Now that the warmer temps are here to stay (but before it gets too hot), we’re planning to get outside as much as possible. In fact, we’ve made an itinerary for spending an entire day outdoors in Raleigh without having to head inside until night falls.

Morning

Start your day by heading to one of these local coffee shops — we're prioritizing the patios at Black & White, Left Hook, and Morning Times.

City Editor Cat likes working outside at The Morning Times. | Photo by RALtoday

From there, rent a bike via Cardinal Bikeshare (there’s probably a station near whichever coffee shop you choose) and ride through Dix Park, Pullen Park, downtown, or near NC State. If you trek through Dix, stop by Gipson Play Plaza and the House of Many Porches market.

Afternoon

Depending on where you end your ride, we’ve got lunch options with outdoor patios. If you park the bike at...

Davie and Dawson streets | Whiskey Kitchen

Hillsborough and Harrington streets | Morgan Street Food Hall or Taverna Agora

Chavis Way | Transfer Co. Food Hall

Gateway Plaza | Giorgios Epicurean Market or Snoopy's Hot Dogs

The Transfer Co. Food Hall patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a Benchwarmers bagel. | Photo by RALtoday

After eating, spend the afternoon window shopping throughout downtown. We're partial to Deco, Copperline Plant Co., and Curate for some fun finds — and we won't tell if you sneak inside to buy a local souvenir to commemorate your outdoorsy day.

Evening

All that time outside makes you thirsty, huh? Grab a drink at one of these bars and breweries with outdoor seating — we can’t say no to a brew at Raleigh Beer Garden. Plus, this Guinness World Record-holder now has mini golf for more fun in the sun.

This concert series will take place on one Wednesday per month starting May 21. | Photos courtesy of Downtown Raleigh Alliance

End your day outdoors by heading to an outdoor concert, like Live After 5, the Midtown Beach Music Series, or a show at Red Hat Amphitheater.

Workday tips

Stuck behind a screen when the weather’s nicest? Bring the laptop outdoors to one of these spots with internet and make all your coworkers jealous on calls.