Triangle Weekender 2022

Our Ultimate Checklist • 40+ Curated Weekends • Great Date Nights Family-Friendly Fun • Foodie Favorites • Top Annual Events

Triangle

WEEKENDER 2022

RAISE A GLASS Quann Bradley, Vicki Tong, Chermere Carr, Richard Barlow and Leslie Tyson cheers to the weekend at The Willard Rooftop Lounge atop the AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown.

experience the

best of where you live

Your Home.

My Mission.

“First, Gretchen is the most responsive agent we’ve ever worked with. She is truly looking out for her clients’ best interests at all times. She is detail-oriented—nothing slips through the cracks. She is a master at staging and presenting your property. She has access to the broadest possible market and knows where to advertise high-end properties. She has a sixth sense about market value and is a great negotiator. She also has extensive contacts with reliable contractors for mitigation work and supervises their work as necessary. She is a closer who makes the deal happen. In sum, she is a total Real Estate professional who excels in all aspects. We couldn’t be more pleased with our relationship and give her our highest recommendation.”

- Lt. General John Moellering, Ret. & Mrs. Karla Moellering

Gretchen Castorina

919.951.5566 gretchen.castorina@compass.com compass.com

Guiding you home in Chapel Hill and the Triangle!

GRETCHEN CASTORINA IS A REAL ESTATE LICENSEE AFFILIATED WITH COMPASS, A LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER AND ABIDES BY EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY LAWS. 1011 S HAMILTON RD, SUITE 300, CHAPEL HILL, NC, 27517 | (919) 999-8482

Street & sculpture art walk

What makes living in the Raleigh area truly special is the smart and savvy people who craft authentic experiences best enjoyed firsthand. Jump back in with artists like Annelies Gentile to share an up close and personal look at vibrant murals, street art and sculpture with visiting friends and family. Experiences like this and more are why there’s no place like home.

visitRaleigh.com/locals

Enjoy a guest-centric experience & gracious Southern hospitality!

Triangle

WEEKENDER EDITORIA L EXECU TIVE M A NAGING EDITOR Amanda MacLaren EDITOR Jessica Stringer EDITORIA L A SSISTA NT Renee Ambroso DIGITA L EDITOR Hannah Lee

2021

M A NAGING EDITOR, CHATHA M M AG A Z I N E Anna-Rhesa Versola EDITORIA L INTERNS Morgan Chapman, Ben Crosbie, Delaney Galvin, Charlotte Goto, Natalie Huschle, Jessica Mirelli, Isabella Reilly, Caleb Sigmon, Megan Tillotson and Caitlyn Yaede A RT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kevin Brown GRA PHIC DESIGNER/PRODU CTION COORD I N ATOR Lindsay Scott GRA PHIC DESIGNER Khadijah Weekes-Nolan PHOTOGRA PHER John Michael Simpson CONTRIBU TOR Jean Carlos Rosario-Montalvo A DVERTISING For advertising inquiries, email advertising@chapelhillmagazine.com Melissa Crane melissa.crane@trianglemediapartners.com Kem Johnson kem.johnson@trianglemediapartners.com

BED & BREAKFAST

êêêêê Impeccable 5-Star reputation on Google and Trip Advisor Our B&B guests enjoy home-cooked meals, beautifully appointed guest rooms and friendly farm animals.

Experience nature and all the comforts of home right here in Chatham County.

291 Meadow View Drive, Moncure, NC 27559

(919) 274-2497 • luckybarfarm.com 2

Lauren Phillips lauren.phillips@trianglemediapartners.com Lucinda Poole lucinda.poole@trianglemediapartners.com Dana Statkun dana.statkun@trianglemediapartners.com PRODU CTION M A NAGER Ashlin Acheson CORPORATE FOU NDER/CHA IRM A N Dan Shannon PRESIDENT, TRIA NGLE M EDIA PA RTNERS Ellen Shannon

PUB L I S H E R, HEA RT O F N C W E D D I N G S Jenna Parks CREAT I V E D I RE C TOR, TRIA NGLE D I G I TA L PA RTN E RS Sally Scruggs

PRESIDENT, TRIA NGLE DIGITA L PA RTNERS Rory Kelly Gillis

DIGITA L OP E RATI ON S MA N AG E R Lizzie Jones

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINA NCE & A DM INISTRATION Amy Bell

DIGITA L C US TOME R S E RV I C E SPECIALIST Brian McIndoo

VICE PRESIDENT/PU BLISHER, CHATHA M M AGA Z INE Chris Elkins chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com

DIS T RI B UT I ON Matt Bair ACC OUN TI N G & A DM INIS TRATI ON I N TE RN Cassady Orsini

Triangle Weekender is published annually by Triangle Media Partners 1777 Fordham Blvd., Ste. 105, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 919–933–1551 trianglemediapartners.com

Unidentified artist, Pre-Columbian, Smiling Figure (“Sonriente”) (detail), 600-800 C.E., terra cotta with traces of polychrome. Gift of Gordon and Copey Hanes in honor of Dr. Joseph C. Sloane.

ackland.org

CONTENTS

Table of

6 The Ultimate Checklist Our list of must-dos to make the most out of living in the Triangle

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22 Mark Your Calendar There’s always a great festival, market, celebration and more on tap, no matter the time of year 32 Weekend Plans Looking to hang with the fam or take your partner out for a night on the town? Maybe you just want to grab lunch or catch a concert with friends. Whatever your mood, these suggestions are tried and true.

52 Squad Goals Gather your closest pals for these exciting group activities 60 Eat It Up Our area is known for its stellar dining scene. Here are a few favorites based on your appetite and occasion.

65 Drinks All Around A guide to the Triangle’s new and established breweries, distilleries and cideries 72 Let’s Play Whether you’re watching a game, teaching the kiddos a new sport, going the distance with a run club or throwing a disc around, there’s plenty of ways to stay active and social in the Triangle!

78 Readers’ Favorites Locals share how they explore the Triangle on their days off

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

LelandLittle.com 919.644.1243 Hillsborough, NC NCFL#7452

 Challenge yourself on the new Bond Park Challenge Course, which opened at Fred G. Bond Metro Park in spring 2022.

Get a season pass to the Museum of Life and Science and take the kiddos often.

 Memorize the lyrics of James Taylor’s “Carolina in My Mind.”  Go canoeing, kayaking, fishing, camping, picnicking, boating and swimming at Jordan Lake, Falls Lake, Lake Michie, Lake Johnson, Lake Crabtree, Lake Wheeler and the Eno River State Park.  Purchase local produce, meat and eggs from your nearest farmers market or at a year-round farm stand like Perkins Orchard in Durham, Howard’s Farm & Mema’s Fruit Shack in Pittsboro and Raleigh City Farm’s Pay-What-YouCan Farmstand.  Dance through an evening of music outside at Fridays on the Front Porch at The Carolina Inn (April-October).  Catch a North Carolina FC or North Carolina Courage soccer game at Cary’s WakeMed Soccer Park.

The

Ultimate

CHECK LIST Our list of must-dos to make the most out of living in the Triangle Photography by John Michael Simpson

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LEFT River Shaw and his cousin Joey Hodge make a splash at Museum of Life and Science’s Earth Moves exhibit.

 Enjoy a relaxing turn down Poet’s Walk at Ayr Mount in Hillsborough.  Check out the latest exhibit at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University and visit the outdoor

space and sculptural garden that connects it to the Rubenstein Arts Center, where you can also peruse exhibits, hear live music or see a dance troupe perform.  Look sharp in a Carolina blue tie from Julian’s.  Have a locally brewed beer (see our list of breweries, cideries and more starting on page 65).  Step back in time with a tour of the working West Point Mill at West Point on the Eno. While you’re there, visit the McCown-Mangum House and the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography.  Watch a Broadway show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or catch the NC Symphony at Meymandi Concert Hall in Raleigh.

 Take in the sights and sweet smells of the

Take an Intro to Bouldering class at Triangle Rock Club, which has locations in Raleigh, Morrisville and Durham.

Raleigh Rose Garden,

one of three accredited rose gardens in the state with grounds that include 60 rose beds filled with varieties of hybrid teas, floribundas, grandifloras, miniatures and antique roses, surrounded by an arboretum of evergreen and deciduous trees.

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

 Take a workshop on how to build a terrarium, hang macrame planters and create floral arrangements at plant and gift shop The ZEN Succulent (which has locations in Durham and Raleigh).

 Relax on the lawn of Weaver Street Market in Carrboro.  See the Belted Galloway cows and stroll the walkable Fearrington Village.  Purchase your own pair of locally made jeans from Raleigh Denim Workshop.  Enjoy a performance, art show or free movie at the Halle Cultural Arts Center in Apex.

PHOTO BY ESTLIN HAISS

Play a game of pickup basketball on the refurbished and colorful courts at Hillside Park, painted

by Raleigh artist Sarahlaine Calva.

 Stop by Durham’s Visitor Info Center, Pittsboro’s Welcome Center, the new Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau and Raleigh’s Visitor Information Center for printed maps and guides, personalized recommendations and more from destination experts.  Catch a show at Raleigh Little Theatre, one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in the country. 

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THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Triangle

WEEKENDER  Pack a picnic dinner to enjoy a concert or movie screening outdoors at Apex Nature Park Amphitheatre.  Catch a live show with Duke Performances.

Savor French pastries and bread at La Farm Bakery – there’s even an outpost in the Raleigh-Durham International Airport!

We heartily recommend the white chocolate mini baguette.

 Walk the sidewalks and gallery hop during First Friday Gallery Walk in Raleigh or Chapel Hill, 2nd Friday ArtWalk in Carrboro, Third Fridays in Durham and Last Fridays in Hillsborough.

Jay Park, owner of Durham Korean food hall Park’s Food Street.

Try every vendor at our local food halls: Blue Dogwood Public Market, Durham Food Hall, Park’s Food Street, Morgan Street Food Hall, Transfer Co. Food Hall and Craften.

 See a Carolina Performing Arts show at Current ArtSpace + Studio or Memorial Hall.  Spend a spring afternoon at Sarah P. Duke Gardens.  Visit Bennett Place, the site of the largest surrender in the Civil War.  Walk, run or bike the American Tobacco Trail. 

 Become a member of the University Club on the 17th floor of University Tower. Often referred to as “The Pickle” by locals, the tower is home to offices and a penthouse restaurant and bar.  Learn about the historic Alexander Dickson House, which also serves as the Hillsborough Visitors Center.  Have a family-friendly afternoon out at Jack Smith Park in Cary, where there’s a splash pad, playground, dog park, 10-foot-tall climbing rock and unique sculptures from artists Vollis Simpson and William Moore.  Take a tour of the Duke Lemur Center, which houses the largest group of these endangered primates in the world.  Take a step back in Chapel Hill town history at the Horace Williams House, home to Preservation Chapel Hill.

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Learn about hoops history at the Carolina Basketball Museum, Duke Basketball Museum and Duke Athletics Hall of Fame or NC State Athletics Walk of Fame & History located inside Reynolds Coliseum. (Still want more sports history? Visit the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame on the third floor of the NC Museum of History in downtown Raleigh.)

PHOTO BY ANNA ROUTH

DUKEPERFORMANCES.ORG

MAYO LAKE

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TUNNEL CREEK WINERY & VINEYARD

Nestled on at the end of a road surrounded by farmland, is this locally owned winery. Fit with rolling hills, a walkable trail, frequent live music and delicious treats, Tunnel Creek makes for an easy going afternoon sitting in the sun.

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501 BLACK CREEK BREWERY Around the corner from 1792, where cozy meets vibrant night life, is this local brewery. With ample outdoor seating, you can settle in on a warm summer night to listen to some local music, while enjoying local food truck cuisine.

ROXBORO 158 1792 BEER COMPANY

In the heart of Uptown Roxboro, offering a mix of draft beers, and canned, with juice boxes for the kids, is this family friendly shop. Hopping with food trucks and trivia nights, this is the go to place any night of the week, or before and after Uptown events.

ROCK OF AGES WINERY & VINEYARD

Located North of Durham at the end of Guess Rd. in Person County, wine tastings are offered daily from 1PM – 5PM. With 42 different wines, there is something for everyone. Sweet Wine, Dry White and Dry Red Wine. Drink with the locals, it just tastes better.

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TOBACCO WOOD BREWING COMPANY

EXPLOR BOTANIST & BARREL

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This cidery & winery comes packed with outdoor seating, a blueberry pick your own farm, and plenty of pairing dinners and experiences on the calendar to choose from. Located just outside of Person County in Cedar Grove, this makes a great first stop on your tour of the countryside in Person County.

Female veteran owned and operated brewery located just over the border in Oxford provides a family friendly atmosphere, great ‘que, and 13 beers up at a time.

The menu and brews make this stop a necessity.

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IT’S BETTER IN PERSON Embrace Adventure at your Own Pace and follow the backroads to Person County, surrounding areas and everything we have to offer

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 Visit the Civil War-era Burwell School Historic Site, and learn about the bravery of Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley, who escaped life as a slave to become a close confidant of first lady Mary Todd Lincoln.  Explore the exhibits – topics from DNA to animal health – at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Triangle

WEEKENDER

Hillsborough residents Matt and Elizabeth Poindexter often take their daughter, Cora, to the Riverwalk.

 Take a picture with Major the Bull in CCB Plaza.  Play a round of golf at UNC Finley Golf Course, Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, Hillandale Golf Course, Lonnie Poole Golf Course and/or Heritage Golf Course.

