This outdoor arena seats up to 20,000 in both covered seating and on the general admission lawn. Sold out concerts are not unusual because big names and hot artists often make Raleigh a stop on their national tours. While being up-close has its advantages, there is a certain party-like atmosphere among those with "grass passes" (tickets for the lawn), which are usually less expensive than the reserved seating. Fans are often found tailgating in the parking lot before big concerts.

Situated right in the heart of downtown Durham, CCB Plaza is a bustling plaza that regularly hosts a number of live concerts, markets, art & craft festivals as well as street parties. Festivals like Christmas, Halloween and Easter are celebrated with great pomp in Durham, and the best place to come to for the celebrations is CCB Plaza. Lined with beautiful old buildings and shady trees, a leisurely walk is in order while in the city.

Situated on Brent Road, Dudeplex Mattress Fort is a much sought after venue for underground music in Raleigh. Music lovers can catch some of the best indie talents in contemporary punk and rock music from across the country at this fort. Concerts are held on weekends and bands like Beloved Binge, Celebrity Jeopardy and Bel Espirit are some of the famous names to have graced the stage. The venue is a B.Y.O.B. establishment, so make sure you get your beer cans along during a show at Dudeplex Mattress Fort.

Steeped in history, the sprawling 5579-acre (2257-hectare) space that is William B. Umstead State Park, was originally an enchanting wilderness. Christened after the city governor as an ode to his dedication to conservation, the park was previously divided into Crabtree Creek and Reedy Creek. Established in 1937, it is located within stumbling distance of Research Triangle Park, under the towering shadows of Raleigh and Durham. A great respite from mundane life, enjoy a plethora of recreational activities on offer. Take a horseback ride or bridle trail through lush flora of pines and hickory with scattered picnic spots and camping sites punctuating the landscape. Paddle across the lake in a rented rowboat or canoe, and fish out bass and bluegill. The picturesque getaway exudes tranquility and is a popular rejuvenating spot for locals.

West Point on the Eno-City of Durham Park is a scenic park located along the course of the Eno river. Avail of the picnic amenities available at the park, take a stroll down the picturesque little nooks, or simply take in the calm aura of the place. The river makes for an ideal spot for those who want to go canoeing or kayaking. Be sure to include the West Point Mill, the Packhouse and the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography and the McCown and Mangum House in your itinerary. The park is home to an amphitheater, which along with the Mangum House, is an ideal venue for hosting community and cultural events. The park is open from 8:00a until sunset.

With a superb location on the sprawling campus of the Duke University, the Nasher Museum of Art was founded in 1969, and currently boasts a stunning collection of African, Medieval and Renaissance Art as well as other displays. On your way out, stop by their cafe which serves some delicious panini sandwiches, juicy crab cakes, curried chicken and salads, and wash it down with fresh fruit juices, Indian chai or sparkling wine. Check website for a list of upcoming events and exhibitions.

With an extravagant collection of over 20,000 exhibits, the Gregg Museum of Art & Design is a cultural treasure trove. The magnanimous collection includes photography, architectural drawings, paintings, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, self-taught art, modern furniture, Native American and tribal art. There are six to eight exhibitions throughout the year, as well as workshops, film screenings and other programs.

Nestled in the sprawling campus of the North Carolina State University, the African American Cultural Center (AACC) is an organization with a mission. As the name suggests, this center aims to preserve and promote African American culture. The efforts and endeavors of the AACC are directed towards achieving this goal, so they often organize events, activities and academic research programs. The center has an art gallery that showcases exhibits and collections pertaining to African American culture.

Duke Homestead State Historic Site is a National Historic Landmark that is transformed into a museum that showcases exhibits and artifacts pertaining to tobacco industry.

Mansion 462 is a live music venue conveniently located on Franklin Street in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Featuring a wide array of music ranging from rockers to blues, classical and jazz musicians, Mansion 462 has become a popular hang out in the area. The finely-crafted wooden bar and animal print upholstery provides an elegant backdrop in which to relax with a drink or catch the latest performance. Expect to catch a comedian or two, this venue is diversifying its bookings.