Cosmetic Creators to Take Over Raleigh

Executive DirectorHSCG Annual ConferenceLeave a Comment

With just over a week before soapmakers, cosmetic crafters, suppliers, and supporters flood into Raleigh, our thoughts turn to entertainment options in our host city (naturally). You may be too busy to step foot outside the hotel during the conference, but Raleigh is well worth exploring if you are staying in town a few extra days.

Downtown

We have a few ideas to add on to the tons of great itinerary ideas from the Visitors Bureau:

There are lots of different ways to get around downtown, including segways, horse-drawn carriages, and even a free electric-powered bus, but Executive Director Leigh O’Donnell recommends taking the rickshaws. While you’re there, eat at highly acclaimed The Pit. Leigh warns, “Bring your appetite, though!!” Top off your evening with a concert at Lincoln Theater.

If shopping is more your style, you’ll find Jerry’s Artarama less than half a mile from the hotel. For a great outdoor stroll (and live music Thursday nights!), head to nearby North Hills mall.

City-Sanctioned Fun:  Raleigh, NC

Museums abound, and many are less than 5 miles from the hotel. While at the N.C. Museum of Art, check out the outdoor exhibits, which connect with the city’s greenway trail.

Peruse the N.C. Museum of History, then head down the street to check out the fossilized dinosaur heart at the  N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences. Costumed docents will lead you on a tour of the birthplace of Raleigh at the Joel Lane House Museum. From there, it’s a quick trip to Locopops for some  wildly flavored popsicles (Mojito on a stick, anybody?). Even better, buy Howling Cow, whose locally produced ice cream comes from NC State’s Ag and Life Sciences College.

Duke Gardens

If you have time for a longer trek, member Robin Hasty recommends a stroll through the gorgeous Sarah P. Duke Gardens and Duke University Chapel and Bell Tower, both in Durham, about a half hour from downtown Raleigh. While there, grab a bite to eat at Watts Grocery.

We can’t wait to see you in Raleigh…just 9 more days!

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