 Play your way through the exhibits at Marbles, the children’s museum in downtown Raleigh.

Animal Protection Society of Durham, Independent Animal Rescue, Orange County Animal Services, Paws4ever, Chatham Animal Rescue and Education, SPCA of Wake County, Wake County Animal Center, Second Chance Pet Adoptions, Safe Haven for Cats and Saving Grace.

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New Hope Valley Railway

round trip from Bonsal to New Hill and back, enjoying food, drinks, music and other entertainment on certain days.

Get a library card at your closest library branch (Durham County residents, be sure to visit the newly renovated Main Library!).

 Adopt a pet from a local animal shelter or rescue – a few of our faves are the

 Tour Duke Homestead State Historic Site, the early home, factories and farm where Washington Duke first grew and processed tobacco.

 Peruse antiques, furniture, collectibles, clothing and more from more than 500 vendors at The Raleigh Market at N.C. State Fairgrounds, a flea market that’s been around since the 1970s!  Travel on miles of vintage track through scenic woods and over a trestle during an hourlong

 Volunteer with a local nonprofit in your county, from Meals on Wheels to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina to Habitat for Humanity.  Learn pottery or drawing at The ArtsCenter in Carrboro.

Walk or bike along the banks of the Eno River on the Riverwalk in Hillsborough.

The Cooper family – Eric, Banks, Tatum and Sheena – walk down the Durham County Main Library’s natural light-filled central staircase.

 Enjoy the latest exhibition at the Ackland Art Museum or stroll through the artistowned FRANK Gallery in University Place. 

Visit the Carolina Tiger Rescue, a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in Pittsboro on a mission to save and protect wild cats in captivity and in the wild.

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Triangle

WEEKENDER  Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to the Videri Chocolate Factory – don’t leave without a box of bonbons!  Learn all about downtown Durham’s history and architecture on a free walking or bike tour hosted by Preservation Durham.

Sip award-winning chambourcin at FireClay Cellars, the only commercial vineyard in Chatham County.

ABOVE Nothing quite like sipping wine in the summertime on FireClay Cellars’ inviting front porch. BELOW Aspyn Attucks and Avia Attucks explore the exhibits at Morehead Planetarium & Science Center.

 Walk around University Hill in Durham to look at all the incredible murals, then head to BB’s Crispy Chicken for dinner and Aperitif for wine and dessert.  Order a Blue Cup at He’s Not Here in Chapel Hill.

 Play a round of disc golf on the 18-hole course at Cedar Hills Park in North Raleigh. 

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PHOTO BY MICK SCHULTE

Catch an afternoon show at Morehead Planetarium & Science Center.

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Triangle

WEEKENDER RIGHT Nashua Oraby, Hussein El-Genk and their four children, Ayyub, Zakariyya, Kareema and Rasheed, at West Point on the Eno city park in Durham, which contains a stretch of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

PHOTO COURTESY RALEIGH PARKS, RECREATION AND CULTURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

Ride the carousel or train, pedal a boat or play on the playgrounds in Raleigh’s Pullen Park, the first public park in the state.

 Stroll the sacred grounds of Historic Oakwood Cemetery in Raleigh and Historic Maplewood Cemetery in Durham. Preservation Durham also hosts walking tours of Maplewood in which guides share information about the people buried in the cemetery as well as funerary traditions, grave art and architecture.

Experience the purple fields at Lavender Oaks Farm in Chapel Hill at the height of the lavender season in the summer.

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 See a play at Theatre in the Park, located at the northern end of Pullen Park. One of the theater company’s longest-running and biggest hits, “A Christmas Carol,” which was adapted into a musical comedy by Artistic and Executive Director Ira David Wood III, is always a sellout during the holiday season. 

BELOW Inspired by a trip to Provence, France, Karen Macdonald and Robert Macdonald bought land just west of Chapel Hill for their own lavender farm in 2015.

Run, walk or bike the Neuse River Greenway Trail, 27.5 miles of paved trail along the Neuse River that winds through wetlands, historical sights, interpretive signs and agricultural fields. It’s a segment of the Mountains-toSea Trail, a longdistance trail that runs across North Carolina from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks and includes other trails in Hillsborough as well as along Falls Lake and the Eno River.

CHAP-3782 Welcome Center Opening_Half Page Ad_CH Mag_M1_hires.pdf

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KNOW MORE. DO MORE.

Whether you’re new in town or it’s been a while since your last visit, make your first stop the new Chapel Hill and Orange County Welcome Center at 308 W. Franklin Street in Chapel Hill. It’s right in the heart of downtown and full of info on places to play, shop, eat, and drink. Quiz our knowledgeable team or see area highlights on our interactive video wall, including a special welcome message from James Taylor.

If you’re looking for things to do, let curiosity lead you here. www.visitchapelhill.org

A fri dly, walkable neighborh d wi shoppin g, restaur ts, services, d a fu cal dar of season al ev ts, including live music, e er, d outd r movies...

Wish you were here!

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THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Triangle

WEEKENDER  Walk through American Tobacco Campus, home to the famous Lucky Strike Tower, an eclectic mix of restaurants and retail, a beautiful green space and quarter-mile long river.  Watch a show by the Bouncing Bulldogs, a

youth jump rope team of international acclaim.  Recycle your old technology with Triangle Ecycling, which handles computer refurbishing and has a strong youth education program with Durham Public Schools, teaching hands-on computer repair skills to students.  Take a Saturday tour of the North Carolina State Capitol, a Greek Revival-style building completed in 1840. 

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Stroll the grounds of the JC Raulston Arboretum, which are open every day of the week throughout the year. Next time you visit, peruse the Plant Sale Buggy and purchase a plant of your own to take home!

PHOTO COURTESY JC RAULSTON ARBORETUM AT NC STATE UNIVERSITY

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BE MOVED! Bringing the Triangle the best of the modern dance world with live performances each year.

GET MOVING! Offering year-round dance classes for all ages and all levels. Join us for a class taught by our expert faculty and learn something new.

Photo from a pop-up event choreographed by Mark Dendy.

Photographed by Ben McKeown.

Learn more

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Triangle

WEEKENDER Preorder a meal

by Catering Works at North Carolina Museum of Art and picnic at the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, which features temporary and permanent public art installations, environmentally sustainable landscapes, colorful contemporary gardens, miles of recreational trails and a terraced pond. T W

PHOTO COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF HISTORY

Learn more about our state’s past at the North Carolina Museum of History, a Smithsonian affiliate, which is located across from the Capitol.

(Don’t miss the exhibit on local trailblazer Pauli Murray, running May to November.)

PHOTO COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART

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There’s always a great festival, market, celebration and more on tap, no matter the time of year By Morgan Chapman, Hannah Lee, Renee Ambroso and Jessica Stringer

CALENDAR

Mark Your 22

Art in Bloom This fundraising festival of art and flowers at North Carolina Museum of Art showcases the creativity of floral designers who use their skills to interpret the fine art within the museum and design an awe-inspiring arrangement.

Proceeds from the event benefit the NCMA Foundation Inc.

Artists Jane Cheek and Tonya Thornton take in the floral arrangements at North Carolina Museum of Art during Art in Bloom.

Spring

Great Human Race This annual fundraiser, a 5K run/walk and timed race hosted by The Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park,

benefits more than 100 nonprofit organizations.

Community Egg Hunt Hunt for eggs and meet the Easter Bunny at Southern Community Park in Chapel Hill.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival The 39th annual celebration in the heart of downtown Raleigh features a unique parade, dancers, bagpipers, decorated cars and floats and more. There are many food and drink options and activities for children on Leprechaun Lane.

Don’t forget to wear green!

Bull City Food & Beer Experience Guests enjoy unlimited food and beer samplings throughout all three floors of the Durham Performing Arts Center to benefit local nonprofits.

Northside Festival Throw it back with oldschool field games, arts, crafts and more on the lawn in front of St. Joseph C.M.E. Church in Chapel Hill.

Spring Hootenanny & Foodie Festival Enjoy live folk and bluegrass music, local fare, games, giveaways, Cheerwine and more at this family-friendly festival at Phillips Farms in Cary.

Full Frame Documentary Film Festival This four-day international event dedicated to the theatrical exhibition of nonfiction cinema, displaying dozens of films as well as discussions and panels, celebrates its 26th year of welcoming filmmakers and film lovers from around the world to Durham.

Tar Heel 10 Miler Experience this race that takes you through iconic sights of downtown Chapel Hill, the UNC campus and the surrounding historic neighborhoods – a true Carolina tradition!

ClydeFEST The free festival celebrates Bynum-based folk “critter artist” Clyde Jones and his creative, colorful wooden creatures. The Chatham Arts Council puts on the family-friendly carnival with art, games, music, food and Clyde’s famous critters.

Earth Day Festival Go green with Durham Parks & Recreation and enjoy a day filled with entertainment, hands-on environmental education workshops, sustainability vendors and more at Durham Central Park.

Piedmont Farm Tour A part of the nation’s largest sustainable farm tour, Carolina Farm Stewardship Association brings visitors to farms throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region.

Bring a cooler to take home Dreamville farm-fresh products.

Durham Craft Market This outdoor market at Durham Central Park has more than 30 rotating artists who showcase their work every Saturday morning from April through the Saturday before Thanksgiving, plus an additional holiday market in December.

PHOTO BY BRANDONNART

Komen Triangle Race for the Cure This race at Frontier RTP to benefit breast cancer research features a timed 5K, a survivor/thriver celebration, an untimed run/walk and a post-walk party.

North Carolinaraised and Grammy Awardwinning hip-hop artist J. Cole puts on and performs at this popular twoday music festival at Dorothea Dix Park. Fans can look forward to a weekend celebration curated

by Cole himself with some of his favorite artists and collaborators from the state.

With local culture, food and art in one of Raleigh’s most beautiful and historic locations, attendees will enjoy this unique festival.

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

Freight Train Blues Concert Series Enjoy free outdoor performances in May and June at Carrboro Town Commons.

Living Historic Civil War Surrender The 158th anniversary event commemorating the end of the Civil War at Bennett Place State Historic Site

includes lectures and special tours like Civil War school days, where public, private and home-school groups allow students to visit life as it was during the American Civil War. Spring Chicken Festival Shake your tailfeather at this free outdoor festival that takes place along East

Second Street in Siler

City with live musical performances, vendors of handmade goods, information booths, games, rides and more.

PLAYlist Concert Series Every first Friday from May to October, Durham Central Park and WNCU 90.7-FM presents a free concert featuring national and local artists at DCP’s Pavilion and lawn – rain or shine. Bring a blanket or a chair and enjoy the live music plus food trucks, craft beer and cider on site.

Longleaf Film Festival This free, weekendlong festival at the North Carolina Museum of History presents dozens of independent films that have a Tar Heel connection, either through the people involved in making them, the filming location or through their subject. Audiences and filmmakers alike mingle at socials, workshops and screenings.

Preservation Durham Home Tour Each year, Preservation Durham – with its mission to protect Durham’s historic assets – offers the public a glimpse into a different historic neighborhood or thematic group of historic properties. This past year’s tour looked at homes of the Tudor Revival style, for instance.

Small Town Pride Commemorate Pride Month in June as the towns of Carrboro and Chapel Hill co-present a celebration that includes a dance party and food trucks, vendors and crafters at C ​​ arrboro Town Commons.

Artsplosure Explore the eclectic, awardwinning arts festival and market in the heart of downtown Raleigh that features more than 175 fine artists and craftspeople exhibiting original works of art across 10 categories, including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, woodwork and more. All pieces will be available for purchase. 

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ANNUAL EVENTS

Triangle

WEEKENDER Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival Honoring African and African American history, culture, arts and traditions, Durham Parks & Recreation

hosts an afternoon of live music, arts and crafts, ethnic food and fun family activities at Rock Quarry Park. The annual festival, which is free and open to the public, was established in 1969 by a group of local students and community members to honor the West African festival of harvest and celebration.

Remember to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

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American Dance Festival One of the largest and most influential modern dance festivals in the world celebrates its 89th annual event and welcomes audiences back to its first full season in three years with more than 25 dance companies performing both indoors and outdoors across Durham and Raleigh this summer.

Dancers from both emerging and long-standing companies like Pilobolus, Rennie Harris Puremovement, Paul Taylor Dance Company and the Limón Dance Company will put on performances at The Fruit, Reynolds Industries Theater, Page Auditorium and Rubenstein Arts Center in Durham and the Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Theater in the Museum Park at North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. Don’t miss your chance to bring the kiddos to its Children’s Saturday Matinee series, too!

Got to Be NC Festival This annual event held at the N.C. State Fairgrounds features food, wine and beer from across PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON North Carolina, rides and games, farm animals, music and one of the Durham Blues and Brews largest displays of antique tractors and farm Festival Bring your lawn chairs equipment in the Southeast. and enjoy unlimited 12-ounce pours from 20 N.C. breweries/cideries/ Walk for the Animals Bring your furry wineries at this blues music and craft friend to Duke University’s East Campus brews festival at Durham Central lawn for a 1.5-mile walk to benefit the Animal Park. Festival proceeds benefit Protection Society of Durham, which cares for The Exchange Club of Greater nearly 4,000 animals annually. Enter your pooch Durham, a service-oriented civic club in pet contests; watch agility demonstrations; visit working to improve the community the dozens of vendors, from doggy day cares to and prevent child abuse. vets and other animal-supportive businesses; meet adoptable dogs; and more.

