Whether you’re in it for the exercise, interested in a leisurely stroll, or it’s your main mode of transportation, walking is a great way to get around your neighborhood. While Raleigh itself doesn’t score too high on Walk Score, the city has some pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. Also, Raleigh’s naturally fair weather (barring summer) offers an added benefit for walkers. 

These four neighborhoods in Raleigh, North Carolina provide safe sidewalks, easy access to amenities, and interesting areas to explore.

Oakwood

Situated within a historic area, Oakwood is a little slice of paradise within walking distance of many nearby attractions, including Downtown Raleigh.

Residents can walk to several restaurants along Person Street or enjoy an iced mocha from Brewerks Cafe & Bakery on Lane Street. You can also enjoy leisurely strolls along tree-lined streets or join a walking tour from The Society for the Preservation of Historic Oakwood to learn more about the history and homes of Oakwood. For a more adventurous walk, residents can stroll through the Historic Oakwood Cemetery, a well-known cemetery that’s 150 years old. 

Oakwood is also known for having some of the city’s most charming and historic residences featuring Craftsman, Queen Anne, and Victorian-style architecture. Although the homes in Oakwood are quite lovely, a majority are priced on the higher end. Current prices range between the mid $200s and $2.2 million, according to Neighborhoods.com listings. 

College Park

College Park is the second most walkable neighborhood in Raleigh, according to Walk Score. This neighborhood is nestled near the heart of the city, close to other popular neighborhoods like Downtown Raleigh and Historic Oakwood. It’s also within walking distance of Saint Augustine’s University. 

College Park has a funky, cool vibe due to its proximity to the university, and its pedestrian-friendly sidewalks allow residents easy access to local eateries, shops, parks, and other amenities. College Park also has a variety of housing options ranging from new condos and classic townhomes to single-family homes. With a median sale price in the mid $200s, College Park is a relatively affordable community for potential homebuyers looking to settle down in the city. 

Bedford at Falls River

Bedford at Falls River is a charming neighborhood filled with pocket parks, open greenspaces, and stately homes priced from the mid $100s to mid $700s. The Neuse River Greenway Trail runs along the outskirts of the community, providing miles of scenic trails for outdoor recreation.

With minimal car traffic, this community is a favorite among walkers, joggers, and families with children. Homeowners can explore the neighborhood on a casual stroll and admire some of the vintage homes in the area. Residents can also get to local parks, eateries, and the farmers market on foot.

Stonehenge

Located in North Raleigh, Stonehenge is a popular, well-established community. In this pedestrian-friendly and laid-back neighborhood, homes vary in architectural style and price points, with current prices ranging from the high $200s to mid $600s.

Stonehenge is not only a family-friendly community thanks to its highly rated schools, it’s also a walkable neighborhood thanks to its clean sidewalks, outdoor areas, and parks. Lake Lynn Park offers 75 acres of outdoor space as well as paved and boardwalk trails, allowing homeowners to enjoy activities like walking, biking, jogging, or rollerblading.

In addition to this, residents have access to a recreation center on Ray Road that features programs for children as well as additional community events. Stonehenge is also home to plenty of cafes, restaurants, and local shops that can be reached on foot.