Hayes Barton Historic District Raleigh
Explore Raleigh's Hayes Barton Historic District, a charming neighborhood with stunning 1920s architecture and the vibrant Five Points hub.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for brunch
Hayes Barton Historic District Raleigh
Best Time
Beat the crowds for brunch

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Raleigh's Hayes Barton Historic District, a charming neighborhood with stunning 1920s architecture and the vibrant Five Points hub.
"Hayes Barton offers a picturesque escape with beautiful homes and a legendary dessert cafe."
🍰 Cake Heaven Awaits!
Don't miss the legendary cakes at Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery. The Lemon Blueberry and Chocolate Raspberry are crowd-pleasers!
🚶♀️ Walkable Neighborhood Gem
Explore the beautiful streets on foot. It's one of Raleigh's most walkable areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
Five Points
A 1940s-themed cafe famous for its incredible cakes and pies. A must-visit for a sweet treat!

Architectural Strolls
Throughout the district
Admire diverse home styles, from classic to new construction, on picturesque, tree-canopied streets.

Historic Pharmacy
Five Points
Experience a step back in time at this charming, vintage pharmacy located in the heart of Five Points.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Hayes Barton
Five Points Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍰 Cake Heaven Awaits!
Don't miss the legendary cakes at Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery. The Lemon Blueberry and Chocolate Raspberry are crowd-pleasers!
🚶♀️ Walkable Neighborhood Gem
Explore the beautiful streets on foot. It's one of Raleigh's most walkable areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📸 Architectural Photography
Bring your camera to capture the stunning and varied home styles throughout the historic district.
📍 Five Points Hub
Start your visit at the Five Points intersection, home to iconic spots like the cafe and historic pharmacy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍰 Cake Heaven Awaits!
Don't miss the legendary cakes at Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery. The Lemon Blueberry and Chocolate Raspberry are crowd-pleasers!
🚶♀️ Walkable Neighborhood Gem
Explore the beautiful streets on foot. It's one of Raleigh's most walkable areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
📸 Architectural Photography
Bring your camera to capture the stunning and varied home styles throughout the historic district.
📍 Five Points Hub
Start your visit at the Five Points intersection, home to iconic spots like the cafe and historic pharmacy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hayes Barton for its picturesque streets, stunning architecture, and the delightful charm of the Five Points area. The Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery is a standout, celebrated for its incredible cakes and nostalgic atmosphere. While the neighborhood is primarily residential, its beauty and the culinary delights make it a highly recommended destination.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hayes Barton is easily accessible by car and is located near downtown Raleigh. It's also considered one of Raleigh's most walkable neighborhoods, making it ideal for exploring on foot once you arrive.
Absolutely! Hayes Barton is renowned for its walkability, with tree-lined streets perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring the unique architecture.
The best way to experience Hayes Barton is by walking its charming streets. You can also easily access the vibrant Five Points area from here.
While specific bus routes may vary, the neighborhood is well-connected to downtown Raleigh, which has extensive public transit options. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Street parking is generally available throughout the neighborhood, especially on residential streets. Be mindful of any posted parking restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Hayes Barton Historic District itself. It's a public neighborhood to explore freely.
Operating hours for Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee to visit the historic pharmacy in Five Points. You can browse and experience its vintage charm freely.
While official guided tours may not be readily available, many visitors enjoy self-guided walking tours to appreciate the architecture and history.
You can admire the exteriors of homes from the street. Some homes may be for sale and available for tours through real estate agents.
📸 📸 Photography
The tree-lined streets with diverse home architecture offer endless photo opportunities. The Five Points intersection with the cafe and pharmacy is also a picturesque spot.
Yes, you can take photos of the exteriors of the houses from the street. Please be respectful of residents' privacy.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcome. Professional or commercial photography may require permits, so it's best to inquire if you plan extensive shoots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the streetscapes and home exteriors. A standard zoom lens will also be very versatile.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from the trees helps.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
This charming cafe is famous for its incredible, homemade cakes and pies, with flavors like Lemon Blueberry and Chocolate Raspberry being highly recommended.
Hayes Barton is adjacent to the Five Points area, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes beyond the famous dessert spot.
The cafe boasts a delightful 1940s theme, offering a nostalgic and cozy dining experience.
Yes, many visitors enjoy Hayes Barton Cafe for lunch, not just for its desserts, but also for its classic diner-style offerings.
Reservations are not typically required, but it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early or being prepared for a short wait is advisable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the nearby parks, or simply let the kids run around on the sidewalks as you explore the neighborhood's charm. The walkability makes it easy to manage with strollers or young walkers, and the generally quiet residential streets provide a safe environment.
🍰 Dessert Lovers & Foodies
Beyond the famous cafe, the Five Points area offers other dining options, but the dessert experience in Hayes Barton is truly the star attraction for many visitors. Plan your visit with enough time to savor a slice (or two!) and soak in the charming atmosphere.
🏡 Architecture & History Buffs
Take your time to wander the streets and appreciate the unique details of each home. The presence of the historic pharmacy and the connection to the Five Points intersection add layers to the area's historical narrative. For those interested in real estate, seeing the blend of historic homes and tasteful new construction offers insight into Raleigh's development.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Tapestry of Hayes Barton
Recent developments have also seen new construction that thoughtfully blends with the existing historic homes. These newer builds often incorporate classic design elements while offering modern amenities and layouts. This mix of old and new provides a dynamic visual experience for residents and visitors alike. The district's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while embracing thoughtful development is a key part of its appeal.
Walking through Hayes Barton is like taking a journey through architectural history. Each street offers a new perspective, with homes showcasing intricate details, varied rooflines, and unique facades. It's a neighborhood that invites slow exploration, encouraging visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and design that define this beloved Raleigh district.
Five Points: The Heart of the Neighborhood
One of the most iconic establishments in Five Points is the Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery. This charming spot, with its 1940s diner theme, is a local legend, particularly famous for its decadent cakes and pies. Visitors often flock here specifically for these sweet treats, with flavors like Lemon Blueberry and Chocolate Raspberry receiving rave reviews. Adjacent to the cafe, you'll also find a historic pharmacy, adding to the area's nostalgic appeal and providing a tangible link to Raleigh's past.
The Five Points area serves as a perfect starting point for exploring Hayes Barton. Its walkability allows you to easily transition from enjoying a meal or a slice of cake to strolling through the historic residential streets. The energy of Five Points, combined with the tranquility of Hayes Barton, offers a well-rounded experience for anyone visiting this charming part of Raleigh.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit