This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Raleigh for couples based on significant travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.
Raleigh has plenty to offer if you’re looking for romantic activities. The city’s top attractions and date ideas for couples are included below. These events are open to everyone, from exquisite dining to the city’s sights.
Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Raleigh?
Imagine what it was like when you two first met.
Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.
Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Raleigh with your partner.
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Table of Contents
Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Raleigh To Have Fun
Play a round of golf at Lochmere Golf Club
- Cost: $10 (Per hole)
- Location: 2511 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511, United States
- Phone: +1 919-851-0611
Do you enjoy the game of golf? If so, you can visit the Lochmere Golf Club.
This golf course is stunning and has excellent scenery. You have to spend on each shot.
This place is incredibly peaceful because of the many big trees and grassy meadows. You can have a round of golf at the semi-private Lochmere Golf Club.
“I wasn’t able to play because I was there to assist with a golf tournament. I could see that the course was in excellent shape. The Links Grill is fantastic, and the clubhouse is lovely.” – Randy
Bring all your energy to Pullen Park
- Cost: $2 (Ticket)
- Location: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
- Phone: +1 919-996-6468
It’s one of the oldest parks in America. You will find it beautiful and amusing.
You can participate in your favorite sport, watch a performance, rent a pedal boat, ride a carousel, enjoy swimming, and more. You have to spend on the ticket.
Bring your entire day’s worth of energy since you can spend it there. You have to purchase the ticket.
“I adore this park, which is in a fantastic position next to NC State. has many picnic spaces, a great statue of Andy and Opie, a train, and a working carousel. Excellent location for bird watching. Do not skip a trip to Pullen Park if you like to unwind in nature. For fans of Andy Griffith, a must-see!” -Isabella
Indulge in an adventure at Zipline & Adventure Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614, United States
- Phone: +1 800-971-8271
What about a small challenge for you?
Cafe dates are a thing of the past—people in the 21st century like to spice up their dates with some crazy fun.
You can hike, zipline, fish, and picnic at Blue Jay Point County Park. Such dates offer the ideal fusion of excitement, thrills, and romance.
Be brave and embark on an exciting date. It’s a must-go if you’re looking for fun dates in Raleigh.
“We relished going on the Treetop Adventure in the morning. The guides are practical and cautious about safety. There is water and hand sanitizer at each tree station. There is a clearly marked hiking trail to follow in the forest for observers like me.” -Roy
Snap some breathtaking photos while exploring the Neuse River Green Trail
- Cost: Free
- Location: Raleigh, NC 27610, United States
- Phone: +1 919-996-3285
The Neuse River Greenway Trail is 27.5 miles of paved trail with various features.
The path features agricultural fields, winding boardwalk portions through marshes, historical sites, informative signage, and picturesque views of the Neuse River.
“a beautiful riverside walk. I’m impressed by the bicycle infrastructure, which includes the highway overpasses and bridges.” -Theresa
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Take your Raleigh experience outside
- Cost: Free
- Location: 1400 Aviation Pkwy, Morrisville, NC 27560, United States
- Phone: +1 919-460-3390
Raleigh is a blessing for outdoor activities, as you might expect. You will have the chance to relax and create lifelong memories while you explore the city and its surroundings.
Over 10,000 acres of parkland and over 180 kilometers of hiking paths are suitable for relaxation.
Lake Crabtree County Park and the Neuse River Canoe Trail are excellent options if you enjoy being on the water.
Blue Jay Point County Park offers zip lines, Tarzan swings, obstacle courses, suspended bridges, and canopy tours if you prefer an adrenaline-fueled adventure in Raleigh.
Go to Green Hills County Park and take a scenic sunset for the city’s finest picturesque vistas.
“a great park to unwind in and spend the day. You can bike, walk, and hike on a number of the park’s trails. The lake is enjoyable on its own.” -Vincent
See a drive-in movie at the Raleigh road outdoor theater
- Cost: $0 – $10 (Ticket)
- Location: 3336 Raleigh Rd, Henderson, NC 27537, United States
- Phone: +1 252-438-6959
“This is the place for you if you value family. While waiting for the movie, people were playing catch and frisbee instead of gazing at their phones. The cuisine is excellent, and the two movies are only $8! The cost and atmosphere here are unbeatable!” -Diana
Another fun way to pass the time is driving to a drive-in movie.
You can see a movie every weekend at Raleigh Road Outdoor Theater.
You arrive in your vehicle. After that, this car can be used to watch a movie. This will provide you with plenty of solitude and a fantastic movie-going experience! You have to purchase the ticket.
Try this fantastic idea on your next city excursion!
Ride a Ferris wheel at NC State Fair
- Cost: $10 – $13 (Ticket)
- Location: 4285 Trinity Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
- Phone: +1 919-821-7400
You can visit the NC State Fair once a year.
