Welcome to Carrboro!

In 1882, the settlement that would become Carrboro began almost as an afterthought at the University of North Carolina railroad spur directly west of Chapel Hill. Once known as West End, the area was established because Chapel Hill didn’t want the railroad running through town. Soon, the mills came and a community grew.

Modern Day

Over the past 150 years, Carrboro’s commitment to historic preservation has helped give the town its unique vibe. It’s an eclectic mix of old and new where historic architecture and modern, progressive attitudes are celebrated.

The town’s namesake mill is the heart of Carrboro’s historic core. The nearby railroad depot, first textile mill, and a former grist mill were all added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and now house shops and restaurants. Pre-World War II commercial buildings on Main Street now serve as offices. Just to the north and south of downtown are scores of historic homes originally built around old mills.

Creative Carrboro

Carrboro is featured in the book, “The 100 Best Art Towns in America: A Guide to Galleries, Museums, Festivals, Lodging and Dining” by John Villani. Stop into one of the town’s many art galleries and crafts shops and you’ll see why.

Dining

Carrboro also boasts some of the best dining options in Orange County. Gabe Barker, son of James Beard award winning chefs Ben and the late Karen Barker, opened Pizzeria Mercato in 2015 and the restaurant continues to emphasize locally sourced ingredients from, where else, the Carrboro Farmers’ Market.

Other favorites include Tandem, Iza Whiskey & Eats, Venable Bistro, Coronato, Carrburritos, The Spotted Dog Restaurant & Bar, Acme Food & Beverage Co., and Glasshalfull, to name a few.

Events

Each year Carrboro hosts dozens of special events like arts, film, music, and poetry festivals, 5ks, and cycling events. Some of the biggest are the annual fall Carrboro Music Festival and LGBTQ+ Pride in June. Scan to learn more at www.visitcarrboro.com