DIVE INTO HAYES BARTON: WHERE TO SHOP, EAT AND EXPLORE
The Hayes Barton District is one of the most prestigious and beautiful areas in Raleigh.
Designed by renowned architect Earle Sumner Draper, the Hayes Barton District inspired the development of the other neighborhoods that make up Five Points: Bloomsbury, Vanguard Park, Georgetown, and Roanoke Park. If you’re considering joining us at LYON and becoming a part of this incredible community, here are some of the top things you’ll be able to discover.
What is Hayes Barton Historic District?
Before we dive in further, let’s take a moment to discuss what makes Hayes Barton so unique, because it is truly unlike any other area in Raleigh. Built in the 1920s, Hayes Barton contains about 457 buildings across 1,750 acres. Draper constructed many small parks and median oases and then oriented the homes around them on generous setbacks. The vast lawns on which homes are set create an estate-like setting amidst a lush, urban area. As a result, those who live in Hayes Barton can enjoy a beautiful natural oasis in the middle of the city.
The homes in this area are extremely diverse, ranging from enormous manor homes to cozy cottages, to modern luxury homes. Some architectural styles you will encounter include Georgian Revival, Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, Craftsman Bungalows, and Eclectic Spanish dwellings.
Things To Do in Hayes Barton
If you’re considering moving to Hayes Barton, or to the Five Points area in general, there’s plenty to see, eat and do. Below are some of the top places you’ll be able to visit if you decide to call this area home.
Enjoy the Local Food Scene
All of Raleigh features a rich and diverse food scene, and Hayes Barton is no different. One spot you’ll absolutely want to sample is the Hayes Barton Café and Dessertery. Originally part of the Hayes Barton Pharmacy & Grill, the Café was constructed in 1929 and has kept its nostalgic interior. It now offers American cuisine for lunch and dinner, as well as its award-winning cakes. Not far from the Hayes Barton Café is NOFO @ the Pig, a quirky gourmet eatery and market built in a space formerly occupied by a Piggly Wiggly supermarket. The restaurant offers southern dishes for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, as well as ready-made frozen foods and gifts.
Drink-In the Local Bars
We can’t talk about food without mentioning the great local breweries and bars that thrive in this area. Nicklepoint Brewing Co., Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie, Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard, and Lynwood Brewing Concern are all among the most popular breweries in Raleigh, and they’re all within a 5-mile radius of one another. All of these locations offer a relaxed, casual atmosphere, live music, spacious patios, and a wide assortment of inventive brews. We can’t pick a favorite, but they’re so close to one another that it’s easy to sample them all. (Note: Lonerider at Five Points, another favorite, is currently closed at the time of this writing).
Catch a Flick at The Rialto
The Rialto, Raleigh’s oldest theatre, is also closed at the moment, but it is slated to reopen this summer (2023). That’s great news, because this iconic venue is one of the most charming theatres in the Triangle. Originally opened in 1936 as “The Colony Theatre,” the space was converted into a movie house in 1942. Though it underwent a renovation in 1983, it still retains a great deal of its original beauty, with vintage recessed lighting and large performance stage. The Rialto bosts NEC digital projection and a six-channel sound system, and shows a wide range of foreign and independent films. You can also catch the Rocky Horror Picture Show every third Friday at midnight.
Search for (Antique) Treasure
Another thing that really sets this area apart is its abundance of antique stores (as one might expect for a place with such a rich history). Just a few blocks down from the Hayes Barton Café and Dessertery, Form & Function showcases an eclectic mix of vintage finds and elegant furnishings. Further down the road is URBAGE, a vintage store with a focus on the funky, the groovy, and the mod. About three minutes away, on Whitaker Road, is Acquisitions Ltd., which specializes in fine European antiques and modern décor. Even if you’re not big on antique shopping, you’ll still definitely want to check out these great boutiques to experience the thrill of the hunt.
Experience the Hayes Barton Lifestyle at LYON
With an incredible location in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, and a rich history unlike any other, you will absolutely love living at LYON and enjoying everything the Hayes Barton District has to offer. This iconic neighborhood defines historic Raleigh architecture, and retains an old-world charm that is difficult to find anywhere else. Even better, when you live at Hayes Barton, you’re only minutes away to all the amenities and attractions downtown Raleigh has to offer. To explore our luxury duet homes for sale in the Hayes Barton District, click here.
