Weird & Unusual Attractions in Raleigh, United States
1. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences' Fossil Hall
Explore the prehistoric past with over 600 fossils, including a T-Rex skull and the state's oldest known fossil, a trilobite from 508 million years ago.
- Paleontological Collection: One of the most comprehensive collections in the Southeast
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities for all ages, like a dinosaur dig and a virtual reality experience
- Research Focus: An active research facility with ongoing projects in paleontology, geology, and more
2. Marbles IMAGINATORY
Experience a child's imagination at play with this hands-on museum featuring art, science, and technology exhibits.
- Rotating Exhibits: New exhibits every few months to keep the experience fresh
- Interactive Learning: Engaging activities for visitors of all ages to learn through play
- Creative Workshops: Offers workshops on arts, crafts, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics)
3. Raleigh's Big Blue House
A giant blue house sitting on stilts showcases local artists' work in a unique and whimsical setting.
- Artistic Expression: Provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work
- Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for the community and hosts events like art classes, workshops, and open mic nights
- Iconic Landmark: A distinctive feature of Raleigh's skyline that attracts both locals and tourists alike
4. Raleigh Little Theatre's Gothic Revival Haunted Playhouse
Take a ghost tour of this historic theatre rumored to be haunted by former actors and playgoers.
- Spooky History: One of the most haunted theatres in the Southeast
- Live Performances: Continues to host plays and musicals throughout the year
- Haunted Tours: Offers guided tours during Halloween season and select weekends
5. Raleigh's Horseshoe Farm
Visit a UFO-themed farm featuring alien-themed sculptures and murals.
- Alien Sculptures: Showcases an extensive collection of alien-themed artwork
- UFO-Themed Gift Shop: Sells UFO-themed merchandise, including souvenirs and alien-inspired artwork
- Outdoor Exploration: Features a walking trail with more sculptures hidden in the woods
6. Junkyard Golf Club Raleigh
Play mini-golf amidst a colorful, chaotic mix of recycled junk and pop culture references.
- Unique Courses: Each course has a different theme, such as tropical paradise or pirate cove
- Pop Culture References: Incorporates pop culture icons like the Simpsons, Star Wars, and Marvel into the designs
- Cocktail Bar: Serves creative cocktails to enjoy while playing mini-golf
7. Raleigh's Secret Gnome Garden
Discover over 100 handcrafted gnomes hidden in plain sight around Raleigh.
- Hiding Spot Challenge: Encourages exploration of the city as participants search for the gnomes
- Community Involvement: Created by local artists and supported by local businesses
- Artistic Expression: Each gnome is uniquely designed, reflecting the creativity of the artist
8. The Devil's Tramping Ground
Visit a 40-acre woodland area where nothing is said to grow or be disturbed overnight.
- Unexplained Phenomenon: A local legend that has been passed down for generations
- Supernatural Beliefs: Believed to be the home of the devil or a powerful spirit
- Public Access: Open to visitors during daylight hours, but be respectful when exploring
9. Raleigh's Scrap Exchange
A creative reuse center where you can find unique materials for crafting and upcycling projects.
- Material Variety: Offers a vast selection of donated materials for art, crafts, and DIY projects
- Community Workshops: Hosts workshops on various artistic techniques and upcycling ideas
- Sustainable Practices: Promotes waste reduction by encouraging creative reuse and recycling
10. The Container Bar
Grab a drink in a repurposed shipping container bar in the heart of Raleigh.
- Sustainable Design: Built using upcycled shipping containers
- Rotating Food Trucks: Multiple food trucks rotate daily, offering a variety of cuisines
- Outdoor Seating: Spacious outdoor seating with string lights and greenery for a cozy atmosphere
11. Raleigh's Maywood Park Mini Golf
Play mini-golf among giant sculptures of animals and mythical creatures at this whimsical course.
- Unique Course Design: Each hole features a different animal or creature, such as dragons, elephants, and mermaids
- Scenic Beauty: Set in a peaceful park with lush greenery and colorful flower beds
- Affordable Entertainment: Offers a budget-friendly activity for families and friends
12. The Red Hat Amphitheater
Experience outdoor concerts and performances at this unique venue made from repurposed shipping containers.
- Sustainable Design: Built using recycled shipping containers
- Outdoor Concerts: Hosts a variety of music events throughout the year
- Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for concerts, festivals, and other events
13. Raleigh's Fountain of the Carolinas
Visit this iconic fountain designed to resemble a goddess pouring water from two large shells.
- Iconic Landmark: A distinctive symbol of Raleigh and the Triangle region
- Light Show: Features a dazzling light show at night
- Historic Significance: Dedicated to the spirit of North Carolina and its people
14. Raleigh's Monkey Junction
Visit a roadside attraction featuring over 30 monkeys living in outdoor enclosures.
- Animal Rescue: A rescue and rehabilitation center for capuchin monkeys
- Interactive Experience: Offers tours where you can interact with the monkeys
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational programs about capuchin monkeys and conservation efforts
15. Raleigh's Museum of Capital City Architecture
Explore the history of Raleigh's architecture through photographs and models.
- Architectural History: Features the evolution of Raleigh's architectural styles over time
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits to learn about various building techniques
- Community Impact: Highlights the role architecture plays in shaping Raleigh's identity and culture