Your Local Guide to the Five Points Neighborhood in Raleigh, NC | Updated for 2024
There are a lot of reasons that Raleigh natives like me love the Five Points neighborhood. It’s close to the action of downtown but really family friendly, it’s walkable, and has a great eclectic vibe. The neighbors are welcoming, the dogs are top notch, and it is home to some of the best small businesses in town. Whether you’re looking to move to this area, or researching new places to eat and drink, this guide will share all of the best spots in Five Points as well as some local tips!
History of The Five Points Neighborhood
Five Points was developed in the early 1900s along the trolley line that had become a popular mode of transportation connecting downtown Raleigh to nearby suburbs. The last stop on the line that ran under what is now Glenwood Avenue brought residents to Bloomsbury Park, an amusement park that was home to a carousel (which still operates, now located at Pullen Park), a dance hall, and even a roller coaster.
Restaurants in Five Points
Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
2000 Fairview Road | (919) 856-8551
This wonderful neighborhood spot was originally part of the ‘Hayes Barton Pharmacy & Grill’ built in 1929 and is now famous for its award-winning cakes. Hayes Barton Cafe has kept its nostalgic interior and offers American cuisine for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday. (Local tip: the cake slices are huge so order one to share!)
The Third Place Coffee Shop
1811 Glenwood Avenue | (919) 834-6566
This ‘cozy and eclectic’ coffee spot is located in the heart of Five Points along Glenwood Avenue, just a few doors down from Hayes Barton Pharmacy. They offer delicious coffee beverages and a variety of baked goods. The interior also doubles as an exhibition space for local artists.
🐶 Dog friendly! The Third Place has pet friendly outdoor seating along Glenwood Avenue.
Bloomsbury Bistro
509-101 W. Whitaker Mill Road | (919) 834-9011
Just across the Five Points intersection, you’ll find a small shopping center that is home to several small businesses, including this fabulous bistro. Perfect for date nights and celebration dinners, Bloomsbury Bistro boasts a chef-driven menu focused on fresh, local ingredients.
Bright Spot Donuts
The long-awaited opening of this wonderful donut shop was the talk of the neighborhood in 2022. Located next to the Norfolk Southern Rail Company, Bright Spot offers incredible donuts & delicious coffee, open Tues-Sun 7am-1pm. (Local tip: you do NOT want to miss out on the sourwood honey donut. Trust me.)
🐶 Dog friendly! Bright Spot’s outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy a donut with your pup.
NOFO @ The Pig
2014 Fairview Road | (919) 821-1240
Located in the space formerly occupied by a Piggly Wiggly supermarket, NOFO @ The Pig is now a quirky but fabulous combination eatery & gourmet market. The restaurant offers southern dishes for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch (closed Mondays & Tuesdays). The market has delightful ready-made frozen foods and gifts galore. (Local tip: this is my go-to gift shop in the area.)
Lola’s Beach Bar
1803 Glenwood Avenue | (984) 222-3647
For great tacos, delicious island inspired drinks, and the best Five Points peoplewatching, check out Lola’s! They offer dinner service during the week (closed Mondays), and brunch or dinner on the weekends. Online ordering is available on their website, and they’re known for great service and beach vibes.
Mac’s Speed Shop *new in 2024*
1626 Glenwood Avenue | (984) 238-9770
If you like barbecue, beer, and bikes, you’re in for a treat! This North Carolina restaurant is the fifth location of the franchise which originated in Charlotte and features scratch made sauces, local craft brews, and comfort foods galore.
Breweries in Five Points
If you ask neighbors what they love about living in Five Points, many will point to the fabulous breweries that offer great spaces to relax and enjoy a few locally crafted beverages. Several of these spots are featured on the Raleigh Beer Trail – you can earn prizes by visiting local breweries! Sounds like a win-win to me.
Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie
518 Pershing Road Suite 100 | (984) 232-8479
This popular spot started as just a brewery, and is now also home to a casual, French inspired restaurant & full bar. Their weekly specials are insanely popular (i.e. get there early) and their outdoor seating is in high demand when the weather is nice.
🐶 Dog friendly! With ample outdoor seating, Neuse River is the place for the neighborhood dogs to see and be seen.
Lynwood Brewing Concern
1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd | (919) 424-7533
This location was the second to open for Lynwood, and allowed their business to expand its’ immensely popular brewing operations. Locals flock to LBC on warm sunny weekend afternoons to enjoy a few adult beverages and the food from their (also amazing) sister restaurant, Wilson’s Eatery.
🐶 Dog friendly! Bring your pup to relax and enjoy a beer at this popular weekend spot.
Nickelpoint Brewing Company
506 Pershing Road | (919) 916-5961
Nickelpoint is one of the OG Five Points breweries and offers an indoor taproom space, and outdoor biergarten with foosball, ping pong, and corn hole. Come here to watch a game on their huge projector screen and enjoy delightful local craft brews!
🐶 Dog friendly! Their outdoor seating area is perfect for your precious pooch.
Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard
1930 Wake Forest Road | (984) 206-4800
When you’re in the mood for pizza & beer, this place is the spot. It’s a fun-filled atmosphere for kids & adults with its extensive covered outdoor seating area and stage for live music. You can enjoy a drink from the full bar & pizza/wings from the food truck.
