Life is all about balance. And studies show that grabbing a paddle is not only a serene and picturesque way to be one with the outdoors (can we get an “om, yeah” for all the paddleboard yogis?!), but it boasts a slew of physical and mental benefits—think core strength, stamina, vitamin D, stress relief and joint stability. And the activity’s popularity only continues to swell. … So what are you waiting for? Grab your board for a stand-up time at one of these Raleigh watering holes.
Lake Crabtree County Park Oozing with ops for outdoor enthusiasts, these 520 acres of flood-controlled waters are worth the trip—especially because all rentals (SUPs, kayaks, canoes and pedal boats) are free for up to two hours (!). Just row with it—then take a stroll around the lakeside walking trails, pack a picnic to enjoy by the grassy shores, or try your hand at flying a kite.
William B. Umstead State Park Nestled about 10 miles northwest of DTR, this relaxing retreat with three reservoirs deserves a standing O for its paddling pleasures. To wit, you can turn your outdoor outing into an overnight via equipped camping areas with typical modern amenities.
Lake Johnson Park When in doubt, paddle it out! Launch from this park’s sandy shores for a trip around the 150-acre lake encircled by a scenic walking/bike trail. Reserve paddleboards (and kayaks!) online or at the on-site Waterfront Center.
Lake Wheeler Park Whatever floats your boat… er, board! Take a paddle into history with 650 acres of lake that’s doubled as Raleigh’s and Wake County’s primary water supply since 2010. Featured activities also include trails throughout the park, playgrounds and a sand volleyball court, an accessible fishing dock, and personal boat launches. Rent your SUP board or kayak in advance here.
Lake Raleigh SUP, NC State! Board up to make waves on Centennial Campus if you’re in the mood for a more mellow day out on the lake. The scenic gem is also the perfect picturesque spot for a picnic, casting a line (look out for largemouth bass and catfish), running the greenway or playing a round of disc golf.
Mondays, amirite? To add a little magic to the most dreaded day of the week, we suggest a breakfast, lunch, dinner, drink (or even just a coffee and a sweet treat) out—because why do Fridays get all the fun Sure, navigating which eateries and drinkeries take a snooze on Monday can be a turnoff, so we did the hard work for you. Turns out there are a slew of spots open on Mondays in DTR, with usually more open rezys on hand. Here’s where to order up a not so manic Monday. Monday blues? We don’t know her.
We’re No. 1—again! For the third time in the last four years, CNBC has named NC the country’s Top State for Business thanks in part to the state’s strong workforce and economy.
Raleigh also stays standing on business (IYKYK). During Q1 of 2025, 23 new storefront businesses opened Downtown, with 28 more businesses planning to bow soon. DTR also added 27,526 square feet of new retail space, and attracted 1.5 million unique visitors.
Taking off at RDU Airport are a slew of updates thanks to a $24.6 million grant from the USDOT. Think widening the John Brantley Boulevard to four lanes and replacing the stop-controlled intersection with free-flow movements, expanding the Terminal 2 sidewalk, and more.
Get ready to ride. The City of Raleigh is launching a new dockless bikeshare pilot mid-August in partnership with Spin and Lime, adding a fleet of 215 electric-assist bikes citywide. Bikes will be available 24/7, and new micromobility corrals will be installed for parking. The pilot will run through April 2026.
ICYMI, Crabtree Valley Mall is getting a makeover. According to plans from the new owner, the $60 million facelift includes enhancements like new lighting and signage, a revitalized food court and family play area, and new furniture and greenery in the common areas—plus upgrades to the site’s stormwater infrastructure.
NC State is full steam ahead on its $180 million Integrative Sciences Building—aka Woodson Hall—that kicked off construction in September 2023 and will offer crucial space for STEM teaching and research space at the university upon its anticipated completion in 2026.
Go on, hit the snooze button. GoTriangle is launching its first-ever 15-minute bus service—on weekdays from 5:45am until 7pm—Aug. 4 along Routes 400 and 405 in Durham and Orange counties.
Rent or buy? Raleigh ranked the No. 9 Best City for Renters—along with four other top 50 cities in the South: Wilmington, Charlotte, Durham and Asheville—according to metrics like apartment quality, economic strength, traffic and access to amenities.
Your evening commute might be deadly. … A new study found that the deadliest hour to drive in NC is from 6–7pm, with an average of 6.31% of the state’s fatal crashes occurring during the timeframe.
WHAT’S NOT
Suicides in NC prisons are at an all-time high—increasingly among those in solitary confinement. Now, Department of Adult Correction secretary Leslie Cooley Dismukes is working toward adopting the Nelson Mandela Rules, which sets a max solitary confinement rule of 22 hours a day for 15 consecutive days.
Open a page-turner at these cozy spots in and around Raleigh.
Whether you’re already an avid reader or just trying to decrease your screen time, cracking open a book is perfect for escaping reality and appreciating the great outdoors. Don’t let the searing temperatures keep you indoors—Raleigh has plenty of peaceful (and shaded!) places to enjoy a good read this summer. So next time you’re thinking about spending hours in the AC in front of your TV, instead consider submerging yourself in a book out in the fresh air at these local spots.
