Tag Archives: Raleigh

When family and friends come to visit, don’t let yourself fall into the “been there, done that” frame of mind. There’s so much to see and do, and some of the best places to see it all are Wake County’s museums. Take a look at five we picked this week that range from large to boutique.

1. The new Raleigh Museum of Contemporary Art has local and national works, and the state-of-the-art structure is work of art itself. Visit http://camraleigh.org/

2. Page-Walker Arts & History Center (PWAH) is an off-the-beaten path
destination in neighboring Cary. Built in 1868, the PWAH was originally a hotel, but it became a museum devoted to local artists and events in 1979. Visit Town of Cary to learn more.

3. The Triangle is home to the finest medical centers in the world. But you migh
t be surprised there’s art to be seen there! Check out the Wake Med Art Exhibition. It’s supported by the United Arts Council and exhibits change every six weeks. Visit United Arts/Wake Med for info.

4. It’s large and has plenty to offer: the Progress Energy Art Center. This venue features local and regional artists and has become the hub of Raleigh’s cultural movement.  Visit http://www.nprgallery.com/

5. First Fridays have been a mainstay of the Raleigh art scene for many years. If your visiting uncle’s eyes glaze over in the galleries, he can groove to the free music and sample the nearby cuisine. First Friday showcases the established and up-and-coming artists the first Friday of every month. Visit godowntownraleigh for more.

But, don’t limit your guests to the visual arts. Sundays, stop by Tir Na Nog around 2pm to check out a true Irish Gaelic “jam session.” Take a look and see part of what makes Raleigh and this area special.  (It’s 50 seconds, actually.)