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Our ultimate guide to North Carolinas capital city.

Raleigh offers the best of both worlds, says Sarah Shepherd, owner ofHeights House Hotel.

Raleigh, NC

Credit:Mlenny/Getty

Its a close-knit community, but [it] also has the culture and sophistication of a bigger city.

Thinking of planning a trip to the Research Triangle?

Read on to discover the best things to do when visiting Raleigh.

Stanbury ribeye

Credit:Jeff Bramwell

The walk-in-only establishment offers a variety of small plates and cocktails, but the menu changes daily.

In many ways, Stanbury reflects Raleighs own personality; its casual and spirited, but elevated and thoughtful.

And yes, its worth every bite.

Poole’s Diner mac & cheese

Credit:Angie Mosier / Visit Raleigh

Raleigh has a few different spots, but Baker recommends The Pit.

The staff almost provides a tutorial in the Southern tradition of barbecue and the accompanying regional sauces.

The brisket and the fried pimento cheese balls.

Height’s House Hotel

Credit:Plant & Sprout

Looking to just hit a few of them?

Try Little City Brewing & Provisions Co., Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie, or Crank Arm Brewing Company.

Its a really special thing to have access to, says Christensen.

Transfer Co, Raleigh

Credit:Brian Strickland / Visit Raleigh

Catching a show at Red Hat Amphitheater is a must.

Pro tip: Download thefree walking tour brochurebefore you go.

Children will also find plenty of fun on the miniature train and expansive playground.

Boutled Bread cinnamon rolls

Credit:Anna Routh Barzin

Bring a picnic, stay and watch the sunset.

It is a real treat, says Salamanca.

The museum goes above and beyond regular exhibitions, though.

The Pit, Raleigh

Credit:Brian Strickland / Visit Raleigh

camraleigh.org; 409 W Martin St, Raleigh NC.

Admission is free, but tours are first-come, first-served.

If youre visiting during football season, you may be able to catch a game.

Little City Brewing & Provisions Co

Credit:Visit Raleigh

Boutiques, shops, art galleries, restaurants, and specialty stores line the cobblestoned streets of City Market.

State Farmer’s market, Raleigh

Credit:State Farmers market

Dreamville, Raleigh

Credit:Garrett Poulos / Visit Raleigh

Red Hat Amphitheater

Credit:Garrett Poulos / Visit Raleigh

View from Boylan Bridge

View from Boylan Bridge.Credit:David Kuhn / Visit Raleigh

Pullen Park

Credit:Keenan Hairston / Visit Raleigh

Neuse River Trail

Credit:© Michael Robson / Visit Raleigh

Umstead Park footbridge

Credit:North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

Yates Mill

Credit:Wake County Government

North Carolina Museum of Art

Credit:North Carolina Museum of Art / Visit Raleigh

CAM Raleigh

Credit:Garrett Poulos / Visit Raleigh

Victoria, Liberation Station, Raleigh

Credit:Courtney Winter Martin

Pope House museum, Raleigh

Credit:City of Raleigh

UNC football

Credit:Grant Halverson/ Stringer / Getty

Raleigh Market spoons

Credit:Raleigh Market