On the Road

Chapel Hill

Falling in love with the Tar Heel state

Pride cyclists outside of mural in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Courtesy of Chapel Hill Visitors Bureau

Known for streets teeming with blue and white Tar Heel fans, Chapel Hill, North Carolina exhibits an intentionally curated culture with emphasis on art, music, entertainment, and food. Experience the award-winning southern biscuits at Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen or delve into the acclaimed Pan-Asian cuisine at Lantern. Grab some fresh air strolling through the Carrboro Farmers Market or stop for a leisurely sip at the Carolina Brewery. Venues such as Cat’s Cradle, the Ackland Art Museum, and The North Carolina Botanical Garden draw many art and culture lovers to the Chapel Hill streets, but the local charm persuades visitors to extend their time.

While Chapel Hill may emulate a big-city feel with a multitude of options for dining and entertainment, it also acknowledges deep historical roots. North Carolina’s oldest continually operating restaurant, Carolina Coffee Shop, still boasts some of the best eggs Benedict. , a neighborhood staple since 1923, is a pharmacy and one-stop-shop that serves a classic southern breakfast and lunch. In town for an extended weekend? The Carolina Inn, a landmark hotel for over 95 years, hosts live music and libations every Friday with Fridays on the Front Porch.

From historic roots to cutting-edge restaurants, Chapel Hill is a quintessential southern destination.

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Plates and drinks at Bombolo in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Partnered

A 48-Hour Chapel Hill Itinerary

Walk through a step-by-step itinerary of award-winning food and beverage spots in the quintessential college town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Carrboro Farmers Market by the Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau
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Explore Carrboro: Chapel Hill’s Artsy Orange County Neighbor

The artsy cousin to Chapel Hill, colorful Carrboro is jam-packed with good food, good people, bright laughter, and exciting adventures.

morehead planetarium and science center entrance credited to The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Chapel Hill Activities: From Greenways to Galleries

Filled with possibility, Chapel Hill activities range from notable art and science museums to miles of natural greenways throughout the city.

Dining Out

Osteria Georgi

This modern-upscale Italian restaurant is the answer to where to eat in Chapel Hill as they offer rich classics and fresh ingredients.

Dining Out

La Farm Bakery

La Farm Bakery, headed by Lionel Vatinet, is baking heirloom Southern grains into French legacies in Cary, North Carolina.

Dining Out

Rocks + Acid Wine Shop

Bringing wine from around the world, Rocks + Acid Wine Shop in Chapel Hill, North Carolina provides the perfect place for all wine lovers.

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Cheese Board Thumbnail
Culinary Class

How to Build the Perfect Cheese Board | Video

Stevie Lee Webb of the Cheese Shop in Carrboro, North Carolina leads us through how to build a balanced and beautiful cheese board.

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Cookbook Club

Latin Connection

Author and food writer Sandra Gutierrez talks with The Local Palate about Latin American cuisines and its connection with the South.

Chocolate Bombolo from Eleanor Lacy of Bombolo
Culinary Class

A New Take on Chocolate Royale

A twist on Julia Child's Chocolate Royale, this crowd-favorite dessert made by Eleanor Lacy of Bombolo plays on its French roots.

CITY GUIDES
On the Road

Durham

Rooted in history and industry, Durham is a cultural haven for diverse eateries and a rich community that warmly welcomes those in its midst. 

On the Road

Outer Banks

A string of barrier islands, North Carolina’s Outer Banks stretch more than 120 miles south, hugging the Atlantic coast.

On the Road

Raleigh

Raleigh has a lot more to offer besides great schools. As the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh has a booming culinary and cultural scene.