Time flies when you’re having fun, Raleigh. And boy did we have fun in 20(twenty-fun). This year, we sent a total of 258 newsletters and posted around 700 posts on Instagram alone with the goal of keeping our community informed, activated + engaged.

Before we celebrate the beginning of a new year, we wanted to look back on the top RALtoday stories from 2021 + give a huge thank you to our readers and members of the community that made this year so spectacular.

The North Hills Innovation District is a $1 billion multi-phase project. | Courtesy of Kane Realty Corporation

1️⃣ 40+ places in Raleigh with heated patios | Published on Wed., Dec. 15

Our guide to some of the best heated patios in downtown Raleigh, North Hills + the surrounding areas.

2️⃣ The Gimghoul Castle in Chapel Hill, NC | Published on Wed., March 10

The history of UNC-Chapel Hill’s East Campus castle that is rumored to be haunted. Pro Tip: Don’t read this one in the dark.

3️⃣ A timeline of NC’s most iconic products | Published on Fri., Oct. 15

Have you ever wondered what iconic products have come from our state? Here’s a list — from Vick VapoRub to Bojangles.

4️⃣ Coming Soon: North Hills Innovation District | Published on Tues., Jan. 5

Everything you need to know about this 33-acre development featuring walkable trails, outdoor space + office buildings.

5️⃣ 9 speakeasy-style bars in Raleigh, NC | Published on Mon., July 26

Everyone loves a good, modern-day speakeasy. So, we rounded up nine located right here in Raleigh. Pro Tip: One even offers a whiskey of the week special.

6️⃣ 20+ places all taco lovers must try in Raleigh | Published on Wed., Jan. 27

In queso you don’t know, it’s completely acceptable to celebrate Taco Tuesday every day of the week — especially using this handy dandy guide to some of Raleigh’s best taco joints.

7️⃣ A history of the Village Underground in Raleigh, NC | Published on Tues., March 23

Take a glimpse into the past. In this story, we dissected the history of this complex of shops + music venues that dew talents like the Ramones and Pat Benetar.

8️⃣ 30+ ways to give back in Raleigh, NC | Published on Wed., Dec. 22

In this story, we rounded up ~three dozen organizations and causes to give your time to. There are even a few opportunities to give back right from your home.

9️⃣ A behind-the-scenes look at Boxyard RTP | Published on Tues., May 11

Boxyard RTP is an 18,000+ sqft development constructed from repurposed shipping containers at the Frontier RTP campus — 900 Park Offices Dr. Take a look at how the space went from shipping containers into a mixed-use development.

🔟 Raleigh’s 2021 holiday gift guide | Published on Fri., Nov. 5

Our city is full of local creators that have the perfect holiday gifts. Check out what made the 2021 list, from winemaking and tasting classes to the Pecan Crisp Sampler from Tonya’s Cookies.

And that’s a wrap on 2021. Happy New Year, Raleigh!