Raleigh

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina, located in the center of the state where broad streets form a regular grid through the downtown area. Oak trees line the avenues, and low buildings alternate with green spaces and university campuses that spread across several neighborhoods.

The state selected this location as its capital in 1792 and named it after Sir Walter Raleigh, making it one of the first planned cities in America. The capitol building from the 19th century replaced an earlier structure lost to fire.

College basketball games draw crowds wearing school colors who gather in bars and living rooms to watch the action unfold. Farmers markets bring neighbors together over local produce and handmade goods, with vendors chatting about the weather and weekend plans.

Parking spreads throughout the downtown area, and many streets include bike lanes that make cycling easier for getting around. Most museums and attractions cluster within a few blocks of the capitol, so you can walk between many spots.

A network of tunnels connects several government buildings downtown and lets workers move between offices without stepping outside in extreme heat or cold. Public access to these passages remains limited, though some entrances become visible during guided tours.

Location: Wake County

Inception: 1770

Elevation above the sea: 96 m

Part of: Research Triangle

Website: https://raleighnc.gov

GPS coordinates: 35.78000,-78.64000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:59