As the end of the semester draws closer, the stress of final exams, projects and assignments weighs heavier on students. This means students are starting to look for ways to get away from campus. What better way to do this than a weekend getaway in downtown Raleigh or around the Triangle?

Get outdoors

If you are brave enough to weather the cold, Eno River State Park has more than 24 miles of blazed hiking trails ranging in length and difficulty. Located just 35 minutes northwest of Raleigh, this State Park brings you straight into its river-wrought environment. 

Nickolas Gregory, a freshman studying design studies, took a camping trip at Eno River State Park this past summer. 

“[Eno River] is probably my favorite State Park in North Carolina,” said Gregory. “I would definitely suggest doing the Cox Mountain trail. The hike isn’t too strenuous and the swinging bridges that take you across the river are really cool. Also, the views at the top of the trail would be perfect for this time of year.”

A little closer to NC State’s campus is the William B. Umstead State Park. 

Nestled between Raleigh and Durham, this State Park offers a natural community with a wide range of activities including hiking, picnicking and fishing. 

This 5,579-acre park is easily accessible from Interstate 40, and is located just 21 minutes northwest of campus.

“I like hiking this time of year,” Gregory said. “Even though it’s starting to get pretty cold, being the middle of the woods and away from campus and the city is incredibly relaxing.”

Admittance into each of these parks is free, however the park hours vary depending on access and entry points.

Be at ease in downtown Raleigh

Rich in historical and cultural characteristics, our backyard has a lot to offer. Being minutes from the heart of downtown Raleigh provides endless opportunities to get away from campus.

Downtown caters to an extensive nightlife featuring bars, clubs and concerts to escape the bustle of school work. 

If you are over the age of 21, the Trolley Pub of Raleigh offers a unique experience to tour the city via pedal-powered moving bar.

Downtown Raleigh also allows students to catch a bite  to eat with friends at a number of college-budget-friendly restaurants, food trucks and coffee shops.

“For me, downtown Raleigh is all about the food and the coffee,” said Mary Amron Lee, a junior in design studies. “I love the variety and the cool feel that downtown has to offer”. 

Lee said she especially enjoys eating at some of the Ashley Christensen restaurants located throughout downtown.  “Beasley’s Chicken and Honey, Joule Coffee and Chuck’s all offer such unique and relaxing atmospheres, in addition to amazing food”. 

Gregory said he also enjoys the easy access and amenities of downtown Raleigh.

“Getting around is really easy, even without a car,” said Gregory. “There is a lot I want to do that I haven’t had the opportunity to yet, like visiting Fred Fletcher Park or the Contemporary Museum of Art. Downtown also seems to host a lot of weekend activities worth going to”. 

The city of Raleigh offers free weekend parking, and you can also take advantage of the NC State GoPass and Capital Area Transit buses for free and easy public transportation to and from downtown.

Once downtown, the R-LINE bus will connect you with the restaurants, retail stores, entertainment venues, museums and parking facilities of your choosing. The bus is free of fare, and runs approximately every 15 minutes.