Mapping the path

North Carolina State Capitol

After a drive of about 75 minutes from Greensboro, we arrived at the heart of Raleigh, stopping at the State Capitol, a Greek Revival building constructed in 1833. Its primary statuary include a tribute to the native U.S. presidents -- Andrew Jackson, James Polk, and Andrew Johnson; and a Vietnam Veterans Memorial dedicated in 1987.

North Carolina Museum of History

Dad and I both love history, and we spent plenty of time on this trip in history museums throughout the Carolinas. None were better than the impressive North Carolina Museum of History, with nuanced displays covering everything from native inhabitants to pirates, plantations, war, reconstruction, industry, and innovation.

Bicentenntial Plaza

The Bicentennial Plaza connects the Capitol building with the History Museum and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Side Street Restaurant

We stopped for sandwiches at the Side Street Restaurant, a quaint neighborhood spot to rest up and recharge for the second half of the day.

North Carolina Museum of Art

We found a pleasant way to end the sightseeing day at the North Carolina Museum of Art, a large and eclectic collection of art housed in 40 peaceful, airy galleries.