Grab a quick coffee and pastry at Jubala Coffee near Athens Drive to fuel the drive; try their house cold brew and a biscuit before heading toward downtown.
Begin the drive toward downtown Raleigh, planning a short scenic stop at Pullen Park for a stretch and photos by the carousel before parking near Fayetteville Street.
Park and walk through Fayetteville Street to soak in the downtown energy, passing the North Carolina State Capitol and stopping for exterior photos.
Lunch at Beasley's Chicken + Honey for Southern comfort - order the fried chicken sandwich and some pickles to enjoy a true Raleigh favorite.
Stroll over to Moore Square and explore nearby boutiques and public art; pick up a cold drink at a local cafe if you want a second caffeine boost.
Walk the greenway along Dorothea Dix Park's southern edge for city skyline views and a relaxed pace; pause at a bench to enjoy people-watching and the open lawns.
Visit North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences for an hour-explore the dinosaur exhibits and the living conservatory for a quick science fix.
Drop by Boylan Bridge Brewpub for a local beer or craft soda and a light snack while enjoying views over the creek and a lively neighborhood vibe.
Head to Warehouse District to browse galleries and boutiques; pop into a gallery like CAM Raleigh if an exhibit is on display or window-shop the art spaces.
Early dinner at Poole's Diner to savor elevated comfort food-reserve or arrive early for their famous macaroni and cheese or the seasonal entrée.
Wander the Glenwood South corridor for lively nightlife and stop at Gravy for a cocktail or glass of wine on their patio to watch the neighborhood come alive.
Catch small plates and a relaxed atmosphere at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern (bar area) or opt for a sharable appetizer to sample seasonal menu highlights.
Enjoy a performance or live music at The Ritz or check the schedule for local acts at Lincoln Theatre for a late-evening cultural stop.
Cap the night with dessert and coffee at Videri Chocolate Factory (if open late) or grab a nightcap at The Cardinal Bar in Glenwood South for craft cocktails in a cozy setting.
Start the morning with breakfast and a peaceful coffee at Jubala Coffee (Downtown location)-try a breakfast sandwich and their pour-over while planning the day ahead.
Walk over to Moore Square to enjoy the morning light, local public art, and a few quiet minutes on a bench before the day crowds arrive.
Head to Peace at Publix for your scheduled visit; take time to tour the space, meet staff or participants if available, and learn about the program's mission and activities.
After Peace at Publix, stroll along Fayetteville Street toward the North Carolina Museum of History for a short exhibit visit focused on regional stories and artifacts.
Grab a mid-morning snack or light bite at Boulted Bread (nearby) - pick up a freshly baked pastry and a tea to savor before transitioning into afternoon plans.
Lunch at The Pit Authentic Barbecue to taste classic Carolina barbecue; order a platter with coleslaw and hushpuppies and enjoy the lively, communal dining room.
Walk off lunch with a visit to City Market, browsing artisan shops and local vendors while sampling small treats from nearby stalls.
Explore the contemporary exhibitions at CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum) and spend time with rotating installations and local artist showcases.
Take a short coffee break at Videri Chocolate Factory for hot chocolate or a specialty coffee and a house-made chocolate to pair with your drink.
Stroll through Dorothea Dix Park's central lawns for skyline views and a relaxed late-afternoon walk; find a quiet spot to watch the light shift over the city.
Stop by Raleigh City Market/State Farmers Market (if still open) to pick up local snacks or seasonal produce, or drop into a nearby shop for a souvenir.
Return toward downtown for an early evening light bite at Poole's Diner (bar or takeout) or enjoy a cocktail on a nearby patio to prepare for dinner elsewhere.
Ease into the evening with a craft cocktail on the patio at Gravy, enjoying people-watching and the warm Glenwood South ambiance before dinner.
Dine at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern (reserve ahead) to sample refined Southern dishes and seasonal plates in a historic mansion setting.
Catch live music or a show at The Ritz or check for indie performances at Lincoln Theatre, grabbing tickets in advance if a headliner is scheduled.
Stop for a nightcap and board-game-friendly atmosphere at The Cardinal Bar, where inventive cocktails and late-night small plates keep the conversation flowing.
Finish the night with a relaxed walk through illuminated Fayetteville Street and a final dessert or coffee pick-up from a nearby late-night spot before heading back to your lodging.