Out! Raleigh Pride An integral part of Raleigh’s downtown culture, Brewgaloo Craft Beer Festival this 10th annual family-friendly This two-day beer festival features more than 110 event promotes diversity, awareness craft breweries while partnering with local food and inclusiveness for the LGBTQ trucks, vendors and bands to create the largest community complete with live craft beer festival in the state. Friday night kicks entertainment, local vendors and off with a block party that showcases limited artists, great food, a KidsZone and a beer garden. releases, barrel-aged and sour beers. Saturday’s street festival fills downtown Raleigh, complete Running of the Bulls 8K Bull City with two stages featuring local bands all day long. Running Co. hosts this community road race through a hilly, scenic course in the historic International Food Festival Celebrate and revitalized downtown neighborhoods of Raleigh’s diversity, art, culture and traditions Trinity Park and Old North Durham, and the at City Plaza while enjoying food truck fare, American Tobacco Campus. Runners finish desserts, beer and wine from around the world, with a lap around the warning track inside the with more than 30 countries represented Historic Durham Athletic Park. Race features among the vendors. Stick around for one of the include cash prizes for top finishers, a kids’ fun largest outdoor international dance parties with run and custom cowbell medals, with a DJ and nonstop performances. refreshments at the end.

Rock the Park Durham Parks & Recreation offers this

free summer series that includes outdoor concerts and movies on the big screen at the city’s parks through August. Food can be purchased from on-site vendors. Bring blankets and lawn chairs!

Carolina Fear Fest Celebrate all things horror with fellow fans of the genre with unique vendors, meet-and-greets with celebrity guests, informative panels and entertainment over Memorial Day weekend at the N.C. State Fairgrounds.

Enjoy cosplay and trivia contests, music, celeb Q&As and so much more.

NC Hops Festival Sip on more than 100 varieties of local craft beer, ciders, wine and seltzer at the N.C. State Fairgrounds while enjoying live music, wares by local makers and food truck fare.

Beaver Queen Pageant This unique and often wacky – in a good way! – pageant started in 2005 when the construction of I-85 threatened Durham’s Duke Park beavers.

Contestants dress up in themed costumes, vying for the title of Beaver Queen by bribing the judges, all to benefit the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association.

NC Juneteenth Celebration Commemorating the abolition of slavery, this fun, educational and uplifting event takes place at Golden Belt Campus in Durham and features live entertainment, food, vendors, exhibitors and presentations on the origin and significance of Juneteenth.

Capital City Juneteenth Celebration Bring a blanket or low beach chairs to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and food on Harvey Hill at Dorothea Dix Park as a part of this free, annual festival presented in partnership by St. Paul’s A.M.E. Church, North Carolina Museum of History, North Carolina Historic Sites, Dorothea Dix Park, Visit NC and City of Raleigh Museum.

Summer

July Fourth Celebration Celebrate patriotism and civic pride with Durham Parks & Recreation and the Durham Bulls. Attend the baseball game at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and enjoy a dynamic fireworks show following the game.

Fourth of July Fireworks Get to Southern Village’s Southern Community Park early with your blankets and chairs for a good spot at the Fourth of July fireworks hosted

by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture.

Event parking opens at 7 p.m. with the fireworks display beginning around 9 p.m.

Summer Fest Celebrate Independence Day in downtown Pittsboro with music, games, food trucks and more. Hosted by the Pittsboro Business Association, activities include a beard and mustache contest, cornhole games and a dunking booth.

Pre-Fourth of July Patriotic Celebration Celebrate the Fourth of July at this 33rd annual event, which focuses on the meaning and history of our Independence Day, at the Cary Arts Center. The Cary Town Band honors president Abraham Lincoln this year with works by composer Aaron Copland as well as other selections from the many pieces that have been composed celebrating Lincoln and his times, including John Williams’ themes from the Steven Spielberg film “Lincoln.” Don’t miss the pre-show with the Applause!

Cary Youth Theatre.

Festival for the Eno One of the region’s premier Fourth of July celebrations with music on five stages, craft artists, local foods and a beer garden – all on the banks of the Eno River at West Point on the Eno city park to benefit efforts to preserve this beautiful natural area.

PHOTO BY AMANDA MACLAREN

Raleigh Antiques Extravaganza Quality vendors and dealers from across the East Coast showcase period furniture pieces, tinware, textiles, Oriental rugs and fine china at this annual event at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. 

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ANNUAL EVENTS

Triangle

WEEKENDER Paperhand Puppet Intervention Every weekend August through early September, the Saxapahaw-based puppet troupe performs a larger-than-life outdoor show at The Forest Theatre in Chapel Hill.

Now in its 22nd year, this series of shows inspires and promotes social change.

Hog Day Experience local bands, contests and games, and an original barbecue cookoff contest in September during the pigcentric event hosted by the Orange County Optimist Club in Hillsborough’s River Park.

PHOTO BY DONN YOUNG

GalaxyCon Raleigh Celebrate comic books, pop culture, sci-fi, fantasy, gaming and anime at this four-day festival of fandom at the Raleigh Convention Center.

Meet some of your favorite celebrities, artists, writers, voice actors and entertainers, plus enjoy afterparties, swag, pose for photo ops and more.

Some of this year’s celebrity guests include William Shatner, Kevin Smith, Jason Mewes and Brent Spiner.

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Southeast Crab Feast Enjoy all-youcan-eat blue crabs, a side of fish and chips and music in a family-friendly environment at Lake Wheeler Park. Proceeds support cancer research and treatment organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the American Cancer Society, among others.

CenterFest Presented by the Durham Arts Council, this is the longest-running street arts festival in North Carolina and the largest arts and community festival in Durham. The twoday event showcases paintings, photography, sculptures, jewelry, crafts and more by juried artists as well as entertainment, food and fun for the whole family in downtown’s City Center.

Black August in the Park This festival at Durham Central Park connects people of African descent and inspires them to assert their value and engage in social and cultural change.

The event is reminiscent of a Black family reunion or a homecoming, with an additional emphasis on providing a platform for, and elevating the causes of social justice organizations.

Hopscotch Music Festival Celebrating its 12th year this September, this three-day music festival returns to downtown Raleigh with its memorable performances and fan-friendly atmosphere. Music across multiple genres – from rock, hip-hop and folk to metal and electronic – will be on tap from both national and local acts.

Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival This quintessentially Southern festival features more than 60 beer offerings, 40 bourbon brands and all forms of barbecue – from whole-hog pulled pork to ribs to brisket Pick-a-Ton and all the fixin’s you can FUNdraiser imagine – over two days at Visit Cedar Grove Blueberry Farm Koka Booth Amphitheatre. and pick as many Admission includes a sampling berries as you can glass to enjoy all the beer and for charity. For bourbon your heart desires; a every 25 pounds of souvenir glass; plus lawn games blueberries picked, a pound of fresh like cornhole and giant Jenga; berries will be live rock, blues and bluegrass donated to TABLE, music; seminars with master a nonprofit that distillers, brewmasters and pit provides hunger masters; and exhibits of hot relief and nutrition education services sauces, barbecue accessories, to children living cookware and more. in Orange County.

The event also includes live music from Tre. Charles, a pig pickin’ with farm-fresh fixings, wine and cider from Botanist and Barrel Tasting Room, which will also donate 5% of sales to TABLE.

OUTSOUTH Queer Film Festival The Carolina Theatre hosts this signature event, the second-largest film festival in the Southeast and the largest cultural arts event serving the LGBTQ+ community in the Carolinas, with screenings of shorts, documentaries and feature films that celebrate a worldwide glimpse of today’s LGBTQ+ life.

CaribMask Carnival Celebrate the ninth anniversary of this spectacular, colorful and energetic festival at City Plaza in downtown Raleigh. Founded by the Raleigh/Durham AfroCaribbean Association

in 2012 to create a deeper appreciation for AfroCaribbean culture, performers and bands parade down the street in elaborate costumes jamming to music traditional to their countries – more than 15 will be represented – while attendees enjoy great acts, artisan vendors and tasty, culturally significant foods.

Latin American Film Festival Organized by the Consortium in Latin American and Caribbean Studies at Duke University and UNC, this festival has featured work by Latin filmmakers from more than 20 countries in 13 languages, screening films and inviting speakers on issues such as migration and globalization at various locations around Durham, Chapel Hill and Raleigh.

Pride: Durham, NC The largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender event in the area, this parade along Duke University’s East Campus stretches 2 miles and features more than 110 marching groups. The festival, presented by the LGBTQ Center of Durham, includes more than 100 vendors every year.

Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival Enjoy the 46th annual two-day arts and crafts festival with featured artists, including Jerry Miller Award winners, live music, children’s activities and various food and drink vendors at Cary Town Hall Campus.

World of Bluegrass International Bluegrass Music Association’s event in downtown Raleigh facilitates the growth and development of the bluegrass music community, from professional to fan. Billed as “the most important week in bluegrass music,” the live weekend performances and events will take place at Red Hat Amphitheater and on additional stages in downtown Raleigh, including the Raleigh Convention Center and the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. This year’s initial lineup of performers at Red Hat includes The Infamous Stringdusters, The Jerry Douglas Band, Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, Sierra Hull,

SQUAD GOALS

Balsam Range, Dom Flemons & Shultz’s Dream, Della Mae and Twisted Pine.

Fall

NC Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Festival Explore the unique shops of Lafayette Village in Raleigh as you sample wines, cheeses and chocolates. Live music and local vendors set up in the courtyard, and guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs to N.C. State Fair enjoy the fun atmosphere.

Bull City Race Fest and Food Truck Rodeo Run 1 mile, 5 miles or a half marathon while raising money for Habitat for Humanity of Durham – then restore your energy with a food truck rodeo, beer garden and kids’ zone at the American Tobacco Campus.

PepperFest Warm up your taste buds! North Carolina’s spiciest outdoor food festival, hosted by Abundance NC,

Carnival rides, games and funnel cakes galore, the largest event in our state showcases the finest of North Carolina at the N.C. State Fairgrounds.

Highlights include a livestock show, horticultural exhibits, live music, a motorsports derby, fireworks and more.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN KASE CONDER

takes place at The Plant in Pittsboro every September.

Don’t miss out on live music while trying pepperthemed dishes made with locally grown sweet, hot and smoky peppers.

Shakori Hills Camp, explore and groove at music festivals at Shakori Hills Community Arts Center, like the Hoppin’ John Fiddlers’ Convention in

September and the Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance in October.

Barktoberfest Durham Parks & Recreation and Beyond Fences provide a fun afternoon at Durham ​​ Central Park for Durham’s canine residents that includes a costume contest, musical performance, photo booth, pet market, beer and food vendors, and more. Your support helps promote a dogfriendly community and provides services to people and their pets in underserved areas. 

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Thanks + Giving Food Truck Rodeo Hosted by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture at the Legion Road Open Space, the annual food truck rodeo features an opportunity to donate money or items to local nonprofits.

Festifall Arts Markets & More Browse artists’ booths and enjoy performances throughout downtown Chapel Hill during the arts-focused block parties in October hosted by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture.

PHOTO BY SP MURRAY

ANNUAL EVENTS

Triangle

WEEKENDER

Falling for Local Enjoy local live music and business demos at Dorothea Dix Park during

this familyfriendly event in collaboration with Shop Local Raleigh and Dix Park Conservancy.

Experience loads of fall fun with hayrides, lawn games, local vendor booths and a pumpkin patch. Support area entrepreneurs by dining at a few of the dozens of local food trucks and sipping craft beer.

Pumpkin Patch Express Celebrate fall every Saturday and Sunday in October – take a train ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway at the Museum of Life and Science, pick the perfect pumpkin to decorate and take home, then enjoy seasonal crafts and carnival games.

Triangle Oktoberfest Take part in familyfriendly activities, traditional Bavarian food and authentic German-style beer at central North Carolina’s largest Oktoberfest event, hosted by Apex Sunrise Rotary Club and Cary MacGregor Rotary Club at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. This celebration includes polka music, competitions to showcase your strength and kid-friendly games. All proceeds benefit local charities.

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Halloween Phantasmagoria Wander Duke Homestead State Historic Site after dark and see what Victorian-era wonders you find. Explore historical concepts of spiritualism and experience Halloween traditions from generations past. A one-of-a-kind Halloween experience not designed to scare!

Chatham Artists Guild Studio Tour Take a relaxing drive through Chatham County’s rolling hills and pastoral farmlands to visit more than 50 artists, learn about their process and artistic vision, and browse affordable original works of art in studios that dot the countryside.

Diwali Celebration Cary’s celebration of the five-day festival – which celebrates the victory of light over darkness – at Koka Booth Amphitheatre features musical, theatrical and dance performances, a craft bazaar, Indian food, art and more. The event is sponsored by Hum Sub Inc., United Arts Council and the Town of Cary.

Christmas Parade This famous community event, which has been held the Saturday before Thanksgiving since 1939, continues to bring generations of families together and is one of Raleigh’s most beloved traditions. Come see marching bands,

Fall Film Festivals Catch the films before they catch on at Film Fest 919 in Chapel Hill in October and the Carrboro Film Fest in November.

NC Chinese Click! Photography Festival The monthlong festival brings together exhibitions and programming while fostering dialogue among photographers and community members, all in hopes of inspiring artistic excellence, supporting professional development and promoting community engagement.

Open Studio Tour Tour artist studios during the Orange County Artists Guild’s selfguided tour held during two weekends in November.

