The Ultimate Girls’ Day Out in Raleigh

One of my favorite things to do is spend time with my girlfriends and I enjoy any opportunity to spend time with them exploring Raleigh. The City of Oaks has such much to offer, so I am excited to share an itinerary for the Ultimate Girls’ Day Out in Raleigh. Whether you are a local and looking for something new to try or in town checking out our charming city, here is an itinerary to try fun things and enjoy your time together!

The Ultimate Girls’ Day Out in Raleigh

Meet for Coffee & a Pastry at Layered Croissanterie

Grab a cup of coffee or a cup of tea and a pastry from Layered Croissanterie to kick off your day. They have such an excellent and unique variety of pastries! It’s a fun spot to start your day and they offer online ordering so you can order in advance, pick up your order, and enjoy in a local park. The pain au chocolat is a tried and true favorite and if the tiramisu cruffin is on the menu, you have to order it!

Layered Croissanterie is located at 911 N West Street Suite 107, Raleigh.

Get pampered with a Manicure & Pedicure

One of my favorite ways to relax is with a good manicure and pedicure. There are several spots that are equal parts cozy and beautiful for a girls’ day. A couple of my favorite locations include Vudu Nail Salon (705 Tucker St) or Paintbase Nail Bar (4351-113 The Cir At N Hills St). Be sure to book your services in advance online! 

Get Smooth Tresses with a Blowout

A blowout is one of those rare treats I love for a girls’ outing and the Dry Bar location in Midtown makes for a great spot to relax and treat yourself!

Located at 1111 Mercantile Dr Suite 100.

Have Lunch at Side Street Restaurant

Side Street Restaurant is a Raleigh staple and has been in Oakwood since 1979. They feature delicious salads and sandwich options with cute names! It’s a great spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch and don’t forget to try their dessert! For more ladies who lunch spots in Raleigh, check out this article.

Side Street is located at 225 N Bloodworth St.

Support Local Shops

After lunch, browse some of the locally owned shops downtown including Edge of Urge, the shops in the Village District, or those in North Hills.

Grab a Glass of Wine (or Frosé) from Vita Vite

Vita Vite is one of my favorite spots to grab a glass of wine. You can also grab a snack (their pimiento cheese is divine!) and relax a little bit. There are two locations, one in downtown Raleigh and one in North Hills. So, depending on where you finish your shopping, you can pop in to unwind a little bit before dinner! If you go during the summertime, definitely try the frosé! Also, be sure to take some time to explore the artwork and gift items.

Vita Vite is located at 313 W Hargett St (downtown) and 200 Park at N Hills St #130 (North Hills).

Enjoy a Leisurely Dinner at Tonbo Ramen

For dinner, Tonbo Ramen is an excellent option. Their pan-fried dumplings are a great starter to share and their seafood ramen is outstanding. And be sure to order one of their adult slushies to enjoy with your meal!

Tonbo Ramen is located at 211 S Wilmington St.

Finish with Dessert

Finish your day out with dessert from one of the places downtown! There is Videri Chocolate Factory (327 W Davie St), bittersweet (16 E Martin St) or Raleigh Rolls (in Morgan St. Food Hall).

For more fun spots, check out some of my favorite hidden gems around Raleigh.

This post was originally published in 2017 and has since been updated and recirculated for 2023. 

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What would you want to do for the ultimate girls’ day out in Raleigh?