For departure day, we have one last
note about The Umstead: they partner
with Clean the World to donate any leftover
products to people less fortunate, so
say goodbye to your unused toiletries in
good conscience. Other green initiatives
include extensive recycling, use of hybrid
vehicle shuttle services, and a docking system
for guests’ electric cars.
Today’s adventure includes
connecting with nature, a casual
lunch, and the drive back home.
So, if you didn’t enjoy breakfast
at the hotel yesterday, today
offers a good chance to do so.
Then, dress casually and check
out. But it’s not time to leave
Raleigh just yet.
Drive to the neighboring,
William B. Umstead State
Park for an old-fashioned stroll
or strenuous hike, depending
on your mood and the shoes
you brought along. The park
has more than 5,000 acres
along Crabtree and Reedy
creeks. Meander along the
bike, walking and horse-riding
trails, admire water and woodsy views, and savor the
tranquility.
Just one more stop before you jump on
I-40—lunch.
Let this last meal in Raleigh be a casual affair with
a stop at the Irregardless Café. The café offers an
inventive selection of soups, salads and sandwiches
for lunch, with daily specials and a host of vegetarian,
36
WBM december 2011
vegan and gluten-free selections. The atmosphere
here is quaint but sophisticated, and very welcoming.
You’ll leave town with a full belly and a smile.
Nutty for New Year’s
If you plan this weekend around
New Year’s Eve, head to the Acorn
Drop instead of the Hurricane’s game,
and go to dinner at the Second
Empire Restaurant instead of its
tavern (don’t forget to make reservations).
The Acorn Drop is the culmination
of the annual First Night Raleigh
celebration. For 21 years, First Night
Raleigh’s street party, with a parade,
live music and performances, food
and souvenirs, rings in the New Year.
At 7:00 (for children) and again at
midnight, a 1,200-pound steel and
copper acorn descends for revelers.
Make it your first!
Day 3 | Sunday
Right: Bring your bike and
walking shoes and leave
a few hours to explore
William B. Umstead
State Park. Below: The
Irregardless Café has
served the freshest food
from local markets since
opening in 1975.
NC Division of Parks and Recreation by Jason Brown
Courtesy of GRCVB/visitRaleigh.com
Irregardless Café