A new AI-powered school is changing the way Raleigh students learn.
A game-changingapproach to learning is landing in the City of Oaks. Enter Alpha School, an AI-powered private school opening a K–5 campus in North Raleigh come January, building on its fleet of sites across the country, including Austin, Miami, LA, DC and Dallas, with a Charlotte location on deck.
Before you get hung up on the “AI” of it all, Alpha’s model is far from screen-obsessed. Students spend just ~two hours on core academics each morning via adaptive tech—broken into 25-minute bursts—before shifting into screen-free, collaborative afternoons spent building life skills. Think public speaking, entrepreneurship, coding, science labs and passion projects—all led by coach-style Guides.
“We’ve been known as the ‘screentime school’—but that’s just not true,” says a school spokesperson, noting two hours of screens is standard in today’s classrooms. The difference? Alpha’s tech delivers 1:1 lessons crafted to each child’s learning strengths and preferences. So visual learners learn visually, audio learners lean into sound—and students with ADD, ADHD, dyslexia, etc. benefit from adaptive pacing and targeted support.
While digital tools drive the core academics, connection is crucial to the school’s philosophy. Guides form real bonds with students through daily engagement like Morning Launch, aka creative prompts and activities to kick-start interaction.
And the afternoons are where Alpha truly breaks the mold. Students dive into 24 life skills designed to equip them for the ever-evolving world—starting early and building confidence along the way.
The school credits its model with students learning twice as fast as their peers—and actually enjoying and looking forward to school. Plus: no homework, no grades and no traditional pressure.
While Alpha School’s Raleigh campus currently only hosts 25 K–5th-graders, annual expansion is typical, with one or two grades and new buildings added based on interest and demand. So, if growth follows the national trend, this learning model could very well reshape what “going to school” looks like—here and across the country. alpha.school
A fresh new addition is coming to Transfer Co. Food Hall—in more ways than one. Born from “a kitchen table and a dream,” Urban Olive drops Dec. 2 in the former Mama Crow’s space, dishing mod Mediterranean flair with deep family ties.
The concept was cooked up by Alex Antabli, his wife, his brother and sister-in-law, and a trio of close friends—all united by an MO of “sharing love through food, one meal at a time, and keeping alive the flavors that have connected generations before us,” says Alex.
A true reflection of the group’s heritage and personal experiences, the menu is rooted in their grandmother’s recipes—refined by Alex’s mother and finished with a contemporary flourish. The result? Next-level wholesome Mediterranean eats with a fresh, modern edge. And the whole gang plays a part in the day-to-day, with Alex’s mom helming the prep.
“We’re really trying to differentiate from every other Mediterranean [restaurant],” he adds. “We got really creative with the way we did the food—it’s very authentic with very true, real ingredients.”
Case in point: Urban Olive leans into traditional, fresh ingredients free of additives, artificial flavors and colorings. Think fruit- and veggie-forward dishes and scratchmade everything—from hummus and falafel to marinades, dips, dressings and sauces (garlic dip, spicy green herb sauce, harissa and lemon herb vinaigrette)—plus bowls and pitas feat. in-house meats like chicken, beef and lamb shawarma; chicken and beef kebabs; and gyro slices.
“Urban Olive isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a reflection of our family’s journey—one built on hard work, hospitality and the belief that food has the power to unite people from all walks of life,” emphasizes Alex. “Every dish carries a part of our story.”
The team felt bringing their traditions to Transfer Co. was a natural fit. “We believed in their vision and the vendors they have,” he maintains. And they’re just getting started: Plans include launching a food truck and eventually opening second and third brick-and-mortars.
In the meantime, Urban Olive invites the community to gather at their table, savor their culture and cuisine—and become part of their growing story. @urban_olive_mediterranean
“For generations, our family’s recipes have told stories of long summer afternoons spent around the table, of laughter echoing through the kitchen, and of a grandmother’s gentle hands teaching us that food is more than sustenance—it’s love made visible.” —Alex Antabli
Free parking that actually pays off? Downtown Raleigh Alliance’s weekday free two-hour pilot has boosted accessibility and driven an estimated ~$3.8M million in annual spending across the five participating decks. Launched in November 2024 and extended twice, the program is now greenlit to roll through June 30. “We’re thrilled visitors and businesses will continue to benefit from this pilot program through the holidays and into next year,” says DRA VP of Communications & Community Relations Ileana Rodriguez. Go on and put it in park, Raleigh.
