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.

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.

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.

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.

Be ready for a newly renovated and completely refurbished Memorial Hall in the heart of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's main campus. Watch any number of the spectacular shows and amazing performances Memorial Hall hosts throughout the year. Plush seats, modern lighting and sound systems combine for an incredible experience. Check their website for the latest performance schedule.

A speedway that hosts a variety of events, Orange County Speedway provides quality racing and exhilarating entertainment in a fun and friendly atmosphere. For this oval-shaped track, the seats in the grandstand provide the best view of the races since it follows the track's curvatures - no one is left missing out on witnessing a racer's pass, block or hairpin turn. Air-conditioned VIP boxes are available. Food and drinks can be purchased at the Speedway behind the grandstands. Other events held here include relays, automobile collector festival, electric car drag races for the kids and visits from monster trucks!

Sushi Blues Cafe is a popular place that is both a restaurant and bar as well as a live music venue. In the lounge you'll find live music that is almost sure to be blues or jazz which compliments the soft lighting and warm decor that is reminiscent of a blues establishment. The Sushi Blues Cafe is not just a great place to relax to live music, it also offers delicious sushi and Japanese cuisine. The sushi the Cafe makes is a popular dish with local customers and has won it various local awards.

Slim's Downtown Distillery is a small venue in downtown Raleigh featuring live music much of which comes from rock and roll and independent bands. There's an upstairs loft where some respite can be had from the loud music below where you can try out a game of pool or play one of Slim's video games. There are nightly drink specials which may make up for the cost of the cover charge to enter. There's outdoor seating when you need to come up for air.

Hibernian Restaurant and Irish Pub brings a little bit of Irish flavor to Raleigh. This traditional Irish establishment welcomes one and all to enjoy their favorite drinks and indulge in revelry. Here, you can sit all by yourself and people watch or grab your beer buddies for a fun night out. The cheerful vibe and friendly locals will make you feel completely at home. Fun events like live music sessions and drink specials add to the experience. And, like a typical Irish pub, Hibernian has its share of tasty treats. The pub also offers catering services for off-site parties and functions.