Routine. The first few weeks and months of my semester always seem to revolve around trying to establish my new normal. Figuring out how to squeeze in everything into the limited 168 hours per week can be quite the challenge. At this point in the semester, you may have finally determined your weekly routine. You have figured out your class schedule, assistantship hours, study time, and personal time (maybe?). I challenge you to move past the normal, day-to-day routine and try something new. This is a great time to branch out from your usual schedule and explore the many exciting things that NC State and the Triangle have to offer. Below are some ideas of things to begin exploring around NC State and the Triangle.

NC State

  • University Recreation. NC State University Recreation offers more than 125 group fitness classes every week. Classes range from yoga to high intensity interval training and everything in between. Check out their website for more information on group fitness as well as other fun opportunities such as intramural sports and outdoor adventures. Students can also rent outdoor equipment such as camping gear, kayaks, and canoes for the day or weekend.
  • JC Raulston Arboretum. Ranked in the top ten of the “50 Most Stunning University Gardens and Arboretums,” this beautiful garden is located on Beryl across from the College of Veterinary Medicine. Free tours are available every Sunday at 2pm from March-October.
  • Sporting Events. Students can attend NC State varsity men and women’s sporting events for free with their student ID. Check out gopack.com to view the schedules and learn more about ticketing procedures. In addition to football and basketball games, consider supporting our other teams such as gymnastics, baseball, softball, tennis, soccer, and track and field.
  • Craft Center Classes. The NC State Crafts Center hosts special classes for students including guitar, pottery, photography, woodwork, jewelry making and sewing. Refer to the website for class schedules as well as information about individual sessions for those who do not want to commit to weekly classes. A small craft and supply fee applies.

Around the Triangle

  • First Fridays. Explore downtown Raleigh’s cultural hotspots on the first Friday of every month from 6-9pm. Visit art galleries and studios, listen to live music, and take advantage of First Friday specials offered by many local restaurants.
  • State Capitol Tours. Take advantage of living in the capital of North Carolina and visit the State Capitol building. Self-guided tours are welcome Monday-Friday and free guided tours are available Saturdays at 11am and 2pm.
  • Museums. Another perk of living in the state capital are the free museums. Visit the NC Museum of Natural History and NC Museum of History located across the street from each other in downtown Raleigh. The NC Museum of Art located off Blue Ridge Road is also a great way to spend an afternoon. While exploring the Museum of Art, be sure to check out the walking trails throughout the Museum Park.
  • Farmers Market. Check out all the fall produce and homemade goods at the Raleigh Farmers Market located near campus on Centennial Parkway. You may also want to consider a fresh county breakfast or lunch at the State Farmers Market Restaurant.
  • William B. Umstead State Park. Nestled between I-40, Glenwood Avenue, and Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Umstead State Park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors without needed to travel far outside the city. Activities include canoe and rowboat rentals, camping, hiking and bicycle trails, fishing, and picnic sites. Check the website for the calendar of free events and programs held throughout the year.
  • Durham Performing Arts Center. Located in downtown Durham, the DPAC hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other exciting performances throughout the year. Students receive significant discounts on many SunTrust Broadway and Encore Broadway performances. Student tickets start at $20 for many of the Broadway shows and can be purchased online through the ticketing website.
  • Raleigh Flea Market. Located at the State Fairgrounds, the Raleigh Flea Market showcases more than 600 vendors selling antiques, handmade crafts, homemade goodies, jewelry, and more! Admission and parking are free.  The Flea Market is open year-round Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm with the exception of during the State Fair in October.

This is just a snapshot of the many opportunities around NC State and the Triangle. What have you explored in the area? Please comment below with your favorite thing to do or explore around the Raleigh area. We would love to hear from you!