Cheap flights to Raleigh (RDU)

When you book flights to Raleigh prepare to be captivated by history. Starting from North Carolina’s secession from the union in 1861, this city played a pivotal part in the nation’s past. 

Today, you can stroll down Raleigh’s attractive boulevards and tree-shaded streets and bask in the warm glow of the North Carolina sun. Beautiful homes span all over the green landscape here, with a well-to-do demeanor and a peaceful charm. With six college campuses nearby, you’ll get a heavy dose of brainy kids in hooded sweatshirts that know exactly where the local watering holes are. The big ticket school here is North Carolina State University, so if you’re cheering for the Wolfpack, then you’re on the right track. 

Durham and Chapel Hill are close by and make for easy side trips. Whether Raleigh is your final destination, or simply a stop on your way to another city, make sure you get the most out of your stay here, because your vacation to Raleigh has more to offer than you think.

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Raleigh climate

All year round Raleigh’s climate is blessed with sunny summers (June to August) and mild winters (December to February) so there’s no bad time to book Raleigh flights. If you’re traveling in the summer, expect glorious temperatures in the 70s and 80s, and in the winter, cooler days in the 30s and 40s. Although snow sometimes falls in January, it’s never to an uncomfortable degree, or damaging to plans. North Carolina’s distinct shoulder seasons of spring and fall are the perfect transition periods between hot and cool. Temperatures normally stay between the 50s and 60s, creating a perfectly pleasant atmosphere for golfing, strolling or al fresco dining.

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Best Time to Fly to Raleigh

To make the most of the outdoors, book flights to Raleigh in the late spring and early summer, when the sun is out, the weather is warm, and rain showers are few and far between.

Peak Season:

The best time to book flights to Raleigh is in the late spring and early summer. Especially if you’re packing the clubs on your Raleigh flight, the warm weather will certainly bring a smile to your face as you venture on to the gold course. Early summer, the warm, dry weather is perfect for morning walks, and outdoor shopping, and night-time brings balmy conditions and breezy sunsets.

Off-peak Season: 

Winter here is mild, and although it’s not treacherous or too cold, less travelers book Raleigh flights during the cooler season because of the strain on outdoor activities. If you’re not a golfer though, or plan on being in town for business or culture, then you’ll be able to find deals on hotels or cheap flights to Raleigh during the off-season.

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Getting around Raleigh

The most convenient way to get around Raleigh is to rent a car. You’ll be able to travel on your own schedule. Traffic can be busy and parking tough, so drive between peak hours for an easier time. When you’re in town, take the local bus and trolley service, which are run by Capital Area Transit on a routine schedule. To get beyond Raleigh, look into taking an Amtrak train or a Greyhound bus.    

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Raleigh Travel Information

Lake Wheeler: More than 60 acres of parkland is enough to satisfy any nature lover booking flights to Raleigh. Whether you’re in the mood to sail, row, or kayak, the waters here are absolutely beautiful, not to mention tempting. If you’re looking to fish, then this is the place to reel them in hook, line, and sinker. From sunrise to sunset, people are on the water, or on land hiking, trekking, and wandering. If you book flights to Raleigh in the summer, then be sure to catch one of the open air concerts for just US$5.

Artsplosure: The name sounds funny, but it’s actually pretty accurate. This living anthology of expression does really feel a bit like an explosion of art in more than a few ways. When you book flights to Raleigh in May, you’ll see how the excellence in performing and visual arts is brought together in one place by national, regional, and local artists. More than 250 artists gather in Moore Square Park in downtown, where 70,000 people crowd around to see and purchase artwork. Six annual prizes are awarded for best in show, and live music and activities for children occur all day long. Best of all – it’s free.

The State Capitol: If you’re a history buff booking flights to Raleigh, then the State Capitol is where you need to be. Decked in Greek revival architecture, and built in 1833, this national historic landmark houses the governor and lieutenant governor. The 97-foot copper dome and the duplicate of Antonio Canova’s marble statue of George Washington are worth bringing your camera for photo ops. If you’re interested in taking a tour, make sure to reserve yours in advance. Tours typically last from 30 to 45 minutes.

Shopping: As tempting as outdoor excursions and historic landmarks can be, sometimes you can’t resist taking a day just to shop. When you book flights to Raleigh, you’ll experience the haute and up and coming stores, boutiques and collections that are enough to make any righteous consumer swoon. Antique stores are at their best here, especially on Fairview Road. Five Points and Regency Antiques are two galleries that have been known for exceptional selections on 19th and 20th century American, English, and European items. If you do purchase something, be sure to pack carefully for your return Raleigh flight.

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