Raleigh City Guide

Local specialties include Carolina barbecue and Southern comfort food. Raleigh also offers diverse international options. Vegetarian and vegan meals are easy to find. Some places serve food late, especially downtown.

The nightlife centers around Glenwood South and Fayetteville Street with bars, breweries, and live music venues. Options suit a range of tastes.

A strong coffee scene with local roasters and specialty shops. Good quality and a focus on community.

Tipping is expected in the US service industry, usually 15-20% at restaurants and for services.

SIM cards are sold at carrier stores like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, plus electronics retailers. Coverage is good locally. eSIM depends on carrier and device. Prepaid plans usually don’t require ID.

Streets are generally clean, especially downtown. The city provides regular waste and recycling services.

Some pharmacies and minimarts are open 24/7. Urgent care centers have extended hours. Late-night food options are limited but available.

Supermarkets like Harris Teeter, Food Lion, Publix, and Wegmans cover daily needs. Specialty stores offer international goods. Farmers markets provide fresh produce. Most stores open from 7 AM to 10 PM, including weekends.

Most businesses accept cards, so cash is rarely needed for everyday expenses.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Expect fees from $2.50 to $5 for out-of-network withdrawals.

Wake County Public Schools serve the city. Nearby international schools include Cary Academy and Durham Academy. Instruction is mainly in English. Check schools individually for admissions.

The nomad scene is growing, with meetups and coworking spaces acting as hubs. Tech and startup networking is strong but co-living options are limited.

Extensive parks and greenways including Dorothea Dix Park and Umstead State Park nearby. Good shaded walking and running paths.

Capital Area Greenway offers miles of trails for running. Generally safe, with active running groups and several annual races.

Multiple gyms with various fitness options around the city.

Many public and private tennis courts exist, mostly hard surfaces. Coaching and bookings are widely available.

Padel courts are rare in Raleigh; mostly found at some private clubs.

Numerous yoga studios offering various styles. Classes for all levels, mostly with English-speaking instructors.

Many dojos offer styles like BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, and karate. Local competitions happen and most instructors speak English.

Ski resorts like Appalachian Ski Mtn. are 3 to 4 hours away. Snow is mostly artificial. Terrain suits all levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are common on local lakes and rivers. Rentals and tours are available in warmer months.

Surf spots on the North Carolina coast, 2 to 2.5 hours away. Both beginner and advanced areas, with surf schools available.

Limited diving near Raleigh; best diving is off the NC coast, known for wrecks. Equipment and certification available nearby.

Hospitals like UNC Rex and Duke Raleigh have English-speaking staff. High-quality care but can be costly without insurance. Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens are widespread and often have drive-thru services.

City tap water meets all state and federal safety standards and is safe to drink.

Lots of parks and playgrounds like Pullen Park and Fred Fletcher Park. Kid-friendly cafés and big stores for baby supplies. Family attractions include Marbles Kids Museum and Natural Sciences Museum.

Raleigh is inclusive with many LGBTQ+ venues and events, including an annual Pride. Legal protections exist but state laws vary.

Most parks, restaurants, and accommodations allow pets. Plenty of veterinary services and dog parks available.