It’s great that the NC State Fair has such fantastic rides and activities! You can have a lot of fun here as a result of this. You have to purchase the ticket.
You could ride on a Ferris wheel. Several thrilling attractions are also available!
“The food is tasty but a little expensive, but I suppose that’s fair. Enjoy the displays, animals, enormous pumpkins, and winning food entries. a pleasant day” -Ralph
Experience a private pedicab tour of Raleigh
- Cost: $50 (Ride)
- Location: 1 Mimosa St. 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC 27604, United States
- Phone: +1 919-888-7565
“We had a wonderful time. He knew everything, and he knew everything. I would suggest this trip to anyone who enjoys history and wants to have a fresh perspective on the city.” -Natalie
Taking the Raleigh pedicab tour is a fascinating way to experience the city.
You can learn about history while taking a tour of downtown Raleigh and other beautiful locations.
In addition, you have a spectacular view because you are seated in front of the pedicab. You have to spend on the ride.
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Music, Art, Historic, Cultural Date Ideas in Raleigh
Explore the fascinating exhibitions at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- Cost: Free
- Location: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States
- Phone: +1 919-707-9800
“We went to this museum while we were in town expressly to view the “Exquisite Creatures” exhibit, which was incredible! Without a doubt, I advise visiting it before it shuts in a few weeks. We wandered through the remainder of the museum after visiting the special display.” -Eugene
You will be amazed by the giant globe when you first walk to the entrance, but you will be even more excited once you enter.
The dinosaur exhibitions will give you the impression that you are traveling back in time.
The specimen collection in the museum’s exhibition area is captivating.
Oh, the T-rex skeleton will impress you. The fact that everything here is free makes it even better.
Drop in the North Carolina Museum of History for some interesting artifacts
- Cost: Free
- Location: 5 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States
- Phone: +1 919-814-7000
“There are metered parking spaces for parking. There is no charge to enter the museum. There are exhibits on two floors. An excellent history of North Carolina can be found on the first floor.” -Brittany
The North Carolina Museum of History is the most impressive in the city. It’s a fantastic, spotless structure across from the State Capitol.
The exhibitions are enormous, interactive, and thoughtfully designed. There are a lot of fascinating relics there.
Visit the gift shop to pick up a few trinkets.
After the tour—which will take a while because the museum is enormous—head to Sweet Tea & Cornbread Grill and Eatery for a satisfying meal.
Stretch your legs around Historic Yates Mill County Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States
- Phone: +1 919-856-6675
You might have driven past this mill many times and never noticed it, but we promise this spot is worth stopping at.
The 18th-century mill, which is still in use today, is situated next to a pond that is 24 acres in size.
Beautiful scenery is available while you stretch your legs and stroll around the pond.
Watch a performance at Duke Energy Center
- Cost: $2 – $15 (Ticket)
- Location: 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States
- Phone: +1 919-996-8700
The Duke Energy Center in Raleigh has been a significant part of the local culture since 1932.
Its four entertainment venues have presented a dizzying assortment of performers and shows, including the North Carolina Symphony, in addition to Broadway classics.
The acoustics are exceptional, and the regular performances feature the most prestigious ballet companies and operas in the United States. You have to purchase the ticket.
The Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts is an excellent location if you want to add some culture to your picture-perfect evening in Raleigh.
Discover the wonders of the Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh
- Cost: $0 – $10 (Ticket)
- Location: 409 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States
- Phone: +1 919-261-5920
This is a Raleigh destination you do not want to miss out on if you enjoy art.
The Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh, also known as CAM Raleigh, is a gallery that displays works of art at various stages of recognition. However, it lacks a permanent exhibit or collection.
To always have something fresh to offer its visitors, one of its goals is to pursue the newest works of art and design. You have to purchase the ticket.
We believe you would love to spend your date night here if you have a strong passion for the arts.
Catch a screening at the historic Rialto Theater
- Cost: $7 – $10 (Ticket)
- Location: 1620 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27608, United States
- Phone: +1 919-856-8683
A great venue to spend a romantic evening is the historic Rialto Theater.
The Rialto Theater, Raleigh’s oldest theater that is also locally owned and runs, provides classic films that will give you a memorable night of enjoyment.
As you enjoy a selection of their independent, foreign, art, and alternative films, look at the theater’s furnishings. These have been renovated yet still maintain their quaint and charming ambiance.
This will enable you to have a good and romantic date. You have to purchase the ticket.
Connect with nature and art at Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
- Phone: +1 919 839 6262
Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park is a place to connect with nature and art.
This incredible art park, a part of the North Carolina Museum of Art, has one-of-a-kind installations and ecologically sound landscaping.
