The North Carolina Raleigh-Durham area is a thriving region where modernity meets Southern charm. It is part of a tri-city zone called the Research Triangle, or simply The Triangle. 

This area’s name comes from its triangle of prestigious research institutions, including Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University. 

Raleigh-Durham has no shortage of exciting things to do. People love visiting this lively area because of its exciting atmosphere and charm.  There are notable historic buildings, museums, and cultural sights to see.

If you are interested in seeing Raleigh-Durham, here are five must-see sights to explore:

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#1 North Carolina State Capitol 

This exquisite Greek Revival-style State Capitol is a must-see historical site. 

Not only is it impressive, but it is also educational. 

One highlight of this cultural gem is its immaculately preserved original furniture from the 1840s. 

If you would like to visit this site, you can take a free tour offered every Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm. 

#2 Museums 

The Raleigh-Durham area has several impressive museums that you should visit, including:  

North Carolina Museum of History: For comprehensive state history, visit the “Story of North Carolina” exhibit with thousands of years of North Carolina history. 

Pope House Museum: North Carolina’s only African-American House museum that offers a glimpse into prominent community figure, Dr. Manaassa Thomas Pope’s life. 

North Carolina Museum of Art: An extraordinary museum with collections ranging from ancient Greek and Roman art to Egyptian funerary art. 

#3 Duke University 

Duke University is more than just a place of learning.  

The 8,500-acre campus has a 7,900-acre forest and a 55-acre garden where you can appreciate spectacular natural beauty. Its buildings have stunning Georgian and Gothic Revival architecture. 

Don’t forget to visit the Nasher Museum of Art on campus. This comprehensive museum has works of art from Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Latin America. 

You can either take a guided tour of the campus or stroll around and appreciate its attractiveness. 

#4 Pullen Park 

If you’re a fan of amusement parks, don’t skip out on this one. 

Pullen Park is the state’s first public park and the 16th oldest worldwide. 

While this isn’t Six Flags, you can still find various attractions to please anyone in your group. 

Many of the rides are kid-oriented. Activities include riding a carousel, renting a pedal boat, and catching the train. It costs just $1.50 to ride each attraction. 

However, adults can swim, play sports, and attend theater productions. 

#5 Raleigh Beer Garden 

Out of all of the beautiful places in the Research Triangle, why a beer garden? 

It turns out this is not just your average beer garden. 

According to the Guinness World Records, the Raleigh Beer Garden has the largest selection of draft beers in the entire world. 

How much beer is that? 

This spot has 366 options, including 144 in-state choices. 

If you’re not a beer fan, you can chow down on the burgers and pizza or sip some whiskey and bourbon.