Raleigh Travel Tips - Search for Cheap Airline Tickets to Raleigh

>> Cheap airline tickets >> Raleigh travel tips

Raleigh is a college town with a long history and a pleasant, laid-back, Southern vibe.  While not a town with a highly concentrated or widespread tourist scene, Raleigh is not a waste of time when it comes to tourism.  In fact, the laid-back vibe and lively college scene make Raleigh a good alternative to more cosmopolitan destinations. 

Here are some tips for making your Raleigh vacation as interesting as a trip to any other destination on the East Coast. 

1. Raleigh is a safe city by any standard.  However, it is best to be cautious at night, especially in places that aren't well lit.  University campuses use security guards, so it is a little safer around North Carolina State after dark, but still, it is best to remain in well lit places and to take advantage of NC State's security escort service if necessary.

2. It is best to use a car to get around Raleigh.  Sites in the center of the city can be reached on foot, but other areas are too far apart.  There is a bus system that has routes within the city limits, but service is limited during non-peak hours. Triangle Transit Authority runs bus routes between the airport, Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.  This service is mostly used by students, but is a cheap and reasonable way to get from one city to another.  Both Chapel Hill and Durham are walk-able. 

3. Many of Raleigh's museums do not charge admission, making this a good budget destination.  The North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of History all have impressive exhibits of both the traveling and ongoing variety. 

4. Though there are plenty of cheap, laid-back restaurants serving good food near the university campuses around town, there are also plenty of more upscale eats.  Eateries like Mura (4121 Main St), with specialties like Kobe beef and sushi, and Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern (300 Hillsborough St), with gourmet southern fare, show that Raleigh is a culinary hot-spot.

5. History is everywhere in Raleigh.  There are museums, of course, but also plenty of architecture.  The city has preserved some trademarks from its past: the 18th Century Joel Lane Museum House (160 South Saint Mary's Street) and a carousel in Pullen Park that was built in 1911.  The North Carolina State Capitol building and grounds are also worth traversing if you are a history buff.