North Carolina Museum of Art The beautiful Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park touts plenty of sculptures, plants and shade to make your reading nook feel like its own work of art. If you’re up for it, a spot near the musical swings will add a wonderfully whimsy soundtrack to the words on the page.
Downtown Cary Park Downtown Cary Park’s range of seating options will delight even the pickiest of atmospheric readers—from chairs overlooking a quaint pond to picnic tables with ample space and even large grassy areas perfect for spreading out a blanket under a tree. Forget your book? Fear not: Cary Regional Library is just next door.
Dorothea Dix Park Although known for its gorgeous summer sunflower field, Dix Park also sports various hammock groves conveniently offering the perfect spot to relax and—literally—hang out in nature.
Pullen Park Calling all people watchers—Pullen Park is known for its always-bustling family attractions, but still serves as a perfect place to read in Raleigh. Benches and grassy spots galore are perfect for kicking back on a blanket for those who don’t mind a bit (and occasionally more than a bit…) of background noise while reading.
Lake Johnson Park A shimmering lake, tall towering trees, designated hammock posts… What more could you wish for when you’re hoping to get lost in a good book? Lake Johnson Park has got it all.
JC Raulston Arboretum With over 6,000 (!) different plants to admire, this NC State University affiliate offers countless floral backdrops to accompany your sunny summer read.
Explore the best dog-friendly restaurants and bars, parks, and hangouts in the City of Oaks.
Who let the dogs out… You should—because your four-legged bestie deserves to have a good doggone day out too. Plan an ~ulti-mutt~ experience with your pooch in and around Downtown Raleigh via our list of some of the best dog-friendly hot spots for those looking to get out of the doghouse.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Bars
Bowstring Bowstring’s outdoor grassy area is the perf post for all your furry friends—they may even try to get in on a game of cornhole or sneak a bite of pizza (!). You can also bring ’em inside or on the covered patio while you grab a drink, play a game or tune into live tunes.
House of Hops Whether it’s outside playing cornhole and cooling off with an ice cold beer or tucking inside to escape the heat (also with a beer, of course!), you and your four-legged friend(s) are always welcome at this House.
Raleigh Beer Garden Hungry dog 🤝 RBG’s Hungry Dawgs menu. Feed Fido his pick of pup-tizers—from carrots and bacon to burgers—while you have your fill of your own hooman snacks paired with over 350 beers on tap.
State of Beer Put your fur-baby in a great state with an outing at either SOB location (The Bend locale also offers a covered back patio and spacious backyard for roaming!). And those cult-fave sandos are reason enough to leave the house any time.
Tap Yard Raleigh’s 1-acre beer garden is a hot spot for kids, families, lovers and doggos—think of it like an inclusive playground for all. Tap Yard also hosts trivia, live music, food trucks and other events to keep everyone entertained.
Vault Craft Beer Raise the “woof”—literally—at this unique brew haven situated in a historic building formerly home to Raleigh’s first drive-thru bank. And for man’s best friend, they can cash in on the free dog treat box while hanging inside or out.
West Street Dog Let your pup get out the zoomies and socialize with other canines while you enjoy some bevys at this indoor off-leash dog park with a full bar, also offering daycare, boarding and grooming services—plus Monday trivia.
Wolfe & Porter More like *woof* and porter, are we right?! Post up on the patio or back deck to catch a game, listen to live music, or simply relax with your pal sitting happily at your feet.
Wye Hill The only view better than the one at Wye Hill is of your happy pup enjoying a dog biscuit by your side as you enjoy the sun-soaked patio and sip on a brew or two. Not to mention it’s the perf perch to take a ’Gram snap for your pooch’s profile.
City Market Dogs are welcome at most establishments at this historic hub in DTR. Fetch a good deal at cute shops, lap up a latte at Blackbird Books & Coffee, or lean into culture at an art gallery.
Dix Park Dog Park For an un(fur)gettable day, look no further than one of Raleigh’s largest and most popular park. Its size-specific play space lets your dog play safely—so no worrying about your smaller pooches getting ruffed up by a bigger-boned fella.
Moore Square Pause and reflect at Moore Square, surrounded by some of Raleigh’s best restaurants, bars, coffee shops and boutiques to fill up an outing. Order takeout and throw down a blanket for a chill hang, or head over to the fully-fenced dog park for some social time.
NCMA Rover’s gonna love rovin’ the art museum’s Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. Whether roaming the trails, propping up near the pond, sniffin’ the sculptures or basking in the sun on the Ellipse lawn, your pup’ll no doubt have the time of his/her life.
Oakwood Dog Park Doggos of all shapes and sizes are welcome to run through the trees at this popular Historic Oakwood destination also featuring shade from the sun, a picnic shelter and softball fields.
Unleashed Dogs need retail therapy too! Find all your pet needs—from treats and food to toys and accessories—to make your canine the envy of all. unleashedmutt.com/city-market
