Raleigh is very different today than it was in the 1950s, but traces of its past remain — if you know where to look. Spend a day stepping back in time.
by Kendall Campos
The 1950s marked a critical transition period for Raleigh as the city grew from a small capital into a rapidly developing hub of commerce and industry. In 1950, Raleigh’s population reached 65,679, more than double its prewar population, and the city issued nearly 1,000 building permits as new neighborhoods, businesses and shopping centers transformed the landscape. However, the decade’s growth did not benefit everyone equally. Many North Carolinians faced economic hardship, and Jim Crow laws continued to enforce racial segregation throughout daily life. At the same time, Raleigh reflected many of the cultural shifts shaping the country, from the rise of rock ’n’ roll and consumer culture to the popularity of drive-in theaters, diners and soda fountains. Today, pieces of that era remain throughout the city. From longtime Raleigh staples to modern destinations inspired by the decade, this itinerary invites you to spend a day exploring the places where 1950s design, music and nostalgia come to life.
To follow along with this itinerary, we’ve created a map to guide your adventure! Beginning downtown at The Mecca and ending in the Five Points neighborhood at The Rialto or Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery, eat, shop and explore your way through the 1950s — all within an 11-mile radius!
Breakfast at Mecca (approx. 8-10 am)
No trip to the 1950s would be complete without a stop at Raleigh’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, Mecca. The dining experience at this downtown staple will make you wonder if you’ve stepped back in time as you indulge in Southern comfort food that Raleighites have loved since the restaurant opened in 1930. Here, booths and barstools sit atop checkered floors on two dining levels, where you can enjoy a classic North Carolina breakfast featuring french toast, omelets and breakfast sandwiches, washed down with iced tea, juice or coffee. Stop by as early as 7:30 a.m. on Thursday and Friday or 8:00 a.m. on the weekend, but note that Mecca is closed Monday through Wednesday. Reservations are available for large groups; otherwise, seating is first come, first served. 13 E. Martin Street | mecca-restaurant.com
Stop and Smell the Roses (approx. 10-2 pm)
After a hearty breakfast, stretch your legs with a trip to Pullen Park, the country’s fifth-oldest operating amusement park. Entering the park feels like stepping into a city within the city, and its 66-acre grounds can easily turn a quick visit into an all-day adventure. Whether or not you’re bringing children, visitors of all ages will enjoy its attractions, including the miniature train that has circled the park since 1951. With picnic areas, antique rides and pedal boats, the phone in your pocket may feel a little out of place. When you’re ready to round out your outdoor activities, don’t forget to make a stop at the Raleigh Rose Garden, dedicated in 1951. The garden, which serves as an extension of the Raleigh Little Theatre campus, features 60 rose beds surrounded by evergreen and deciduous trees. It is open from dawn to dusk, and no reservations are required. 520 Ashe Avenue | raleighnc.gov and 301 Pogue Street | raleighlittletheatre.org
Lunch at Char-Grill (approx. 2-3 pm)
If you haven’t already worked up an appetite, make room because the next stop is none other than Triangle favorite Char-Grill! Here, the Hillsborough Street location has served burgers, fries and shakes with old-school charm since 1959 and keeps the American drive-in alive after most have long-since disappeared. In keeping with tradition, guests order the way generations of locals have: by filling out a paper ticket before watching your meal come together on the grill. Whether you opt for a cheeseburger with crinkle-cut fries or a hand-dipped milkshake, it’s easy to imagine you’re stopping in after a Friday night football game or an afternoon cruise. Plus, Char-Grill is open seven days a week, so stop in, grab a seat and eat from the menu that has stood the test of time. 618 Hillsborough Street | chargrillusa.com
Shopping at Father & Son Antiques (approx. 3-4 pm)
One, two, three o’clock, four o’clock, shop! After a classically American lunch, take a trip to the midcentury-focused store, Father & Son Antiques. There, the inventory authentically embodies the 1950s style for all lovers of the midcentury era and anyone looking to add character to their home. Opened in 1997, they offer everything from furniture to vintage clothing, vinyl records and nostalgic decor. Slowly make your way through the aisles and, when something catches your eye, bring a piece of the 1950s home with you. Father & Son is open seven days a week and parking is available in the public lot directly across the street and at the Dillon parking deck in addition to street parking downtown. 302 S. West Street | instagram.com/fatherandsonraleigh
Indulge in a Fun Drink (approx. 4-5 pm)
If you’re in the mood for spirits, stop by Rosebud Cocktail Lounge anytime between 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday for a mid-century-inspired bar experience housed in a warmly-lit underground atmosphere, complete with fabric bar stools, neon signs and wall art featuring Old Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. If you have underage guests or are looking for something more casual, opt for The Roast Grill. This hidden-gem diner, established in 1940, has served its signature hot dogs since its opening 86 years ago. After stepping inside the time-capsule-like interior, quench your thirst with a selection of their glass-bottled sodas that’ll make you feel like the star of an old Coca-Cola ad. Note that Roast Grill is closed Sunday and Monday but open until 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 4 p.m. on Saturday. 103 E Martin Street | rosebudraleigh.com or 7 S. West Street | instagram.com/theroastgrillhotweiners
Dinner at Player’s Retreat (approx. 5-6 pm)
Wander along Hillsborough Street and enjoy the sights of NC State’s brick-lined campus before taking a seat at the beloved restaurant and bar Player’s Retreat. Since 1951, this Wolfpack staple has served fan-favorites including house made onion rings, the Wolfpack Burger and the Turkey Sheila sandwich. The restaurant, bar and dining room are located on the ground floor of the mixed-use building and remain irrefutably vintage. If you’re bringing a pet or are looking to enjoy the fresh air, they also offer outdoor seating featuring a dog-friendly patio with shaded tables. Parking for Player’s Retreat is available at the free Roundabout Lot and at metered street parking spots in addition to public decks at the Village District a short walk away. 105 Oberlin Road | playersretreat.com
Rounding out the Night (approx. 6-10 pm)
What’s the best way to end a day in the 1950s? By catching a movie at Raleigh’s oldest movie theater, The Rialto! Prior to renovations in 1983, The Rialto was established as The Colony Theatre in 1936. Today, the venue leans into its preserved vintage charm with showings of classic favorites like “Singing in the Rain,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Roman Holiday” in addition to newer films and live performances. For an updated calendar of events, check out their website to see upcoming films and performances and purchase tickets in advance. Parking is available along Glenwood Avenue and the school lot on Fairview Road during evenings and weekends. No event happening tonight? Opt for a sweet treat from Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery for dinerlike desserts with an old-fashioned vibe. Among the list of rotating items are Irish Cream Tiramisu, Coconut Cake and Key Lime Pie that are well-worth the trip. 1620 Glenwood Avenue | therialto.com or 2000 Fairview Road | hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com
Map of itinerary (11-mile radius, 45 minute drive total): 1950s Raleigh Itinerary Map
Stop 1: Breakfast at Mecca
Stop 2 & 3: Walk around Pullen Park + Rose Garden
Stop 4: Lunch at Char-Grill
Stop 5: Shopping at Father & Son Antiques
Stop 6: Drinks at Rosebud Cocktail Lounge (or soda at Roast Grill)
Stop 7: Dinner at Player’s Retreat
Stop 8: Movie at The Rialto
Stop 8.5: Dessert at Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
