153 BEST Things To Do In Raleigh Memorial Day Weekend

Are you looking for the best things to do in Raleigh this Memorial Day weekend?

Look no further!

We’ve compiled a list of 153 activities that will make your holiday weekend fun and enjoyable.

From outdoor adventures, to live music performances, to delicious restaurants - there is something for everyone on our list.

Whether you are traveling solo or with family and friends, these activities will provide an unforgettable experience and create lasting memories.

Our guide includes everything from free attractions to must-see sights so your time in Raleigh can be spent making the most out of every moment.

So don’t wait any longer - start planning your perfect Memorial Day Weekend getaway today!

1. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art - This museum features a variety of art exhibits and collections, including contemporary art, photography, and ancient artifacts.

2. Attend a Carolina Mudcats game - Catch a minor league baseball game at Five County Stadium and cheer on the Carolina Mudcats.

3. Relax at Lake Johnson Park - Spend a day on the water at this 150-acre park that offers boating, fishing, and picnic areas.

4. Go on a food tour - Sample some of Raleigh's best cuisine on a guided food tour of the city.

5. Explore the North Carolina State Capitol - Take a free guided tour of this historic building and learn about North Carolina's political history.

6. Go shopping at Crabtree Valley Mall - Spend a day shopping at this upscale mall that features more than 200 stores and restaurants.

7. Take a brewery tour - Raleigh has a thriving craft beer scene, so take a tour of one of its many breweries and sample some of the local brews.

8. Walk around Pullen Park - Enjoy a day at this 66-acre park that features a carousel, train rides, a pedal boat rental, and an aquatic center.

9. Visit the Marbles Kids Museum - Bring the kids to this interactive museum that features hands-on exhibits and activities for children of all ages.

10. Go on a bike ride on the Neuse River Trail - Get some exercise and fresh air on a bike ride along the scenic Neuse River Trail.

11. Attend a concert at Red Hat Amphitheater - See your favorite artists perform live at this outdoor amphitheater in the heart of downtown Raleigh.

12. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences - Learn about the natural world at this museum that features interactive exhibits and live animals.

13. Go on a ghost tour - Experience the spooky side of Raleigh on a guided ghost tour of the city's historic sites and buildings.

14. Visit the Joel Lane House - Take a tour of this restored 18th-century plantation home and learn about Raleigh's early history.

15. Take a cooking class - Learn how to cook like a pro at one of Raleigh's many cooking schools and classes.

16. Go on a Segway tour - Cruise around the city on a Segway and get a unique perspective on Raleigh's architecture and landmarks.

17. Explore the Raleigh Farmers Market - Browse fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products at this bustling open-air market.

18. Visit the African American Cultural Complex - Learn about the history and culture of African Americans in North Carolina at this museum and cultural center.

19. Attend Artsplosure - This annual festival features live music, art exhibits, food vendors, and more in downtown Raleigh.

20. Visit the North Carolina Museum of History - Discover North Carolina's rich history at this museum that features exhibits on the state's Native American, colonial, and Civil War eras.

21. Go on a hot air balloon ride - Get a bird's-eye view of Raleigh's scenic countryside on a hot air balloon ride.

22. Watch a movie at the Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre - Catch a movie the old-fashioned way at this drive-in theater that's been in operation since 1949.

23. Visit the City Market - Spend an afternoon exploring this historic marketplace that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

24. Take a pottery class - Try your hand at creating pottery at one of Raleigh's ceramics studios.

25. Go on a horseback riding adventure - Take a guided trail ride through the countryside on horseback.

26. Visit the North Carolina Symphony - Catch a performance by the acclaimed North Carolina Symphony at the Meymandi Concert Hall.

27. Play golf at Lonnie Poole Golf Course - Hit the links at this championship golf course that features stunning views of downtown Raleigh.

