In the heart of North Carolina, Raleigh is a vibrant and upbeat city full of fun and excitement. With Summer in full swing, the fun has no plans of slowing down with more opportunities for entertainment and adventure. Here are some of the best things to do this summer in Raleigh, NC.

Raleigh Beer Trail

Home to over twenty-five different breweries, you’ll be sure to find the perfect craft beer for your taste buds. By downloading the Raleigh Beer Trail Passport you can visit different breweries and win specialty prizes. Breweries such as Bond Brothers Beer Company offers special events such as Yoga and Beer where you can tune-in to your body and soul while enjoying a refreshing beverage. You can also visit Beltline Brew Tours where you will be bussed around the city to try local brewery favorites on private tours while meeting and socializing with new people.

Rooftop Bars

In the Summer, there’s nothing better than lounging outside taking in the warm summer night air. At Level7, you will get a beautiful rooftop view of the city lights while sampling small-batch distillers and single vineyard labels. A rooftop bar allows you to relax in an upscale space while enjoying some of the best alcoholic beverages. The bar also hosts live music on Friday and Sunday evenings.

Outdoor Movies

A great place to take the whole family this summer is the Raleigh Little Theatre. Every summer, the company hosts free outdoor movies on thursdays in July and August. This year the lineup consists of family favorites such as Frozen, The Greatest Showman, and Labyrinth. There are also food trucks and adult beverages provided by Raleigh Brewing. Enjoy a fun and free night out the whole family can enjoy by watching a movie under the stars.

State Farmers Market

The State Farmers Market has the largest variety of fresh fruits and vegetables available in the area. The market has a huge variety of local meats, crafts, bakery items, and NC Wines. Grab a savory bite to eat at the market grill or find the perfect gift such as homemade soaps and candles at one of the many specialty shops.

Midtown Beach Music

A signature staple of summer in North Carolina, North Hills brings the rhythm and groove of beach music every thursday night to the Raleigh Area. At Midtown Beach Music, you can shag along to all of your favorite bands such as Band of Oz, Liquid Pleasure, and The Embers! The electric energy these bands provide will have you grooving on your feet and singing along to every word!

Frankie’s Fun Park

Escape the heat and allow your kids to have endless fun at Frankie’s Fun Park. Featuring all of your favorite amusement park favorites such as Bumper Boats, Laser Tag, Mini Golf, and Go Kart Racing, your kids will be kept entertained for hours. The Fun House allows your little ones to run through an obstacle course on their own and allow you to sit back and relax. Complete with a batting cage and an arcade, there’s fun for everyone at Frankie’s Fun Park.

Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo

If you like having a large variety of phenomenal food, then the Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo is the place to be! Spanning across half mile down Fayetteville St, the Food Truck Rodeo is spread over 11 city blocks and brings together over 50 different food trucks from across North Carolina. Treat your sweet tooth to carnival favorites such as funnel cakes and candy apples, or dig into one of a kind empanadas and cheesesteaks. Whatever your appetite, the Food Truck Rodeo has something for everyone.

Porter Farms Strawberry Farm

From April to August, bring your whole family to pick fresh strawberries at Porter Farms. There’s no fresher produce that picking it yourself. With over five acres of the juiciest and reddest strawberries in the area, you’re entire family will have a one of a kind experience scouring the fields to find the best berries. Afterwards, treat your kids to amazing homemade ice cream from their naturally organic dairy.

William B. Umstead State Park

Summer is all about taking in the sunshine and the warm summer breeze. At William B. Umstead State Park you can take your family on an outdoor adventure with hiking trails, manmade lakes, and camping grounds available to the public. Rent a canoe from the visitor center for a peaceful ride around the lake and then sit down for a picnic at one of the multiple picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Beautiful views and scenery will provide you with an exciting afternoon out of the house.

Hopscotch Music Festival

Featuring 140 bands over three days in downtown raleigh, the Hopscotch Music Festival is an experience you don’t want to miss! With music from every genre, the outdoor main stage gives visitors an unbelievable atmosphere of good vibes and eccentric music. The festival is a city-wide celebration of artistic excellence and brings all types of people together. Get your tickets for this amazing event today!Whatever your summer holds in store, all of these experiences will provide you with tons of summer fun and adventure. Start making memories with your friends and family in Raleigh, NC today!