Things to do in Chapel Hill

Activities, attractions and tours

This free botanical garden is on the UNC campus although you would not know it as a visitor. The gardens are beautiful and have a huge assortment of sculptures. I was impressed with the amount of information the garden had on the plants as well as the art. A great activity to do if you are in the area! Peaceful, natural, beautiful, and full of inspiring art! There is a free parking area and an information center with everything you could need.
This free botanical garden is on the UNC campus although you would not know it as a visitor. The gardens are beautiful and have a huge assortment of sculptures. I was impressed with the amount of information the garden had on the plants as well as the art. A great activity to do if you are in the area! Peaceful, natural, beautiful, and full of inspiring art! There is a free parking area and an information center with everything you could need.
Thanks for always keeping the doors open!
University Gardens is a conservation garden to understand, appreciate and conserve plants and to advance a sustainable relationship. There are a few short trails along the way that will take you to beautiful sceneries and each plant has a tag with name and country of provenance.
Miles of trails in this southern slice of heaven. #carolina #carrboro #viewfromarun #reflections
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What to do in Chapel Hill

Popular places to visit

The Old Well at UNC Chapel Hill during the spring with azaleas blooming

University of North Carolina

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of North Carolina during your travels in Chapel Hill. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.

University of North Carolina
Historic UNC hall

Franklin Street

During your visit to Chapel Hill, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Franklin Street. Visit the area's cathedral or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Franklin Street
North Carolina Football Stadium- #footballstadiumtour

Kenan Stadium

Catch an event at Kenan Stadium during your trip to Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

Kenan Stadium
Sundial

Morehead Planetarium

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Morehead Planetarium during your trip to Chapel Hill. Discover the area's entertainment choices and stunning cathedral.

Morehead Planetarium
This free botanical garden is on the UNC campus although you would not know it as a visitor. The gardens are beautiful and have a huge assortment of sculptures. I was impressed with the amount of information the garden had on the plants as well as the art. A great activity to do if you are in the area! Peaceful, natural, beautiful, and full of inspiring art! There is a free parking area and an information center with everything you could need.

North Carolina Botanical Garden

Explore the great outdoors at North Carolina Botanical Garden, a lovely green space in Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

North Carolina Botanical Garden

UNC Medical Center

If UNC Medical Center is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Chapel Hill.

UNC Medical Center

Dean Smith Center

Catch an event at Dean Smith Center during your trip to Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

Dean Smith Center

The Preserve at Jordan Lake

Enjoy a round of golf in Chapel Hill at The Preserve at Jordan Lake. Attend a sporting event or visit the stunning cathedral in this family-friendly area.

The Preserve at Jordan Lake

William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education

Explore the campus of William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education as part of your travels around Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education
The Revitalized Retail and Office Center of The American Tobacco Historical District, Durham, North Carolina, USA

Durham

Aerial view of Raleigh, North Carolina skyline on a sunny day.

Raleigh

Frequently asked questions

Is Chapel Hill worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are many interesting things to do in Chapel Hill. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Chapel Hill?
Kick-start your day with a visit to The Carolina Basketball Museum and North Carolina Botanical Garden. Then, check out other areas of Chapel Hill for local dining and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Chapel Hill?
Don't go home without exploring PlayMakers Repertory Company, ranked the top tourist attraction in Chapel Hill.
Is three days enough to stay in Chapel Hill?
Three days will give you time to tick off popular city highlights, including Memorial Hall, PlayMakers Repertory Company and The Carolina Basketball Museum. The average stay in Chapel Hill is two days. If you have the urge to extend your getaway, Raleigh isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Chapel Hill with kids?
Planning what to do in Chapel Hill with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or little ones, there are loads of family-friendly activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Chapel Hill for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in Chapel Hill for adults including Franklin Street.
Are there free things to do in Chapel Hill?
From enjoying parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Chapel Hill. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. The Carolina Basketball Museum is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing activities.

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