28. Go on a hiking adventure - Explore the area's scenic trails and parks on a guided hiking tour.

29. Visit the Raleigh Flea Market - Browse antiques, collectibles, and other treasures at this popular weekend market.

30. Attend a Memorial Day ceremony - Honor our fallen heroes at one of Raleigh's many Memorial Day ceremonies and events.

31. Attend Art Walk - Experience the creativity and culture of downtown Raleigh's thriving art scene during this monthly event.

32. Visit the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts - See a Broadway show, a symphony concert, or a ballet performance at this premier performing arts venue.

33. Go on a river tubing adventure - Float down the Neuse River on a river tubing trip and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

34. Visit the North Carolina Executive Mansion - Take a free guided tour of the governor's mansion and learn about North Carolina's political history.

35. Play disc golf - Try out the popular sport of disc golf at one of Raleigh's many disc golf courses.

36. Attend a food festival - Sample tasty treats from around the world at one of Raleigh's many food festivals and events.

37. Visit the historic Mordecai House - Tour this beautifully restored 18th-century plantation home and learn about Raleigh's early history.

38. Take a yoga class - Find your zen with a yoga class at one of Raleigh's many yoga studios and gyms.

39. Watch a Carolina RailHawks game - Cheer on the local professional soccer team at WakeMed Soccer Park.

40. Explore the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science - Discover the wonders of science and nature at this interactive museum that features exhibits on animals, space, and more.

41. Go on a kayaking adventure - Paddle down the scenic Neuse River on a guided kayaking trip.

42. Visit the Pope House Museum - Learn about Raleigh's African American history at this museum that was once the home of Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, one of Raleigh's most prominent black citizens.

43. Attend the Got to Be NC Festival - This annual festival celebrates all things North Carolina, including agriculture, food, music, and crafts.

44. Visit the Raleigh Rose Garden - Smell the roses at this beautiful garden that features more than 60 varieties of roses.

45. Take a dance class - Learn how to salsa, swing, or waltz at one of Raleigh's many dance studios.

46. Go on a zip-lining adventure - Soar through the trees on a zip-lining adventure at one of Raleigh's many outdoor adventure parks.

47. Visit the North Carolina State Fairgrounds - See a concert, attend a festival, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel at this bustling fairgrounds.

48. Attend First Friday - Explore downtown Raleigh's vibrant arts scene during this monthly event that features art exhibits, live music, and special events.

49. Visit the JC Raulston Arboretum - Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of this botanical garden that features more than 6,000 different plants.

50. Go on a bird-watching adventure - Discover the diverse array of birds that call Raleigh home on a guided bird-watching tour.

51. Visit the historic Oakwood neighborhood - Tour the charming homes and buildings of this historic neighborhood that dates back to the early 1800s.

52. Take a pottery class - Try your hand at creating pottery at one of Raleigh's ceramics studios.

53. Go on a scenic drive - Take a leisurely drive through Raleigh's scenic countryside and enjoy the beautiful views.

54. Visit the North Carolina State University Belltower - Take a free guided tour of this iconic bell tower, which has become a symbol of NCSU.

55. Go on a paintball adventure - Challenge your friends to a game of paintball at one of Raleigh's many paintball venues.

56. Visit the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival - See the city come to life with stunning illuminated displays during this annual festival.

57. Attend the Cajun and Zydeco Festival - Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Louisiana at this annual festival that features Cajun and Zydeco music, food, and culture.

58. Visit the historic Yates Mill - Tour this beautifully restored 18th-century gristmill and learn about the history of milling in North Carolina.

59. Go on a fishing trip - Cast your line into one of Raleigh's many lakes or rivers and try to reel in the big one.

60. Attend the Art of Cool Festival - This annual festival celebrates jazz, soul, and hip-hop music with performances by renowned artists from around the world.

61. Visit the Historic Stagville - Take a tour of this historic site that was once one of the largest plantations in North Carolina and learn about the lives of enslaved people who lived and worked there.

