9 (New) Reasons to Visit Raleigh This Spring

This article is part of our daily Regional Highlights series which features unique businesses, attractions and events around the South (outside of Georgia.)

If you’ve been with me for any length of time, you know what a hotel snob I am. Yes, I love camping and RVing…but if we’re staying in a hotel, I want it to be EXTRA.

So when I learned about the two new hotels in Raleigh (and the other awesome things happening there) I was immediately like “Yes! This town just keeps getting better!”

9 (New) Reasons to Visit Raleigh This Spring
Courtesy of Heights House Hotel

Heights House Hotel

For starters, this gorgeous pre-Civil War hotel was named one of the Best Hotels In The World by Travel + Leisure… so, that should raise your interest.

Heights House is a restored 9-room boutique inn and gathering space. Sitting in the Boylan Heights neighborhood, the 1858 Italianate-style mansion celebrates its 3rd anniversary this month.

9 (New) Reasons to Visit Raleigh This Spring
Courtesy of Heights House Hotel

Here are a few other things you can enjoy at Heights House (even if you’re not staying there):

  • Drop into The Parlor for Italian-inspired cocktails and wine. The lobby bar and lounge is open to the public.
  • Make a reservation for the monthly Supper Club, which is a fun and elegant way to enjoy the mansion, your friends, and ingredients from local purveyors.
  • Enjoy Afternoon Tea every Thursday and Friday with multiple teas, finger sandwiches and pastries.
  • Music on the Lawn happens one Thursday a month, with drinks from The Parlor, live music, food trucks and more.
9 (New) Reasons to Visit Raleigh This Spring
Courtesy of Longleaf Hotel

The Longleaf Hotel

If you’re more “mid-century” than “mansion” – head over to The Longleaf. It’s a vintage motor lodge, now refurbished, modernized and charming.

There are a few more rooms here – 56 – so it’s easier to get a reservation, but it’s still boutique. We also love how many of the local artists contributed to the decor like the retro lighting fixtures, photography, and wallpaper.

The Longleaf Lounge is also a relaxing, unpretentious space to grab a cocktail.

9 (New) Reasons to Visit Raleigh This Spring
Courtesy of SAAP

Four Places to Nosh

Ajja is finally opened, featuring dishes from the James Beard Nominated Chef Cheetie Kumar. Tastes, spices and techniques are inspired by the Mediterranean and Middle East, mixed with local ingredients.

SAAP means delicious in Laotian, and delicious Laotian small plates are what you’ll find here. Additionally, you’ll find a wok section for fried rice and noodle dishes. It sits in Downtown Cary Park and includes patio seating.

Madre recently opened in the Smoky Hollow District with date night worthy Mediterranean dishes and cocktails. Fun fact – the interior was designed by Bryan Costello, who also designed Heights House Hotel above.

Tamasha has been booming so we were happy to hear they have opened more reservation spaces… but don’t expect to just walk-in here. Indian cuisine never tasted so good!

9 (New) Reasons to Visit Raleigh This Spring
Courtesy of VisitRaleigh

Things to Do

Downtown Cary Park is a 7-acre park in the heart of downtown. There is a public gathering space, two eateries, water features, huge art pieces, elevated walking paths… and lots of fun.

NC Museum of Natural Sciences is bringing a new exhibit at the end of April… Dueling Dinos. It features what is thought to be the only 100% complete skeleton of a Tyrannosaur, plus a Triceratops skeleton that is among the most complete found.

Liberation Station Bookstore is North Carolina’s first black-owned children’s bookstore. Stop in with the kids or to pick up a gift for a little one you love.

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