I live near downtown Raleigh and really like it. It used to be pretty desolate in the evenings/weekend, but within the past 5 years there has been a lot of growth. I’ve heard there is something like 1-2 billion that is being invested in downtown, including a new convention center and more mixed use projects than I care to count. It’s not going to be a “real” metropolitan city any time soon, but it’s getting better all the time. Entertainment options range from parks and greenways, to sports (NC State, Hurricanes, etc.) to cultural stuff (plays, concerts, etc.). I like that it has most of what I want, but doesn’t feel massively big and impersonal.
There are plenty of places to run, even near downtown. Cycling isn’t too bad, once you get outside of the city (@5 mi for me). I usually head out east of town towards Wendell and there are lot of roads with light traffic. There are tons of options all over the triangle if you want to drive 15-30 minutes to start your ride, including plenty of organized rides. Lots of swimming options as well.
Feel free to send me a private message if you have any other questions.
You will love the Carolinas, regardless where you move. Beautiful country and great people. I live in Charlotte (Huntersville), but have lived in Winston-Salem. Been all over NC for cycling, tri, or motocross. If you are married, I would have to strongly recommend Winston-Salem. Nice little city with a very active cycling and tri community. If you are single, I have to go with Charlotte. Great tri community and lively social scene. I wouldn’t trade my tarining group here for anything.
It is great that you have such work flexibility. I am very jealous.
you’d have to give up XC skiing in North Carolina, not a snowball’s chance in Hades you’d get more than one day a year. unless there was some freakish weather. and you’d have to drive hours to get it, if there are any areas at ALL down there that have trails.
I grew up in Lenoir which is on the other side of Hickory. The entire area is beautiful and has great access to riding and running locations. Lake Roadhiss is just really starting to get developed so there are probably some areas that are still pretty desolate. The main thing about this entire area is that even though Hickory is a decent size city, the surrounding area is still pretty rural. I’m not sure what you are used to or what you are looking for but it could be a pretty big culture shock. That being said, I grew up there and still love the area. Don’t know what business you are in but Google is building a huge new server farm in Lenoir that seems to be attracting a lot of attention.