About the Area

Living in Raleigh

Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina, and offers many activities, museums, and other attractions. While it is a big city, students will also find southern charm, small businesses, and friendly people.

Museums

Located in downtown Raleigh is the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the NC Museum of History, the Contemporary Art Museum, and the City of Raleigh Museum. Closer to campus students will find the North Carolina Museum of Art. All museums offer free admission. Admission to ticketed exhibitions are free with a college ID on Friday’s from 5-9PM at the Museum of Art.

Outdoor Activities

Lake Raleigh is a small lake near Centennial Campus accessible by paved trails. Lake Johnson Park is about give minutes from campus by bus. Here, students can find paved walking trails, boat rentals, and picnic areas. The nearest large wilderness area is Umstead State Park, a heavily forested area with miles of walking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Public transportation to Umstead is limited, but the Triangle Transit bus will take students close to the park.

Hillsborough Street

Located just off campus, Hillsborough Street offers an assortment of coffee shops, restaurants, pubs, bookstores, and boutiques.

Mission Valley Shopping Center

Mission Valley is located at the corner of Avent Ferry Road and Western Boulevard– a 25 minute walk from central campus. Shops include a bookstore, pharmacy, cinema, and several restaurants.

Village District

The Village District is located on Oberlin Road between Hillsborough Street and Wade Avenue. The shopping square offers more than 100 unique shops, cafes, and services. It is a 20 minute walk from central campus, and is also served by NC State Wolfline Route 2.