When thinking of the Research Triangle (also known as the Triangle) in North Carolina, it isn’t always a must-see destination for travelers. However, with its great beer, basketball prowess, and a plethora of outdoor activities, it is no wonder real estate experts now rank the Triangle in North Carolina #3 in United States for people wanting to relocate. So, get ready to cross off a few bucket list items with all the amazing things to do in the Triangle, North Carolina.

It’s a Mecca for Basketball Lovers

If you love basketball then there is no doubt that the Triangle, North Carolina is a must-see destination. This is evident during March Madness as schools like Duke, U.N.C.-Chapel Hill, and N.C. State often hold the top spots in their bracket. Whether you go to watch a live game or decide to explore the The Carolina Basketball Museum you won’t be disappointed with everything basketball the Triangle has to offer.

HOT TIP: Admission is free Tuesday-Saturday at The Carolina Basketball Museum

See the Autumn Leaves Change

Seeing the Autumn leaves change colors is definitely an item on many people’s bucket list. But most people think they have to either go driving in New England or sit on the porch of a luxury hotel in Gatlinburg. Howeveer, there is just something about walking on a picture-perfect fall day around the Triangle of North Carolina. With variations of gold, red, and orange engulfing the area, you will be truly amazed. So, if this is on your bucket list, you will definitely want to head to the Triangle no earlier than mid-October.

Drink Craft Beer

If a beercation is on your bucket list, then a trip to the Triangle should be your next destination. With 200+ craft breweries, it is evident why North Carolina is the “State of Southern Beer” and the Triangle his home to a large percentage of that number. In the Triangle, North Carolina a true beer connoisseur could spend weeks touring and still not try all of them. A few of the best spots for tasting a delicious variety include:

• Raleigh Brewing Company – They offer a brewery tour the first and third Saturday each month.
• Fullsteam Bewery – Instead of “Farm to Table” Fullsteam Brewery follows a “plow to pint” philosophy – using only local produce to make their beers.
• Sam’s Quik Shop – With one of the largest selections in the country, this old gas station is now North Carolina’s largest and oldest craft-beer store.
• Carolina Brewery – Since 1995, Carolina Brewery has been awarded over 100 awards for brewing excellency. You will see why with their wide range of thirst-quenching beers. Experience their look special behind-the-scenes via free Brewery Tours & Tastings on Saturdays.
• Crank Arm Brewing Company – This fun bike-themed independent brewery focuses on unfiltered great tasting beer.

Go to some of the Biggest Film Festivals in the World

When thinking about film festivals, the Cannes Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, and the Tribeca Film Festival are definitely on most people’s bucket list. However, some of the biggest film festivals are now taking place in the Triangle, North Carolina. Whether you are a budding actor, filmmaker, or just an avid cinephile, there are some major film festivals in the Triangle you should know:

• The Carrboro Film Festival – This two day celebration in November, for the past 12 years, has been showcasing short films, feature films, narratives documentaries, and every film genre in between.
• North Carolina Gay & Lesbian Film Festival – Since 1995, the second largest gay, lesbian and transgender film festival in the Southeast, has featured an array of shorts, documentaries and feature films every August.
• Nevermore Film Festival – This film competition festival every February showcases more than 500 features and shorts from around the world. The festival highlights horror, science fiction, dark fantasy, animation, mystery/suspense, and action-thrillers films.
• Full Frame Documentary Film Festival – This annual international festival is dedicated to the theatrical exhibition of nonfiction cinema. For four days every April, they showcase nearly 100 films in historic downtown Durham, North Carolina.

See A Bald Eagle at Jordan Lake

If seeing a Bald Eagle in the wild is on your bucket list, then you will want to head to Jordan Lake in the Triangle, North Carolina. With plenty of fish to eat and a mature forest for roosting, the majestic symbol of the United States can be seen throughout the area during the summer. While watching for bald eagles, take some time to have some fun with the many things to do in Jordan Lake State Park, such swimming and camping.

Go Ziplining

There is something about soaring through the air at speeds up to 35 mph on a zip-line that is good for the soul, especially in a beautiful area. Xtreme Zipline helps share that thrill of zipping through 3,000 feet across 10 lines all ending with a free fall drop from a 60 ft tower! Don’t fret though if zip-lining isn’t your thing. Xtreme Park also offers outdoor laser tag, air-soft, paintball, and other fun activities across its 50-acre park.

Go Hiking in the Beautiful Outdoors

There are miles of hiking trails in the Triangle area of North Carolina, perfect for all fitness levels and anyone wanting to explore the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you are walking the many protected Greenways or hiking 24 miles of trails around Eno River State Park, you will find some of most scenic walks in the area.

Take a Guided Tour with locals in the Triangle Area

Have you ever been to the Triangle area of North Carolina? Which of the things to do in the North Carolina Triangle is your favorite? Have we left out any other Bucket List Things to Do in the Triangle, North Carolina that you would recommend? Let us know in the comments below!

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