Explore Raleigh’s City of Oaks: A Walking Tour Through History and Nature
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness is recommended to comfortably complete the walking distance over varied urban terrain.
Overview
Discover the heart of Raleigh on foot with the City of Oaks Walking Tour, blending history, nature, and city culture beneath a canopy of oak trees. This guided stroll invites you to explore the city’s landmarks, green spaces, and stories up close.
Raleigh City of Oaks Walking Tour
City of Raleigh Walking Tour
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About This Adventure
A minimum of five (5) guests applies to this tour.
Meet at the Sir Walter Raleigh statue (Corner of Cabarrus & S. Salisbury Street - convention Ctr.
Duration
1 Hour & 45 Minutes
About
A delightful orientation tour of downtown Raleigh, NC. With so many accolades bestowed Raleigh continues to move forward in its five downtown districts (Fayetteville St., Government, Oakwood, Moore/Nash Square, Warehouse).
More Info
Raleigh was founded in 1792 as N.C.’s capital city. It was named for Sir Walter Raleigh, who attempted to establish the first English colony on the shores of the new world in the 1580s. It is the only state capital to have been planned and established by a state as the seat of state government, and it is the largest city in a combined statistical area known as Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill (the Research Triangle Region). Gather a crew of friends, colleagues, and family for this high-value experience today!
The city’s founding fathers called Raleigh the “City of Oaks” due to mostly hardwood (Oak & Hickory) trees that were present in Colonial times.
On the itinerary are:
- The State Capital & grounds
- NC Museum of History
- NC Museum of Natural Science
- Moore Square
- NC Legislature Building
- Governor’s Mansion
- Fayetteville Street
- Briggs Building
- Festival Plaza
- Duke Energy Performing Arts Center
What to bring
Cash to compensate your guide if you elect to TIP! We recommend closed-toe, comfortable shoes.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour covers multiple city blocks with some uneven sidewalks, so sturdy walking shoes will keep you comfortable.
Bring Water
Stay hydrated during your walk, especially during warm weather months in Raleigh.
Plan for Weather
Check the forecast and dress in layers or sun protection depending on the season.
Arrive Early
Starting early helps you avoid mid-day crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Gray Squirrel
- Northern Cardinal
History
Raleigh was established in 1792 as one of the first planned cities in the United States, built around a grid influenced by Colonel John Hawks.
Conservation
Raleigh places strong emphasis on urban tree preservation and green spaces to maintain its City of Oaks legacy amid city growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Support and comfort are key for navigating city streets and sidewalks.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during warm or humid days out on the tour.
summer specific
Sun Hat or Cap
Protect your face from sun exposure during outdoor walking portions.
spring;summer;fall specific
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Prepare for changes in temperature throughout the day with versatile clothing.
spring;fall;winter specific