Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours

FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12! Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping 📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM 📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 🎟️ FREE admission Enjoy a day filled with: 🔥 Fire show 🎨 Art activities 🥋 Martial arts class 🫧 Bubbles 🧘 Yoga and sound bath 🌲 Forest bathing 🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping 🍴 Food trucks and vendors 💛 Sensory yurt 🎤 Guest speakers 🏆 Tug of war …and so much more!

First Responders Day at New Hope Valley Railway invites the community to honor local emergency services on Saturday August 8. This event brings together the Town of Apex Fire Department, Apex Police Department, and Wake County EMS to foster connection and appreciation for those who keep the community safe. Attendees can participate in a hands-on touch a truck experience featuring emergency vehicles. Guests are encouraged to climb inside the trucks and interact directly with the first responders. You will hear personal stories, learn practical safety tips, and explore the specialized equipment used by these professionals. Scenic train rides are also scheduled for departure at 10:30am and 12:00pm, providing a relaxing way to enjoy the railway grounds during the event. This family friendly day is designed for residents of all ages who want to engage with local heroes in a fun environment. The atmosphere is educational and welcoming, making it an excellent opportunity to learn about public safety firsthand. Tickets are available for purchase through the official TriangleTrain website. Ensure you secure your spots early for this engaging community experience.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant history of Raleigh with an engaging Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the historical landscape of the downtown area. Departing promptly at 10 a.m. from the iconic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum, this guided experience offers a unique perspective on the city heritage. Participants will explore significant landmarks including the Third Ward neighborhood and the historic Black Wall Street, while also visiting local churches that have served as pillars of the community for generations. The tour spans approximately 1.4 miles, designed to be both informative and accessible with designated rest stops provided along the route. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17, offering an affordable way to connect with the deep roots of the region. Advance registration is required to secure your spot for this educational excursion. Do not miss this opportunity to honor and learn about the legacies that shaped Raleigh. Visit the official website today to purchase your tickets and prepare for an unforgettable morning of exploration.

Experience a journey into the past at the Historic Yates Mill County Park. As the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a rare glimpse into 200 years of agricultural history. Visitors are invited to step inside the mill to witness the intricate inner workings of the historic machinery while learning about the essential role these mills played in shaping early local communities. Our knowledgeable historic interpreters will be on-site to share fascinating stories and answer any questions you may have about the mill operations. Beyond the historic structure, the park provides an expansive 174-acre wildlife refuge for all to enjoy. Whether you choose to walk the scenic trails, explore the beautiful gardens, or simply relax in the picnic area, there is something for everyone. This drop-in event is completely free and perfect for a family outing or a peaceful solo retreat into nature. Please note that space inside the mill is limited to twenty guests at a time. Plan your visit today and discover the rich heritage of this remarkable landmark.

The Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry serves the Raleigh community by providing essential food resources to those in need. Located at 1712 East Millbrook Road, this initiative operates every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to ensure that individuals and families have consistent access to nutritious items. The pantry welcomes anyone who requires assistance, offering a supportive environment where visitors can receive food twice per month on a first come, first served basis. To access the pantry, please park in the lot off Old Wake Forest Road and proceed up the walkway to the church courtyard. While the pantry maintains a regular schedule, we encourage you to stay informed about any seasonal closures or special updates by following the Millbrook Food Pantry page on Facebook. This is an excellent resource for those seeking help or looking to give back to the neighborhood. We invite you to make a positive impact in our community by volunteering your time or donating to this meaningful cause. Please visit our website at millbrookumc.org/food-pantry to learn how you can get involved today.

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at The Market at Raleigh Iron Works, held on the second Saturday of each month. This recurring event invites residents and visitors alike to explore a curated selection of offerings from talented local artisans. Whether you are searching for one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods, artisanal products, or unique treasures, this market serves as a premier destination for those who value supporting local small businesses and creative entrepreneurs. Beyond the exceptional shopping experience, attendees can enjoy a lively environment complete with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and engaging live music performances. It is the perfect opportunity to spend a Saturday afternoon connecting with neighbors and celebrating the creative spirit of the Triangle area. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing ample time to browse, socialize, and discover something truly special. We encourage you to mark your calendars and join us for this recurring community celebration. Bring your friends and family to experience the best of local craftsmanship in an inviting outdoor setting. We look forward to seeing you at Raleigh Iron Works for an unforgettable day of community, creativity, and local commerce.

RipTide Car Wash is thrilled to announce the return of their highly anticipated appreciation event for educators. Throughout the entire month of August 2026, teachers and school staff members are invited to visit any RipTide Car Wash location to receive a complimentary car wash. This initiative serves as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support students and families within our community. To take advantage of this special offer, simply present your valid school identification at any of the participating locations. With multiple sites available across the Triangle, including several convenient spots in Raleigh and Durham, refreshing your vehicle has never been easier. Whether you are preparing for the new academic year or simply deserve a little extra care, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a premium wash experience at no cost. We encourage all eligible staff to stop by a local RipTide station throughout the month to claim this generous service. Visit the official RipTide website today to find a location near you and learn more about this promotion. We look forward to seeing our local teachers on the road with sparkling clean cars.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant history of Raleigh with an engaging Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the historical landscape of the downtown area. Departing promptly at 10 a.m. from the iconic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum, this guided experience offers a unique perspective on the city heritage. Participants will explore significant landmarks including the Third Ward neighborhood and the historic Black Wall Street, while also visiting local churches that have served as pillars of the community for generations. The tour spans approximately 1.4 miles, designed to be both informative and accessible with designated rest stops provided along the route. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17, offering an affordable way to connect with the deep roots of the region. Advance registration is required to secure your spot for this educational excursion. Do not miss this opportunity to honor and learn about the legacies that shaped Raleigh. Visit the official website today to purchase your tickets and prepare for an unforgettable morning of exploration.

The Raleigh Indie Bookstore Crawl is a day long excursion featuring a party bus tour of local independent bookstores throughout the Wake Forest and Raleigh area. This event connects book lovers with local romance author Katie Karambelas while exploring regional literary landmarks. Participants will travel by bus to various locations including Page 158 Books, Dog Eared Books, Blackbird Books and Coffee, and Quail Ridge Books. The ticket price covers transportation, a boxed lunch, a welcome mimosa, and snacks. Attendees also receive a curated swag bag containing a signed book by Katie Karambelas and a blind date with a used book. The day begins and ends at hOMe Yoga Studio and The Winebrary in Rolesville. This crawl is ideal for readers looking to discover new shops, build community, and enjoy a curated literary itinerary. The atmosphere is social and relaxed, making it a perfect outing for book enthusiasts. Space is limited to 25 attendees, so early registration is recommended to secure your seat. Please be prepared to sign a transportation waiver upon arrival to participate in this unique bookish experience.

Discover the rich past of North Carolina capital with a captivating journey aboard the Historic Raleigh Trolley. This immersive one-hour tour whisks you through the heart of downtown, offering a front-row seat to iconic landmarks and historic sites that have shaped our community since 1792. Whether you are a long-time local or a first-time visitor, you will gain fascinating insights into the culture and evolution of this vibrant city. Tours depart from the charming Mordecai Historic Park at 1 Mimosa Street, running every Saturday from March through December. With four convenient start times available at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., it is easy to find a slot that fits your busy weekend schedule. Tickets are affordably priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for youth, making this an ideal outing for the whole family. Do not miss your chance to explore Raleigh historic treasures in comfort and style. Secure your seats today by visiting the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center or calling 919-996-4364 to book your experience. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable adventure through time.