Green miser guide to Raleigh

If you're new to the Raleigh area, here's a quick green guide to the city of oaks. 

Eat, drink, and be merry: 
Protein power. Opt for grass-fed, free range, organic, and local meat, milk, and eggs. Grass-fed beef is leaner, has more omega-3s, and tastes better than conventional beef.  Organic milk and eggs are also free from artificial hormones.

Eat out. We're in a big city. Dine out at an eco-friendly restaurant that serves local, organic food like Zely & Ritz Tapas Restaurant.  You have to try the sweet potato gnocchi.

I gotta have my coffee. Drink coffee and tea that tastes better and does good. Whether you want to brew your own cup of Larry's Beans or hang out at a local coffee shop like Global Village, just make sure it's fair trade and organic.

Global Village on Hillsborough Street.

Have some fun 
Go to the movies. Local colleges and universities often play documentary movies about the environment. Also, check out the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival in the spring.

Do good. Lend a hand with a local nonprofit. Whether it's a green organization or not, you'll still be making an impact in your community.  I love volunteering at the SPCA of Wake County and the Salvation Army.

Shop 'til you drop. There are a ton of fair trade and local shops.  My favorite stop is Sugar Magnolia on Hillsborough Street.  Everything is fair trade, and it's all under $15.00!

Getting around

Bus stops are all over the city.

Catch the CAT.  Let's face it.  Driving in Raleigh is a hassle.  It seems like there's always a wreck on I-40.  Hopping on the city's CAT bus eliminates your time in the driver's seat.  Sit back, relax, and read a book while you cruise around the city.  You'll get in a lot of reading and save a lot of money.

Take a walk. It’s sunny out! When you search for an apartment, look for place that has walkable areas.  My apartment complex is located in a great neighborhood with sidewalks lining both sides of the street.  

Ride a bike. Raleigh residents love to bike and many streets around town now have bike lines. If you ride a bike, you'll save a lot of money and parking hassle.