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!

Experience the bounty of the region at the Durham Farmers Market, a vibrant hub dedicated to local agriculture and community connection. Located at 501 Foster Street, this market features produce and goods sourced from within a seventy-mile radius. It is a fantastic destination for families and food enthusiasts looking to support local growers while enjoying fresh, seasonal ingredients in the heart of Durham. We are excited to announce our upcoming Triple Bucks Days on July 25 and August 8, 2026. This special event allows SNAP, WIC, Senior FMNP, and SUN Bucks participants to triple their benefits, turning ten dollars into thirty dollars worth of market tokens. Whether you use your benefits, cash, or card, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on high-quality local food before the program concludes at the end of August. Please visit our information table upon arrival to receive your tokens and take full advantage of this generous matching program. Join us from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. to celebrate our community and enjoy everything our local farmers have to offer. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join the community for the Sharewear event hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1524 Jenkins Road, Wake Forest, on August 8, 2026. This wonderful initiative provides individuals and families with free access to clothing, bedding, and essential school supplies to help prepare for the upcoming academic year. Everyone is welcome to participate in this shopping experience, where all items are provided completely free of charge to those in need. Beyond providing support, the event serves as a platform for neighbors to help neighbors. If you have gently used items you wish to donate, please drop them off on Friday, August 7, 2026, between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. or from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Your generous contributions make this event possible and ensure that everyone starts their season with dignity and necessary resources. We encourage you to invite your friends and family to join us for a day of giving and community spirit. Mark your calendars and be part of this impactful gathering designed to strengthen our local neighborhood.

Experience the beauty of nature and the joy of farm life at the Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill. Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this inclusive space invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to explore their expansive grounds. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or an educational day out, the farm offers a welcoming environment regardless of the weather, thanks to numerous covered and protected areas available across the property. Enjoy a hands-on experience by interacting with the farm residents or take advantage of the optional pony and horse rides for an added touch of adventure. Admission is set at an accessible price of eight dollars, while ride packages are available for eighteen dollars. While reservations are not required for general admission, booking ahead for riding spots is highly encouraged to ensure your place. We invite you to gather your friends and family for an unforgettable day in the fresh air. Visit our website today to secure your tickets and plan your trip to this vibrant local treasure. We look forward to welcoming you to the farm this Saturday for a memorable community experience.

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.

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.

Step into history with a visit to the North Carolina State Capitol in downtown Raleigh. Completed in 1840, this stunning National Historic Landmark stands as a premier example of Greek Revival architecture. Guests are invited to explore this architectural masterpiece through free guided tours offered every Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. These hour-long sessions provide an immersive look into the rotunda, the historic legislative chambers, and the Governor's office area. Beyond the scheduled guided experiences, the Capitol remains open for self-guided explorations Monday through Saturday. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the region, this experience offers a unique window into North Carolina history without the need for reservations. Simply arrive at the front entrance and join the group to begin your journey through the past. With the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences located just a short two-minute walk away, it is the perfect destination for a day of discovery. Plan your visit today and experience one of the most iconic civic buildings in the state.