Lantern Festival Experience the magical illuminated lanterns of Tianyu Arts & Culture at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

Hundreds of intricate, decorative lanterns illuminated with thousands of lights create a colorful setting that draws thousands of visitors from across the state each year.

This showcase of Chinese culture also includes martial arts, traditional dance, drum performances and acrobatics.

PHOTO COURTESY GORILLA KING MARKETING

ANNUAL EVENTS

PHOTO BY BOB STUART

dancers, classic cars, superheroes and Santa Claus as they parade along a 1.4-mile route that starts near the corner of Hillsborough Street and Glenwood Avenue, following Hillsborough till it hits Fayetteville Street and then treks on into City Plaza.

Miracle on Hillsboro Street The Pittsboro Business Association sponsors this event in which local actors and legal consultants come together at the Historic Chatham County Courthouse

to put Kriss Kringle on trial. Children are encouraged to write letters to Santa about what they love about him, and some letters will even be read during the trial.

St. Nick’s Christmas House This unique, festive pop-up in a historic house in downtown Raleigh offers Christmas-themed entertainment all are sure to enjoy – even if you’re a grinch. The space showcases local artists, hosts live concerts and other events while pouring holiday-inspired drinks. Adults only after 9 p.m.

Winter

Lucky Strike Tower Lighting The annual lighting of the Lucky Strike Tower at the American Tobacco Campus includes local performers, holiday music, festive lights and more.

Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour A dozen houses in Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood

neighborhood open their doors to visitors. The Society for the Preservation of Historic Oakwood docents

are stationed in each home, which date from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s in styles like Queen Anne and Craftsman, to teach attendees about each location’s history.

The Nutcracker This familiar holiday classic is performed by Carolina Ballet’s cast of professional dancers with a unique twist thanks to magician Rick Thomas, magnificent sets and gilded costumes at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium.

Students of City Ballet Raleigh also present Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece alongside professional guest artists in the lead roles at N.C. State University’s Stewart Theatre.

Holiday Parade & Fun Fest Watch dynamic floats and cheer on hometown bands, drill teams, schools, community groups and more as they make their way down Main Street in downtown Durham. Also enjoy snow sledding, holiday performances, a community care corner, food and non-food vendors and a visit from Santa.

Kwanzaa Festival Visit Hayti Heritage Center in Durham for this cultural community event that includes a marketplace, workshops, movement and music classes, food vendors, performers, a candle lighting ceremony and a film.

Hanukkah Festival Celebrate the Festival of Lights with Jewish for Good at the Levin JCC in Durham. There will be kids’ activities, games and crafts, holiday foods for sale including sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) and latkes, interactive menorahs, opportunities to learn more about the holiday and a community shuk (gift and craft market).

Kwanzaa Fest The African American Dance Ensemble’s annual Kwanzaa festival at the Durham Armory focuses on family,

friends and the fruits of the Earth. It takes place on the seventh day of Kwanzaa, which is dedicated to Imani, or faith. The event features a children’s village, dance and drumming classes, arts and crafts, food vendors, entertainment from dance ensembles and more. Donated canned foods and toiletry items will be given to a local nonprofit. 

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PHOTO BY CATHERINE DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

ANNUAL EVENTS

Triangle

WEEKENDER

First Night Ring in the new year in downtown Raleigh and watch the giant golden acorn drop at City Plaza – a time-honored tradition. Enjoy live concerts, the People’s Procession parade and even catch a bird’s-eye view of the city’s streets atop a Ferris wheel. If you don’t want to stay up until midnight, catch the early countdown and fireworks.

American Indian Powwow A familyfriendly day of traditional American Indian dancing, music, crafts, art and food, the event at North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham hosts American Indian performers and artists from across North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia and is a fun way to learn about and celebrate the region’s rich American Indian culture.

A Christmas Carol Enjoy a masterful musical production of the Dickens classic, which Raleigh’s Theatre in the Park has produced since 1974. This comedic adaptation by Ira David Wood III always puts audiences in a festive spirit.

Performances take place at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts as well as at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

New Year’s Day Run The Carolina Godiva Track Club’s annual 8K run that begins and ends at Duke School in Durham gets everyone moving after the holidays.

Triangle Restaurant Week A weeklong celebration of culinary excellence where participating restaurants in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh and Cary offer special threecourse menu options and fixed pricing, creating a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to indulge in the finest cuisine in the region. Also takes place in June.

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Nevermore Film Festival Created in 1999, this festival is a juried competition that showcases horror, science-fiction, mystery, thriller and action-adventure movies from around the world at The Carolina Theatre.

More than 1,000 features and short films have

Carolina Jazz Festival Catch public performances by touring bands, artists in residence, UNC Department of Music faculty

screened at the festival in its 23-year run, and it has gained an international reputation as one of the premier genre festivals in the U.S.

Krispy Kreme Challenge What started as a fun race among 10 friends is now a nationally publicized charity run. The race begins and ends at the Memorial Belltower at North Carolina State University. Runners burn 2,400 calories total as they travel 2.5 miles through historic downtown Raleigh to the Krispy Kreme located at the intersection of Peace and Person streets, where they consume one dozen Original Glazed doughnuts and then run 2.5 miles back to the belltower. Proceeds from the race benefit UNC Children’s Hospital.

N.C. MLK/Black History Month Parade & Block Party This Durham parade features marching bands, step/dance teams, floats and more; a block party on Burlington Avenue, from Fayetteville Street to Nebo Street; a DJ, food trucks, inflatables, face painting, vendors and more.

and students at this festival celebrating all things jazz in February.

Revolutionary War Day This living history day at the Visitor Center in Hillsborough hosts reenactors and historians who will provide a day of fun and education on the Revolutionary War and Hillsborough’s role in it with shooting demonstrations, cooking, marching, games and a tea shop. T W

Holidays in the Park & Santa Train Dash your way through an enchanting rainbow light tunnel at the Museum of Life and Science’s largest annual fundraising event and holiday tradition. Sip complimentary hot chocolate under thousands of lights or grab a light snack at Sprout Café. Get crafty with take-home activities, have your face painted by makeup artists, and indulge in the “Science of Santa.”

Skate in your socks on the synthetic “ice rink” or warm up in the Magic Wings Butterfly House. Then, climb aboard the Ellerbe Creek Railway for an illuminating nighttime train ride to the North Pole to visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus and their elves.

PHOTO COURTESY MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE

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DISCOVER IT ALL chapelhillarts.org Clockwise from top left: Chapel Hill-Carrboro African American Trailblazers mural by Kiara Sanders, photo by Miriam McSpadden; Austin Royale for Tracks Music Library, photo by Omar Roque; Radical Futures by Charlie Dupee; Year of Jubilee: 1865 by Candy Carver; The Dib Studio at Festifall Arts Market. Lady Freedom by Franco.

WEEKEND PLANS Looking to hang with the fam or take your partner out for a night on the town? Maybe you just want to grab lunch or catch a concert with friends. Whatever your mood, these suggestions are tried and true: Photography by John Michael Simpson

Spring

Create lasting memories with a trip to the historic Pullen Park in Raleigh, which just happens to be the first public park in the state, the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. (and the 16th oldest in the world!). The kiddos will adore its rides, which include a carousel, train, pedal boats and kiddie boats. It’s best to check the schedule for the rides online first, because not all are always in operation. But the playgrounds are always a sure bet, with swings, slides, seesaws, sand diggers, shady spots and a dedicated preschool playground. Once your kids have worked up an appetite, order some snacks and sandwiches from the Pullen Café before strolling along the park’s walking trails and bridges – then

➜

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Isla Bowman, 3, and Alayna Bowman, 7, savor their FRESH. Local Ice Cream scoops of strawberry and vanilla, respectively, in waffle cones outside the Glenwood Avenue shop.

head back to the attractions for more fun! Let your children play to their heart’s content, but leave room for ice cream – stop by FRESH. Local Ice Cream (with locations in downtown Apex and Cary and on Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh), which sources its ingredients fresh every week from local dairy farms – don’t sleep on the milkshakes!

The abundance that comes with springtime in the Piedmont is unparalleled. Enjoy the bounty that it brings by visiting Spring Haven Farm in Chapel Hill to visit with their baby goats!

Pet, feed and snuggle all its animals, including its goats, Lola the pig, Ragnar the horse, the highland cows, Annie the donkey and all the chickens. Kids can ride the tractor train, color pictures in the barn and sit by the fire. Arrive early and make a day of it (once on the farm, you can stay as long as you like till it closes at 6 p.m.). Afterward, head into Hillsborough and pick up your own farm-fresh products from Weaver Street Market to make dinner at home, or grab some excellent wood-fired pizza from Radius Pizzeria & Pub. Speaking of farms, the Triangle’s got some of the best U-pick spots around! In Pittsboro alone, check out Chatham Oaks Farm and Phillips Farms of Chatham for U-pick strawberries (Chatham Oaks also has a veggie farm stand, while Phillips Farms also has pumpkins, hay and Christmas trees in the fall); Busy Bee Farm and Wild Abandon Farm for blueberries and blackberries; and In Good Heart Farm and Howard’s Farm & Mema’s Fruit Shack for blueberries. Visitors to Mema’s Shack can also purchase a variety of produce, including peaches, corn, tomatoes and cucumbers, and satisfy their sweet tooth

with homemade ice cream flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, peach, blueberry and butter pecan. The farm stand also operates as a thrift store and sells vintage home decor.

In Wake County, we adore Phillips Farms of Cary for strawberries – it also hosts a funfilled farmers market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays! Other favorites include The Collard Patch in Wake Forest, Hunts Strawberry Farm in Raleigh, Pope’s Strawberries Farm in Knightdale and DJ’s Berry Patch in Apex for U-pick strawberries (be sure to also try DJ’s homemade ice cream and other strawberry products like preserves and dressings); Ogburn Berries and Produce in Willow Spring for its strawberries, plus other produce sold at its roadside stand including tomatoes, sweet potatoes, watermelons and sweet corn; Buckwheat Farm in Apex, for its strawberries and blueberries; Page Farms in Raleigh for strawberries, blackberries and pumpkins in the fall; Porter Farms & Nursery in both Willow Spring and Raleigh for strawberries, plus pumpkins in the fall; and Granny Pearls Farm in Zebulon for blueberries, blackberries, peaches, pears, apples and grapes.

For Orange and Durham counties, seek out Waller Family Farm in Durham, McAdams Farm in Efland and Double R Cattle Services Inc. in Hillsborough for U-pick

Richard Bowman, Alayna, Carrie Bowman and Isla are all smiles as they take a ride on Pullen Park’s carousel.

strawberries (grab some pastured pork and grass-fed beef at Double R while you’re there!); Cedar Grove Blueberry Farm and Whitted Bowers Farm in Cedar Grove, Hawk Hill Berry Farm in Mebane and Minka Farm in Efland for blueberries; Eno River Farm in Hillsborough for strawberries, blueberries and blackberries; Herndon Hills Farm in Durham for blueberries, blackberries, and muscadine and scuppernong grapes; and Many

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WEEKEND PLANS

Triangle

WEEKENDER lovers in Durham is Witherspoon Rose Culture’s first day of the season in early April when its potted roses are released.

Browse a selection of more than 200 rose varieties and pick up all the rose care products you need to grow healthy, beautiful plants. Or just stop by and smell the roses!

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Chase Gaillard and Grant Gaillard pick strawberries in the fields at Phillips Farms of Chatham.

Rivers Farm in Bahama for peaches, blackberries, apples and pears.

You can generally assume that strawberry season runs from late April to the start of June; blueberries from late May to mid-July; blackberries from mid-June through the start of August; and peaches from June to September.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens is one of Durham’s most iconic gems and is a

treat to visit with the family any time of the year – it’s open every single day from 8 a.m. to dusk – but especially in the vibrancy of spring and

➜ Cheerful black-eyed Susans greet curious visitors like April Xayavong and her daughter, Josie, in the Walker Dillard Kirby Perennial Allée at Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

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summer – the cherry blossoms in the spring are an especially Instagramworthy sight! Its Terrace Shop is back open, and the on-site Terrace Café features a menu from The Picnic Basket Catering that usually includes a variety of salads, sides, sandwiches, cold beverages, coffee, snacks and Maple View Farm’s ice cream. Admission is free, and parking is just $2 per hour.

Mark your calendar for the gardens’ twice-a-year plant sale, where you can get expert advice from staff horticulturists, and purchase a wide variety of plants for all types of garden spaces. Another ideal annual event for plant

Spend your Saturday in and around Durham Central Park.

Start off early at the Durham Farmers Market (bring a cooler to store items like meats, cheeses, eggs and veggies), then meet local artisans and find beautifully crafted pottery, jewelry, illustrations, woodwork and more at the Durham Craft Market, Cecy’s Gallery & Studios or down the street at The Artisan Market at 305. Folks with kiddos, take your rambunctious youngsters to Durham’s most central playground, Mount Merrill. Families with older children can enjoy creating images and phrases on the Durham Pixel Wall, or teens can hit up the nearby skate park. Grab some buddies for brunch at Dame’s Chicken & Waffles (which also has a Cary location), or if you’re all craving something different, hit up the Durham Food Hall for plenty of options. The Auctioneer Bar inside often has seasonal cocktails, or just go for a classic mimosa or bloody mary.

If you’d rather stop for a pint, The Glass Jug Beer Lab is just across the street and is known for its stellar experimental brews and unique takes on classic styles like IPAs and lagers.

