Take the two hour drive to...
by JBER
Take the two hour drive to Pinehurst, NC to experience truly wonderful golf. Pinehurst is home to the famous #2 course which is consistently ranked in Golf Digest's top 100. The resort is beautiful and while golf is expensive, these courses are worth the dinero. Bring alot of golf balls if you go, because pinehursts seven other challenges are sure to be fun.
Traditional provençale cuisine and charm
by daniela85 about Tartines Bistro
I went to Tartines for my 18th birthday and found it to accurately imitate a country French restaurant, but at a slightly higher price. Being one of only two French restaurants in Raleigh though, it is worth the price. The atmosphere is cozy and charming, and there is only one waitress who serves up to about eight tables. Expect a dinner to last about two hours, which should come into consideration when making a reservation. The food is delicious, and the menu changes quite often. Bread is brought to the table continuously, and a salad comes with every meal. The main courses change frequently, but my favorite appetizer is definitely the canard paté. It's smooth and rich, and comes with delicious caramelized onions. There is also a mustard to spread on top, but it is very spicy so I prefer to do without.
eclectic pies
by MovingMere about Lilly's Pizza
A great spot for pizza, right next to a great spot for coffee. (Third Place) Located in 5 points off of Glenwood Ave, Lilly's is a laid-back place to hang out and eat some fantastic pizza.
It can get pretty smoky inside, so I would recommend trying for a patio seat... if you can find a seat! either the Big Shindig or the Buddha ;)
Butterfly House at Museum of Life and Science
by HasTowelWillTravel
This museum in Durham is a fantastic place to spend a day, and one of the highlights is the butterfly house. This 17,000 square foot conservatory is one of only a few immersion butterfly houses in the country, where you see the insects up close (and they can even land on you). With ceilings upwards of 30', and a constant tropical temperature (and humidity), it is a relaxing place to take in the multiple species of butterfly in relative comfort. There is a small path, and frequent benches to sit back and watch the butterflies flit about. And if insects aren't your cup of tea, several species of small bird (one quail-like), and plenty of beautiful tropical plants mostly in bloom.
It is a great place to take a family (the whole museum is geared towards families) and photographers will delight in the vibrant colors and relative ease of shooting.
Admission:
Adults: $12.50
Seniors, active military: $10.50
Children (ages 3-12): $9.50
Children (under 3): Free
Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: Noon - 5:00 pm
federal building
by doug48
the raleigh federal building was the first federal government project after the civil war in the south. this beautiful second empire building was built in 1878. the federal building was designed by architect alfred b. mullett who also designed the executive office building across the street from the white house in washington d. c. the raleigh federal building is listed on the national register of historic places.