We asked readers what came to mind as the most iconic Raleigh signs. Here are five signs we love to pass by.

The Longleaf Hotel

📍 300 N. Dawson St. | You know you've made it downtown when you see the "Long Live Longleaf" neon light. The hotel was originally built in the 1960s and was renovated in 2019, giving it a mid-century modern look. In 2022 (and again in 2024), Thrillist named it the coolest hotel in North Carolina.

The first Char-Grill opened on Hillsborough Street in 1959. | Photo by RALtoday

The original Char-Grill

📍 618 Hillsborough St. | This is where it all began. In 1959, restaurateur Bruce Garner opened the first Char-Grill ever. This location has been slingin' flame-cooked burgers ever since. As of October 2024, this staple is on the market for redevelopment.

Deco's neon sign was installed in November 2022. | Photo by @glas.work

DECO

📍 207 S. Salisbury St. | This quirky gift shop got a face lift in November 2022 to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. The star of the show is the new neon sign designed by the local makers at Glas.

Hungry for a hot dog? | Photo by RALtoday

The Roast Grill

📍 7 S. West St. | Get 'em while they're fresh. This 13-seat, hole-in-the-wall restaurant has been serving hot weiners since 1940. Check out seven more spots to grab a dawg in Raleigh.

The Krispy Kreme sign on Person Street. | Photo by RALtoday

Krispy Kreme

📍 549 N. Person St. | You already know where we'll be when the "hot now" sign lights up. This is where runners down one dozen glazed donuts during the annual Krispy Kreme Challenge, a charity race supporting UNC Children's Hospital.

Was your favorite sign left off the list? Give us a sign and maybe we’ll add five more.