Things To Do In Raleigh, NC
From neon-soaked arcade games and craft cocktails to museums, breweries, and the best date-night spots in the city — here's your local guide to fun things to do in Raleigh.
The Best Way to Spend a Night Out in Raleigh
Raleigh has exploded into one of the most exciting cities in the Southeast, and the heart of its nightlife beats on Glenwood South. Whether you are a longtime local, a Triangle transplant, or just visiting the City of Oaks for the weekend, there is no shortage of fun things to do. But if you want an experience that mixes nostalgia, great drinks, friendly competition, and a genuinely unique atmosphere, Super Rad Retro Lounge sits right at the top of the list.
Super Rad is Raleigh's premier retro arcade bar — a place where over 30 fully restored classic arcade cabinets, nine real pinball machines, air hockey, and console gaming share the floor with a full bar of craft cocktails and local beer. It is family-friendly until 8 PM and becomes a 21+ adult playground after dark. Below, we have put together a guide to the best things to do in Raleigh, starting with our own neon corner of Glenwood South and branching out to the museums, breweries, parks, and date spots that make this city special.
Top Things To Do at Super Rad
One venue, a dozen different ways to have a great night.
Play 30+ Classic Arcades
Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Galaga, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, and Tetris — all fully restored with original boards and CRT monitors.
Hit the Pinball Row
Nine real pinball machines including Fish Tales, X-Files, and Pirates of the Caribbean. See pinball in Raleigh →
Battle at Air Hockey
Fast, competitive air hockey with weekly tournaments. More on air hockey →
Sip Craft Cocktails
A full bar of retro-inspired cocktails, local draft beer, and zero-proof options. See the drink menu →
Catch a Weekly Event
Retro trivia, themed nights, 80s and 90s parties, and tournaments. View the event calendar →
Soak in the Vibe
Neon lights, 90s and 2000s music, and the glow of CRT screens make for some of the best photo ops in Raleigh.
More Fun Things To Do Around Raleigh
Beyond the arcade — ideas for a full day or weekend in the City of Oaks.
Explore Glenwood South
Super Rad sits in the middle of Raleigh's most walkable nightlife district. Bounce between restaurants, rooftop bars, live music, and the arcade all in one night without ever moving your car.
Visit the Free Museums
The NC Museum of Natural Sciences and NC Museum of Art are both free and world-class — perfect for an afternoon before a night out downtown.
Tour Local Breweries
Raleigh's craft beer scene is thriving. Spend the day brewery-hopping, then cap the night with arcade games and cocktails at Super Rad.
Get Outside
Pullen Park, the JC Raulston Arboretum, and the Neuse River Greenway offer easy ways to enjoy Raleigh's mild weather before heading indoors.
Plan the Perfect Date
Skip the standard dinner-and-a-movie. An arcade bar gives you something to talk about and something to do. See date night ideas →
Throw a Party
Birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and corporate events all feel bigger with arcade games. Host a private event →
Why Super Rad Tops the List
Most things to do in Raleigh fall into one bucket: eat, drink, or watch. Super Rad lets you play. Every arcade cabinet and pinball machine is meticulously restored with original parts — no multi-cades, no reproductions — so you get the authentic experience these games were designed to deliver. Add a craft cocktail menu, weekly events, and a downtown location you can walk to, and it is easy to see why Super Rad has become a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Raleigh at night?
Glenwood South is the center of Raleigh's nightlife. Super Rad Retro Lounge offers arcade games, pinball, and craft cocktails in one spot, surrounded by restaurants, rooftop bars, and live music all within walking distance.
Are there fun indoor things to do in Raleigh?
Yes. Super Rad is a fully indoor retro arcade bar, ideal for rainy days, hot afternoons, or cold nights. You get 30+ arcade games, nine pinball machines, air hockey, and a full bar regardless of the weather.
Is Super Rad family-friendly?
Super Rad is family-friendly until 8 PM, after which it becomes a 21+ venue. Bring the kids early for arcade fun, or come later for the adult arcade-bar atmosphere.
Where is Super Rad located in Raleigh?
Super Rad Retro Lounge is at 106 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603, on Glenwood South in downtown Raleigh, just across from The Avenue.