Research Triangle Travel Guide

Explore the vibrant Research Triangle area in North Carolina, including must-see attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink recommendations, and transportation options.


Research Triangle is a vibrant area in Piedmont, North Carolina, in the southern United States of America. This region is located in the heart of North Carolina, with Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill forming the three points of the triangle. The area got its name from the numerous research institutions, universities, and technology companies located here. The Triangle boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, a stunning natural landscape, and a thriving food and drink scene. In this travel guide, we will take you on a tour of the Research Triangle, highlighting its must-see attractions, hidden gems, and best-kept secrets.

List of Places to Visit in Research Triangle

The Research Triangle area has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • North Carolina Museum of Art: This museum has an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world. It also has a beautiful outdoor park and amphitheater.
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: The largest natural sciences museum in Southeast America, it has a wide array of exhibits on ecology, geology, paleontology, and wildlife.
  • Duke Homestead State Historic Site: This historic site was once the home of Washington Duke, an American tobacco industrialist, and philanthropist. Visitors can tour the house, tobacco barns, and other buildings from the 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Research Triangle: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Umstead State Park: This 5,599-acre park offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as campsites, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and canoeing.
  • Jordan Lake State Recreation Area: This is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking. It also has several campgrounds, a beach, and a nature center.
  • Eno River State Park: This park is known for its natural beauty, with crystal-clear streams, steep bluffs, and dense forests. Visitors can hike, swim, fish, and kayak here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Research Triangle

The Research Triangle area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region:

  • American Tobacco Trail: This rail-turned-trail spans 22 miles from Durham down to Wake County and is perfect for cycling, jogging, or taking a leisurely walk.
  • Crabtree Creek Greenway Trail: This is a popular 7-mile paved trail for hiking, running, and bicycling. It runs alongside Crabtree Creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding woodland.
  • William B. Umstead State Park Trail System: This park offers a network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails are of varying levels of difficulty and length, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

Best Things to Do in Research Triangle: Activities and Tours

The Research Triangle area has plenty of activities to keep you entertained and engaged. Here are some of the best things to do and tours to take:

  • Carolina Brewery and Grill Tour: This is a guided tour of the Carolina Brewery and Grill that takes you through the beer-making process. At the end of the tour, visitors get to sample the brewery’s finest beers.
  • Downtown Raleigh Food and Drink Tour: This is a guided walking tour that explores Raleigh’s finest culinary and beverage scenes. Visitors get to sample local cuisine and beverages from top eateries and bars.
  • Haw River Wine Trail Tour: This is a guided tour that takes you on a journey through some of North Carolina’s finest vineyards. Visitors get to sample different wines while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Research Triangle

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Research Triangle:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Duke University campus, visit the Duke Lemur Center, and tour the Duke Chapel.
Day 2 Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art, followed by an afternoon picnic at the museum park.
Day 3 Hike and picnic at the Eno River State Park.
Day 4 Take a guided tour of the Carolina Brewery and Grill, followed by a visit to the Triangle’s local distillery and winery scene.
Day 5 Bike along the American Tobacco Trail and explore the neighboring shops and restaurants.
Day 6 Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, followed by a stroll through the downtown area and its historic capital building.
Day 7 Spend the day at Jordan Lake, hiking, picnicking, fishing, and boating.

Food and Drink Scene of Research Triangle

The Research Triangle has a wide array of culinary experiences that will suit all palates. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue: The region is famous for its slow-cooked, smoky pork barbecue. Restaurants such as The Pit in Raleigh and Bullock’s in Durham serve some of the best barbecue in the state.
  • Southern Fried Chicken: The quintessential southern dish, popularized by locally based restaurants like Beasley’s Chicken + Honey in Raleigh.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: Perhaps the most famous side dish in Research Triangle. You can try this at almost any local restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • North Carolina craft beer: The Triangle area is home to more than 30 breweries, including the nationally recognized Fullsteam Brewing Company and Triangle Brewing Company.
  • Hard Cider: Ciders are becoming increasingly popular in the area, with Bull City Ciderworks and Steel String Brewery being some of the best.
  • Wine: Wineries like the Chapel Hill Winery, and Chatham Hill Winery offer options for wine tasting and tours.

