As champions of the tried-and-true, defenders of the Canadian tuxedo and devotees of the OG dive, we’ve always had a soft spot for the classics. And Raleigh knows a thing or two about the dynamic dance between preservation and reinvention.
Empire Eats
Few places capture it quite like The Raleigh Times. Housed in the historic 1906 Downtown building where the city’s daily headlines once rolled off the presses—and where The Raleigh Times name first made its mark—the longtime watering hole now pours pints in place of ink, pairing old-school character with a steady modern buzz.
Over the years, the space has been thoughtfully restored and expanded, now boasting a full bar, second-floor seating and rooftop patio that reads like Raleigh’s skyline story in real time—a front-page example of Raleigh’s power progress and historic hospitality. It’s one of those places where you can catch kids in soccer clothes, folks grabbing a cold one after work, or two suits trying out a first fling.
The whole gamut, gathered together—whether stopping in for a craft beer poured by a crew of Cicerone Certified Beer Servers, digging into one of the city’s best burgers or heading up for rooftop hangs with an elevated front-row seat to Raleigh’s evolving next chapter. Basically, the kind of place where history and happy hour share the same table (and views).
Some places come and go. This one just keeps showing up—and showing out. More than a century after its first chapter, The Raleigh Times still holds its place in the city’s story—no rewrite required. Proof that some headlines stay relevant. raleightimesbar.com
Golden hour in Raleigh just hits different—especially from an ideal perch that doubles as a spot to sip cocktails on a patio or enjoy a quiet moment to yourself. Whether you’re after a skyline vantage point or a tucked-away trail, here are the best spots around the city to wind down and soak in the sunset in all its orange-hued glory.
For Wide-Open Views: Dorothea Dix Park DTR’s sprawling park delivers major sunset magic with sweeping views of the city skyline. Head to Flowers Field for prime golden hour real estate—bonus points if you bring a blanket, snacks and someone to share the view with.
For a Classy Vibe: Heights House Hotel + Parlor For a superb scene paired with superb sips, grab a drink at the gorgeous DTR hotel’s Parlor bar and post up on the wraparound porch, aka the perf perch to sip and savor the sky show—equal parts elegant and effortless.
For Chill and Quiet: Lassiter Mill Park A true hidden gem tucked off Lassiter Mill Road, this peaceful spot blends history and nature with a touch of whimsy—think a crumbling old mill, soft water sounds and trees that catch the light just right. No crowds, no rush—just you and some stunning golden-hour views.
For Rooftop Energy: The Raleigh Times If city sunsets and people-watching are more your speed, this lesser-known Downtown rooftop is begging to be your new go-to for eats, drinks and golden-hour skyline vistas. Grab a seat on the rooftop patio and order a round or two—plus nachos, obviously—and watch the rooftops glow as the sun dips low.
For a Garden Moment: WRAL Azalea Garden Tucked off Western Boulevard, this flora- and fauna-filled oasis feels like your own secret garden. Stroll through the blooms, find a quiet bench and enjoy a peaceful pause for your solo sunset getaway.
Whether you’re drowning your sorrows because you owe the gov or dipping into your refund (#treatyourself!), we think we can all agree that a beverage (or two!) is needed come Tax Day (aka April 18). Here our sippable selects (all aptly open on Monday as well). Cheers!
No refund, no problem. Bar Louie is celebrating Tax Day with a host of drink and food specials, including $4 domestic beers, $5 liquor cocktails, $5 craft beers, $6 signature martinis, $6 wines by the glass and 50% bar bites—so no matter how much money you made or lost, you’ll be able to indulge.
You deserve the extra guac on Raleigh Times’ famous loaded nachos after getting through your taxes—plus a beer or two, natch. Grab a seat outside on the sidewalk to soak up the sun and drink and eat the stress away.
If there’s ever a day you need a drink, it’s Tax Day! And craft cocktail bistro Libations 317 is an obvious choice for imbibing thanks to its extensive cocktail, beer and wine list—plus delish food menu to round out your drinking sesh. Pro tip: Go between 6 and 8pm for Monday “brinner”!
Views, brews and elevated bar food—what better way to celebrate finishing up your taxes?! And just in time for Tax Day, Wye’s released new beer and spring food and cocktail menus—think pan-roasted salmon and carrot soup, and the Clear Eyes, Can’t Lose. Something to drink and live by, eh?
Dance like no one’s watching—or like you didn’t owe a bunch of money to the government—at Glenwood South’s fave live music bar. Monday is game night, and cash prizes just might help fill that hole in your wallet. May the odds be ever in your favor!
