Located in the heart of the Tar Heel State, Raleigh’s proximity to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Atlantic Coast offer visitors an abundance of recreation options. In less than three-and-a-half hours, skiers and snowboarders based in Raleigh can enjoy a day on the slopes of one of North Carolina’s or Virginia’s ski resorts, or bask in the warm sun along the coast kissed by gentle breezes from the Gulf Stream. Raleigh’s temperate climate also offers golfers year-round opportunities to improve their swing. Located just down the road from where many believe golf in the U.S. was born – Pinehurst – there is something for every golfer from the beginner to the pro. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular activities in the metro area as well. Raleigh has been called the"park with a city in it"thanks to its award-winning parks, greenways system, and open space spread throughout the city and Wake County.

Raleigh and the Triangle also actively support the arts and are home to a full-range of cultural attractions including some of the most renowned museums in the Southeast. The BTI Center for the Performing Arts is one of the best in the country and has a venue for national touring companies, in addition to locally produced plays and attractions. Meymandi Concert Hall is home to the North Carolina Symphony and features world-class performers in both classical and popular productions. Raleigh and its surrounding communities host many smaller community centers, which offer endless cultural opportunities as well. During the summer, the Triangle takes advantage of North Carolina’s wonderful balmy evenings and beautiful sunsets by hosting performances in its beautiful outdoor theaters, parks, and gardens.

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