When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Meredith College
Why Meredith College is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Meredith College, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a private women's liberal arts college with a coeducational graduate school, known for fostering a supportive and empowering environment to meet and connect with friends and peers. Established in 1891, Meredith offers approximately 1,600 undergraduate women and 275 graduate students an inspiring community focused on integrity, leadership, and professional preparation. Its spacious 225-acre campus is close to both the Raleigh-Durham International Airport and Research Triangle Park, providing an enriching collegiate experience with over 90 academic programs, including distinctive pre-professional and dual engineering options in partnership with North Carolina State University. The college offers small class sizes, averaging under 20 students, allowing for close interaction and meaningful engagement. Meredith’s commitment to women’s leadership and strength-building is evident through its specialized programs like StrongPoints, a strengths-based personal coaching initiative that helps students develop self-awareness and career readiness. Students benefit from world-class internships, study abroad opportunities, and a vibrant campus life where friendships flourish. Meredith also boasts a strong alumnae network of over 24,000 members who continue to connect and support one another, making it a fantastic place to meet friends and build lasting relationships in a welcoming, academically rigorous environment.
Here's what people think of Meredith College
As of recent, Meredith College holds a 4.5-star rating based on 98 reviews.
User reviews of Meredith College consistently praise the supportive academic environment and the empowering culture that encourages students to build confidence and leadership skills. Positive reviewers highlight the personalized career planning and coaching services, such as the Office of Career Planning and StrongPoints, which help students discover their strengths, secure internships, and prepare for professional success. The variety of academic programs and small class sizes also receive favorable comments for fostering meaningful interactions between students and faculty. Moreover, the campus location in Raleigh offers access to cultural events and professional opportunities, enhancing the overall college experience. Negative feedback occasionally mentions the challenges associated with the transition from a women's college to incorporating coeducational graduate programs, or limited diversity in some areas. A few critics note that while the college provides a nurturing environment, some facilities or resources could be further expanded to meet growing student needs. Overall, the review consensus is strongly positive, with 95% of alumnae stating they would choose Meredith again and 99% rating its educational value as good to excellent. This affirms Meredith College’s reputation as a welcoming and empowering community focused on developing strong, independent women prepared to make a difference in the world.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hannah Scott
NC state is more affordable. While I love the fact this college is smaller and has a solid autism program, the program ended up not being a good fit for myself, an individual who is autistic, because I simply did not mask sufficiently enough-- that worried me for folks attending. I would say that could be a potential flaw in the program going forward (all needing to be on the same page for training) --- this is such an easy fix! The success coach and academic advisors need to be more on the same page as well. I think the cafeteria is great. The academics piece is great, but once one falling out occurred within, it tarnished my hope for autism acceptance- I began actually not feeling as comfortable when this occurred and also when I noticed that students with no life outside Meredith were the ones receiving major awards in the dept I am in. I did make honors here though! I am thrilled about that! I loved the ceremony. I love the social work dept and one of the social work profs I had. I would not say this is necessarily a school to make lifelong friendships---- keep in mind I don't make friends at colleges and due to the competition I may not make friends most places--- MANY PEOPLE are very successful here and make friends. tons of them. In most courses it is not too difficult and life altering to obtain your coveted A. cliquey environment with a small and peaceful physical atmosphere. pros and cons.
Andrew Kellerhals
My daughter just graduated today. It was a beautiful ceremony. She has been VERY happy attending school here. The campus is amazing and the small-size classes and tight-knit community feel is amazing.
Chris Casey
Drove there and walked around today. It was spring break but I did get to check out a few buildings and athletic facilities. Beautiful softball field and a nice soccer/track complex. The people I know who went there loved it.
Lindsey Dockum
Beautiful campus! My daughter starts going this fall. She is blessed with this opportunity and I came wait to see where it takes her
Monica
Our daughter is a sophomore student and she loves her College. The teachers are very professionals and are available to help. The staff is very friendly. If the student doesn't have a car, she can rent one inside the college. The place inside and around the college is very safe; if somebody lose anything, it always appears. We were welcome since the first day. She feels that Meredith is her second home and we, like parents, are very happy about that.
