratory for the Department of Horticulture at North Carolina State University is a delight for visitors and locals alike. Sit in the shade of trees from over 50 different countries, wander down the 450-foot (137-meter) long mosaic of the Perennial Garden, or bring a good book and relax in the Reading Garden. The Victorian gazebo in the Klein-Pringle White Garden is a popular choice for local brides and the Japanese and Paradise gardens are must-sees.
Built in 1924, Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the few catholic churches in the area. Considered to be one of the smallest cathedrals in the country, the Sacred Heart Cathedral was constructed in the Neo-Gothic style using stone as the primary material. Despite its size, the cathedral has garnered raves for its pristine design and architecture and the beautiful statue of Jesus Christ situated above its entrance. One of the best religious sights in town, Sacred Heart Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone who is in the neighborhood.
In a spacious and elegant taproom, R&D Brewing boasts a flavorful variety of beers prepared in small batches to ensure the best taste and fine quality to the guests. These local craft beers invite guests and locals to experience a great time tasting flavorful brews with a great vibe. Grab a chair, drink a beer, and watch a game while enjoying conversation with your friends. Not serving a food menu, the brewery however hosts food trucks on certain days for those with a good appetite.
Hidden away from the crowded cacophony of the city life, William B. Umstead State Park stretches gloriously across 5579-acres (2257-hectare) crossing the border of Raleigh and spilling onto Cary and Durham. Endowed with tranquil lakes, picturesque pathways and dense drapes of forests, William B. Umstead State Park is a real boon for city-dwellers. An absolute delight for outdoor enthusiasts, numerous trails cut their way through the park's pristine span, offering off-road bicycling opportunities along with hiking and additional trails are also reserved for equestrians. There are numerous picnic spots scattered across the park and there are plenty of and campsites and cabins for those who wish to lodge overnight. A visitor center organizes a series of interactive exhibits, and park rangers regularly scheduled educational programs.
Once the site of the largest plantation in Wake Country, Mordecai Park is home to the Mordecai House, a registered historical landmark and local history museum. In addition to the house, the park includes other historic structures like the original birthplace of President Andrew Johnson, the Ellen Mordecai Garden, and St. Mark's Chapel. Visitors can enjoy trolley tours of the park, and hour-long guided tours of the grounds are offered from the visitor center.