Raleigh growsunder the oaks.
Whole-hog barbecue, free museums, the State Capitol and a downtown of red-brick warehouses, in one local guide to the City of Oaks.
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Raleigh residents The US Census Bureau's Vintage 2025 estimate put the City of Raleigh at 506,306 people on July 1, 2025.
Of trails in the Capital Area Greenway The City of Raleigh says the Capital Area Greenway system has over 100 miles of trails, made up of 28 trails.
In Dix Park, free to enter every day The City of Raleigh's Dix Park is open from sunrise to sunset with free admission, and has a giant family of Trolls to find.
General admission at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences The downtown museum at 11 West Jones Street offers free general admission, live animal displays and the Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Raleigh called the City of Oaks?
Raleigh is called the City of Oaks because its founders gave it that name, reflecting their efforts to keep wooded tracts and grassy parks. Raleigh was founded in 1792 and named for Sir Walter Raleigh.
How many people live in Raleigh, North Carolina?
The US Census Bureau's Vintage 2025 estimate put Raleigh, North Carolina, at 506,306 residents on July 1, 2025.
What is the main airport for Raleigh?
Raleigh-Durham International Airport, with the airport code RDU, is the main commercial airport for Raleigh. It is operated by the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority and serves the Research Triangle region.
Are there free museums in Raleigh?
Yes. Raleigh's three major state museums, the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, are free to enter, according to Visit Raleigh.
When is the North Carolina State Fair?
The North Carolina State Fair is held in October at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 4285 Trinity Road in Raleigh. It runs for 11 days.
What is there to see in Raleigh's Capital District?
The Capital District in downtown Raleigh holds the North Carolina State Capitol, completed in 1840, the North Carolina Executive Mansion, the General Assembly and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
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