Raleigh travel guide

Located in a gorgeously restored building in downtown Raleigh, this city landmark offers an amazing selection of beers (try one of their Belgian selection) and a delicious menu (the BBQ Pork Nachos are my favorite!)

Hubby and I were desperate to get out of the mom-in-law's house. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences was open so we plotted to spend the day a way. And it was free, if you don't count the $3 we spent on parking at the garage. We both agreed that our favorite exhibit was the Alaska section. They had a fine collection of photographs that reminded us of our own Alaskan vacation we took last year. I'm looking forward to visiting next month because they're having a shark exhibit.

I guess this jazz spot is new to the shopping center, but they definitely have something going for them already. After paying a small cover charge at the door we discovered a huge dance party inside. Couples were swing-dancing and slow dancing in front of the stage, in a beautiful blue light. After dancing we decided to find a booth seat and try something to eat. We weren't even hungry but we had to try Pappy's Jambalaya. It was spicy and very authentic.

A friend recommended Charlie's to us for good, up-and-coming comedy acts. We didn't think to buy our seats in advance so the view was kind of crummy. I don't recall the name of the comedian but he was so funny that I almost wet my pants. Sorry, but it's the truth. We heard if you eat at the restaurant you'll get better seating. I guess next time we'll come hungry and front the charge. My roommate at times felt the comedy was too crude. So beware, maybe don't bring your parents here.

What a date! By the end of our meal at the Bloomsbury Bistro I was ready to die.... and go to heaven. I ate an obscene amount of food! The butternut squash bisque with blue cheese was mouth-watering. The local honey with the the sweet potato puree kicked the pork tenderloin up to God knows where. The prices here were slightly expensive but you'll definitely get what you pay for. All the ingredients were purchased locally and you can definitely taste that fact in the food.