You can pick from various excursions here thanks to the unique features of this place, which include Gyre rings, a cloud chamber, kilometers of pathways, a pond, gardens, and more.
You’re about to have a memorable experience.
Sense the vibe in the air at the Koka Booth Amphitheater
- Cost: $5 – $15 (Ticket)
- Location: 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC 27518, United States
- Phone: +1 919-462-2025
Going to a concert at the Koka Booth Amphitheater is a lot of fun.
This location is in Regency Park, and numerous performances are held annually. Nights with live music, for instance, are typical during the summer. You have to purchase the ticket.
You can sit or stand on the grass field, and there is a big stage. To have this experience is fantastic.
Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Raleigh
Appease your cravings at Videri’s factory
- Cost: $4 – $40 (Chocolate)
- Location: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States
- Phone: +1 919-755-5053
Do you know how they say that the most effective aphrodisiac is chocolate?
You can try the delicious serotonin-inducing chocolate at Videri’s factory and tour the manufacturing process.
Each bar made at Videri’s receives extra attention, and only premium ingredients are used. You have to spend on chocolate.
In addition, you can order a delicious bar and a cup of coffee from their cafe.
Laugh it off at a Comedy Club
- Cost: $84 – $96 (Ticket)
- Location: 511 Woodburn Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605, United States
- Phone: +1 919-828-5233
Raleigh is practically overflowing with entertainment options, particularly comedy clubs, much like in any other industry.
These places will satisfy your need for improv performances, stand-up comedy, or musical comedy.
Among the many comedy clubs, Goodnights Comedy Club, one of the top clubs in the US, Kings Barcade, and ComedyWorx are especially funny.
These venues put on fantastic shows and will leave you laughing uncontrollably. You have to purchase the ticket.
Eat on a food tour
- Cost: $5 – $75 (Food)
- Location: 300 Fayetteville St Unit 1362, Raleigh, NC 27602, United States
- Phone: +1 919-623-4873
Nothing compares to taking a food-tasting tour of Raleigh to experience the city truly.
You may experience and explore downtown Raleigh as you’ve never seen it before, thanks to distinctive locally-owned restaurants. You have tos pend on meal and drinks.
The excursions are not only delicious but also educational, placing everything in historical and culinary perspective as though you were strolling along a food tour route.
The many restaurants provide a wonderful fusion of international and southern cuisine with a focus on regional ingredients.
Triangle and Taste Carolina, whose dedication and know-how ensure that everyone engaged has a pleasant experience, brings these gourmet adventures to visitors.
Sip some wine in Raleigh’s bars
- Cost: $4 – $18 (Drink)
- Location: 300 Fayetteville St #1918, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States
- Phone: +1 919-371-2653
The pub culture in Raleigh is incredibly varied, ranging from quiet taverns with a fascinating history to quirky ones.
A firm called Tobacco Road Tours may take you on a guided trip to some well-known taverns and some hidden watering holes.
One of the most enjoyable things about this trip is that you may enjoy a craft beer, a glass of wine, or your favorite drink while learning some quick historical tidbits about the city.
Of course, you have the option to embark on a self-guided tour and explore at your own pace while you peruse the bars. Your money will be spent on drinks.
Downtown Raleigh is home to some of Raleigh’s top bars, all of which promise tasty drinks and first-rate service.
Enjoy a romantic dinner at SKYE Tower Restaurant & Bar
- Cost: $10 – $30 (Dinner)
- Location: 1726, 320 Hillsborough St 20th floor, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States
- Phone: +1 919-832-0501
In search of a romantic date dinner with a mood-lifting view? You’ve come to the right place.
From dawn to dusk, the New SKYE-Tower Restaurant and Lounge offers the Capital City’s most breathtaking, expansive views of downtown Raleigh and beyond!
So enjoy mouthwatering cuisine while taking in the spectacular views from the SKYE-Tower Restaurant and Lounge. You have to spend for dinner.
Active and Youthful Date Ideas in Raleigh
Roll in the fun at United Skates of America in Raleigh
- Cost: $6 (Entry fee)
- Location: 2901 Trawick Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, United States
- Phone: +1 919-790-3808
Get your skates on and get rolling at United Skates of America.
All your favorite songs are played on more than 10,000 square feet of smooth-rolling excitement with plenty of seating and cutting-edge lighting.
Choose between traditional roller skates or rollerblades, and add wrist protectors for additional safety. You have to use the money for the entry fee.
Try out the puzzles at The Tower Escapes
- Cost: $28 (per night)
- Location: 115 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United StatesPhone: +1 919-504-6250
The Tower Escapes is a great way to entertain yourself.
The Tower Escapes is located in the National Historic Site, First Water Tower of Raleigh.
You will receive priceless hands-on training in one of the most distinctive escape rooms. You have to pay for the room.
