As your students have begun to settle back into the routine of campus life, many will be looking for ways to get off campus and enjoy personal time around Raleigh. Students often struggle with finding opportunities outside of the sphere of NC State, but luckily Raleigh has so much to offer! Whether it’s shopping, enjoying nature, or going out to eat, the possibilities are plentiful. 

For students looking to get out and go shopping or enjoy a meal out with friends, there are many retail and dining options in proximity to campus. The Village District offers plenty of both, with dining at all different price points, including clothing, book, craft, and even antique stores. A bit further from campus is Crabtree Valley Mall, an even larger shopping district with many other exciting dining options. For students looking for something a bit more local, the NC State Farmer’s Market offers a fresh selection of produce, meats, baked goods, flowers, and many other products from local NC vendors! Located right on NC State campus is the Howling Cow Creamery, an NC State favorite that offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors produced right here on campus! Downtown Raleigh also offers many great dining locations, including the Morgan Street Food Hall, a vibrant multi-vendor restaurant with meal offerings for everyone. 

Raleigh is also full of parks, trails, and environmental spaces to explore! Situated close to campus is Lake Johnson, which features a wide expanse of Greenways called the Walnut Creek Trail, a hotspot for walkers and bikers alike. Similarly, the Dorothea Dix Park and Umstead Park offer many walking trails and friendly environments for students who want to move and de-stress. Another great offering near NC State is the JC Raulston Arboretum, which is ten acres of botanical gardens offering great places to have lunch or enjoy a peaceful afternoon.

Whether students are looking to unwind in nature, discover new favorite foods, or indulge in local ice cream, Raleigh has much to offer its residents. Encouraging them to explore the local community outside of campus is one of the best ways for them to make Raleigh their new home! While these are just a few of the options, there are many more experiences your students may enjoy in and around Raleigh, so make sure to chat with them about what they enjoy most!

Walker Hamilton, Pack Family Ally