A multi-generational trip to Chapel Hill and surrounding communities, is the perfect way to blend history, culture, outdoor activities, great food, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re traveling with grandparents, parents, teens, or young kids, the Chapel Hill and Orange County area of North Carolina offers something for everyone.
Where to Stay
- Graduate Hotel – A boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, designed with college town charm and walking distance to shops and restaurants on Franklin Street.
- AC Hotel Chapel Hill Downtown – Modern and centrally located, featuring plush lounging areas, signature drinks and large outdoor courtyard. Just one block from historic Franklin Street.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Carrboro – Includes an outdoor swimming pool and shares a parking square with family-friendly restaurants, brewery, iconic music venue and coffee shop.
For a list of all area accommodations, see here: Hotels
Things to Do
For History & Culture Lovers
- UNC Campus Tour – Explore campus using a self-guided walking or driving tour. Visit the Old Well or the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower which lights up a radiant blue after big Ws and special events.
- Ackland Art Museum – Features engaging and diverse exhibits that appeal to all ages. The Ackland's collection of over 21,000 works of art span time periods and cultures.
- Morehead Planetarium & Science Center - Planetarium shows and highly interactive exhibits that explore all disciplines of science. Learn how the early astronauts trained here.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts
- North Carolina Botanical Garden – Take a peaceful walk-through scenic gardens and nature trails featuring species native to the regions of North Carolina.
- Riverwalk in Hillsborough – A paved, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly trail along the Eno River, perfect for a leisurely family stroll.
- Bolin Creek Trail – Walk or bike through this beautiful greenway and stop at the Chapel Hill Community Center rose garden.
For Sports Fans
- Kenan Memorial Stadium – Catch a UNC football game or visit the Charlie Justice Hall of Honor.
- Dean Smith Center & Carolina Basketball Museum – A must-visit for basketball fans to see UNC’s legendary history.
- Exciting NCAA Sports – From field hockey to lacrosse and baseball, there’s always a game happening in this college sports town.
For Younger Kids
- Southern Village – A great kid-friendly area with parks, green spaces, outdoor movies and concerts and family dining.
- Spring Haven Farm – Goats rule here. Meet farm animals, mine for gems, and enjoy nature-based activities.
- Maple View Ice Cream Country Store – Enjoy fresh, homemade ice cream with scenic farm views.
Unique for Whole Family
- Cat Tales Cat Café – A fun stop for cat lovers where you can relax with adorable adoptable cats.
- Tar Heel Escapes - visitors have 60 minutes to solve puzzles and crack codes to escape themed rooms.
Where to Eat (Something for Everyone!)
- Top of the Hill – Classic Southern-inspired fare with award-winning brews and views of Franklin Street.
- IP3 Italian Kitchen – Authentic, family-friendly Italian restaurant known for its pizza and pasta.
- Blue’s on Franklin – Featuring real North Carolina Style BBQ in a casual setting and great place to watch Carolina sports.
- Al’s Burger Shack – Named for 'Best Burger in America' and 'Best Burger and Fries in North Carolina' with two locations: Franklin Street and Southern Village.
Evening Activities
- Live Music at Cat’s Cradle (Carrboro) – Great for older teens and adults who love all genres of music.
- PlayMakers Repertory Company – High-quality theater performances featuring classic and contemporary productions.
Make It a Trip to Remember!
Whether it’s a stroll through campus, catching a game, playing with goats, or enjoying farm fresh ice cream, there’s something for every generation to enjoy together.
(Top image: Family Enjoying Ice Cream on the Porch at Maple View Farm Ice Cream and General Store; Below: The Graduate Hotel, The Old Well, Family enjoying Hillsborough's RiverWalk, Family Photo Op at Carolina Basketball Museum, Visiting the Animals at Spring Haven Farm, Dining out at Italian Pizzeria III)
