The second annual Dreamville Festival, hosted by rapper and NC-native J. Cole, is coming to Raleigh April 2nd & 3rd. Thousands of fans from across the country will flock to the historic Dorothea Dix Park to watch their favorite musical artists perform live less than 2 miles away from the heart of NC’s capital city: Downtown Raleigh. 
Downtown is a convenient and central location for Dreamville attendees to spend their time away from festival grounds. It’s a vibrant center of activity home to a thriving creative culture and small business community.
Dreamville Festival describes itself as a “one-of-a-kind celebration of local culture, food, and art.” So in the spirit of Dreamville’s love for all things local, we put together this guide of unique, locally-owned businesses and attractions for festival-goers visiting Downtown Raleigh.
Learn more about Dreamville Festival from Visit Raleigh.
"Buy U a Drank" – T-Pain
Order a drink (or two) at one of these fun downtown bars & nightlife concepts.
Johnson Street Yacht Club
Ruby Deluxe
Slim’s Downtown Distillery
The Architect Bar and Social House
The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop
The Village Raleigh
Zenith Raleigh
Find more bars & nightlife in Downtown Raleigh.
“Drip Too Hard” – Lil Baby
Grab any last-minute clothing, shoes, or accessories for your festival fit to make sure you’re looking fresh.
Black Friday Market
Edge of Urge
Father and Son Antiques
Munjo Munjo
Sircastleteees
Sir Chance’s Vintage
Social Status
Unlikely Professionals
“Up Late” – Ari Lennox
End your long day with a much-needed meal at one of these Downtown Raleigh eateries serving food late into the evening.
Char-Grill
El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant
Gringo A Go Go
Hibernian Irish Pub & Restaurant
MoJoe’s Burger Joint
Morgan Street Food Hall
The Pizza Times
Tin Roof
The London Bridge Pub
The Station at Person Street
Vic's Italian Cafe & Pizzeria
Woody’s at City Market
Benny Capitale's Pizza
Need some fuel before the day starts? Check out our list of restaurants serving breakfast.
“Facade” – Morray
Here’s some picture-worthy public art in Downtown Raleigh, tag us on Instagram to be featured!
8-bit to 5G
All Are Welcome
LOVERULES
SECU Daily Planet
The Mount Rapmore of the 2010s
“Livin’ It Up" – Ja Rule
Stay entertained and have fun during your downtime exploring the city.
Boxcar Bar and Arcade
CAM Raleigh
Epic Axe
Hunky Dory
Lump Gallery
NERD Escape Room
Side Quest Game Lounge and Bar
“Leaving (Always On Time Part II)” – Ashanti
Transportation options to-and-from the festival and ways to get around Downtown Raleigh.
Dreamville Festival’s official Downtown Shuttles
Parking areas in Downtown Raleigh
Alternative modes of transportation throughout Raleigh including self-serve bicycle and scooter rentals
Bus routes between Downtown Raleigh and Dorothea Dix Park
Have a safe and fun weekend!