East Bower Cider Co
2020 Progress Court, Suite 160 | (919) 400-4969
Now open in the new East End Market, Raleigh’s first cidery offers a great alternative to beer-focused breweries. The laid-back atmosphere and ample outdoor seating make it a great spot to gather and try out some truly unique drinks.
Five Points Businesses
Worth Capturing Photography
1704 Carson Street | (919) 815-6032
In a neighborhood as family-friendly as Five Points, having a family photographer with a studio right down the road just makes sense! Whether you’re looking for newborn photography, family photography, or heirloom children’s portraits, I’ve got you covered. My goal is to create bright, soft, and joyful images that you will be excited to display in your home and share with your family for generations to come. I offer studio, in-home, and outdoor sessions by appointment only, and I have easy online booking via my website. Sessions generally book 1-3 months in advance.
The Rialto Theatre
1620 Glenwood Avenue | (919) 856-8683
The Rialto, Raleigh’s oldest theatre originally opened in 1936 as ‘The Colony Theatre’ and went through a renovation in 1983 when the name was changed. It closed for a short period during the pandemic, but has now re-opened under new ownership and is featuring not only films, but live performances as well! Visit one of the great restaurants on this list for dinner and follow up with a show at The Rialto for the perfect date night!
Hayes Barton Animal Hospital
1516 Glenwood Avenue | (919) 833-2666
Hayes Barton Animal Hospital has provided high quality veterinary care for the dogs and cats of Five Points since 1987. They offer wellness care, grooming, boarding, and general surgery.
🐶 Dog friendly! Well, duh.
Raleigh Pilates
Located right in the heart of Five Points, this new Pilates studio offers private sessions, small group classes, and workshops. Booking is available online through their website.
Barre 3
509 West Whitaker Mill Road | (919) 307-8516
Barre 3 is a group fitness studio with high-energy classes that incorporate cardio, strength, and mindfulness. Child care is offered during some sessions for an additional fee, and clients can book individual classes or purchase a monthly membership.
Gretchen Quinn Pottery
2003 Fairview Road | (206) 409-4005
Gretchen Quinn is a ceramic artist who creates functional and beautiful pieces that are durable enough for everyday use. She offers custom and wholesale orders, and her pieces are available in her studio/shop or can be shipped within the US.
Crafty Beer, Wine, and Spirits
2005 Fairview Road | (919) 615-3008
Crafty is a neighborhood bar and market that offers an impressive selection of craft beers. They serve beer, wine, and cocktails 7 days a week!
🐶 Dog friendly! Four legged friends are regulars at this local watering hole.
Dalhouse
2003 Fairview Road, Suite C | 919-723-7514
Dalhouse is an upscale children’s clothing boutique that opened in late 2023. They also offer special occasion shoes, accessories, and unique gifts.
Raleigh Iron Works *Now open with more businesses to come!*
The steel frame for this huge warehouse building was part of the original Raleigh Iron Works which built munitions during World War I and later became the Peden Steel company. The repurposed structure opened in 2023 and is now home to new restaurants, breweries, and office spaces. An apartment building is also under construction and a pedestrian bridge is in the works to cross over Atlantic Ave to Dock 1053.
Things to do with Kids in Five Points
Roanoke Park
Roanoke park is a small community playground with play structures, swings, a sand play area, a basketball court, a picnic shelter, a grass volleyball court, and an open field. Parents of young children love coming here to let their kids play while they enjoy coffee & treats from Anisette Sweet Shop nearby. (Local tip: there are no public restrooms, so plan accordingly!)
🐶 Dog friendly! Bring your pup here for a stroll to let them check out the best smells that Five Points has to offer.
Kiwanis Park
The freshly renovated Kiwanis Park is a lovely outdoor space for families, dog lovers, and athletes right next to Joyner Elementary School. It offers a community center, large picnic shelter, playground, basketball courts, dog park, baseball field, and soccer field. There are bathrooms and a water fountain open during park hours.
🐶 Dog friendly! Both your 2 legged and 4 legged kids can play here – there’s even a dedicated dog park to let your pup off leash.
Wild at Art Kids
231 Bickett Boulevard | (919) 802-5088
This fun-filled art studio is located right across from Roanoke Park, and offers a variety of art classes as well as dance and yoga for kids of all ages. They also offer birthday parties, summer camps, and open studio sessions.
Moving to Five Points
AW Realty Group
If you’re considering moving to Five Points, a knowledgeable and trustworthy realtor is essential. AW Realty has top notch service and experience with buying and selling homes in this neighborhood.
Valerie Worth
Owner of Worth Capturing Photography
Valerie is a Raleigh native who has been photographing the most wonderful babies, children, and families in the area since 2017. Her home studio is located in Five Points. She specializes in maternity photography, newborn photography, family photography, and heirloom portraits.
I had no idea about this history! Thank you
I never heard about Wild at heart! Thank you for the highlight!
Your photography of Five Points in Raleigh beautifully captures the charm and character of this historic neighborhood. I love how each image reflects the unique blend of old and new architecture, and your attention to lighting and composition brings out the personality of the area. The vibrant colors and textures, especially in the local shops and streetscapes, really evoke the sense of community that defines Five Points. It’s clear that you’ve spent time immersing yourself in the location to bring out its story through your lens.
I’m curious—do you have any tips or insights for photographers looking to capture the essence of Raleigh’s neighborhoods? How do you decide on the best time of day or weather conditions to shoot in places like Five Points to enhance the mood and atmosphere?