If you’re trying to schedule more of an evening affair, the intersection of A Raleigh Geer Street and Foster Street might weekend for me as well be Durham’s playground for would start by adults. Start your adventure over a pint fueling up with a chai latte and at Fullsteam Brewery’s trivia night on a strawberry Thursdays or open mic night at Durty sprinkle donut at Bull Brewing Company on Fridays.

Idle Hour Coffee Prefer live music? See who’s on the bill Roasters. If I’m at Motorco Music Hall or The Blue in need of a new read, I’d browse Note Grill. If you’re still feeling the the selection energy after the show, challenge your at Quail Ridge group to a classic video game at Boxcar Books. Then I’d Bar + Arcade or ax throwing at Urban bike along the Axes, or just enjoy a handcrafted Neuse River Greenway Trail nightcap at Corpse Reviver Bar with my pup. Next, & Lounge.

I’d grab takeout from Chido Taco and enjoy a smoothie sour at Funguys Brewing.

Nothing like playing a little golf at Drive Shack to end the day!

– Jessica Stringer

Begin your morning with some coffee and playtime at Bumble Brews, an indoor play cafe in Cary. Order a white chocolate mocha, get some goldfish for the kiddos (they have lots of snacks available for purchase), and play the morning away ($8 for 90 minutes, more geared toward children ages 6 and younger). Then meet some friends

Sophia Duong, Kimberly Vuong, Michael Amoabeng and Kim’s dog, Rocket, enjoy a few brews on the patio at The Glass Jug Beer Lab’s downtown location.

Spend an afternoon in the Midway District of Chapel Hill.

Chef Garret Fleming and his sister, Eleanor Lacy have closed their barbecue restaurant, Big Belly Que, at Blue Dogwood Public Market. The pair’s new restaurant, Bombolo, is currently under construction at 104 N. Graham St. between Al’s Burger Shack and Beer Study with plans to open in late spring. The menu will feature fresh Italian-inspired pastas and sandwiches, beer and

WEEKEND PLANS

for lunch at Scratch Kitchen and Taproom in Apex and let the kids run in the green space out back.

Order a stack of green tomatoes to start, and try the shrimp po’boy or the truffle mac and cheese burger.

The kids menu has classics like chicken tenders and cheeseburgers, or if you’ve got an adventurous eater, try the spicy ahi (tuna) poke!

Take a walk around downtown Apex after lunch – pop into Villa 19 Boutique to browse cute outfits for your littles, and then stop by The Doodling Bug to get a little something for yourself, like a candle or cute picture frame. Next, wander down to the skate park where younger children can watch the older kids perform cool tricks (or you can bring your own older children to join in the fun!).

After a nap and some relaxing at home, head over to Waverly Place in Cary for dinner. This open-air shopping, dining and entertainment complex has bridges and water features that kids love to explore, plus a familyfriendly park complete with a playground perfect for both toddlers and older kids and a large green space with a stage, which often has live music. It’s right next to Gonza Tacos y Tequila, so the kids can play while you dine outside. For dessert, run into Whole Foods and get some ice cream from the counter – try the salted caramel!

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WEEKEND PLANS

Triangle

WEEKENDER wine. Shop for unique items at the secondhand store, Rumors, have a pint at Beer Study and then spend all your quarters playing vintage arcade games at The Baxter.

Start the festivities on Friday by stocking up on drinks at Beer Durham

and then hop on the Bull City Laughs bus for an adults-only comedic history tour around the city. Want to learn more about the Bull City’s past? Stop by the

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Its newest exhibit, “Dining Out in Durham,” explores the story of Durham’s traditional Southern cuisine as well as its international flavors and how community members have come together at the table. One of the major areas of focus of the exhibit is the different experiences of Black and white patrons of restaurants throughout the mid-20th century at the height of segregation. The exhibit also highlights how immigrants have brought new flavors and food traditions to Durham while navigating its unique culture and Southern tastes. Learn more from oral histories from many longtime residents who have been part of Durham’s changing restaurant culture and share your own memories through the story kiosks in the museum’s story room.

Line up your visit to the museum with its new monthly dining series, which rotates among several Durham eateries and features guest speakers who will discuss the history of Durham restaurants as well as topics and stories that inspired the exhibit, from barbecue to integration to international

PHOTO BY JOSHUA STEADMAN

Museum of Durham History.

ABOVE The five founders of Bull City Laughs: Terrell Wilder, Omar Helms, Brandon Wright, Akili Hester and Q Randle. BELOW Visit Museum of Durham History to view its new “Dining Out in Durham” exhibit.

influence. Upcoming events will be held at Parizade in June, COPA in July, Geer Street Garden in August and Juju in September before closing out at Vin Rouge in October.

Bring your little one to the My Little Farmer program at Old Mill Farm, which holds farm-education classes that cover themes including riding, art and music every day of the week, rain or shine. Children as old as 5 have a chance to meet with pigs, donkeys, a

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WEEKENDER you’ve still got some energy before heading home for naptime, stroll The Streets at Southpoint or catch a matinee in the comfortable recliners at AMC DINE-IN Southpoint 17, where you can save 30% off evening ticket prices every day before 4 p.m.

Get your creative juices flowing with a class at The ArtsCenter. The Carrboro arts hub has been open for nearly 50 years and offers courses from mixed media collage and ceramic jewelry to continuing watercolor and wicker basketry. (Soon The ArtsCenter will move just a few minutes away to a space on Roberson Street but for now, enroll in that class – or catch a performance in the former Piggly Wiggly grocery store.)

When you’ve worked up an appetite, head across the street to Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas. The Latin American restaurant boasts a menu of arepas and pulled pork carnitas and one killer patio.

A short drive away, Southern Village’s Village Green is the hub of the activity for the residents and visitors alike. The

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North Carolina Symphony

performs its annual free concert on June 21, and there are outdoor concerts and movies on the weekend.

(We recommend bringing a blanket and ordering gelato or sorbet from La Vita Dolce PHOTO BY BETH MANN

Espresso & Gelato Cafe

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Katherine Wilson is all cozy with her stuffed toy chicken and bunny slippers, ready for a musical story time at Old Mill Farm.

goat, chickens and a very talkative turkey. All the animals are rescues who have been socialized to spend time around young children who might have little experience with farm animals outside of storybooks. As an educational farm, Old Mill has none of the usual sharp tools lying around, but instead has plenty of sweet touches like a cheery sunflower mural, farm animal cutouts, and an indoor play area with a kitchen and baby animal-sized barn stalls. (Old Mill Farm also hosts weekend events for all ages – and be sure to check out programming at its other locations, 1870 Farm in Chapel Hill and The Farm at Piper Hill in Silk Hope!)

Once you’ve scooped your little farmers into the car, head down the road to For Garden’s Sake for some plant shopping before heading to Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken for a late breakfast/lunch. If

beforehand!) Most Saturdays during the summer, there’s a free early morning yoga class with Feel Better Yoga.

Summer

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

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Kick-start your weekend with Fridays on the Front Porch at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, which runs from April to October. Grab a cocktail or a beer, dance to the live music and pick up some eats from a food truck. On Saturday, head over to Firefly Farm in Hillsborough for U-pick flowers – staff will set you up with a basket to carry flowers and scissors for harvesting; allow yourself at least an hour for picking, and be sure

Belly up to the bar at Crossroads Chapel Hill and whet your whistle with a drink crafted by masterful bar supervisor Kiyarash Saghaey.

Make Sunday your hike day in William B. Umstead State Park or Eno River State Park, or any of the many other smaller parks across the Triangle. We have so much amazing outdoor green space – take your pup, a friend, a camp chair and snacks. Set off on any number of trails for a riverside picnic.

– Lauren Phillips

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PHOTO COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY

Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, plus spectacular movie music from “Star Wars,” “Pirates of the Caribbean” and more.

In our humble opinion, summer is the best time to enjoy the Ninth Street shopping district in Durham (once all the students have left for the semester, naturally). Our ideal Saturday would be breakfast at either Elmo’s Diner or Monuts Donuts, a to-go cup of coffee from Triangle Coffee House, Cocoa Cinnamon on Hillsborough Road or Cloche Coffee over on Broad Street before shopping at Vintage Home South, Hometown Apparel, Tiny and The Regulator Bookshop. A quick lunch is easily found at Cosmic Cantina, International Delights, Happy + Hale, Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken, ZenFish, Mi Calvello and The Loop. If you’ve still got room, enjoy a churro sundae or mangonada at Pincho Loco Ice Cream or a popsicle on the front steps or in the backyard of LocoPops – a dessert cafe that also serves as a sundries shop

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Pack in a Saturday of music, art, culture and science in Wake County! Start at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences to explore its permanent exhibitions like its Naturalist Center and “Researching Weather” and catch its current exhibition, “Life Before Dinosaurs: The Permian Monsters,” which allows you and your family to step back in time 290 million years to the age before the dinosaurs and learn about the bizarre creatures that dominated life on land and sea, on view till Sept. 4. For your next stop, visit the

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Book Amtrak tickets on the early train out of Union Station in Raleigh with your bike.

Hop off the train in Durham and roll to any of the amazing breakfast locations downtown (Press Coffee, Crepes & Cocktails is perfect!). Then head to the American Tobacco Trail to ride back to Raleigh. Explore and follow along the East Coast Greenway on its Cross-Triangle Greenway Ride.

(The greenway runs along the entire East Coast, and the East Coast Greenway Alliance is headquartered in Durham.) Plan a quick Cary detour for more food at La Farm Bakery or a beer at Fortnight Brewing.

Celebrate your ride in Raleigh with a pizza over at Trophy Brewing or any of the other great outdoor spaces.

to have a bucket of water for the flowers to sit in for the ride home! Then visit with the horses, miniature donkeys, goats and chickens, stroll down the pasture walk and expanded pond walk – bring a picnic to continue the fun! On select Sundays afternoons, catch the Sweet Social popup series at The Roof at The Durham when some of the Triangle’s favorite pastry chefs and dessert entrepreneurs will offer special treats – mark your calendars for small-batch ice cream from Bold Batch Creamery on June 26; pastries, sweets, ice creams and icecream sandwiches from Rose’s Noodles, Dumplings and Sweets on July 24; custom cakes and French pastries from Morrisvillebased bakery La Recette Patisserie on Aug. 28; and doughnuts from Tepuy Doughnuts on Sept. 11.

Gregg Museum of Art & Design at N.C. State University,

where Chapel Hill artist Eric Serritella has an exhibition of ceramic sculptures, “Sharing Spaces,” on view through Dec. 3. Then, pack up your picnic and enjoy an evening under the stars with the North Carolina Symphony for UNC Health Summerfest 2022 at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Classical favorites include

packed with gifts and groceries! Spend the afternoon browsing its shelves before heading back over to Hunky Dory to sift through its impressive collection of LPs while sipping a beer or to Horse & Buggy Press and Friends, an art and craft gallery/design and letterpress studio that features work in a variety of media by dozens of artists and craftspersons

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from the Southeast, mostly from North Carolina (make an appointment first!). Head to cocktails and dinner at Burger Bach, Juju, Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar, Blue Corn Cafe or Vin Rouge then wrap it up with a nightcap or a beer at Dain’s Place, Flying Bull Beer Company or the new Moon Dog Meadery and Bottle Shop.

Treat yourself to a weekend getaway in Moncure. Guests at Lucky Bar Farm can find comfort in home-cooked meals and a break from the bustle of daily life. Husband-and-wife team Steve Adams and Nancy Adams (pictured above with Cash the horse) own the bed-and-breakfast; they moved to the property in 2010 and welcomed the first guests to their 10 acres of rural paradise nine years later. Steve serves as the cook and innkeeper, while Nancy handles the administrative side of the business, including scheduling reservations. Mornings at the three-room B&B typically begin with hot coffee – to be enjoyed on the veranda’s rocking chairs – and a homemade breakfast of grits, bacon, eggs and biscuits.

Lucky Bar also offers dinner, which might include Steve’s filet mignon with vegetables, wild mushroom risotto and, for dessert, the farm’s own ice cream. Steve, a certified specialist through the Society of Wine Educators, also teaches a wine education course. The B&B features a deck ideal for sunbathing and walking paths to visit Cash and the farm’s donkeys and goats. Sit by the pool or on the front porch and just listen to the sounds of nature.

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PHOTO COURTESY LUCKY BAR FARM

Visit the Black Farmers Market at the Golden Belt Campus (takes place every second Sunday beginning May/June through the end of November; also in Raleigh on fourth Sundays at the Southeast Raleigh YMCA). Be sure to bring a cooler with you! If you need more groceries to get through the week, stop by the Durham Co-op Market. Once you’ve picked up what you need, head across the street for a pick-me-up at Da Kine’s Kava and/or brunch at GRUB Durham. Take your goodies home, and then wrap up the weekend with a relaxing afternoon at a local park – we recommend Homestead Park in Chapel Hill (bring your pup to run around the dog park!), West Point on the Eno in Durham for a good hike and Marla Dorrel Park in Cary – a large, nearly completely shaded park perfect for both smaller and bigger kids, complete with a walking path around the perimeter, a water mister, and a covered shelter area with bathrooms and picnic tables.

Hit up art galleries, shops and studios open late with rotating exhibits and artist talks for Raleigh’s First Fridays. Pick out some local brews at State of Beer or shop aisle3modern for midcentury and Danish modern furniture and home decor. Both play host to exhibits or art events.

