Welcome to Moore Square!

Nestled between Person, Morgan, Wilmington and Davie streets, Moore Square District is a hidden gem in Raleigh’s downtown. This area is steeped in history—check out the cobblestone streets in City Market—but also has benefited from a modern revitalization. With a beautiful greenspace and flourishing dining, shopping, and arts and entertainment scenes, Moore Square truly offers something for everyone.

Brush Up, History Buffs

The heart of this district, Moore Square Park, is one of Raleigh’s original parks, dating back to the city’s founding. In the early 1800s, the park served as a common space for the city’s residents and was surrounded by dwellings. Over the years, the district became less residential. In 1914, the construction of City Market, a massive mission-style structure, sealed Moore Square’s transition to a commercial district. City Market anchored the square and was a one of the few integrated places in Raleigh during segregation. In the 1920s and 1930s, Moore Square became a hub for African American businesses and cultural events, drawing amazing performers like Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Unfortunately, when City Market closed in the late 1950s, Moore Square declined. Ongoing efforts to renew this area have brought in new features while celebrating its rich cultural history.

Enjoy Art and Entertainment

Moore Square District boasts several art galleries, including Artspace. This impressive center offers exhibitions, classes, and studio space for over 25 resident artists. It also hosts First Fridays, a free, monthly open house event featuring the best of Raleigh’s culture. 

Another Moore Square resident, Artsplosure brings art to people through celebrations, most notably during First Night Raleigh and the Raleigh Arts Festival. The Pour House Music Hall features live music from local performers. At Rum Runners you can sing the night away with their hilarious piano players. Movie buffs will enjoy the Wells Fargo IMAX Theater.

Feed Your Foodie

Whether you’re craving sushi, southern, or even global street food, Moore Square’s dining scene has you covered. This district offers almost every type of cuisine imaginable. Long-time favorites and new rising-star chefs have turned Moore Square into a culinary destination. Bida Manda Laotian Restaurant and Bar is a highlight of Moore Square. Its owners are also responsible for Brewery Bhavana, which includes a brewery, flower shop, and Dim Sum. 

Looking for something different? Sitti Authentic Lebanese and the Farm-to-table delight Provenance are both wonderful options. And don’t forget your sweet tooth... try Treat scoop shop for local ice cream and Cheerwine floats or Amorino for gourmet gelato—yum!

Satisfy Your Inner Shopaholic

You’ll find a vast variety of retailers here. They feature everything from local produce to unique apparel and metaphysical supplies to pet needs. Two cool boutiques to try are The Dogwood Collective and Dechen Collections Tibetan Store, and if you need something for your four-legged family members you can get it all at Unleashed, The Dog & Cat Store!

Moore Square offers a little bit of everything in one place, and it’s only getting better. In Spring 2017, a $12 million renovation will transform the park into a premiere outdoor space with spots for natural play, a café, restrooms, and other amenities. The bus depot is also undergoing a major makeover. Because of this, residential developers are taking note. Recent construction of luxury apartments like Skyhouse and The Lincoln, condominiums, including Founder’s Row and Palladium Plaza, and plans for more (including row houses) will make the dream of downtown living with something for everybody a reality.

We’re happy to say that our business lives here! And we’d love to help you learn more about the Moore Square District and find a place to call home close to all that it has to offer!