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Raleigh is a city with a long history and an energetic, youthful culture.  The stereotypical laid-back vibe of many other Southern cities is also easily recognizable in Raleigh.  The blend of history, academics, beautiful natural areas, and college town attractions make this a good city for visitors who want to introduce themselves to the Southeastern US. 

Here are the best attractions in the Raleigh area.

Budget

N.C. Museum of Art (2110 Blue Ridge Road) has an ever-changing rotation of exhibits from different artistic genres and media.  This is one of the best places in the Carolinas to go for art.  The museum also hosts a film series, which takes place outdoors, on the grounds of the museum, during the summertime.  Admission is free, with a self-guided audio tour costing $3. 

The N.C. Museum of History (5 East Edenton Street) and the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences (1 W Jones Street) are two more exhibit halls that do not charge admission.  Both host traveling exhibits and ongoing exhibits.

The North Carolina State Capitol grounds are filled with history.  The architecture and statues hearken back to the state's earlier days, when it was an important center for culture and commerce in the original 13 colonies.

Value

Joel Lane Museum House (160 South Saint Mary's Street) is a southern plantation manor that was built in the 1770s.  There is also a smaller house on the grounds.  These buildings have been restored and filled with artifacts and memorabilia from the period in which they were built.  There are three tours per day, Wednesday through Saturday.  The tours are led by living history performers who dress in period clothing. 

Marbles Kid's Museum (201 E Hargett St) is a children's museum with quality interactive exhibits concerning history and science.  There is an IMAX theater attached to the museum that plays both educational movies and kid-centered box office favorites (like the latest Pixar film).  Tickets cost $5 for the museum.  Ticket prices for the IMAX vary depending on the type of show and the time of day.  

Splurge

Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts (2 East South St) is a large performance space with three venues that host high-brow events like ballet, symphonic performances, and chamber music.   

Triangle Town Center (on Capital Boulevard) is an upscale shopping center with names like Macy's, Pottery Barn and Sak's 5th Avenue among the list of stores.  But these pricy high-end stores are balanced out by more budget oriented stores like Payless Shoes and Sears.