Features

Pay it Forward: North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission

When Joe Gray was a teen, he took a life-changing senior class trip to Aspen, Colorado. Gray, who is visually impaired, attended the Tennessee School for the Blind. He traveled with his classmates to Aspen to learn how to ski with the help of instructors and guides. “That ski trip helped me to be more... Read More

Out & About in Wake County: March / April 2024

1. Carolina Ballet is excited to embark on a new world-premiere ballet set to the story of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid, featuring live music with a new score from composer Aaron Severini. The show will run from March 7–24 at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater in Raleigh. With brand-new sets and costumes, this... Read More
the ruins of St. Agnes Hospital

A Treasure Trove of History: St. Agnes Hospital

Now an abandoned shell of a building, St. Agnes Hospital is a largely forgotten but very important piece of African American history. Located on Saint Augustine’s University campus, the towering stone ruins and large, empty windows allow visitors and passersby a peek into what once was the most advanced hospital and nurse training center for... Read More

Food + Dining

The Depot on First in Knightdale

A revitalized historic home turned restaurant now offers Southern hospitality with panache and precision. The Depot on First, a new farm-to-table eatery in downtown Knightdale, melds vintage architecture with modern accompaniments to provide an intriguing destination dining experience. Proprietor Christopher Critzer purchased the early 1900s Sears, Roebuck and Co. house several years ago after considering... Read More

Celebrated Spirits: Hop on Top

Boasting a delightful combination of flavors with prominent notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and subtle hints of pine — courtesy of bountiful American hops such as Citra and Simcoe — Hop on Top manifests West Coast IPA excellence here in Raleigh. At 7% ABV and 55 IBU, the golden brew strikes a perfect balance. Elevate... Read More

Life + Style

Celebrating Women

International Women’s Day Expo Saturday, March 9, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free expo presents inspiring speakers, informative workshops, and exhibitors showcasing products and services that support women's well-being and women-owned businesses. Discuss the science of marketing, how to acquire funding, and local women’s success stories. Music by Shelby Jordan at 4 p.m.... Read More

Erica Chats: Outdoor Adventures

By this point in the year, with the holidays long behind us and summer still a few months away, I’m itching to go somewhere! It’s my birthday month, and I’m always more interested in experiences than tangible gifts, so an adventure is a must. I’ve requested to swim with sharks in Florida (again), and this... Read More

Home + Garden

Garden Adventurer: Dutch Treat: Keukenhof Gardens

When springtime arrives in all its visual glory, I occasionally cross The Big Pond to catch European gardens at their seasonal floral finest — and I’m rarely disappointed. Recently, I took a trip to the Netherlands, where flowering plants from fall-planted, spring-blooming bulbs are, simply put, national institutions. And in the Netherlands, the belle of... Read More

Garden Adventurer: The Other Magnolias

A southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) in full bloom on a hot, sultry summer day is quite a pleasant sight to see. But why wait until it gets steamy and sticky to see such a pretty display? There is a maverick band of magnolias that can’t even wait for the chilly air of a waning winter... Read More

travel

Staunton: The Gem of the Shenandoah Valley

Staunton, Virginia — known as the Queen City of the Shenandoah Valley — can best be described as a Hallmark movie come to life. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic farmland, this fantastically walkable town is known for its magnificently preserved architecture, idyllic main street, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Over the years,... Read More

Road Tripping for Success

Since 2019, my husband George and I have logged over 50,000 fun miles traversing the beautiful continental United States. We have traveled in SUVs, rental cars, a 1982 Volkswagen Westfalia, and a 2020 Dodge Ram ProMaster conversion van. Getting out on the road is life-changing; each trip has rewards and challenges. You will realize how... Read More

On Trend

On Trend: Never Stop Exploring

It’s time to detach from your devices, quiet your mind, and embrace self-care by connecting with nature. Hiking isn’t just a walk in the park; it’s a journey to a healthier, stress-free lifestyle. So venture out on a trail, breathe in the fresh air, and savor the natural trails Western Wake County has to offer.... Read More

On Trend: Strengthening Your Body, Mind, and Social Crew

This year's fitness vibe is all about blending exercise with socializing, paving the way for a journey that amps up wellbeing, strength, and your social squad! I’d like to introduce you to the greatness of Barre-Up! Wrap your bands around your enthusiasm because this movement studio with a social dimension is the path to your... Read More