On Saturday, it’s worth it to wake up early for the creative pastries at Layered Croissanterie. The flaky offerings change often and range from a lemon-coconut croissant to The Popeye, a croissant filled with spinach, Gruyere and a bechamel sauce. Sit a spell in the cheery interiors until you’ve had enough coffee. Next, shop for unique vintage treasures nearby at Urbage and Union Camp Collective. Then check out The Green Chair Project, a chic resale store where the proceeds help members of the community facing homelessness, crisis and disaster.

PHOTO BY JESSICA STRINGER

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PHOTO COURTESY DIX PARK

(You can even drop off some of your own home furnishings for the cause.) By now you’ve worked up an appetite, so stop

by Union Special. Housed in a former Winn-Dixie, the eatery has great sandwiches and salads – not a bad idea to get a loaf of bread to go! Finally, join the crowds that flock to Dorothea Dix Park every July to see the sunflowers in all their glory – it’s a photo-op on steroids. (Don’t forget to pack the bug spray!) If you’ve got room for dinner, Garland serves Indian and Asian-inspired dishes with a Southern flair. Chef-owner Cheetie Kumar has been a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s “Best Chef: Southeast” multiple times.

Get through the dog days of summer by going to a matinee at Lotus Cinemas in Parkside Town Commons. The four theaters have plush recliners and show movies from Bollywood and foreign films to

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Kick off Friday with a retro flick at The Carolina Theatre. On Saturday morning, grab pastries from Loaf or Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten and then take a trek in one of our amazing parks along the Eno River or Jordan Lake, or visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden or Johnston Mill Nature Preserve.

Once you’re rested up, do some boutique shopping at Patina, Simply Audrey, Indio, The ZEN Succulent or South. Have dinner and drinks at one of the many amazing downtown Durham restaurants and walk around the City Center, followed by beers at Hi-Wire Brewing and ice cream from Two Roosters.

– Rory Gillis

PHOTO BY CHARLES HARRIS

documentaries. If you’ve planned ahead, pick up your preorder that afternoon from Bad Oven, an online-only microbakery with a cult following, in the same shopping center. The online store opens at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays – the ube latte buns and other items sell out in minutes, so you need a fast finger to place an order. (Pickup locations also include Brier Creek in Raleigh and The Streets at Southpoint in Durham.)

On Sunday, if you still need a carb fix, pop by Annelore’s German Bakery for a Linzer flower

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Start your Sunday or Saturday with brunch in Raleigh – we recommend Irregardless Cafe, Rosewater Kitchen & Bar and St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar (or hit up the Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo on June 12 or Sept. 25, which

The heart of downtown Durham is perfect for a Dan Leszczak and Jessica Lee staycation. Start your night took a September date night by checking in at 21c Museum to the next level with drinks and a gallery walk through Hotel and grab a cocktail 21c Museum Hotel.

– the extensive list changes every few months and features seasonal ingredients – at 21c’s Counting House. Current exhibit “Code of Ethics,” which explores the inherent values children share and how these codes change with time,

by Durham artist Hyewon Grigoni in the Vault Gallery is on view until September 2022. Craving more local art? Head around the corner and down to 5 Points Gallery, which features a new exhibition by its 10 local artists every month.

Gallery hours are limited to the weekend, but artists are almost always on hand to talk to you about the works, and you can also schedule an in-person viewing by private appointment – a special date for art lovers!

PS118 Gallery, just across from 21c on Parrish Street, also hosts private tours in addition to programming surrounding its exhibitions that includes receptions, curator and artist talks, literary readings, trunk shows, music performances and more.

Don’t miss “The Magical Realism of Henryk Fantazos,” which features copperplate engravings and showcases more than 40 food trucks a few paintings by the Hillsborough-based artist, on view through July 1. from across the state.) Then, head to From there, take a short stroll to Alley Twenty Six for dinner and the North Carolina Museum of Art drinks. Next, catch a live band at The Oak House at Durham over wine, for a day positively packed with art beer, coffee or tea. Wind things down by retreating to Kingfisher for and entertainment. The museum is intimate conversation in either its basement bar (where you can enjoy its celebrating the 25th anniversary of its current art exhibit as well) or new cocktail garden.

Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Theater in the

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or slice of German chocolate cake. The Bavarian-style pastry and coffee shop is owned by a German-born couple and has freshly baked loafs of bread from pumpernickel to sourdough, which are great to take home as well for weeknight sandwiches. Then take a summer spa day at The Umstead Hotel and Spa. Guests who book a facial or massage appointment will have 45 minutes of access to the spa after.

If you’re seeking an adventurous weekend that’s still close to home, pitch your tent at Poplar Point Campground at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. You won’t be disappointed with a prime lakeside spot, and downtown Pittsboro is just minutes away.

After a morning swim or kayaking session, I like to refuel with a breakfast burrito or doughnut from The Phoenix Bakery. Then, go on a mini bar crawl, enjoying pints at ODDCO and bmc brewing.

Take a few of your favorites home with you from 580 Craft Beer. If you’re still itching to explore, try out my favorite hike in Chatham County at White Pines Nature Preserve, where the Rocky and Deep rivers converge. When Sunday comes around, there’s no better way to relax before the workweek than picnicking on the lawn at FireClay Cellars with a spread of Celebrity Dairy cheeses paired with a wine sampler. Ask for a tour of the 17-acre vineyard, and coowner Sue Mitran will happily oblige.

– Renee Ambroso

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2022 ESTATE OF PABLO PICASSO / ARTISTS RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK

Pablo Picasso, “Woman with Green Hat,” 1939, oil on canvas, 255/8-by-193/4 inches; The Phillips Collection, Washington, DC; gift of the Carey Walker Foundation, 1994 Museum Park with a host of

On a Friday late afternoon when the weather is warm, bring a chair and go to Cary’s Bond Park Boathouse – especially on a day when they have music and food trucks. Make sure to get there early, so you have plenty of time to rent and ride in a pedal boat, canoe or kayak. It’s a beautiful setting and a great time.

On Saturday, I’d be off to Raleigh with some friends and their grandkids.

It’s hard for me to ever go there without stopping at the patisserie lucettegrace. The macarons, coffee, pastries and lunch are amazing. You can either eat in or take it all to

concerts, dance performances, films and a special Juneteenth weekend of activities. Hit up its NCMA Groove series of DJ-set dance parties with soul music on July 17 and Latinx music on Sept. 18. And mark your calendar for “A Modern Vision: European Masterworks from The Phillips Collection,” on view from Oct. 8, 2022, to Jan. 23, 2023, which will feature more than 50 paintings by iconic masters from The Phillips Collection’s world-renowned holdings, including Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Vincent Van Gogh, Wassily Kandinsky, Edouard Manet, Amedeo Modigliani, Berthe Morisot, Pablo Picasso, Maria-Helena Vieira Da Silva and more. The exhibition opens alongside the reimagined People’s Collection, the state art collection cared for by the NCMA that recently underwent a transformation and reorganization of the galleries to better connect art across time and space, which will feature new technology updates including digital wall labels and interactive educational installations. The updated collection’s opening will be celebrated with a variety of community programs. Check out the museum’s website for more details about these events and more.

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Explore Cary’s newest mixed-use district Fenton, which features 69 acres of retail, dining and entertainment offerings alongside offices, a 175-key boutique hotel and The Allison, a 357-unit luxury apartment community that is beginning to pre-lease. Its first retailers opened at the end of April, and, as of press time, the majority of shops and restaurants are slated to open in early June. Women’s clothing boutique Altar’d State will open a 6,800-square-foot store at Fenton as

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go to one of the many parks that Raleigh has to offer. Then, spend the afternoon in the Marbles Kids Museum. Top the day off with friends (minus our grandchildren!) and dinner at Crossroads Chapel Hill at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill.

On Sundays, I love kayaking on Jordan Lake in Chatham County in the morning before it gets too hot. You can go ashore and explore wooded areas before heading back to Jordan Lake Boat Rentals.

After a shower and playing catchup before the week starts again, there is nothing more delicious and relaxing than sitting out on the patio and enjoying dinner at Acme in Carrboro.

– Ellen Shannon

well as a 1,700-square-foot space and storefront dedicated to its mid-size and plus-size fashion brand Arula, a curated collection exclusively for sizes 10– 24. Other retailers include Club Pilates, Southern Tide, Vestique, Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Athleta, Paragon Theaters, Arhaus Furniture, Sephora, Free People, Bailey’s Fine Jewelry, LunchboxWax, Zen Nail & Beauty Bar and Von Kekel Aveda Lifestyle Salon Spa. Its restaurant lineup includes chef Scott Crawford’s Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, Steve Palmer’s Italian restaurant, Colletta, chef Michael Lee’s M Sushi, chef Ford Fry’s Tex-Mex restaurant Superica and whiskey bar Dram & Draught. Additional offerings include Honeysuckle Gelato, CRÚ Food & Wine Bar and Sports & Social, which will open as the Triangle’s largest sports bar at 22,000 square feet.

Fall / Winter

Duke University offers much more than

world-renowned academics and research.

Take a weekend to see for yourself – go ahead and book a staycation at either the ultra-modern JB Duke Hotel or the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, where you can reserve a tee time at the Duke University Golf Club or go for an early morning jog on the Al Buehler Trail or around the track at Duke’s East Campus. Grab coffee and lunch at nearby Mad Hatter’s Cafe & Bakeshop, or head back to the inn for a burger at the Bull Durham Bar or afternoon tea at Fairview Dining Room. For art that’s new and pushes boundaries in multiple genres, familiarize yourself with the great work being done at Duke Performances. Performers over

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WEEKEND PLANS

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WEEKENDER landmark exhibition this fall investigating the early work of celebrated 20th century American artist Roy Lichtenstein, which shares the overlooked story of Lichtenstein’s early career through about 90 works from the artist’s fruitful formative years. Many of the paintings, drawings, sculptures and prints will be on public view for the first time, from Aug. 25, 2022, to Jan. 8, 2023.

Start your Saturday with Hillsborough Bakeshop & Pasta Co. A cherry-almond tea cake and a cup of steaming hot coffee is the fuel you need to peruse the downtown shops up and down North Churton Street. Carlisle & Linny Vintage Jewelry has charming costume jewelry and accessories from every era and even a shop dog! Pick out your next pair of cowboy boots at Uniquitiques, a completely original boutique. If you’re still hungry before noon, stop by the Eno River Farmers Market

for a snack and possibly some live music. Drop your shopping bags at The Colonial Inn

and rest up before the Moorefields Bluegrass Festival

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Brian Teune at the JB Duke Hotel, one of three Duke University hotel properties located near campus.

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the years have included Mavis Staples, the Branford Marsalis Quartet, Simone Dinnerstein, Camille A. Brown & Dancers, Rafiq Bhatia, Seong-Jin Cho, Imani Winds, Will Oldham, Oddisee, Shen Wei, 9th Wonder and Murs, among many others. Productions on campus are often held at Reynolds Industries Theater, Baldwin Auditorium or Page Auditorium.

On Sunday, attend a service at Duke Chapel and walk the campus to admire its Gothic architecture before heading to Duke Arts Annex’s Satellite Park for a selfie with the incredible satellite murals. Next, visit the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University – it hosts a

on Sept. 10 at the historical Federalstyle architecture home. Stroll the grounds and go back in time as you enjoy the music.

For dinner, tuck into a plate of global flavors at Nomad across the street from the inn or grab a to-go pizza from The Village Diner.

On Sunday, wake up early to hike to the top of Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area – the parking lot fills up fast! There are plenty of options for hikers of all experience levels, but no matter which route you take, you have to see the highest point in Orange County. Reward yourself for a weekend well done with a latte and blueberry scone at Cup-A-Joe. 

My ideal weekend in the Triangle includes great food, close friends and old arcade games. My friends and I start our night at Morgan Street Food Hall – since everyone has different tastes (American, Japanese, Greek), there’s something for everyone!

We walk two short blocks and around the corner to Boxcar Bar + Arcade to play Dig Dug, Galaga, air hockey, Mario Kart and more. The Nintendo racing champion decides where we go next.

We usually stay for another round of Mario Kart, but sometimes we end up at Circa 1888 playing pool.

– Lindsay Scott

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WEEKEND PLANS

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WEEKENDER Experience agricultural life at the turn of the 20th century in Silk Hope during Old Fashioned Farmers Day every Labor Day weekend. The Silk Hope Ruritan Club presents exhibits, food trucks, vendors, local music groups, demonstrations, an on-site working steam engine, an antique barn and a Civil War-era homestead.

Make a weekend out of it and enjoy a stay in the countryside at The Inn at Celebrity Dairy, a quaint bedand-breakfast that also makes awardwinning goat cheese. Tour the barn, meet farm animals and book your ticket for one of the inn’s occasional multicourse farm-to-table meals.

For a festive autumn weekend, visit the McKee Cornfield Maze in Rougemont. Have fun as a family making your way through the 12-acre corn maze. Then spend the afternoon doing all the other activities from cornhole and hayrides to visiting with farm animals and playing on the play areas. Don’t forget to pick out a pumpkin!

If you want to see a decked out neighborhood, cruise or walk around Historic Oakwood in Raleigh before Halloween. Many residents decorate their Victorian homes, setting the tone for the spooky holiday. The owner of one particular house – 504 Oakwood Ave. – goes all out every year with massive props which always draws a crowd. Stop by The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery to enjoy a seasonal treat.

My ideal weekend includes a Saturday morning run (maybe even a race!) with the folks over at Bull City Running Co., followed by a bagel from Everything Bagels or a buttery croissant from Sweets by Shayda.

