As North Carolina's capital city, Raleigh is a hub for culture and history. Relax in 308 acres of green space at Dorothea Dix Park. Enjoy a renowned culinary landscape with various southern staples such as Eastern NC BBQ to upscale Italian and tapas. Experience a music scene that inspired Rolling Stone Magazine to call Raleigh one of the top emerging music cities in the U.S. Savor more than 5,000 years of art history at the NC Art Museum or come face-to-face with the most complete fossils of a Tyrannosaur and Triceratops ever found at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Home of the famed Durham Bulls, Durham boasts access to several nationally recognized higher educational institutions, a bustling startup scene and robust restaurant options. Access to nature is plentiful with proximity to Eno River State Park and Sarah P. Duke Botanical Gardens. Durham Performing Arts Center offers a strong rotation of renowned live theater and musical acts.

Soak in some fascinating history in downtown Greensboro at the International Civil Rights Museum or de-stress in the many hiking and biking trails located around 15 min from downtown. With over 100 miles of trails, it makes getting outdoors enjoyable and easy. There is also a variety of activities and attractions for the family like the Greensboro Science Center, Miriam P. Brenner Children's Museum and the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park to name a few.

Fulfill your need for speed at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Find inspiration at the Billy Graham Library or in the works of Miró, Picasso, Warhol and Ernst at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the historic Fourth Ward’s grand Victorian homes before dining out amid the city’s booming dining scene that has earned Charlotte a top spot on Zagat’s list of Hottest Food Cities.