Where to Stay in Research Triangle: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Research Triangle area has a variety of accommodations that cater to all budgets. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • The Umstead Hotel and Spa: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Cary and features exclusive spa services, indoor and outdoor pools, and a tranquil garden.
  • 21c Museum Hotel: This boutique hotel offers contemporary art exhibits, a restaurant, and a spa. It is located in downtown Durham and has rooms to suit all budgets.
  • Hostel World Raleigh: This eclectic youth hostel is perfect for budget travelers and is located in the heart of Raleigh.

What to Buy in Research Triangle: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or local products to take back home, the Research Triangle area has got you covered. Here are some of the best places to shop:

  • Brightleaf Square (Durham): This shopping center has a variety of stores selling locally made products, including jewelry, clothing, home decor, and gourmet food.
  • Southpoint Mall (Durham): This is the largest mall in the Triangle, with a wide variety of stores, including high-end stores and local boutiques.
  • Cameron Village (Raleigh): This is RTP’s original shopping district- with independent stores, upscale boutiques, and a wide variety of restaurants.

Local Culture and Customs of Research Triangle

The people of the Research Triangle area are known for their southern hospitality and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors are advised to be respectful of local customs, which include:

  • Greeting Everyone: Saying “hello” or offering a warm smile and wave is an expected norm in this region.
  • Respecting the Environment: As much of the area is wildlife preserve or environmentally protected, it’s best to tread lightly, if possible, and to be aware of your surroundings.
  • Tipping for Service: Tipping in the area varies by business type. For standard sit-down dining, 20% is often the recommended rate.

Best Time to Visit Research Triangle

The best time to visit the Research Triangle area is during fall (September-November) or spring (March-May). During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are many cultural and food festivals to choose from. Summer is also a popular time for visitors, but temperatures can be hot and humid.

Do’ s and Don’ts of Research Triangle

To make the most of your visit to the Research Triangle area, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the Local Cuisine: The Triangle area has a unique food and drink scene that should not be missed.
  • Take a Hike: The area boasts some of the most beautiful scenic hikes in the state.
  • Explore Historical Sites: With a rich history, there are many significant sites to visit the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the Parks: Keep the surrounding parks and streams clean and free of litter.
  • Disrespect Local Customs: As a visitor to the area, it is important to be respectful of locals and their traditions.
  • Underestimate the Amount of Walking: A lot of destinations in the Research Triangle area are best done by foot, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and pack sunscreen.

Safety and Health

Safety in the Research Triangle

The Research Triangle is a safe area to visit, with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not leaving belongings visible in cars.

Health in the Research Triangle

The local area has several top-rated hospitals, including Duke University Medical Center, UNC Hospitals, and WakeMed Health & Hospitals. As in any location, travelers should carry sufficient health insurance coverage in case of any unexpected medical emergencies.

Getting to Research Triangle: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Research Triangle

The area has two significant airports, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY). RDU is one of the major airports for North Carolina and serves as an international hub and has direct flights to destinations worldwide.

Bus Stations Near Research Triangle

The Research Triangle area is home to GoTriangle, a public transit system that provides a network of buses across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, with connecting services to Amtrak stations.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from nearby states or cities, driving, or taking a taxi is another option. Uber and Lyft, along with traditional taxi companies, opt to offer their services in the area.

How to Get Around in Research Triangle

The Research Triangle Area is spread out across the three-largest cities, Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill with plenty of nature parks and destinations to visit. To get around and access the area’s best attractions, renting a car is the quickest and most efficient method. Bus and taxi services do exist, yet driving your own car provides the quickest access to destinations in the Triangle.

Where to Go Next from Research Triangle: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Research Triangle is in the heart of North Carolina, with several nearby attractions that are worth visiting. Some worth checking out:

  • Pinehurst: This area is known for world-renowned golf courses and their beautiful green landscapes.
  • Wilmington: With its sandy beaches and rich historical downtown, it provides a wonderful escape from Research Triangle city life and provides beach fun.
  • Asheville: This city is located in the mountains with stunning views, offering various outdoor activities, art, craft beer, food scenes, and exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Conclusion

The Research Triangle is a fantastic area to visit, with plenty of activities to keep every visitor entertained. From the outdoor adventures of the area’s state parks and hiking trails to the cultural offerings of museums, historical sites, and top-rated food and drink destinations, there’s something for everyone in the Triangle. Visitors can take advantage of the region’s excellent transportation options, the range of local accommodations and hospitality options, and the nearby day and weekend trip options to create an unforgettable trip.

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