Colleges In Nc Map

Introduction

North Carolina is a beautiful state known for its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and rich history. The state is also home to some of the best colleges in the country, making it an ideal destination for students and their families. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in North Carolina’s college towns.

Top Attractions

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. The campus is home to stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous Old Well. Visitors can also explore the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and the North Carolina Botanical Garden.

Duke University

Duke University is a private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. The campus is home to several museums, including the Nasher Museum of Art and the Duke Lemur Center. Visitors can also explore the Duke Gardens and the historic Duke Chapel.

North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University is located in Raleigh, the state’s capital. The campus is home to the JC Raulston Arboretum and the Gregg Museum of Art and Design. Visitors can also explore the nearby Pullen Park and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions in North Carolina’s college towns are undoubtedly worth a visit, there are also several hidden gems that are worth exploring.

The Ackland Art Museum

The Ackland Art Museum is located on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The museum houses a world-class collection of art, including works by European masters and contemporary artists.

The Duke Lemur Center

The Duke Lemur Center is the world’s largest sanctuary for lemurs outside of Madagascar. Visitors can take a guided tour of the center and learn about these fascinating primates.

The Gregg Museum of Art and Design

The Gregg Museum of Art and Design is located on the campus of North Carolina State University. The museum houses a collection of more than 35,000 objects, including textiles, ceramics, and furniture.

Food Scene

North Carolina is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and the state’s college towns are no exception.

Carolina Brewery

The Carolina Brewery is located in Chapel Hill and serves a variety of craft beers and delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

Dame’s Chicken and Waffles

Dame’s Chicken and Waffles is located in Durham and serves up delicious chicken and waffles, as well as other Southern favorites like mac and cheese and collard greens.

The Fiction Kitchen

The Fiction Kitchen is located in Raleigh and serves up delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine, including dishes like jackfruit tacos and vegan mac and cheese.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? North Carolina’s college towns offer plenty of affordable options.

Free Museums

Many of the museums in North Carolina’s college towns offer free admission, including the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University and the Gregg Museum of Art and Design at North Carolina State University.

Outdoor Adventures

Exploring the great outdoors is a great way to have fun without breaking the bank. North Carolina’s college towns offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

Local Markets

Check out the local farmers’ markets in North Carolina’s college towns for affordable and delicious produce, baked goods, and other treats.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? North Carolina’s college towns offer plenty of family-friendly activities.

The North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo is located in Asheboro, about an hour’s drive from Chapel Hill. The zoo is home to more than 1,600 animals, including elephants, gorillas, and polar bears.

Marbles Kids Museum

Marbles Kids Museum is located in Raleigh and offers hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.

Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation

Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation offers a variety of programs and activities for kids and families, including sports leagues, summer camps, and swim lessons.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, check out these off-the-beaten-path experiences in North Carolina’s college towns.

The Carolina Basketball Museum

The Carolina Basketball Museum is located on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and celebrates the history of Tar Heel basketball.

The American Tobacco Trail

The American Tobacco Trail is a 22-mile rail-trail that runs through Durham and connects to several parks and other trails.

The Durham Bulls Athletic Park

The Durham Bulls Athletic Park is home to the Durham Bulls, a minor league baseball team made famous by the movie “Bull Durham.”

Natural Wonders

North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country.

The Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains are located in western North Carolina and offer stunning views and hiking trails.

The Outer Banks

The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina and offer beautiful beaches and plenty of opportunities for water sports.

The Uwharrie National Forest

The Uwharrie National Forest is located in central North Carolina and offers hiking trails, camping, and fishing.

Vibrant Nightlife

North Carolina’s college towns offer plenty of options for a fun night out.

Franklin Street

Franklin Street in Chapel Hill is home to several bars and restaurants, as well as the famous Cat’s Cradle music venue.

The Durham Performing Arts Center

The Durham Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances.

The Raleigh Beer Garden

The Raleigh Beer Garden offers more than 350 beers on tap and is located in downtown Raleigh.

Local Markets

For a taste of local flavor, check out these markets in North Carolina’s college towns.

The Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market

The Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, baked goods, and other treats.

The Durham Farmers’ Market

The Durham Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays and Wednesdays and offers a variety of locally grown produce and other goods.

The Raleigh Farmers’ Market

The Raleigh Farmers’ Market is open seven days a week and offers a wide variety of produce, meats, and other products.

Beaches and Mountains

North Carolina’s college towns are located close to both the mountains and the beach, making them an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that runs through the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia and offers stunning views.

The Wrightsville Beach

The Wrightsville Beach is located near the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and offers beautiful beaches and plenty of water sports.

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail runs through the mountains of North Carolina and offers hiking opportunities for all skill levels.

Cultural Immersion

Experience the rich culture of North Carolina’s college towns with these immersive experiences.

The Carolina Theatre

The Carolina Theatre is located in Durham and offers a variety of films, concerts, and other performances.

The North Carolina Museum of Art

The North Carolina Museum of Art is located in Raleigh and houses a collection of more than 40,000 works of art from around the world.

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is located on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and offers interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.

Art and Music Scene

North Carolina’s college towns are home to a vibrant art and music scene.

The Cat’s Cradle

The Cat’s Cradle is located in Carrboro and is one of the most famous music venues in the country, having hosted acts like Nirvana and REM.