If you’re looking for a little getaway right in the heart of Raleigh, the Heights House offers a charming and cozy retreat with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a local seeking a short break or a visitor wanting to explore the city’s vibrant culture, this staycation plan offers the perfect balance of relaxation, good food, and local adventure.
We recently planned our Raleigh staycation to celebrate our 14th anniversary that focused on exploring more of our area. We made reservations at the stunning Heights House, a place that has been on my bucket list forever and dinner reservations at one of our favorite local restaurants—one we don’t visit often enough due to its distance from home. The combination of a dreamy stay and an indulgent meal made for a perfect way to mark this special milestone and one that I hope you will consider planning if you are local or visiting the area. (Or perhaps you need a gift idea for that someone that is hard to buy for but loves experiences over things. This is it!)
Our check-in lead to a tour of the beautiful home, a brief history lesson and fun facts shared about the curated collection of furnishings within Heights House and how it came to be what it is today. Be sure to get a tour and history of the property when you check in.
Here is a suggested itinerary that is loosely based off of our experience.
Evening Kick-off: Cocktail Hour at Heights House
Start your evening with a drink in the beautifully restored parlor of Heights House. The intimate setting, paired with expertly crafted cocktails, sets the perfect tone for a relaxing night out. The mixologists here know their craft, and whether you’re in the mood for a classic or something a little more daring, you’ll be well taken care of.
The drink menu is set within vintage books. The attention to detail throughout the property was curated by the owners. Be sure to get a tour and history of the property when you check in.
After your cocktail, it’s time to head over to Brewery Bhavana. This award-winning restaurant combines craft beer, dim sum, and an elegant atmosphere to create a dining experience that’s both unique and satisfying. The food is creative and full of flavor, with dim sum options that are perfect for sharing.
For those who are gluten sensitive, there are numerous items that are gluten free. Make sure to try their bao buns and dumplings paired with a cold beer from their in-house brewery, my husbands go-to. I tend to stick to the wine. It’s a standout dining option for any Raleigh staycation.
Morning After: Breakfast and Coffee at Heights House
Start your next day with a delicious breakfast at Heights House. The inn offers a range of breakfast options, from fresh pastries to hearty favorites, all thoughtfully prepared to kickstart your day, all included in your stay. Enjoy it while relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of this beautifully restored home.
A Morning Stroll into Downtown Raleigh
After breakfast, head out for a leisure walk into downtown Raleigh. It’s a beautiful way to see the city and enjoy the fresh air before diving into the local scene.
Coffee at A Place at the Table
Your first stop? A Place at the Table, a nonprofit coffee shop that does more than just serve excellent coffee. This café’s mission is to provide a “pay what you can” model for its meals and drinks, meaning you can grab a coffee to go, and even purchase a meal for someone else. It’s a feel-good stop that supports the local community while also giving you that caffeine boost.
Explore Downtown Raleigh
From there, take a casual stroll along Fayetteville Street, stopping in local shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Raleigh is known for its mix of modern flair and historical charm, and this walk offers the perfect opportunity to explore.
One of my favorite finds on our recent staycation was Copperline Plant Co.. I’m growing my plant collection at home so it was nice to explore different varieties and chat with the shop owner to learn more.
Dinner Options for a Raleigh Date Night
If you’re looking for more date night ideas beyond a stay at Heights House, here are a few options that offer delicious food and drinks in different parts of the city:
Option 1: Drinks at Jolie, Dinner at Crawford and Sons
Start your evening with a drink at Jolie, a stylish spot offering craft cocktails in a chic atmosphere. Their rooftop is the perfect setting to catch a sunset. Be sure to make reservations. Once you’ve sipped your way through their menu, head to Crawford and Sons for dinner. Again, make reservations ahead of time. This upscale restaurant features modern American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect dishes that are both inventive and beautifully plated but most of all, delicious. I promise, you’ll talk about your meal for weeks to come.
Option 2: Whiskey Kitchen, City Market Sushi & Dessert at Bitter Sweet
For a more casual yet equally delightful evening, begin with drinks and apps at Whiskey Kitchen. This lively bar offers a fantastic selection of whiskey and craft cocktails, perfect for sipping before dinner. They also offer a creative menu that combines Southern-inspired dishes if you want to linger longer before dinner.
Then, make your way to City Market Sushi in Moore Square for fresh sushi and tasty rolls. To cap off your evening, walk over to Bitter Sweet for dessert. This local favorite serves decadent treats, from cakes to ice cream, all with a creative twist.
Whether you’re planning a full staycation or just looking for a fun date night, Raleigh offers a wealth of experiences that combine good food, great drinks, and plenty of local flavor. A night at Heights House or any of these recommended date-night spots will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to explore even more of what this vibrant city has to offer.
I hope you will feel inspired to plan a local staycation for your next special occasion. Too often we can feel pressured to travel far to have a magical experience but sometimes we just need to stay close to home and explore the wonderful options that are just outside our doorstep, or a short drive away.
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