The controversial project facing backlash from nearby residents wary that towering heights could disrupt the character of the historic neighborhood was approved for a 30-story rezoning (up from 12)—though final caps limit heights to 24 stories on the north and 27 stories to the south.
“We are honored to have City Council’s approval on this project and thank all of those involved for their careful consideration and diligence throughout the process,” says RDC VP Chris Carter. “We look forward to delivering a project that supports the city’s growth goals for Downtown and provides an exciting new amenity for the community.”
When complete, West at Peace will bring a mix of residential offerings and a significant ground-level retail experience bordering the future Smoky Hollow Park—plus allocate up to $1.2 million to the city’s affordable housing fund.
Carter emphasizes a mix of both local concepts and national brands, with a primary focus on placemaking along the park—also noting that retail is essential to curating a one-of-a-kind DTR experience.
But to make way for the new, current tenants of the 2.6-acre expanse between Capital Boulevard and North West Street—Endless Grind, Knuckle Up Boxing and Fitness Center, and Oak City Printing—must be demolished. Yet another reminder that in Raleigh, progress often comes with a price—a growing pain in our fair city’s relentless march toward future growth.
Craving a sunny winter escape? Puerto Rico awaits—and RDU makes it easy with affordable directs to San Juan clocking in at ~3.5 hours—no passport required. With year-round ~80-90° weather, swaying palms, mountain-meets-beach energy, and full-on tropical vibes, the Island of Enchantment checks every box for a quick hit of fun in the sun.
From serene beaches with locals slinging homemade empanadas and rum-based slushies (trust—don’t question it) to lush tropical forests made for adventure seekers, plus an up-and-coming F&B scene and award-winning resorts, PR has it all. Lap it up with our guide to your next warm-weather fix.
DO
DISTRITO T-Mobile An electric hub for all things entertainment, the layered destination dishes something for everyone. Backdropped by neon lights, 14K square feet of state-of-the-art LED screens and an immersive AV system, the covered Popular Plaza plays host to concerts, games, workouts and more. Also not to be missed: 11 bars and restos (La Central is a must), the Coca-Cola Music Hall, and a tapestry of local art woven throughout. distritot-mobile.com
Distrito T-Mobile
Castillo San Felipe del Morro The 16th century Spanish fortification is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks—and one of the best spots to catch a sunset over the Atlantic. Pack a picnic, bring your camera and settle in on the grassy hillside for sweeping hues of orange and pink. Come early to explore 500 years of history on your own, or join one of the ranger-led programs.nps.gov
Cueva Ventana PR’s famed window cave reveals a whole new perspective—literally. Trek through lush tropical forest and two natural caves (the latter a breeding ground for bats) before emerging onto a 700-foot-high opening overlooking the Valley of Rio Grande de Arecibo. Along the way, get eco-schooled by biologists and environmental interpreters. Do it for the ’Gram. cuevaventana.com
East Island Excursions Alexa, play “Paradise” by Coldplay—and get ready to live out your own via excursions ranging from snorkeling in Cayo Icacos and exploring marine life in Culebra to sunset tours, catamaran adventures, and beach stops with food and drinks. Bonus: Round-trip transportation is offered from most major hotels. eastislandpr.com
Casa Bacardí Puerto Rico Pinkies up! The world’s largest rum distillery celebrates the iconic brand with tours, guided cocktail and rum tastings, mixology classes, bottling experiences, and more. Fun and informative, you’ll leave with a better taste of Bacardí’s rich heritage—and maybe wondering where all the rum’s gone… bacardi.com
EAT
The Mezzanine Once a meeting place for the Puerto Rican Nationalist Party, roots run deep here. Today, the second-floor Old San Juan gem nods to its storied pasts with vintage photos and archives adorning its Spanish old-town-esque interior, making for a lively spot for brunch and tapas like Greek-style ceviche and patatas bravas. themezzaninepr.com
The Mezzanine | Photo courtesy of SGG Group LLC
