Raleigh: What Makes The ‘Smithsonian of the South’ So Unique

Raleigh is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Raleigh has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Did you know that Raleigh is often called the "Smithsonian of the South?" That's because the city is home to a number of museums, including the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of Art and the North Carolina Museum of History.
• If you're a fan of craft beer, you might be surprised to learn that Raleigh has several breweries within the city limits. From big names like Raleigh Brewing Company to smaller, more experimental breweries like Brewery Bhavana, there's a brew for every taste.
• Did you know that Raleigh was once the site of a major Civil War battle? The Battle of Raleigh took place on April 13, 1865, just days before the end of the war.
• Raleigh is also home to the world's largest collection of roses. The Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden features over 1,200 roses of all colors and varieties, making it a popular spot for weddings, picnics and strolls.
• If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, you should check out the Raleigh Flea Market. Held every Saturday and Sunday at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, this massive market features hundreds of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts to fresh produce. You never know what you'll find!

What's your favorite thing about Raleigh? Let us know below in the comments!

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