62. Attend the International Festival of Raleigh - Explore the world without leaving Raleigh at this annual festival that celebrates the city's diverse cultures with music, food, and crafts.

63. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Textiles - Learn about the history of textile production in North Carolina at this museum that features exhibits on weaving, sewing, and more.

64. Go on a brewery bike tour - Pedal your way through Raleigh's craft beer scene on a guided brewery bike tour.

65. Attend the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival - This annual festival celebrates bluegrass music with performances by some of the biggest names in the genre.

66. Visit the Raleigh Little Theatre - See a play or a musical at this community theater that has been entertaining audiences for more than 80 years.

67. Go on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure - Explore Raleigh's lakes and rivers on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure.

68. Visit the North Carolina State University Arboretum - Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of this 400-acre arboretum that features more than 6,000 different plants.

69. Attend the Farm to Fork Picnic - Sample delicious food from local farmers and chefs at this annual picnic that celebrates North Carolina's farm-to-table movement.

70. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Forestry - Learn about the history and science of forestry at this museum that features interactive exhibits and demonstrations.

71. Take a walking tour of downtown Raleigh - Explore the city's historic landmarks and buildings on a guided walking tour of downtown Raleigh.

72. Attend the Out! Raleigh Festival - Celebrate diversity and inclusivity at this annual festival that features live music, food vendors, and more.

73. Go on a ghost hunt - Experience the paranormal side of Raleigh on a guided ghost hunt of the city's haunted sites and buildings.

74. Visit the Historic Oak View County Park - Explore this beautifully preserved 19th-century farmstead that features a historic home, a cotton gin, and other agricultural buildings.

75. Take a pottery class - Try your hand at creating pottery at one of Raleigh's ceramics studios.

76. Go on a rock climbing adventure - Challenge yourself with a rock climbing adventure at one of Raleigh's many indoor or outdoor climbing gyms.

77. Attend the North Carolina Comic Con - Meet your favorite comic book creators, artists, and celebrities at this annual convention.

78. Visit the City of Raleigh Museum - Learn about the history and culture of Raleigh at this museum that features exhibits on the city's people, places, and events.

79. Go on a horse-drawn carriage ride - Take a romantic ride through downtown Raleigh on a horse-drawn carriage.

80. Attend the Raleigh Balloon Glow - See the night sky come alive with the glow of hot air balloons at this annual event.

81. Visit the North Carolina Railroad Museum - Learn about the history of railroads in North Carolina at this museum that features historic locomotives and cars.

82. Go on a brewery tour - Raleigh's craft beer scene is thriving, so take a guided brewery tour and sample some of the local brews.

83. Visit the North Carolina State University Dairy Farm - Learn about dairy farming and see cows up close at this working farm that's part of NCSU.

84. Attend the North Carolina Wine Festival - Sample wines from around the state at this annual festival that celebrates North Carolina's wine industry.

85. Visit the North Carolina State University Solar House - Take a free guided tour of this innovative solar-powered home that was designed and built by NCSU students.

86. Go on a canoing adventure - Paddle down the scenic Eno River on a guided canoeing trip.

87. Visit the North Carolina State University Belltower Memorial - Honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country at this memorial that's located near the NCSU bell tower.

88. Attend the World Beer Festival - Sample beers from around the world at this annual festival that celebrates all things beer.

89. Visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden - Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of this botanical garden that features more than 7,000 different plants.

90. Go on a hot air balloon ride - Soar through the sky in a hot air balloon and enjoy stunning views of Raleigh's countryside.

91. Visit the Lassiter Mill Historic Park - Explore this historic park that was once the site of a water-powered gristmill and learn about the history of milling in North Carolina.

92. Attend the NC Juneteenth Celebration - Celebrate African American freedom and achievement at this annual festival that features music, food, and children's activities.

93. Go on a golfing adventure - Tee off at one of Raleigh's many golf courses and enjoy a day on the links.

94. Visit the North Carolina Railroad Tracks Walk of Fame - Take a stroll down this walkway that honors the people who helped build and operate North Carolina's railroads.

