Downtown Raleigh becomes the epicenter of pop culture and fandom July 24th–27th as GalaxyCon returns for a packed weekend of celebrity guests, cosplay, panels, competitions, gaming, meet-ups, and more.
But the adventure doesn’t stop at the convention doors! This guide covers the best spots to eat near the convention, fun things to do while you’re here, public art perfect for cosplay photos, and tips to help you navigate the city with ease.
And for the first time, the whole community can join the fun at GalaxyCon Street Fest, happening Saturday and Sunday in City Plaza. Right by the Convention Center, this free outdoor event features live entertainment, wrestling, food trucks, and plenty of costumed characters.
No need to roll for perception, here’s everything you need to know.
Eats and Elixirs
Rest ye’ weary legs and fuel up for the long journey ahead at these bars/restaurants just steps from Raleigh Convention Center. Full list of DTR restaurants and bars.
The Anchor Bar
Berkeley Cafe
Chido Taco
Element Gastropub
The Flavor Hills
Haymaker
Inka Grill
Le Dive
Mustang House
Neptunes Parlour
Oma’s Cafe & Wine Bar
Poole's Diner
Sono Sushi
Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Zenith
BOBA
BOBA! Enough said.
Amrut: Taste of India
Anise Pho
MILKLAB
Gear Up With Local Loot
Downtown is full of spots to help you complete your look or find the perfect souvenir. Stock up on cosplay accessories and one-of-a-kind finds before (or after) you hit the con floor. Full list of spots to shop in Downtown Raleigh.
Blackbird Books & Coffee
Bricks & Minifigs
Show your GalaxyCon badge and receive 10% off your LEGO purchase.
Curate
DECO
Munjo Munjo
One For All Thrift
Origami Styling
Pallbearer Vintage
Parcero Studio
The Pour House Record Shop
The Self Care Marketplace
ThriftWiz
Side Quests and Spectacles
When the main quest pauses, these downtown gems can keep the fun going.
Artspace
Boxcar Bar and Arcade
Meet fellow convention-goers at Boxcar's GalaxyCon Mingle Thursday, July 24th.
Hop Shots Mini Golf
NC Museum of Natural Sciences
NERD Escape Room
Oak City Sports Cards
Side Quest Game Lounge and Bar
Capture Magical Moments
Your cosplay deserves a backdrop just as bold so strike a pose at downtown’s vibrant murals, sculptures, and public art installations. Explore all public art in Downtown Raleigh.
8-bit to 5G
The Acorn
All Are Welcome
Boylan Bridge
Color Pop Corner
Downtown Dinosaurs
Fire Escape Maze
Imurj
SONARC
Convention Cheat Codes
Navigate the con like a seasoned adventurer: free parking options, open-container Sip n’ Stroll zones, helpful DTR Ambassadors, and a lineup of local dining deals across downtown.
- Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week is happening at the same time as GalaxyCon, so you can score special deals at 40+ participating restaurants—many within walking distance of the Convention Center.
- Parking is easier than it seems. Get 2 hours free in select decks Thursday and Friday, and enjoy free parking on weekends and after 7pm in all city-owned decks. The closest option to the Convention Center is Red Hat/City Center Deck, just across the street.
- Need directions or have a question? Look for the friendly folks in blue! Our Downtown Raleigh Ambassadors are on hand to help with navigation, recommendations, and safety support.
- Enjoy alcoholic beverages to-go from participating businesses while walking within the downtown Sip N' Stroll district. Just look for signage or ask any bartender in the zone.