The afternoon would have to include hopping around to my favorite breweries – Hi-Wire Brewing, Ponysaurus Brewing Co., and if I’m staying in South Durham, Barrel Culture Brewing and Blending and The Glass Jug Beer Lab. I’d likely end the evening one of two ways: at Shiki Sushi for the BOGO deal or at Mothers & Sons Trattoria.

Somewhere among all of this, my fiance, Brendan Marks, and I would likely swing by Piney Wood Dog Park so our dog, Kona, can get some playtime.

– Hannah Lee

Book your tickets from Haunted Hillsborough Tours and get ready to be scared! There are variations of this waking tour past cemeteries and haunted houses and even one for kids ages 11 and older.

Mature fans of horror movies will be delighted to learn there’s a house in rural Hillsborough that’s a replica of the Michael Myers house from the film “Halloween.” Every October, the owner holds a house visit and yard sale of figures, T-shirts, posters and more. (Check out his website for dates throughout the year – he welcomes guests monthly for free tours of the exterior.)

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Brendetta Huffman and Robert Rowe cheers their Madeira Cobbler and Colada Royale cocktails, respectively, at Dram & Draught.

The Durham Performing Arts Center has a stellar lineup of Broadway shows and nationally acclaimed musicians and comedians coming this season. (Who else is looking forward to Lewis Black on Nov. 11 and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” next spring?) Make a night of it with before-dinner bubbles at Annexe in downtown Durham, and then enjoy a flavorful meal upstairs at its sister bar and restaurant, Bar Virgile, or head over to nearby restaurants like COPA or straight on down to NanaSteak, which is attached to the venue. After the show, make your way to the newly opened Dram & Draught (which also has a Raleigh location on Glenwood Avenue) for a post-show cocktail.

Grab a coffee from Coco Espresso, Bistro & Bar in Chapel Hill and hit the links early at UNC Finley Golf Course. If others in your group are less interested in golf, they can head down the street for a casual walk through the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Once you’ve

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worked up an appetite, head to the East 54 shopping center to wind down (and wine down) with dinner and drinks at elements, which highlights fresh, local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients utilizing modern Asian and European cooking techniques. If the full day on the course and the full belly leaves you immobile, go ahead and make a staycation of it with a night at nearby Aloft Chapel Hill.

Held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the annual Raleigh Christmas Parade is the largest of its kind between Atlanta and Washington, D.C. The parade dates back to the 1940s and features local groups, marching bands, classic cars and more. Grab a seat early along the route, which runs 1.4 miles down Hillsborough Street, around the North Carolina State Capitol and down Fayetteville Street.

Once the parade ends around noon, head a few blocks in the other direction from the State Capitol to eat lunch at low-key Mexican joint, Gringo A Go Go. Located in an old Esso station, the restaurant serves up a mean margarita, green chilaquiles and 10 different kinds of salsa. Then enjoy some holiday shopping at City Market,

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WEEKENDER popping in stores like Unleashed, or some of the art galleries within walking distance. Afterward, head to Bittersweet, a dessert bar where kids can enjoy hot chocolate and their pick of sweets off the ever-changing menu while parents can order a boozy latte or adults-only version of dirt and worms with Maker’s Mark bourbon whipped cream.

Don’t let the dreary days of January get you down!

Instead plan a full Saturday or Sunday out in Raleigh.

Start at the City of Raleigh Museum, which is located in a historic former hardware store and curates temporary and permanent exhibits about Raleigh’s people, places and resources while maintaining a collection of approximately 5,000 artifacts, then head to CAM Raleigh, a nonprofit contemporary art museum, to peruse its transformative exhibitions – both are free to visit! Later, grab a cocktail from Killjoy or The Crunkleton – slated to open its third location in the Smoky Hollow district in downtown Raleigh this fall – before heading out to see the NC Opera perform Mozart’s Don Giovanni Jan. 27 and Jan. 29 or “Dreamgirls,” put on by North Carolina Theatre

from Feb. 7-12 inside Memorial Auditorium at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts.

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To kick off a weekend in Hillsborough, a stop at Kim’s Bake Shop is a must – try the homemade doughnuts (flavors rotate) and toaster pastries paired with a cup of Carrboro Coffee Roasters brew from a personal mini French press. Then, explore one of the county’s historical landmarks, Ayr Mount, and take a stroll around the 1-mile Poet’s Walk trail. Or, if NASCAR history is more your speed, take a lap around the Occoneechee Speedway Trail, the only surviving dirt speedway from NASCAR’s inaugural 1949 season. I like to grab dinner from El Restaurante Ixtapa before meeting friends for cocktails or a live concert at Yonder Southern Cocktails & Brew.

– Renee Ambroso

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Visit the Hayti Heritage Center, the epicenter of Durham’s Black arts and culture that’s housed in the historic St. Joseph’s AME Church, which was originally constructed in 1891. The center’s mission is to preserve and advance

Folk Rap Band lead vocalist Nige Hood performs at the Hayti Heritage Center.

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PHOTO BY NATE DOVE

When the weather is dreadful but you need a weekend out of the house, head to the Morehead Planetarium & Science Center. Sit back in the comfy seats to watch a planetarium show or interact with exhibits covering topics like marine science, engineering and plant ecology. You could make a whole day here at the center but when you need a bite, it’s a short walk to 1922 on East Franklin Street for a latte and a baked good.

If you’re closer to Durham, Morehead hosts skywatching on the rooftop of The Durham Hotel with guided constellation tours, educational activities and music from DJ Mic Check. (Future dates include June 13, July 11, Aug. 8 and Sept. 12.)

There’s always something new worth checking out at the free Ackland Art Museum in Chapel Hill.

Tour the galleries as a family or meander around all on your own. The art museum hosts monthly

I commute back to Knightdale after work, so to kick off a great weekend, I usually stop at my favorite Raleigh spots for sushi. Matsu Hibachi & Sushi is my go-to. It’s got a great atmosphere, great food (try the tuna avocado roll and the salmon avocado roll!) and great staff. I highly recommend it to anyone craving sushi in the Raleigh area.

– Khadijah Weekes-Nolan

drawing classes for tweens and the popular Art Adventures classes for kids ages 6 to 9. (Registration fills up fast so reserve your spot early!) Discuss the works of art you saw over dinner at Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery, since nothing quite warms you up like jalapeno-cheddar hush puppies and a pint of local beer (try the Bell Tower blueberry wheat, now a year-round offering!) TW

WEEKEND PLANS

the heritage and culture of the Hayti community and the African American experience through yearround programs and events, including the Hayti Heritage Film Festival, African dance classes, artist exhibitions, poetry slams, book club events and more. Its cozy, 400-seat performance hall is warm and welcoming, especially during the winter months.

Opening reception for “Myth & Memory: Selected Works by the MFA Class of 2022,” at the Ackland Art Museum.

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Gather your closest pals for these exciting group activities By Renee Ambroso

AR Workshop Choose an in-studio workshop class, a DIYto-go craft kit (with all materials included), or book a virtual, on-site or in-person party for your group to get your crafting fix. In-person classes include wood or wood and canvas-based activities where you can create bottle openers, photo displays, framed or plank signs and more.

14460 Falls of Neuse Rd., Ste. 175, Raleigh, 919-825-1299; 905 W. Main St., Ste. 19A, Durham, 919-275-5707; and 107 Edinburgh Dr., Ste. 113, Cary, 919-325-7645; arworkshop.com Craft Habit Feel like an excited kid at summer camp again by joining Craft Habit’s Adult Craft Camp Spectacular, which kicks off its inaugural session in July and features a long weekend of shibori dyeing, glass etching and nostalgic crafts like friendship bracelets and more. If you miss out on the camp, there’s still plenty of craft classes offered year round. 2423 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh; 984-200-4530; crafthabitraleigh.com The Creative Goat Chathamite Beth Rhew opened this high-quality craft supply in January 2020 to cater to artists and craft enthusiasts in the Pittsboro area.

Bring up to eight friends along for a class like beginner crochet or a Friday evening guided painting session with all materials supplied. 984 Thompson St., Ste. F, Pittsboro; 919-542-1938; thecreativegoat.com

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PHOTO BY DAVE SHAY PHOTOGRAPHY

Get Crafty

Crafts & Drafts NC This locally owned bar and bottle shop offers kits and classes for a variety of crafts, along with adult coloring books.

Grab a brew and a project to complete with your friends – you’ll follow the directions included with your kit independently, but simply tap the light on your table if you need assistance from a Crafts & Drafts employee.

3117 Guess Rd., Ste. B, Durham; 919-366-7606; craftsanddrafts.com

Freeman’s Creative This craft store and creative oasis in the Lakewood Shopping Center offers everything from sewing patterns to yarn, fabric and embroidery supplies.

Attend the weekly virtual craft club on Sundays, or sign up for a workshop that caters to any skill level. 2020 Chapel Hill Rd., Ste. 25, Durham; 919-402-9777; freemanscreative.com

The Scrap Exchange This nonprofit has championed reuse and creativity since 1991, offering classes and a unique, secondhand stock of craft supplies sure to draw out creativity in every participant. Gather your crew for a virtual workshop on patching thrifted sweaters or making birthday cards, or grab your crafty side by the horns and pick up art supplies for a project of your own design from the Scrap Reuse Arts Shop (2050 Chapel Hill Rd., Durham) or Scrap Thrift (2020 Chapel Hill Rd., Ste. 31, Durham). 919-688-6960; scrapexchange.org Pinot’s Palette This upscale studio offers guided acrylic painting classes in-person or virtually. You can also take advantage of open studio time to indulge your creative impulses while sipping on a glass of wine or beer from the bar. Pinot’s also offers private events and painting classes. 10410 Moncreiffe Rd., Ste. 101, Raleigh; 919-391-0258; pintospalette.com/briercreek West Queen Floral Studio This floral studio and design business spearheaded by Hillsborough resident Morgan Moylan offers a bountiful schedule

of fun workshops. Sign up for Cocktails and Creativity with a couple of friends and you’ll enjoy a Friday evening learning about floral design with snacks and refreshments. 219 W. Queen St., Hillsborough; 919-219-1496; westqueenstudio.com

Move It

The Crazy Axe The first ax-throwing venue to open in Raleigh, The Crazy Axe now operates two locations in Wake County and can host large groups of up to 100. Battle your friends through the nine-week tournament where the top 16 players advance to a knockout Eno Arts Mill round. 3141 Capital Blvd., Ste. Managed by the Orange County 110, 919-900-8625; and 1531 Arts Commission, Garner Station Blvd., Raleigh; this 7,000-square919-977-4900; thecrazyaxe.com foot community space in a historic mill makes room for all kinds of visual and performing arts and offers classes and workshops.

Bring your friends and learn to make mosaic birdhouses, try intuitive painting or take a novelwriting class together. Ongoing programs include Sound in the Gallery, combining visual art with a musical experience, on the second Saturday of each month.

437 Dimmocks Mill Rd., Ste. 17, Hillsborough; 919-245-2335; artsorange.org/ enomill

Drive Shack Enjoy a variety of driving range games tailored to various skill levels with friends seven days a week. High-tech golf balls automatically track the speed, angle and flight of your every shot. If the competition gets too heated, relax at the rooftop bar with a cocktail, beer or meal from Drive Shack’s full menu. Book your bay in advance to avoid a wait. Active military, veterans and first responders enjoy a 10% discount. 6901 Play Golf Way, Raleigh; 984-329-8229; driveshack.com Topgolf You won’t need to make a reservation to visit this expansive entertainment complex, which boasts a full bar and restaurant in addition to 102 climate-controlled hitting bays across three levels. Pay an hourly rate for up to six players per bay and PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

challenge your friends to some healthy competition. If your friend group aren’t yet seasoned golfers, sign up for a group lesson and sharpen your skills together.

4901 Page Rd., Durham; topgolf.com/us/raleigh-durham Trolley Pub Durham Hop aboard this mobile bar – rain or shine – for a two-hour tour of downtown Durham.

Each trolley can seat up to 14 people and allows for two or three stops of your choice. While every trolley ride kicks off from 501 Washington St., Unit K-2, your group can take your pick of stops, from breweries and bars to Unscripted Durham and the Durham Food Hall. Note that at least six riders are required to generate enough power to operate the trolley, and you must bring any beverages you wish to enjoy while on board.

919-473-3312; trolleypub.com/durham

Wine & Design Tap into your creative side at a private or public two-hour painting class.

Decorate home decor, drinkware, gifts or stick to a canvas while you sip on a glass of red or white wine. Materials, including paint and brushes, are provided while a local artist guides you and your friends through each step toward designing a masterpiece. 501 W. Martin St., Floor 3, Raleigh, 919-803-3343; 4810 Hope Valley Rd., Ste. 109, Durham, 919-3918359; 5456 Apex Peakway, Apex, 919-355-2855; 483 James Jackson Ave., Cary, 919535-8695; and 1201-D Raleigh Rd., Chapel Hill, 919-636-9571; wineanddesign.com

Urban Axes If you and your friends enjoy a classic game of darts at the bar, try out this hands-on activity for your next game night. Urban Axes has brought a unique element to downtown Durham’s nightlife since 2018. An “ax-pert” will be your host, instruct you on the details of chucking a 1.5-pound hatchet at a plywood target and keep score among your group. Enjoy beer or wine from the bar but remember to BYO snacks.

