Ranked at number 10 from our Top 10 Places to Live in Raleigh is Glenwood South. Glenwood South is among the largest entertainment centers in Raleigh with a multitude of restaurants, clubs, and cafes.
History for Historic Glenwood-Brooklyn Neighborhood
Glenwood-Brooklyn spans both sides of Glenwood Avenue between Peace and Wade Streets. This area marks the start of suburban growth north of Raleigh from 1857 to 1907. The Glenwood Land Company, founded in 1905, began offering land for residential development. Initially, Victorian Queen Anne-style homes were popular, followed by Craftsman-style bungalows in the 1910s. Some homes, like 1200 Glenwood Avenue, blend Craftsman and Colonial Revival styles. Trolley lines were replaced by buses in 1933. In the early 1980s, the city purchased 8 acres from a closed Methodist orphanage. This land was used to build Fletcher Park.

Glenwood South has a revitalized vibe. It attracts crowds with a mix of vintage clothing stores, art galleries, and yoga studios in former warehouses. The area comes alive at night with craft beer taverns, DJ lounges, and speakeasy-style cocktail bars featuring live jazz. Dining options range from classic steakhouses and Mexican taco bars to sushi spots, most with outdoor seating.
Market Stats and Demographics
- Glenwood South is a trendy neighborhood with a lively atmosphere. It’s known for its art galleries, vintage clothing stores, and nightlife.
- According to US Census Data, there are 4,892 residents in Glenwood South.
January 2025 Median Estimated Property Value

Market Trends

Top 10 Things to Do in Glenwood South
The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery: They bake from scratch every morning, using only the highest quality, freshest ingredients.
The Raleigh Beer Garden: The world’s largest variety of draft beer. Enjoy handcrafted food. There are over 350 draft beers to choose from!
Vidrio: Vidrio is a colorful window into the flavors and soul of the Mediterranean kitchen. A creative expression of the passion, people, and lifestyle that have embodied a timeless culture.
Alchemy: There is a lavish patio bar outside. Inside, there is a high-energy nightclub. It features diverse music, two full-service bars, and a wide variety of craft beers.
Hibernian Irish Pub and Restaurant: They create an atmosphere with the charm of an Irish social club. It also has the warmth of a Gaelic home kitchen.
Hello Yellow: A child-directed art experience focused more on the creative process than the final product. Your child will have various supplies and materials. They can explore and create without the cleanup at home!
Hause of Dogs: Hause of Dogs ice cream is puppy approved! Lactose free, minimal ingredients makes it easy on the most sensitive bellies!
Tin Roof: A live music joint offers musicians a place to play and relax offstage. It’s the go-to spot for both musicians and non-musicians. The place offers tasty food, a fun atmosphere, a loyal community, and a friendly crew.
42nd. St. Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill: It is one of the South’s most famous landmark restaurants. It has satisfied thousands of grateful patrons since its humble beginnings in 1931.
Record Krate: The Record Krate is a used vinyl record shop. It offers a large variety of vinyl records, speakers, and turntables. You can also find accessories, record cases, stickers, and t-shirts there.

Reasons to Choose Glenwood South
If you enjoy a mix of urban living, nightlife, and community, Glenwood South is the perfect spot for you!
- Vibrant Entertainment Scene: Glenwood South has an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, music venues, and art galleries. It offers a lively and diverse atmosphere for both day and night activities.
- Walkability: The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly. It offers easy access to local shops, cafes, and nightlife spots. This makes it convenient for those who prefer to walk or bike.
- Proximity to Downtown: Located near downtown Raleigh, Glenwood South offers quick access to work, cultural events, and other downtown amenities.
- Dynamic Community: It’s a blend of young professionals, creatives, and long-time locals, fostering a vibrant, inclusive community.
- Dining Options: From craft beer taverns and speakeasy-style cocktail bars, you will find delightful places. There are diverse restaurants offering various cuisines. You’ll always find somewhere to eat or drink. There are countless options available.
- Live Music and Events: Live music venues and events regularly happen in the area. There’s always something exciting to enjoy.
- Great for Professionals: There is easy access to office spaces, business districts, and entertainment. It’s perfect for professionals seeking a balance of work and play.
- Historic Charm: The area has a unique blend of historic and modern architecture. This mix gives it a distinctive character. It’s hard to find such character in other parts of Raleigh.
To navigate the complex Triangle real estate market, partner with Brazoban Realty. Our experienced agents can offer expert guidance and help you achieve your real estate goals.
Stay informed with exclusive tips and market insights by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.
Don’t miss out on any price drops or new listings! Sign up for property alerts and save your searches and favorite properties.
References: Wikipedia, RHDC, local wiki, Raleigh News and Observer, Downtown Raleigh, and Visit Raleigh.