El Platanal Eat like a local at a PR staple—now with a handful of fam-friendly island locales serving up authenticity via the likes of queso frito, meat- or seafood-topped mofongo, asopao de pollo (chicken stew), and hearty plantain sandwiches. Don’t skip happy hour Mon.–Thu.—the mojitos slap.elplatanalpr.com
Vianda Seasonal, farm-to-table selects are on the menu at husband-and-wife duo Amelia Dill and Francis Guzmán’s renowned restaurant—named among the 20 Best New Restaurants in America by the James Beard Foundation. Beautifully plated and exquisitely delicious, dishes range from fresh ceviche and charcoal-grilled cabbage to pumpkin agnolotti and pork belly with ginger fried rice. And every bite will leave you swooning. viandapr.com
Vianda
DRINK
Jungle Bird Soaked in pink neon and framed by giant leafy greens and ambient lighting, the dive-meets-Tiki bar is pure tropical fun—but the cocktails are seriously next-level. The namesake Jungle Bird (house rum blend, lime, pineapple, Campari + simple syrup) is an obvious choice, as is the Flamingo’s Calling (gin or vodka, lemon, watermelon-mint soda + Angostura bitters). But you really can’t go wrong with any of them. @junglebirdbar
787 Coffee Coffee in an adult-size pouch > coffee in a cup. Born on a coffee farm in Puerto Rico and now boasting outposts in New York, New Jersey and Texas (plus five in PR), the sustainably minded caffeine haven is a cult fave for good reason. Cozy vibes, leafy corners, colorful rugs and couches set the scene for sipping sweet latte flaves like pina colada, coquito and tres leches—always double-shot strong—along with tequila-, rum- or whiskey-infused beans for robust notes pulling double duty.787coffee.com
Pira-Rum Live la pura vida at this colorful spot known for its mean mojitos, piña coladas and piraguas—aka a Puerto Rican frozen dessert made of handshaved ice and fruit-flavored syrup. It’s the perfect place to pop in for something refreshing when you need a break from exploring San Juan on a hot day. … And those drinks are sure to put some pep in your step. @pirarumpr
Machete If you like Willco, you’ll love this unpretentious neighborhood cocktail bar slinging damn-good drinks and elevated bar bites in a hip, too-cool-for-school setting—complete with a casual back patio. Come for the likes of the C.C. Collins (gin, citrus, cucumber and soda), house daiquiri or Karat Drank (vodka, citrus, carrot, Aperol and chile)—stay for DJs, watch parties and pop-ups. Dancing highly encouraged. machetepr.com
Machete
Al Fresco Rooftop Wine & Tapas Nothing beats a bottle of vino and rooftop views—both of which can be found at Old San Juan’s traditional alfresco wine bar. Pick a perch on the patio and fill your glass from the selection of featured bottles from the world over, best paired with PR delicacies like tostones del mar, frituras, ceviche and pasteles. alfrescorooftop.com
Furtivo Speakeasy Worth the hunt, this true speakeasy is tucked through an unassuming Japanese tea garden. Find it and you’re met with a sultry, sophisticated atmosphere decked out in dark red and velvet details—not to mention classy libations ranging from the Honey Lavender Sidecar to a eucalyptus Negroni that seduce from the very first sip. furtivobar.com
STAY
Palacio Provincial Where old-world elegance meets mod flair, the carefully restored early 19th century legacy piece now houses a boutique stay that pairs classic design balanced with stylish details. The highlight: the Atelier Rooftop Terrace, complete with a pool and panoramic views of San Juan Bay and the Colonial city. Translation: local finesse, urban sophistication and laid-back charm—all under one roof. palacioprovincial.com
La Concha Resort An icon on Condado Beach, the tropical retreat just outside Old San Juan is impossible to miss—thanks to its striking seashell-shaped architectural marvel housing Mediterranean-inspired restaurant Levant. Providing a true tropical escape, the amenity-rich resort dials up multiple palm-framed pools, in-suite spa indulgences, and a parade of restaurants and bars serving pure paradise. laconcharesort.com
La Concha Resort
O:LV Fifty Five Sophisticated, luxe and design-forward, the 26-suite adults-only retreat blends Euro elegance with a touch of island ease, delivering a truly boutique place to rest your head. Think custom furnishings and spa-like bathrooms, a rooftop infinity pool with tranquil Condado Lagoon views, and culinary hot spot DRGN. Add in exclusive beach access—and it’s DND mode, on. olvhotel.com