How to reach Meredith College
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Why rally at Meredith College with your friends?
Rallying at Meredith College with your friends offers a unique and inspiring experience unlike any other gathering spot. Nestled on a sprawling 225-acre campus in Raleigh, North Carolina, Meredith combines lush natural beauty with modern facilities, creating an ideal setting for memorable meetups. Its reputation as a nationally ranked private liberal arts institution with a 4.5-star rating from nearly 100 reviews attests to the quality of its environment and community. Whether you come to explore the grounds, enjoy cultural events, or simply relax by the picturesque lakeside amphitheater, Meredith's blend of history, academic excellence, and vibrant campus life provides a welcoming atmosphere key to fostering connection and fun. The college’s location near downtown Raleigh and the Research Triangle Park means your group can easily switch between engaging campus activities and exploring the lively city atmosphere. This balance makes Meredith College perfect for gatherings that combine education, entertainment, and social engagement, all within a safe and beautiful setting. Gathering here isn’t merely about the physical space — it’s about inspiring one another in a place dedicated to leadership, learning, and living with integrity.
What activities can you enjoy at Meredith College for a group meetup?
Meredith College offers an impressive variety of activities perfect for groups looking to engage, explore, and create lasting memories. The expansive campus itself invites casual strolls through beautifully maintained grounds rich with century-old trees and scenic vistas. Friends can gather at the large 1,200-seat amphitheater overlooking a tranquil lake—a perfect venue for watching musical events, theater presentations, or outdoor movie nights. For those inclined toward wellness, the modern fitness center and athletic complexes provide opportunities for group exercises, sports games, or even friendly competitions. The campus features multiple cozy nooks and student lounges ideal for relaxed group conversations or study sessions.
Cultural enrichment abounds through frequent art exhibitions, guest lectures, and performances driven by Meredith’s commitment to fostering leadership and creativity. If your group is interested in intellectual stimulation, you might engage with ongoing undergraduate research showcases or attend workshops led by expert faculty members. Since Meredith encourages experiential learning, groups can also explore collaborative projects or even plan study-abroad presentations together. Additionally, the campus is known for hosting community events that connect students, staff, and visitors, making it a natural place for a meetup that wants to mix social fun with educational insight. Overall, Meredith’s combination of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and an active campus community makes it ideal for diverse group activities.
Why is Meredith College perfectly suited for group meetups and reunions?
Meredith College’s unique combination of size, location, and environment makes it an ideal venue for group meetups and reunions. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1 and average class sizes of just 14, the college offers an intimate community atmosphere that extends to visitors, encouraging meaningful interactions. The historic campus blends traditional architecture with state-of-the-art facilities creating a visually stunning and comfortable place where groups can feel both inspired and relaxed. Its 225-acre footprint provides ample room for groups to spread out, whether gathering indoors in spacious student centers and meeting rooms or outside on the lawn areas and walking paths.
Accessibility also sets Meredith apart—a location in Raleigh’s thriving capital city places it just minutes from major transport hubs like the Raleigh-Durham International Airport and hubs like Research Triangle Park. This ensures that guests traveling from near or far can convene with ease. Moreover, the college’s commitment to inclusivity and community leadership gives meetups a meaningful layer of purpose and connection often missing from generic venues. Hosting your reunion here taps into Meredith’s legacy as a nurturing and empowering place, making your gathering not just social but also inspirational and memorable for attendees. The campus vibe balances welcoming quiet spots with active, engaging spaces, fitting the needs of groups of any size or interest.
What campus amenities support an enjoyable group experience at Meredith College?
Meredith College’s campus amenities significantly enhance any group's experience by providing comfort, convenience, and entertainment options all in one place. The student center functions as a social hub with dining areas, coffee shops, and lounges conducive to group conversations or casual meetups. Adjacent to this, the fitness center offers various exercise equipment and spaces for group workouts or wellness-focused activities, supporting health-conscious gatherings. Athletic fields and tracks are available for organized sports, which can range from informal games to friendly tournaments, perfect for active groups looking to bond through competition.