95. Attend the East Meets West Festival - Explore Raleigh's multicultural heritage at this annual festival that celebrates Asian and Asian-American cultures with music, dance, and food.

96. Visit the William B. Umstead State Park - Spend a day in nature at this 5,000-acre park that features hiking trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas.

97. Go on a brewery crawl - Sample the best craft beers in Raleigh on a guided brewery crawl that visits multiple breweries.

98. Attend the Bluegrass Island Festival - This annual festival features some of the biggest names in bluegrass music performing live on stages in downtown Raleigh.

99. Visit the Neuse River Greenway Trail - Hike, bike, or jog along this scenic trail that follows the Neuse River through Raleigh.

100. Go on a BBQ tour - Sample some of the best barbecue in North Carolina on a guided tour of the state's top BBQ restaurants.

101. Attend the African American Cultural Festival - Celebrate African American culture and history at this annual festival that features music, dance, art, and food.

102. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Sciences' Nature Research Center - Discover the science behind our natural world at this museum that features interactive exhibits and live animals.

103. Go on a birdhouse building workshop - Learn how to build your own birdhouse at one of Raleigh's many woodworking shops and studios.

104. Visit the North Carolina State Farmers Market - Browse fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products at this bustling open-air market.

105. Attend the Apex PeakFest - This annual festival celebrates the town of Apex with music, food, crafts, and activities for the whole family.

106. Visit the Yates Mill Pond Park - Explore this beautiful park that features a historic gristmill, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

107. Go on a fishing charter - Take a guided fishing trip on one of Raleigh's many lakes or rivers and try to catch some dinner.

108. Attend the North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival - See groundbreaking films that explore the LGBTQ+ experience at this annual festival.

109. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art's Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park - Spend a day exploring this beautiful park that features outdoor art installations and sculptures.

110. Go on a beer and cheese pairing tour - Sample the best craft beers and cheeses in Raleigh on a guided tasting tour.

111. Attend the Raleigh Greek Festival - Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Greece at this annual festival that features music, dance, and food.

112. Visit the Historic Yates Mill County Park - Learn about the history of milling in North Carolina at this beautifully preserved gristmill that dates back to the 18th century.

113. Go on a horseback riding lesson - Learn how to ride a horse at one of Raleigh's many riding schools and stables.

114. Attend the Capital City Bikefest - Celebrate all things motorcycles at this annual festival that features live music, bike shows, and more.

115. Visit the North Carolina State University Dairy Bar - Sample delicious ice cream made from milk produced at the NCSU dairy farm.

116. Go on a rafting adventure - Get your adrenaline pumping with a guided whitewater rafting trip on one of Raleigh's nearby rivers.

117. Attend the Raleigh Rose Show - Admire beautiful roses and learn about rose gardening at this annual show.

118. Visit the North Carolina State University Gregg Museum of Art & Design - Explore the world of art and design at this museum that features exhibits on textiles, ceramics, furniture, and more.

119. Go on a bike ride on the American Tobacco Trail - Get some exercise and fresh air on a bike ride along this scenic trail that follows an old rail line.

120. Attend the Raleigh Christmas Parade - Kick off the holiday season with this annual parade that features floats, bands, and Santa Claus himself.

121. Take a stroll through the beautiful Raleigh Rose Garden, located in the heart of the city at RLT Road. With over 60 varieties of roses, this garden is a must-visit for flower enthusiasts.

122. Explore the City Market, Raleigh's historic market district located downtown. Here you'll find a variety of shops and vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.

123. Visit the North Carolina State Capitol Building, located on Union Square in downtown Raleigh. This iconic building has been in use since 1840 and offers free guided tours.

124. Take a walking tour of the Boylan Heights neighborhood, located just south of downtown Raleigh. This historic neighborhood features beautiful Victorian-style homes and tree-lined streets.

