Quaint areas of Raleigh

My family and I are moving to the area this summer and are feeling overwhelmed with trying to pick the right area/neighborhood for us. We plan to rent for two years and then buy once our daughter is out of daycare and once we’ve really had time to figure out where we want to live permanently. I really liked the small town feel of Apex and Cary but I don’t think it will ultimately be in our price range once we are ready to buy. What I liked about these areas was that there seemed to be a defined town center, great parks, and proximity to restaurants, shops, etc. It didn’t just feel like Anytown USA, quintessential suburbia, big box everything.

My question is, what are quaint areas of Raleigh or Durham that you would recommend that maintain some of those features I stated: somewhat of a defined town center, great parks/trails, proximity to restaurants, shops, quick and easy to get to downtown Raleigh, etc. We have a 3 year old, so family friendly areas and great schools are a plus, though we are moving from New Orleans, so anything will be an upgrade, educationally speaking (and honestly, overall quality of life speaking), I’m sure. We do not want to be as far out as Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest, etc. Maybe I’m looking for a unicorn…I don’t know. Hopefully yall can help. Thank you!