Academic buildings equipped with modern technology and meeting rooms can be reserved for workshops, presentations, or planning sessions during the meetup. The beautifully landscaped open spaces, including walking paths, gardens, and lakeside spots, create excellent settings for picnics, photography sessions, or outdoor relaxation. Meredith’s amphitheater not only seats large audiences but also hosts live performances and community events that groups can incorporate into their gatherings for additional entertainment. Accessibility throughout campus ensures ease of movement for all attendees, while ample parking and proximity to local amenities make logistics simple. Together, these campus features support a smooth and enjoyable experience tailored to a group’s diverse interests and needs.
How can the location of Meredith College enhance your group's meet-up experience?
Situated in Raleigh, North Carolina’s vibrant capital city, Meredith College offers a strategic location that greatly enhances any group gathering. This proximity to a thriving urban environment means your meetup can effortlessly bridge relaxing campus time with exciting city explorations. Raleigh is known for its dynamic arts scene, numerous parks and greenways, and a wide selection of restaurants and shops, providing ample opportunities for groups to expand their activities beyond the campus borders. If your group wants to enjoy nightlife, cultural venues, or culinary adventures, everything is within easy reach.
Moreover, Meredith’s closeness to the Research Triangle Park—one of the largest research and technology hubs in the United States—adds a dimension of innovation and inspiration, reflecting the college’s academic spirit and forward-thinking culture. The Raleigh-Durham International Airport nearby simplifies travel coordination for out-of-town guests, minimizing the stress of arrival and departures. By hosting a meetup at Meredith, you tap into a location that balances the serenity of a historic college campus with the energy and amenities of a city, making every part of your group’s visit enjoyable and memorable. This combination ensures your gathering is convenient, accessible, and packed with possibilities for discovery.
What makes Meredith College’s community and atmosphere ideal for meetups?
The community and atmosphere at Meredith College are unmistakably welcoming and empowering, making it an excellent choice for hosting meetups. The college prides itself on nurturing leadership, integrity, and diversity within a close-knit academic environment that feels inclusive and stimulating. Visitors frequently comment on the genuine warmth and friendliness of both students and staff, creating a positive energy that enriches social gatherings. The relatively small student population fosters meaningful interactions, which extends naturally to guests who come for events or meetups.
Additionally, Meredith’s historical roots and ongoing commitment to social justice, anti-racism, and ethical leadership infuse the campus atmosphere with a sense of purpose. Groups meeting here benefit from being in a place where inspiring conversations and collaborative thinking come easily. Beyond the academics, the campus hums with artistic events, community service initiatives, and wellness programs, offering a holistic environment that supports friendship, growth, and shared experiences. This vibrant yet respectful atmosphere is ideal for groups seeking more than just a venue—those looking for a space to connect deeply, celebrate relationships, and perhaps even spark new ideas together.
How can Meredith College accommodate special events or celebrations for groups?
Meredith College is well-equipped to accommodate special events and celebrations that groups may wish to hold during their visit. The campus features versatile event spaces suitable for receptions, banquets, workshops, or formal ceremonies. The 1,200-seat amphitheater is an iconic location for concerts, performances, or keynote speeches, providing an unforgettable backdrop for larger gatherings that want a blend of natural beauty and professional staging. For smaller, more intimate events, several meeting rooms and lounges around campus can be reserved, offering comfortable settings with modern audiovisual technology.
The student center and dining areas are available for catering and social functions, ensuring groups can enjoy meals together without needing to leave the campus. Meredith’s event staff are experienced in helping plan logistics and can assist with seating arrangements, technical support, and accessibility accommodations to ensure smooth execution of occasions. The lush outdoor spaces also lend themselves beautifully to ceremonies or celebrations in a relaxed garden or lakeside setting. Overall, Meredith Catering to a wide range of event types and sizes makes it an outstanding choice for groups who want to celebrate milestones, hold meaningful meetings, or enjoy recreational festivities together within a supportive and elegant environment.