Visiting Raleigh/Cary next weekend -- top places to go to get a "feel" for the area? (Durham: chapel)

[mmemk]

I am BEYOND excited that we're going to visit Raleigh next weekend! Part of our plan is to look at neighborhoods, but part is also for us to get a "feel" for the area. I went to undergrad at UNC, so I know Chapel Hill, but not as much Raleigh. We're bringing our 18 month old son, but have access to a babysitter, so I'd appreciate recommendations of really any kinds of places! (e.g., parks, notable places to eat, other attractions)

[sls76]

Bond Park/North Cary Park/Kids Together Park all in Cary depending on the weather.

[rfb]

For the little one, Pullen Park in Raleigh is great. I know my 2 year old loves the merry-go-round, swings, slides, and sand areas. But, to be honest, he would probably be happy at any of the parks that had a play area and swingset.

He also enjoys the Museum of Life and Science in Durham. This is an interactive museum, has a wonderful butterfly house, a small train that you can take for rides, and a mini-zoo.

For eating, much depends on how simple or fancy you want the meal to be. I'm partial to the restaurants in Durham - I feel it has the best dining in the Triangle. Not all of the good places are super-fancy or expensive, although there are plenty of those if you want to give them a try. There are also good places to eat in the Glenwood South area in Raleigh.

If you get a chance, head over to Duke University and, especially, the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. You can picnic at the gardens, see the formal and informal garden areas, walk around the pond, etc. The Duke Gardens is adjacent to Duke University, so you can also walk up and see the West Campus as well.

[momof3grls]

The Natural History Museum in Raleigh is pretty cool, and free. If you want to use your sitter for a night out, you might try Charlie Goodnights comedy club. There is at least one (maybe 2?) restaurants right there at the club so you can have dinner and then walk right in to the show.