Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a vibrant mix of amazing events, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and cultural experiences, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic date night or even a weekend getaway. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, leisurely strolls through picturesque parks, or a night of elegant dining, this charming city has something to offer every couple. From hidden gems to well-loved favorites, we've curated a list of date night ideas to get the inspiration flowing and help you create unforgettable memories in the heart of North Carolina.

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Events

Friday, August 2nd

Beer Bourbon and BBQ Festival

• When: Aug 2 - 3, see link for times
• Where: Koka Booth Amphitheater, 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary, NC
• Price: $45 / $65 per ticket depending on tier

Saturday, August 3rd

Cage The Elephant: Neon Pill Tour

• When: 6:30 - 8:00PM
• Where: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, 3801 Rock Quarry Rd.,
• Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Thursday, August 8th

2024 OUTSOUTH Film Festival

• When: Aug 8 - 15, see link for times
• Where: The Carolina Theater, 309 W Morgan St., Durham, NC
• Price: ~$15 per ticket

Friday, August 9th

Yacht Rock Revue - Train & REO Speedwagon

• When: 7 - 11PM
• Where: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, 3801 Rock Quarry Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Monday, August 12th

Chicago And Earth, Wind & Fire: Heart & Soul Tour 2024

• When: 7:30 - 9PM
• Where: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, 3801 Rock Quarry Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Friday, August 16th

Human Musical Group Sensations GLASS ANIMALS: TOUR OF EARTH

• When: 7:45 - 11:45PM
• Where: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, 3801 Rock Quarry Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Beres Hammond: The Forever Giving Thanks Tour - 21+

• When: 6 - 7:30PM
• Where: The Ritz, 2820 Industrial Dr., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Tuesday, August 20th

Andrew Bird and Amadou & Mariam

• When: 7 - 8:30PM
• Where:Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Amphitheater, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Wednesday, August 21st

Styx & Foreigner with John Waite - Renegades and Juke Box Heroes Tour

• When: 6:45 - 10:45PM
• Where: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, 3801 Rock Quarry Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Wednesday, August 28th

Colde 'BluePrint' North America Tour 2024

• When: 7 - 10PM
• Where: The Ritz, 2820 Industrial Dr., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Thursday, August 29th

American Aquarium with special guest The Watson Twins

• When: 7:30 - 9PM
• Where:Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Amphitheater, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Friday, August 30th

Ken Carson: Chaos Tour

• When: 7 - 11PM
• Where: The Ritz, 2820 Industrial Dr., Raleigh, NC
• Price: varies, see link for ticket prices

Treasures of the Earth Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show

• When: August 30 - September 2
• Where: Flea Market at the State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC
• Price: $8

If a play, concert, or performance isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few of our favorite pairings that make for a phenomenal date night.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

For couples who love the great outdoors, Raleigh offers plenty of options:

• Kayaking and Picnic: Rent kayaks at Wake County's Cary Town Lake Park, then pack a picnic and find a secluded spot along the shoreline.
• Hike and Dine: Enjoy a scenic hike at Umstead State Park, followed by a delicious meal at The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Cary.
• Bike and Beer: Rent bikes from Hub Cycle and explore the greenways, ending your ride at Trophy Brewing Company for a refreshing craft beer.

Foodie Couples

Raleigh's culinary scene is thriving:

• Food Truck Fiesta: Check out the Food Truck Rodeo at Transfer Co. Food Hall for a diverse range of cuisines.
• Wine and Dine: Enjoy a romantic dinner at The Umstead Hotel and Spa, paired with a selection of wines from their extensive cellar.
• Farm-to-Table Feast: Experience the freshest flavors at Mateo, a popular farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Raleigh.

Culture Vultures

Immerse yourselves in Raleigh's arts and culture scene:

• Art and Appetizers: Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art, followed by a cocktail at The Willard.
• Live Music and Dinner: Catch a live show at The Lincoln Theatre and enjoy a delicious meal at Oakwood Grill and Brewery.
• Theater and Tapas: Enjoy a captivating performance at Raleigh Little Theatre, followed by Spanish tapas at Dos Taquitos.

Adventure Seekers

For couples who crave excitement:

• Escape Room Challenge: Test your problem-solving skills at Breakout Raleigh.
• Axe Throwing: Unleash your inner warrior at Bullseye Axe Throwing.
• Go-Kart Racing: Race against each other at RPM Raceway.

Relaxing Retreats

Indulge in some well-deserved pampering:

• Spa Day: Book a couples massage at the Umstead Hotel and Spa.
• Rooftop Relaxation: Enjoy stunning city views and cocktails at The Roof at The StateView Hotel.
• Movie Night: Catch a flick at the historic Rialto Theatre, followed by dessert at Dolce Gelato.

Do you have a favorite date night pairing or an event that is a must-see? Drop us a comment below and let us know about it - maybe you’ll see your very own date night idea posted in a future blog (and we’ll even shout you out!).