With a small-town feel, but close to all the big-city conveniences, Wake Forest is a popular and fast-growing suburb in the metro Raleigh area. It’s a town rich in history and culture, and there’s always something new to explore and learn.

Best Things to Do in Wake Forest, NC

1) Wake Forest Historical Museum

Focused on local history, theWake Forest Historical Museumis housed in a 19th century mansion, and includes the preserved home of the town’s founder and beautifully-landscaped gardens. Visitors can learn about the founding of Wake Forest College and the town’s rich history through rare photos, exhibits, and artifacts.

2) Wake Forest Renaissance Center for the Arts

TheWake Forest Renaissance Centeris a cultural arts and event venue that hosts a variety of exhibits, concerts, plays, recitals, and conferences. From renowned jazz singers and local artists to junior robotics camps and painting classes, the lineup is full, exciting, and ever expanding. 

3) Friday Night on White

This free, outdoor music series is held every second Friday of the month from April through September in downtown Wake Forest. In addition to live music of multiple genres, there’s food and beer trucks and fun activities for everyone in the family atFriday Night on White.

4) Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Falls Lakeis a serene, undeveloped, 12,000-acre reservoir where visitors can camp, swim, fish, boat, and paddleboard. A series of trails surrounding the lake offer great hiking and biking opportunities to take in the gorgeous North Carolina landscape.

5) Downtown Shopping

Also known as the Renaissance Area, downtown Wake Forest is quaint, walkable, and has a wide variety of specialty shops to explore. From home furnishings and collectibles atThe Cotton Company, to locally produced art and jewelry (and a spot of tea!) at theSugar Magnolia Cafe and Emporium, downtown is an ideal destination to enjoy a beautiful afternoon.

6) E. Carroll Joyner Park

Spend a relaxing day at 117-acreJoyner Parktouring restored buildings from the original working farm, walking or cycling the 3 miles of paved trails, strolling through formal gardens, fishing in the pond, or enjoying live, outdoor concerts and events. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this recently redeveloped green space. 

7) White Street Brewing Company

North Carolina has become a destination for beer aficionados from around the world, and Wake Forest holds its own.White Street Brewing Companyoffers three collections of craft beer, all brewed onsite and ready to be sampled in their spacious taproom.

8) Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs

This 100-year-old family business has made just about every “best of Wake Forest” list, and locals and visitors alike can’t get enough. The iconicShorty’soffers perfectly-grilled, traditional Jesse Jones Hot Dogs with fresh toppings, along with sandwiches, burgers, and a secret recipe homemade chili that goes great on everything. 

9) Wake Forest Farmers Market

The 20-year-runningWake Forest Farmers Marketsells fresh, locally grown and made food and products like vegetables, microgreens, meats, mushrooms, honey, cut flowers, plants, and more. It operates every Saturday in downtown Wake Forest from 8 a.m. to noon.

10) Heritage Golf Course

This classically-designedHeritage Golf Courseoffers natural elevations, creeks, and lakes and is challenging but fun for players of all ages and skill levels. There’s a clubhouse with a full-service bar and restaurant, along with a driving range and putting green to warm-up before tee time.

If you love the charm, beauty, and endless entertainment and recreation options of Wake Forest, there’s no reason to leave.Blanton’s Creek, an exclusive new community just minutes from Falls Lake, offers 25 estate-style homes, and all the peace, quiet, and privacy you could ask for. Homesites are 1 to 4 acres of unique topography including rolling hills, woods and ponds. No two homes – or homesites – are alike. 

For more information on The Home of Your Life at Blanton’s Creek in Wake Forest, please contact us at 919-500-7766.