What’s New in Raleigh: Top Attractions Coming in 2025 and Beyond

Raleigh, North Carolina is growing fast—and with that growth comes an exciting wave of new attractions, parks, entertainment venues, and family-friendly destinations. Whether you're a local, a newcomer, or thinking about moving to the Triangle, there’s something fresh and fun just around the corner.

Here’s a look at the top new things to do in and around Raleigh—some just opened, others coming soon!

🌳 New Parks and Outdoor Escapes

Gibson Play Plaza at Dix Park (Opening Spring 2025)

Set to be one of the most anticipated parks in Raleigh, the Gibson Play Plaza is part of the broader Dix Park expansion just south of downtown. Spanning 18+ acres, it will include a waterfall, climbing towers, sensory maze, play gardens, and a swing terrace. The city also plans to integrate it seamlessly with downtown Raleigh, making it a central hub for outdoor fun.

Beech Bluff County Park

A hidden gem in southern Wake County, Beech Bluff County Park offers a peaceful retreat with agriculture-themed learning areas, playgrounds, and woodland trails with scenic boardwalks. It’s ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone needing a quiet break from city life.

🧗‍♂️ Fitness & Recreation Hotspots

Triangle Rock Club at Raleigh Iron Works

This brand-new climbing and fitness center offers something for everyone—from beginners to experienced climbers. With massive walls, a full gym, and group classes, it’s become a go-to fitness destination in the heart of the revitalized Raleigh Iron Works.

Pinpoint Raleigh: Pickleball + Golf + Drinks

Located just south of downtown, Pinpoint is an indoor sports hub featuring:

• Indoor pickleball courts

• 8 golf simulators

• A 3,600 sq ft short game area

• 2 full-service bars
  With tournaments, casual play, and social vibes, it’s perfect for both seasoned athletes and weekend warriors.

Swing Racket + Paddle (Coming 2026)

This 44-acre facility in North Raleigh is currently under construction and will include:

• 80 indoor and outdoor courts for tennis, pickleball, paddle ball, and beach tennis

• A ping-pong lounge
  While there’s no official opening date yet, it’s expected to become one of the region’s largest racquet sport destinations.

⛳ Golf-Inspired Fun & Mini Golf Attractions

Hop Shots Mini Golf

Located next to the Raleigh Beer Garden, Hop Shots is a casual, fun-filled venue combining mini golf, yard games, and craft drinks. It even made 10Best.com’s list of the Top 10 New Attractions in the U.S. for 2024!

ParTee Shack (North Raleigh, Opening April 2025)

This quirky indoor golf and gaming center includes:

• Three themed 18-hole mini golf courses (think putting under the Hulk’s legs or inside a school bus)

• VR laser tag

• Duck pin bowling

• Food, drinks, and more
  Already a hit in South Raleigh, the new North Raleigh location promises even more fun.

🎮 New Indoor Entertainment Destinations

Andretti Karting & Games (Coming 2025)

Located near Topgolf and RTP, this long-awaited venue will feature:

• Indoor go-karts

• VR gaming

• Arcade experiences
  Construction is ongoing, but excitement is building for its debut.

Battle House Laser Tag (Wake Forest)

With two levels, realistic-style equipment, and game modes like Capture the Flag, this is one of the best tactical laser tag experiences in the Triangle.

Jaguar Bolera at Raleigh Iron Works

This vibrant space combines:

• Duck pin bowling

• Foosball, darts, karaoke

• A Mexican-American food menu

• Self-serve beer/wine taps
  It’s a stylish hangout for groups, dates, or happy hour.

Cannonball Music Hall

Also at Raleigh Iron Works, this intimate venue gives local musicians a platform to shine. Enjoy great live music with your favorite beverage in a chill, welcoming environment.

🍺 Aviator Brewing Expansion – Fuquay-Varina

The Aviator campus is turning Fuquay-Varina into a destination for food, music, and beer lovers. In addition to the main restaurant, plans include:

• A concert venue

• Multiple themed bars

• A German-style beer garden
  It’s a major win for this fast-growing Raleigh suburb.

🦖 Family Attractions & Museum Expansions

Dueling Dinosaurs at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences

One of downtown Raleigh’s coolest new exhibits lets you peek into a real paleontology lab. Examine actual T-Rex and Triceratops fossils believed to have died mid-battle—an incredible experience, especially for kids. Best of all? It’s free.

Kidzu Children’s Museum Expansion (Chapel Hill)

Kidzu is expanding onto 40+ acres, adding outdoor learning zones, an amphitheater, and a nature pavilion. Phase 1 opens summer 2025, with full completion expected over five years.

Marbles Kids Museum Expansion (Raleigh, Opening 2026)

Marbles will add a two-story wing with three new exhibits:

• Futuropolis – A hands-on, future-focused experience

• Marble Skyway – A rooftop racetrack for kids

• Think Tank – A multi-purpose classroom space
  Despite early funding concerns, the museum is moving ahead with the expansion.

✨ Final Thoughts

The Raleigh area is booming with exciting new experiences—from thrilling sports facilities and mini golf madness to groundbreaking museums and music halls. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, 2025 and beyond is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic periods of growth for the Triangle.

Want to keep up with the latest in Raleigh real estate and local hotspots?
👉 Contact our team if you're thinking about buying or selling—we’d love to help you feel at home in one of the fastest-growing areas in the U.S.

And don’t miss our video on the top developments in each of Raleigh’s suburbs for even more updates!