CHAPEL HILL, NC

A short drive from Durham is a much smaller college town, one well worth a visit. Franklin Street is the main artery through Chapel Hill, and choices for eating are ripe for the picking. The Carolina Brewery, situated towards the west end of Franklin, is the Triangle’s (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) oldest brewery and a superb opportunity to enjoy some of North Carolina’s home-grown beers. (www.visitchapelhill.org)

While enjoying the promenade activity from a sidewalk table, I recommend an order of beer-batter onion rings to go with the Beer Sampler, which allows you to try six of the brewery’s most popular beers. A pint of Copperline brew (rich, carmelized flavor and color) pairs well with an order of nachos or one of the brewery’s award-winning burgers. (www.carolinabrewery.com)

 

THE INN AT BINGHAM SCHOOL

 

www.chapel-hill-inn.com

 

Rates from $150, #919-563-5583

The original structure of this fabulous inn dates back to 1790. More recently, in the 1800s, the property housed a school for boys operated by the Bingham family, followed by a dairy farm much later. While the variety of uses has resulted in several additions and renovations over the centuries, the result is magical. Swing in the hammocks under white lights, the sounds of crickets and a lone barn owl will carry you off…
fireflies in June light up the night.

In the coolness of the morning, birdsongs fill the air. Take a walk along the shady, wooded paths at the back of the property or enjoy a cup of the Bingham special house blend while sitting in the hand-crafted Adirondack chairs shaded by a wisteria-covered pergola.

 

Before continuing on your journey, wander through the foyer filled with artifacts, letters and interesting memorabilia of the Bingham School. It is a fascinating presentation of the area’s educational tradition and philosophy. Consider the Bingham School philosophy, “Bingham is an unmatched demonstration of the spirit which uses all good things that are new, yet holds to all that is best in the past.” The inn does just that; feel the history, unwind with modern amenities and celebrate the culmination of the two.

LOOKING FOR ADVENTURE:

North Carolina is filled with high-adventure activities and outdoor entertainment.

From white-water rafting to zip-lines and canopy tours,

you won't want to miss the fun NC has in store for you!

Hold on to your hats and head on out. Nature calls!!!