125. Check out the Raleigh Flea Market at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This massive flea market takes place every weekend and offers a huge selection of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds.

126. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the largest natural history museum in the Southeast. Here you'll find exhibits on dinosaurs, wildlife, and more.

127. Take a trip to the nearby town of Apex and explore its charming downtown area, complete with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

128. Grab a drink at one of Raleigh's many rooftop bars, such as The Dillon Rooftop or The Junction West. These elevated spots offer stunning views of the city skyline.

129. Visit the North Carolina State University Belltower, a landmark structure located on the university's campus. This iconic bell tower has been around since 1937 and is a must-see for any NC State fan.

130. Take a hike at William B. Umstead State Park, located just outside of Raleigh. With over 5,000 acres of land, this park features hiking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic areas.

131. Catch a show at the Red Hat Amphitheater, an open-air venue located in downtown Raleigh. This popular spot hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other events throughout the year.

132. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art, which features a collection of over 40,000 works of art. The museum's outdoor park also features walking trails and large-scale sculptures.

133. Take a historic trolley tour of Raleigh, offered by the Raleigh Trolley Company. These guided tours take visitors through some of the city's most notable landmarks and attractions.

134. Enjoy a round of golf at one of Raleigh's many courses, such as Lonnie Poole Golf Course or Wildwood Green Golf Club.

135. Visit the North Carolina Museum of History, which explores the state's past through exhibits on everything from Native American history to Civil Rights.

136. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Durham, where you can visit attractions like the Duke Lemur Center, Durham Bulls Athletic Park, and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

137. Attend a wine tasting at Chatham Hill Winery, located in nearby Cary. This winery produces a variety of wines and offers tastings and tours.

138. Visit Pullen Park, a beautiful public park located near NC State's campus. Here you'll find playgrounds, paddle boats, a carousel, and more.

139. Go shopping at Crabtree Valley Mall, one of Raleigh's premier shopping destinations. With over 200 stores and restaurants, there's something for everyone here.

140. Take a pottery class at Sertoma Arts Center, located in North Raleigh. This arts center offers classes in everything from pottery to painting to woodworking.

141. Visit the North Carolina Railroad Museum, located in nearby New Hill. Here you can learn about the history of railroading in the state and even take a train ride.

142. Explore the North Carolina State Farmers Market, which features over 75 acres of vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, and more.

143. Go on a brewery tour of Raleigh's many craft breweries, such as Trophy Brewing Company or Raleigh Brewing Company.

144. Attend an event at the Raleigh Convention Center, a state-of-the-art facility located in downtown Raleigh that hosts everything from trade shows to concerts.

145. Take a ghost tour of downtown Raleigh, offered by companies like Tobacco Road Tours. These tours take visitors through some of the city's spookiest spots.

146. Visit the North Carolina State University Arboretum, a beautiful garden located on the university's campus. Here you'll find a variety of plants and trees from around the world.

147. Go on a food tour of downtown Raleigh, where you can sample some of the city's best eats from local restaurants and food trucks.

148. Visit the North Carolina State Legislative Building, located on Jones Street in downtown Raleigh. This impressive building is home to the state legislature and offers free guided tours.

149. Attend a Carolina Hurricanes hockey game at PNC Arena, located just outside of Raleigh. This NHL team has a dedicated following in the area.

150. Take a cooking class at Whisk, a local cooking school that offers classes in everything from baking to knife skills.

151. Sample some of the city's best food at one of Raleigh's many farmers markets, such as State Farmers Market or Moore Square Market. Here you'll find fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and more.

152. Attend a show at Raleigh Little Theatre, which has been producing plays since 1936. This historic theatre features performances of everything from musicals to comedies.

153. Head out on a kayaking or canoeing trip down the Neuse River, located just outside of downtown Raleigh. Here you can enjoy some peaceful river views and spot wildlife along the way.

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