While you’re in town for the symposium, take some time to experience everything Raleigh, NC has to offer after the day’s sessions wrap up! Known for its welcoming energy and vibrant downtown, Raleigh blends Southern charm with a growing food scene, lively nightlife and plenty of unique attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed dinner, a walk through a museum or an evening out with colleagues, there is something here for every pace and interest.

Top things to do

View additional things to do in Raleigh, NC

Visit Thomas Dambo’s Famous Trolls

Spread around Dorothea Dix Park, these trolls are a sight to see.

Learn more about the trolls

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The Southeast’s largest natural history museum with more than a dozen exhibits.

Visit the museum

Raleigh MICHELIN Guide

14 restaurants, countless delicious meal options.

Find a restaurant

Downtown Cary Park

A seven-acre, state-of-the-art space for all ages.

Learn more about the park

North Carolina
Museum of Art

Ranked by Insider as one of the top 25 museums in the country, this museum is considered a must-see.

Visit the museum

JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State

A nationally acclaimed botanic garden with one of the largest collections of garden plants adapted for the southeast United States. 

Visit the arboretum

Top-Rated Restaurants

• STIR: 4242 Six Forks Rd. #100
• O-Ku: 411 W Hargett St.
• Foxcroft Food and Wine: 4421 Six Forks Rd., Suite 115
• Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen: 326 Hillsborough St.
• Bida Manda: 222 S. Blount St.
• Press Coffee & Crepes: 400 Hillsborough St.
• Madre: 518 N. West St.
• Mojoe’s Burger Joint: 620 Glenwood Ave.
• Gravy: 135 S. Wilmington St.
• Whiskey Kitchen: 201 W. Martin St.
• Sitti: 137 S. Wilmington St.

Top-Rated Nightlife

• Cocktail Bars
  • William & Company: 616 N. Person St. #1214
  • Moon Room: 500 N. West St., Suite 150
  • Gussie’s: 927 W. Morgan St., Suite 116
  • Watts & Ward: 200 S. Blount St.
  • Sous Terre: 620 N. Person St., Suite 01
• Breweries
  • Trophy Brewing Co.: 827 W. Morgan St.
  • Raleigh Beer Garden: 614 Glenwood Ave., Suite B
  • Raleigh Brewing Co.: 3709 Neil St.
  • Crank Arm Brewing: 319 W. Davie St.
• Dive Bars
  • Stella’s: 911 N. West St., Suite 103
  • Johnson Street Yacht Club: 710 W. Johnson St.
  • Neptunes Parlour: 14 W. Martin St.
  • The Cardinal Bar: 713 N. West Street

Disclaimer: The listings and recommendations provided on this page are intended solely as a courtesy to symposium attendees seeking to explore Raleigh, North Carolina. NC State University does not endorse, sponsor or make any representations on behalf of the businesses, venues or attractions referenced. Inclusion on this page does not constitute an official partnership or recommendation. Attendance at any off-campus establishments or activities is entirely voluntary and is not affiliated with or part of the symposium program. Participants assume full responsibility for their personal choices and conduct outside of symposium hours. NC State University is not responsible for any incidents, damages or losses that may occur while visiting these locations or engaging in activities outside of official symposium events.