When I drove into Raleigh in May 2024, before the MSA program started, I had never been to North Carolina or its surrounding states. Since that day, I have found there is always something to do in Raleigh. I have discovered many parks/nature reserves, restaurants, fun indoor activities, and nearby locations for short trips, which have helped me learn much about Raleigh and the region.
1- Parks and Nature
I am from Iowa, so one of my favorite things to do here in Raleigh is to explore nature (the landscape here is significantly different from the endless cornfields of the Midwest). There are many parks and nature preserves around Raleigh, so figuring out where to go can feel overwhelming. Umstead State Park is one of the most extensive parks in the area. There are tons of trails lined with pine trees, boat rentals, camping, and more. It is located 10 miles northwest of downtown Raleigh, so you do need to drive there. If you want something closer to the Institute, Lake Raleigh has trails, bike rentals, and more, which are only a short walk away! Lake Johnson is another of my favorite areas, as the lake there is more extensive than Lake Raleigh and has cheap kayak rentals and tons of turtles 🙂.
2- Restaurants
Who moves to a new place and doesn’t want to try all the local food/restaurants? There are many to choose from, but my two favorite places are Morgan Street Food Hall and Amedeos. Morgan Street Food Hall, located downtown, has more different types of cuisines in one building than I have ever seen. No matter your palette and preferences, I’m willing to bet there is something at Morgan Street Food Hall for you. If you are looking for a classic NC State staple with tons of memorabilia, Amedeos has fair-priced Italian food. These places are only the tip of the iceberg, so I guarantee you can find something to your taste in Raleigh.
3- Entertainment
Raleigh and its surrounding area have much to offer regarding entertainment. Many IAA members join intramural sports teams and clubs, go to concerts and museums, watch Carolina Hurricanes hockey games, hit the town at the many bars on Glenwood Avenue, and enjoy NC State sporting events.
4- Short Travels
When you find yourself ahead of work on the weekends, I have found North Carolina to have the best of both worlds regarding short trips/vacations: beautiful mountains and gorgeous beaches. I have explored Wilmington’s beaches, wetlands, and history, swam with my best friend Maverick in the waves of Topsail Beach, and rented an Airbnb on the top of a mountain an hour south of Asheville.
No matter what you enjoy most, Raleigh and its surrounding area have it. Make the most of your free time, and you won’t regret it!
Columnist: Benjamin Monroe