Is this event suitable for toddlers?

The event starts with a forty-five minute presentation in a ballroom, which may be difficult for toddlers and very young children to sit through quietly.

Where should we park for the event?

You can use the valet service at the AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown or look for street parking and public decks nearby in the downtown area.

Do we need to buy tickets in advance?

No, this community event is free and open to the public, though you may want to arrive early to secure a good seat for the presentation.

Swift Night Out — Raleigh, NC

Name: Swift Night Out
Start: 2026-09-21T22:00:00.000Z
Location: The Willard Rooftop Lounge Horizon Ballroom - AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown Rooftop

Swift Night Out

“Arrive twenty minutes early to grab seats before the presentation starts.”

raleighfree

Swift Night Out is an educational evening at The Willard Rooftop Lounge where attendees can learn about chimney swifts and watch them gather in the sky. The event begins with a forty-five minute presentation by an ornithologist from the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, followed by rooftop viewing as the birds begin their evening flight patterns. This event is free to attend and best suited for school-aged children and teenagers who can sit through a presentation. The Willard Rooftop Lounge is located at the AC Hotel in downtown Raleigh, where valet parking is available, or you can find street parking nearby. You do not need to bring any special gear, but binoculars can help your kids get a closer look at the birds. It makes a wonderful weeknight outing because it combines a science lesson with a beautiful view. You can grab dinner downtown beforehand, then head up to the rooftop to watch the sky and teach your kids about local wildlife conservation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this event suitable for toddlers?: The event starts with a forty-five minute presentation in a ballroom, which may be difficult for toddlers and very young children to sit through quietly.
Where should we park for the event?: You can use the valet service at the AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown or look for street parking and public decks nearby in the downtown area.
Do we need to buy tickets in advance?: No, this community event is free and open to the public, though you may want to arrive early to secure a good seat for the presentation.

Last updated September 16, 2026

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Swift Night Out runs Mon, Sep 21, 2026, Mon., 6pm.

Getting There

The Willard Rooftop Lounge Horizon Ballroom - AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown Rooftop is at 9 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC. Open in Google Maps.

More events at The Willard Rooftop Lounge Horizon Ballroom - AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown Rooftop →

What to Bring

Nothing but the kids — this one's free, with no tickets to buy.

Swift Night Out

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Getting There

What to Bring

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