August in Raleigh
August is truly a beautiful month in North Carolina, the weather is perfect with very little rain and temperatures in the eighties, on average. But Raleigh, in particular, has so many opportunities at the end of summer that you really need to take advantage of before the cold weather hits! So below is a general list of fun activities to do with your family, friends or with your partner in Raleigh during the month of August.
To tag along to our recent Instagram post on our @livelovethetriangle page, Pullen Park is a must if you haven’t been there yet this summer. Located in Downtown Raleigh, it is the very first public park built in North Carolina and the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the US. It is a great spot for families, date days and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It features paddle boards, miniature train, playgrounds and walking trails. But, word to the wise, it does get busy as the day progresses. The amusement park opens at 10 am, I would get there as close to that time as you can because on a really nice day it fills up fast!
Pullen Park
On an extra hot day (which, on average, is hardly ever in August), explore the North Carolina Museum of Art! The museum has an impressive collection of art from various cultures and many different time periods. There are Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces and some contemporary art, too! If it is a beautiful weather day (most likely), there is an outdoor park and garden that is amazing as well! They also have outdoor and indoor films for a great date night! Even some dance performances from the Carolina Ballet in the past! The museum is free to explore and opens at 10 am from Wednesdays to Sundays.
Take advantage of being in North Carolina’s state capitol and tour the State Capitol building! Learn about the historic building, completed in 1840, and it’s architecture, the state’s history and political heritage. It is currently a National Historic Landmark and touring the building and grounds is free! Currently, as of August 2023, the building is closed to the public for construction and repair. Head to North Carolina Historic Sites webpage to get updates on when it will reopen.
North Carolina State Capitol
Enjoy a craft beer at the Raleigh Beer Garden! There you will find a 3 time Guinness world record holder in two different categories and sip on one of their 386 draft beers offered daily. With local beers on the first floor, international beers on the second and rooftop bar with rotating taps, you will find a favorite! They have events rotating regularly, too! Check it out with friends on your next free Saturday afternoon!
Red Hat Amphitheater is another great spot to look for activities this August! The amphitheater is located in the heart of downtown Raleigh and concerts, performances and events are regularly scheduled. It’s a great spot for a dinner then performance date night!
Another great outdoor stop before the cooler weather hits is Dorothea Dix Park! With 308 acres of rich landscapes, it is truly a vast and urban park located right downtown Raleigh with a bonus of amazing scenic views! There are miles of walking trails, tons of green space for picnics and outdoor activities. Dorothea Dix hosts many events throughout the year, not just in August, including Movies on the Lawn. They have a beautiful sunflower patch that blooms in July most years, but in August it is a great time to watch all of the unique local birds use it to their benefit as well!
Dorothea Dix Park
Dorothea Dix Park Sunflowers
Finally, come out and enjoy the best local cuisine you will ever find! There are so many different choices from southern comfort to tons of different international flavors. Raleigh is such a great place to try out local restaurants and eateries. Make sure you check out some of the dessert stops, too! You know I love a good doughnut or ice cream cone! Raleigh also hosts several different food truck rodeos throughout the year! It’s a great opportunity to try out a variety of different foods from local vendors who may also have a restaurant in the city, too!
Local Raleigh restaurant: Glasshouse Kitchen
As always, make sure to check online or social media for more up to date information on each of these places. Their availability, events and attractions may change depending on weather and current situations. I hope you have the best time this month checking out all that our beautiful city of Raleigh has to offer!
~Katie