Romantic Weekend Getaway in Raleigh, USA
Experience Southern charm and romance in Raleigh, United States.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, offers a perfect setting for couples seeking a romantic getaway. With its charming and historic downtown, scenic parks and gardens, and exquisite dining options, there is something for everyone in Raleigh. Whether catching a show at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts or strolling hand in hand through the shimmering gardens at the JC Raulston Arboretum, Raleigh provides an unforgettable backdrop for a romantic escape.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check into luxurious boutique hotel The Umstead in Cary, just outside of Raleigh
- Start the day with a delicious breakfast at popular spot Beasley's Chicken + Honey
- Take a stroll through the historic City Market and sample local vendors' goodies
- Head to the Raleigh Beer Garden for lunch and try one (or many) of their 366 beers on tap
- Tour Videri Chocolate Factory and indulge in their award-winning chocolate creations
- Finish the day with an intimate dinner at Death & Taxes, known for its wood-fired cuisine and romantic atmosphere.
- Grab breakfast at The Morning Times, a downtown coffeehouse with a unique atmosphere
- Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art and wander through its impressive collection
- Take a picnic lunch to Umstead State Park and enjoy the serene nature
- Stop at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences for a fun interactive experience
- Walk around the scenic JC Raulston Arboretum and enjoy the beautiful gardens
- Head back to the hotel for a relaxing evening at the spa.
- Start the day with breakfast at the colorful Big Ed's City Market Restaurant
- Visit the North Carolina State Capitol and take a guided tour of the historic building
- Check out the stately Executive Mansion, home of the Governor of North Carolina
- Walk around the quaint Oakwood Historic District and admire the charming homes
- Take in some contemporary photography at the CAM Raleigh art museum
- End the trip with a romantic dinner at Second Empire, an upscale restaurant housed in a restored 19th-century mansion.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Raleigh, United States by plane is to fly to Raleigh-Durham International Airport. There are direct flights from major cities around the US and connecting flights from international destinations.
Car
The best way to get to Raleigh by car is to take I-40 if you are coming from the west or east. If you are coming from the north or south, take I-95 and then switch to I-40.
Train
There is no direct train to Raleigh, but you can take Amtrak to the Raleigh Union Station from major cities such as New York and Washington DC. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.
Boat
There are no direct boat services to Raleigh, but you can take a boat to Wilmington, NC and then take a bus or car to Raleigh.
Bus
Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to Raleigh from major cities such as New York and Washington DC. The main bus station in Raleigh is the Raleigh Greyhound Station.