Hero - Interior Page Hero Module
Itinerary
Image Aside Copy Module
North Carolina Museum of Art
Start an exploration of Raleigh strolling hand-in-hand through the North Carolina Museum of Art, one of the premier visual arts museums in the Southeast. Then head outside to the 164-acre art park that’s home to larger-than-life outdoor art installations.
State Farmers Market
The State Farmers Market is a great place to shop for specialty items from local farms to enjoy back home. Plus, comfort food makes for a tasty farm-to-table lunch at the State Farmers Market Restaurant.
Escazú Chocolates
Head to Escazú Chocolates in the afternoon for a lengthy dessert session for two. Located near downtown Raleigh in the Mordecai neighborhood, Escazú features bars, truffles, confections and more ideal for consumption right at the retail store and workshop — and later.
Cloer Family Vineyards
Raleigh and the rest of the Triangle can also be a great base for visiting romantic vineyards and tasting and toasting award-winning wines. Area options include Cloer Family Vineyards in Apex, Hinnant Family Vineyards in Pine Level and Starrlight Mead in Pittsboro.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa
As the sun sets, check in at Cary’s luxurious The Umstead Hotel and Spa and re-confirm the early evening spa appointments you’ve hopefully already made.
Herons
One post-spa dinner possibility is to stay right where you are and book a table for two at Herons Restaurant, known for perfectly prepared seasonal cuisine. The Chef’s Table at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern in the historic Dodd-Hinsdale House provides another unique option, giving you the opportunity to dine right in the kitchen with a special menu and wine pairings, all while interacting with the restaurant’s chefs and other staff. To try new offerings in Raleigh, head to Ajja or Madre.
La Farm Bakery
Before making the short drive to Chapel Hill, start the day at La Farm Bakery in Cary, an authentic French bakery where Master Baker Lionel Vatinet creates handcrafted pastries, breads and other morning delights using centuries-old techniques.
North Carolina Botanical Garden
The North Carolina Botanical Garden is ideal for a stroll or picnic thanks to gorgeous landscaped gardens. There are also great walking and picnicking possibilities at the bustling University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the oldest public university in the country.
Ackland Art Museum
In the afternoon, visit the Ackland Art Museum, home to more than 20,000 works, including one of North Carolina’s premier collections of Asian art. With free admission, it’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in creativity before checking into your accommodations for the evening.
Carolina Inn
Choose between The Carolina Inn, a historic hotel that offers romance packages, or The Siena Hotel, a boutique, dog-friendly retreat inspired by Italian elegance.
Crossroads
For dinner, options abound. Crossroads at The Carolina Inn serves refined Southern cuisine in an elegant setting, while Il Palio at The Siena Hotel offers authentic Italian dishes perfect for a cozy evening. If you’re looking for a romantic yet modern dining experience, Lantern blends Asian flavors with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, loosen up with the locals at The Crunkleton.
Guglhupf
Start your morning in Durham with breakfast at Guglhupf, a charming bakery and café known for its German and French-inspired artisan breads and pastries.
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Next, there’s lots to explore in town including the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, which features Japanese-style walking bridges, gazebos, water features and more amidst 55 acres.
Nasher Museum of Art
For lunch, head to the tasty Nasher Museum Café at Duke University’s Nasher Museum of Art. After lunch, there’s plenty of time to explore the modern 65,000-square-foot building, which houses multiple gallery spaces, a museum store and more.
Brightleaf Square
Brightleaf Square is the perfect way to while away the rest of the afternoon in Durham. Here, turn-of-the-century tobacco warehouses have been converted into restaurants, art galleries, jewelry stores, clothiers and other specialty shops.
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Next, check in at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, where Duke University couples have been staying for years.
Fairview Dining Room
For dinner, reservations options for two abound. You can stay right where you are with a romantic table for two at Washington Duke Inn’s world-class Fairview Dining Room, enjoy tapas for two at Mateo Bar de Tapas or try French bistro cuisine at Vin Rouge.
Snapshot Module
Your Trip at a Glance
Stop 1
North Carolina Museum of Art
Stop 2
State Farmers Market
Stop 3
Escazú Chocolates
Stop 4
Cloer Family Vineyards
Stop 5
The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Stop 6
Herons
Stop 7
La Farm Bakery
Stop 8
North Carolina Botanical Garden
Stop 9
Ackland Art Museum
Stop 10
Carolina Inn
Stop 11
Crossroads
Stop 12
Guglhupf
Stop 13
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Stop 14
Nasher Museum of Art
Stop 15
Brightleaf Square
Stop 16
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Stop 17