Bike racks have come a long way, baby. If you're thinking about those old metal U shaped ones, well, where have you been?
There are some amazing racks out there. One design blog documents some of the coolest.

Credit J. Mause / bikeportland.org
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bikeportland.org

Credit LUCA718

Credit City of Raleigh
Will Raleigh be able to get "cool" racks? Well, it's up to you. The city is kicking off a pilot project, trying to "crowdfund" some new ones.
The goal is to finance the project with small donations from people. It will cost $6,500. If they get the money, and you donate, you get to vote for the final design.
By the way, Raleigh planners are also crowdfunding benches for the new 28 mile long Neuse River Greenway.
Perhaps they could combine the two projects, with a bike rack/bench. Yes, they do exist.

Credit ADD-Innovation