Best Things to Do in Raleigh

Raleigh Travel Tips and Day Trip Ideas

If you’re headed to Raleigh on a quick getaway or more extended vacation, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to create lasting memories in this lush, forested city. Enjoy the fun college scene, and book a cheap car rental.

Budget Car Rental Raleigh

There’s a lot to see and do in Raleigh, and it’s best to have a rental car to get around to see it all. Budget Car Rental Raleigh has flexible options like long-term car rental, a best rate guarantee, and more to make for a hassle-free experience.

You can find Budget Rent a Car in multiple locations across Raleigh, including Raleigh Durham International Airport (RDU) and The Shops at Northgate. Shop our current offers today to get a great deal your car rental.

Things to Do in Raleigh

Along with neighboring cities of Chapel Hill and Durham, Raleigh is known as part of the Research Triangle because of its reputable nearby colleges. These schools create a great environment for fun nightlife, tasty restaurants, and plenty of city events and things to do throughout the year. Here are some fun things to do with your family or on your own.

Marbles Kids Museum

This nonprofit children’s museum is found at the heart of downtown Raleigh, so if you’re staying in the area you’ll certainly want to check it out with any youngsters you may have along for the trip. The museum’s motto is “spark imagination, discovery, and learning through play”. Your kids will love exploring the captivating exhibits.

North Carolina State Capitol

Also located in downtown Raleigh, the state capitol is a national historic landmark you won’t want to miss. The building features classic Greek Revival-style architecture and was built in 1840. Snap some photos around the beautiful grounds and tour the statues inside.

Raleigh Flea Market

If you’re visiting in the summer season, be sure to hit up the Raleigh Flea Market. This outdoor market has more than 600 vendors and runs all day every Saturday and Sunday. Hunt for treasures and pick up a unique souvenir to remember your vacation.

Outdoor Adventures

With endless greenery and dense forests, you’ll love exploring the outdoors around Raleigh.

William B. Umstead State Park

This state park is beautiful any time of year, but the scenery is a true knock-out in the fall season, when the colors turn and create a spectacular backdrop for biking, hiking, and more. Explore the 22 miles of trails and spend time camping, fishing, or on the lake while visiting Raleigh.

JC Raulston Arboretum

You don’t have to head to the outskirts of town to find nature. Located right on North Carolina State University, you’ll find the JC Raulston Arboretum as a great escape from the hubbub of the city life. This beautiful garden includes thousands of varieties of plants and shrubbery. Don’t forget to explore the rooftop garden and butterfly garden while you’re there.

There’s a whole lot more to do in Raleigh that we haven’t covered, so we know you’ll have no shortage of fun on your trip. Make sure you have a dependable rental car along the way by relying on Budget Car Rental in Raleigh.