You will encounter various puzzles, difficulties, and linear and non-linear scenarios at The Tower Escapes.
Test your mettle by taking up bowling
- Cost: $3 – $5 (Bowling)
- Location: 5900 Oak Forest Dr, Raleigh, NC 27616, United States
- Phone: +1 919-876-5681
You can play a game of bowling in one of Raleigh’s bowling alleys if you want to put your skills to the test.
There are Buffaloe Lanes Bowling Center locations throughout North Carolina, but the one in Raleigh stands out. Your expenditures depend on bowling.
If you’d like something more laid-back, consider AMF South Hills Lanes; they serve delicious food and drinks, and the staff is incredibly kind and helpful.
Browse for a bundle of fun at Frankie’s
- Cost: $1 – $3 (Ticket)
- Location: 11190 Fun Park Dr, Raleigh, NC 27617, United States
- Phone: +1 919-433-7888
The entertainment at Frankie’s Fun Park near North Carolina State University is on another level.
Road courses, mini golf, laser tag, arcade games, sidewinder, bumper boats, and many other attractions are available in this complex, which is a megamix of fun.
The Hologate, their newest virtual reality game, is the latest addition to their roster of attractions. You have to spend on the ticket.
If you’re looking for loads of excitement, the park is open every day of the week until midnight, making it an excellent night-out alternative.
Sway to the sounds of jazz at a nightclub
- Cost: $1 (fee)
- Location: 30 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States
- Phone: +1 919-831-8888
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh is anything but your typical capital city for Carolina.
Checking out some of the top locations to enjoy dancing is the most enjoyable way to experience the city’s vibrancy after the sun sets. You have to spend for a fee.
At Sola’s and Legends Nightclub, you can get into the rhythm; at C.Grace, you can sway to the sounds of jazz; and at Pour House Music Hall and Neptunes Parlor, you can see live performances.
Cheer up for Carolina Hurricanes at the ice hockey game
- Cost: $20 (Ticket)
- Location: 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
- Phone: +1 919-861-2300
Are you looking for some fun date ideas with a touch of sports? This is the ideal activity.
You can watch a Carolina Hurricanes ice hockey game. The PNC Arena is home to this professional ice hockey team.
This team’s ice hockey games are a lot of fun, and we know you will enjoy them. You have to purchase the ticket.
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Raleigh
Refresh yourself on a hot Raleigh day at William B Umstead State Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27617, United States
- Phone: +1 919-571-4170
William B Umstead State Park is quiet and refreshing on a steamy day.
It is the ideal location for biking, nature walks, fishing, picnics, and exploration.
You’ll enjoy experiencing the tranquility and being at one with nature.
Bring a bottle of water to remain hydrated. Picnicking here is an excellent idea.
Experience sunset kayaking on Jordan Lake
- Cost: Free
- Location: 280 State Park Rd, Apex, NC 27523, United States
- Phone: +1 919-362-0586
Explore Jordan Lake in a kayak to take in the scenery.
We recommend heading outside for the sunset when the sun will glisten across the water and illuminate the sky with warm, golden hues.
Frogs, crickets, and lightning bugs will all start to chirp and sing as the sun sets.
Take a stroll among the soothing greenery in JC Raulston Arboretum
- Cost: Free
- Location: 4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
- Phone: +1 919-515-3132
JC Raulston Gardens is undoubtedly a destination for individuals who enjoy being in nature and who want to spend their free time surrounded by tranquil beauty.
This 10-acre botanical haven includes some of the most varied plant collections in the Southeast, focusing on landscape architecture.
The complex is divided into 18 different areas, each offering visitors a comprehensive experience.
Additionally, the arboretum offers guided tours, free visitor guides, and special educational events practically every day of the week at 2:00 p.m. from March through October.
Relax in the serenity of The Raleigh Rose Garden
- Cost: Free
- Location: 301 Pogue St, Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
- Phone: +1 919-821-4579
As you meander through the lovely grounds of The Raleigh Rose Garden, take in its tranquility and beauty.
You should visit the garden’s many places of interest for an energizing experience.
You will have 60 rose beds to explore while taking in the natural beauty, where you may discover the garden’s various kinds.
Additionally, you will get up-close views of the grandifloras, floribundas, miniatures, and numerous other attractions here.
The location is ideal for hosting events like weddings and parties and relaxing.
Top 10 Things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina
Final Thoughts
North Carolina’s capital, Raleigh, is stunning. The city’s attractions include museums, historic buildings, parks, and renowned restaurants.
Raleigh will keep you entertained whether you plan to stay a while or are simply passing through.
With so many options, it can be challenging to decide what to do, but hopefully, this list will help get you started.
We hope you will enjoy all the places on this list.
Have a beautiful time in Raleigh after reading this list.
Thanks for reading!
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now |
