Raleigh, NC

Travel Guide

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A cityscape with a mix of modern and older buildings, a prominent skyscraper, and autumn-colored trees.
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Where to stay in Raleigh

Find the best Raleigh areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Raleigh
Learn more about Raleigh
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Downtown Raleigh

While visiting Downtown Raleigh, you might make a stop by sights like Marbles Kids Museums and The Acorn.

A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, a construction crane, and a mix of commercial and residential buildings.

North Hills

North Hills is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by North Hills Shopping Center and Regal North Hills while in the area.

A sunset with a billboard of a cow and the words "OLD BULL" on a building.
Photo by Phil Vignola Jr.
Open Photo by Phil Vignola Jr.

Downtown Durham

While visiting Downtown Durham, you might make a stop by sights like Carolina Theatre and Durham Performing Arts Center.

A historic building with a central entrance, a flagpole with an American flag, and a brick facade.

Downtown Cary

While visiting Downtown Cary, you might make a stop by sights like Bond Brothers Beer Company and Cary Arts Center.

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Photo by Martin Humpherson
Open Photo by Martin Humpherson

American Tobacco District

While visiting American Tobacco District, you might make a stop by sights like American Tobacco Campus and Durham Performing Arts Center.

Sheraton Raleigh Hotel

Sheraton Raleigh Hotel

3.5 out of 5
421 S Salisbury St Raleigh NC
$152 nightly
The price is $172 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$172 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Raleigh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,008 reviews)
"if was ok clean not much to do in the area in walking distance"

Reviewed on Oct 13, 2026

Sheraton Raleigh Hotel
Hilton Raleigh North Hills

Hilton Raleigh North Hills

3.5 out of 5
3415 Wake Forest Rd Raleigh NC
$106 nightly
The price is $120 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$120 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Raleigh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a free area shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,119 reviews)
"amazing and understanding staff! they truly care about their customers."

Reviewed on Oct 14, 2026

Hilton Raleigh North Hills
Hyatt Place Raleigh-Durham Airport

Hyatt Place Raleigh-Durham Airport

3 out of 5
200 Airgate Dr Morrisville NC
$105 nightly
The price is $119 total per night from Oct 25 to Oct 26
$119 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Morrisville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,457 reviews)
"No one told us we had to request housekeeping. After 3 days we requested and on the 4th day housekeeping finally showed up The hotel has no emergency action plan when it comes to Tornadoes. As a Safety Engineer I know what to do but when I asked the staff they were like Duh I don't know. Staff had ..."

Reviewed on Oct 14, 2026

Hyatt Place Raleigh-Durham Airport
See all 2,291 properties in Raleigh
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Studiores By Marriott Raleigh North

Studiores By Marriott Raleigh North

4 out of 5
6701 Town Center Dr Raleigh NC
Stay at this aparthotel in Raleigh. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Popular attractions Triangle Town Center and Durant Nature Preserve ...
Studiores By Marriott Raleigh North
stayAPT Suites Raleigh Durham RTP

stayAPT Suites Raleigh Durham RTP

2.5 out of 5
1009 Lower Shiloh Way Morrisville NC
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Morrisville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Popular attractions Brier Creek ...
stayAPT Suites Raleigh Durham RTP
Forge at Raleigh Iron Works

Forge at Raleigh Iron Works

2.5 out of 5
2221 Iron Works Dr Raleigh NC
Stay at this apartment in Raleigh. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Crabtree Valley Mall and Coastal Credit Union Music ...
9/10 Wonderful! (39 reviews)
"Very nice property. Parking was convenient. A little pricey, but overall it was a good stay"

Reviewed on Oct 11, 2026

Forge at Raleigh Iron Works
See all properties in Raleigh
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Raleigh attractions

A large Gothic-style cathedral with intricate stonework and multiple spires.

Duke University

9.2/10 (2,688 reviews)
Walk around the campus of Duke University, a top college in Durham. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Raleigh worth visiting?
Raleigh is worth visiting for its prominent universities, including Duke University and North Carolina State University. Travelers can also enjoy a diverse food scene with Latin American and Asian dining options, and explore distinct neighborhoods like Downtown Raleigh and Southwest Raleigh.
When is the best time to visit Raleigh?
The best time to visit Raleigh is from March through June, when the climate is typically mild and enjoyable for outdoor activities. For fewer crowds and potentially better value, the cooler months of December through February are a good option.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Raleigh?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Raleigh depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Raleigh features historic sites like Moore Square and the North Carolina State Capitol, along with the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
  • Southwest Raleigh is home to North Carolina State University, the Gov. James B. Hunt, Jr. Horse Complex, and the Lenovo Center.
  • Downtown Durham offers attractions such as Brightleaf Square, Honey Girl Meadery, and the Carolina Theatre.
  • North Raleigh provides green spaces like Shelley Lake Park and shopping at Lafayette Village.
  • Northwest Raleigh features the North Carolina Museum of Art, Laurel Hills Park, and Crabtree Valley Mall.

What is Raleigh known for?
Raleigh is known for its prominent educational institutions, including Duke University and North Carolina State University. Travelers can also find a strong Latin American food culture here. The city features distinct areas like Downtown Raleigh and Southwest Raleigh, and is home to the Lenovo Center.
What is a good itinerary length for Raleigh?
A good itinerary length for Raleigh is two to three days to explore Downtown Raleigh, visit Duke University, and take a guided E-Bike tour. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also explore Downtown Durham and enjoy a Bull City Cocktails Guided Tour. See Raleigh Activities.
How do you get around Raleigh?
Travelers in Raleigh can get around using train services, with stations like Raleigh Union Station, Cary Station, and Durham Station connecting the area. For more flexibility, rental cars are available in neighborhoods such as Downtown Raleigh, Southwest Raleigh, and North Raleigh, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
What are the top things to do in and around Raleigh?
Raleigh offers a mix of unique tours, university exploration, and outdoor adventures for travelers:

  • Take a Guided E-Bike Tour focused on tacos, margaritas, and history.
  • Go on an Astonishing University hunt at Duke University, exploring its books and basketball heritage.
  • Enjoy a Bull City Cocktails Guided Tour of Durham's best drinks.
  • Experience a Jordan Lake jet ski Rental Adventure near Chapel Hill.
  • Create your own body butter with the Butter My Way experience.

How do I plan a trip to Raleigh?
To plan your trip to Raleigh, search Expedia for hotels in areas like Downtown Raleigh or Southwest Raleigh. Book flights, rental cars, and activities such as an E-Bike Tour or a University hunt in advance. Consider exploring nearby Downtown Durham. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to make the most of your visit.
What cuisines can you find in Raleigh?
In Raleigh, travelers can find Mexican cuisine, offering dishes like tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas. The city also features other Latin American flavors, various Asian options including Chinese and Japanese, and North American styles such as Southern soul food and New American.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Raleigh?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Raleigh by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Raleigh with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Raleigh trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Raleigh?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Raleigh can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Raleigh trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Raleigh trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Raleigh trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Raleigh trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Raleigh?
If it's your first trip to Raleigh, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Raleigh hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Raleigh hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Raleigh

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Apex

A cityscape with historic buildings, a baseball field, a pedestrian street, and modern architecture.

Durham

A paved pathway with trees on one side and parked cars on the other.

Chapel Hill

A body of water with a wooden pier extending into it, surrounded by snow-covered trees and a clear sky.

Cary

Other places like Raleigh

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