Walk-in for an hour or less with a group of 6 or fewer people, or book ahead to gather a larger group for a few hours. If your group is eager for more, sign up together for an eight-week competitive league. 619 Foster St., Durham; 984-377-3697; urbanaxes.com/locations/durham 

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WEEKENDER Heart of the Hill Tours Missy Julian-Fox, former director of the UNC Visitors Center, founded Heart of the Hill Tours to share stories and give visitors, new transplants and longtime Chapel Hill residents alike a taste of the town’s history.

Sign up for Missy’s Parallel Lives tour to learn about life in Chapel Hill from a white and Black perspective through the context of the town’s university. In-person walking tours on Sunday afternoons take an hour to an hour and a half, and registration is required. heartofthehilltours.com

Chatham Axes Rally your friend group and head to Pittsboro’s Chatham Beverage District at The Plant for an adrenalinefilled ax-throwing session – plus the chance to win prizes. Coaches will give you their tips to throwing a bull’s-eye and encourage a little friendly competition.

Reservations are required for groups larger than eight. 215 Lorax Ln., Pittsboro; 919-533-2011; chathamaxes.com

Last Sundays From April through August, tour Historic Moorefields in Hillsborough on the last Sunday of each month from 1-5 p.m. to view the historic house, property and graveyard of the Moore family. Built in 1785 as a vacation home for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Alfred Moore, Moorefields is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Finish your tour with a hike at the adjoining Seven Mile Creek Natural Area. 2201 Moorefields Rd., Hillsborough; 919-732-4941; moorefields.org Tobacco Road Tours Book a group or private walking tour to sightsee by foot in Durham or Raleigh. Choose from eight different tours like haunted pub crawls, ghost walks or a sightseeing bar walk. If you’re new to the area or want a refresher course, grab PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON friends for a City of Oaks or City of Medicine Eric Baldwin and Tonya Walton walking tour that feature prominent landmarks like the Raleigh’s are ready for “ax”-tion at state capital grounds and North Carolina Museum of History, and Chatham Axes in Pittsboro.

Durham’s Black Wall Street. Tours depart from various locations.

919-371-2653; tobaccoroadtours.com

Tour Time

Carolina Touring Company Tour Raleigh by foot or by three-wheel electric scooter. Tours of Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood neighborhood or downtown city center take about two hours, while the “Trekkie Treasure Hunt” adds an exciting twist and 30 minutes to Carolina Touring Company’s tours. Most tours meet near Raleigh Union Station.

919-828-1988; carolinatouring.com

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Great Raleigh Tours Explore Raleigh via a trolley or walking tour.

Walking options include an overview of Raleigh’s history – like its beginnings in a tavern – colorful murals or bourbon and cigar lounges.

Trolley tours cover themes of beer, brunching and a haunted experience.

131 E. Davie St., Ste. 10, Raleigh; raleigh.tours

Triangle Food Tours Get to know Raleigh through a leisurely three-hour culinary tour of the Boylan Heights or Historic Oakwood neighborhoods. Sample bites and sips from a curated list of five or six of the city’s outstanding bars and eateries while you walk through their streets.

Tickets must be purchased in advance, and vegetarian or vegan diets and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. 300 Fayetteville St., Unit 1362, Raleigh; 919-623-4873; trianglefoodtours.com

Press Play

Arcade of Thrones This amateur social gaming club has a little bit of everything – vintage, console, board and card games as well as monthlong tournaments for multiplayer games which meet and compete on a weekly basis. If you’re looking for a less competitive experience, arcade games, consoles and tabletop games are offered for nonmembers at an affordable entrance rate. 399 Hubert St., Raleigh; 984-200-4419; arcadeofthrones.com

SQUAD GOALS

Trolley Pub Raleigh Tour the streets of our capital city with a group of friends and enjoy the open air.

Trolley pubs seat 14, and beer trolleys can accommodate large groups (up to 84). Opt for stops at Raleigh mainstays like The Raleigh Times bar or the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. All tours depart from 323 W. Davie St. If you’d like to enjoy brews onboard, you’ll need to bring them yourself.

919-473-3312; trolleypub.com/ raleigh 

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WEEKENDER nights, monthly game tournaments and weekly drink specials. Plus, Boxcar welcomes four-legged friends, too! 621 Foster St., Durham, 984-377-2791; and 330 W. Davie St., Raleigh, 919-803-2796; theboxcarbar.com Bull City Escape The next time you’re looking for a unique night out in Bull City, grab friends for an exciting escape room experience. Each game is tailored for a specific number of players (three to eight), rated for difficulty on a scale of one to 10, and varies from a murder mystery to a UNCthemed challenge. 711 Iredell St., Durham; 919-627-8387; bullcityescape.com

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

Preservation Durham Tours Preservation Durham offers multiple biking and walking tours that depart from the Major the Bull sculpture at 211 W. Parrish St. Walking tours covering Durham’s history and architecture take place on Saturdays from April through November.

Bike tours – co-organized with Mural Durham and additional support from the Museum of Durham History – that focus on Durham’s many interesting murals and walking tours specific to Durham’s tobacco industry and civil rights history have varied dates.

Tours are limited to 25 participants and sign-up is required. Private, custom tours are available as well.

701 W. Main St., Ste. 310, Durham; 919-682-3036; preservation durham.org

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Augmentality Labs This oneof-a-kind virtual reality arcade offers a variety of interactive multiplayer games like Battle Magic, Island Time, Tilt Brush and Summer Funland for friends to enjoy – while each player uses their own virtual headset, games can be played together. Book a session for 30, 70, 110 or 150 minutes of game time and enjoy a discount for groups of six or more. 3519 Witherspoon Blvd., Ste. 104, Durham; 919-748-4578; augmentalitylabs.com The Baxter Bar & Arcade At this self-proclaimed “nerd-chic” Chapel Hill joint, you’ll find more than 30 vintage arcade games and a handful of pinball machines alongside popart memorabilia and a full-service bar offering craft beer, cocktails, nonalcoholic choices and energy drinks. 108 N. Graham St., Chapel Hill; 919-869-7486; baxterarcade.com Boxcar Bar + Arcade Each Boxcar location features dozens of arcade games, pinball machines, console gaming systems and other games. Stock up on tokens and grab a draft or craft beer from the full-service bar before besting your friends at skee ball or air hockey.

At Boxcar’s Durham location, snack on soft pretzels and wood-fired pizza and enjoy all-weather seating under the covered patio (don’t skip the giant outdoor Jenga). Boxcar hosts live music

Gamers Geekery & Tavern Bring your friends to this tavern turned gaming paradise that is home to a large library of board, video and classic card games. Order from an extensive menu of mead, wine and local beer, plus nonalcoholic beverages, snacks and salads.

For serious gamers, try the weekly Magic the Gathering game nights on Fridays or monthly video game tournaments. 107 Edinburgh S. Dr., #213, Cary; 919-650-2366; carygametavern.com The Gathering Place This tabletop game store and bar hosted a soft launch in February. Patrons can play or buy games like Dungeons and Dragons, Magic the Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh and sip on sake, beer, hard kombucha or sparkling teas. 157 E. Rosemary St., Floor 2, Chapel Hill; 984-999-4548; thegatheringplacegames.com Mission X Escape Try themed games like “Candyland” and “Vampire Manor” for groups of two to eight players. Utilize your ingenuity to escape the room within an hour. 3400 Westgate Dr., Ste. 8, Durham; 919-2518910; missionxescape.com NC Escape For groups of two to eight players, this escape room open Friday through Monday offers several themes from alien abduction to kidnapping. 119 Orange St., Ste. 101, Durham; 984-888-5155; ncescape.com Side Quest Game Lounge + Bar This board game store also offers a food and beverage menu with familiar favorites like “Ants on a Log” and “Cheesy Bread” alongside hundreds of popular games, from family-friendly options to party and role-playing games. A play pass will get you all-day access. 317-113 W. Morgan St., Raleigh; 919-977-5009; sidequestgameloungeandbar.com Tar Heel Escapes Hourlong escape rooms for groups of three to nine, offering exclusively private bookings so that you’re only paired with your friends for the challenge you choose. 140 W. Franklin St., Ste. 170, Chapel Hill; 919-914-0980; tarheelescapes.com The Tower Escapes This unique escape room is located inside the historic Raleigh Water Tower constructed in 1887, an 85-foot-tall octagonal tower that’s a designated landmark of the city. Groups of two to 10 can take part in one of three escape scenarios that incorporate riddles, puzzles and strategy. 115 W. Morgan St., Raleigh; 919-504-6250; thetowerescapes.com

or shop in store. 106 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro; 919-967-9784; glasshalfull.net

DRINK A unique, familyowned wine shop that seeks out small production bottles to stock their intimate tasting space and fine wine “cave.”

Attend a “Stories in the Bottle” tasting class to build your knowledge and enjoy winemaker dinners hosted at various restaurants with local experts. 215-A Glenwood Ave., Raleigh; 919-977-0705; drinkraleigh.com Falls Village Wine & Beer An ever-changing selection of small-batch wine, plus craft beer and drafts, mead, cider and eight wines on tap. 6675 Falls of Neuse Rd., Ste. 131, Raleigh; 984-200-5984; fallsvillagewineandbeer.com Glasshalfull The attached wine shop has expanded into a small market, the Glasshalfull Mercantile, stocking exceptional wines, prepared meals, pantry items and more. Order online for curbside pickup

Voted Best of Chapel Hill 2016-2021

Chapel Hill Wine Company Chapel Hill’s oldest independent wine retailer offers thousands of choices, including rare and allocated bottles from around the world.

2809 Homestead Rd., Chapel Hill; 919-968-1884; chapelhill winecompany.com

SQUAD GOALS

Wine Down

Greenway Beer and Wine Enjoy craft beer on tap and wine by the glass, then take home your favorite bottle. This bar and bottle shop celebrates three years of business in October. 7530 Ramble Way, Ste. 130, Raleigh, 919-900-7953; and 519 S. Main St., Rolesville, 984-235-7978; greenwayraleigh.com Hillsborough Wine Company This sister store of Chapel Hill Wine Company in downtown Hillsborough features a diverse selection from all over the world. 118 S. Churton St., Hillsborough; 919-732-4343; chapelhillwinecompany.com Hope Valley Wine & Beverage A communitydriven neighborhood wine, beer and mixology store.

4711 Hope Valley Rd., Ste. 4E, Durham; 919-403-5200; hopevalleywineandbeverage.com 

Modern Asian Cuisine 2021

restaurant · wine bar

Dine in Available for Dinner Call for Curbside Takeout

Dine in Available for Dinner Call for Curbside Takeout

2110 Environ Way Chapel Hill

324 S. Aacademy Street Cary

Minutes from UNC and I-40

Located at Sam Jones Historical House

elementsofchapelhill.com 919.537.8780

mccuisines.com 919.650.1738

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LouElla Wine, Beer & Beverage A bottle shop, bar and event space offering curated wine, craft beer and other fortified selections from family-operated producers. 316 W. Geer St., Ste. A, Durham; 919-973-2001; durham.wine The Raleigh Wine Shop Celebrating 11 years in business, this locally owned shop takes pride in a global wine selection at a variety of price points and friendly, welcoming staff. Purchase wine by the ounce or glass and sign up for wine tasting classes, dinners and other special events.

317 S. Bloodworth St., Raleigh; 919-803-5473; theraleighwineshop.com

Melanated Wine Owner Lashonda Fort-Modest opened Durham’s first Black-owned winery in October 2021. It offers four premium varietals: a white sangria, a red blend, a white blend and a riesling. 4608 Industry Lane F; 919-695-3303; melanated wine.com

Red Line Beer & Wine A varied wine selection alongside beer, mead, snacks and seltzer with 24 rotating taps are offered at this bottle shop and bar open seven days a week. 10 Horne St., Ste. 100, Raleigh; 919-322-8947; redlinebeerwine.com Ridgewood Wine & Beer Company More than 1,500 bottles to choose from and 400 beer options, with 12 wines offered by the glass and 16 drafts on tap. 1214 Ridge Rd., Raleigh; 919-832-5232; ridgewoodwineandbeer.com Seaboard Wine This independent wine store in HighPark Village has operated in Raleigh for 25 years and offers more than 1,000 handselected bottles. The wine bar is open seven days a week for tastings with food pairings. 1914 Bernard St., Raleigh; 919-831-0850; seaboardwine.com Short Walk Wines Friendly, locally owned wine store open seven days a week. Swing by to enjoy a glass on the patio, to learn from visiting experts during the Tasting Thursday series or sign up for the monthly club to receive bottles of your chosen flavor profiles and special discounts.

123 E. Main St., Raleigh; 919-909-2492; shortwalkwines.com Taylor’s Wine Shop Since 1980, Taylor’s has supplied Wake County with wines to suit any price range or palate, from collectible and rare bottles to options under $20. Plus, you’ll find a selection of craft beer and local coffee, honey and chocolate. 10005 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh; 919-847-3069; taylorswineshop.com Triangle Wine Company This partnership of three friends, who collectively have experience at all levels of the industry from production to retail, operates several wine stores in the Triangle area. A comprehensive selection offers new and old world wine, organic and nonalcoholic options and discounts on cases. 575 New Waverly Place, Ste. 103-B, Cary; and 1540 Dunn Rd., Raleigh; 800-919-7518; trianglewineco.com

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PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

SQUAD GOALS

Triangle

WEEKENDER

Uncorked Raleigh Small plates, cheese boards, flatbreads and desserts are served at this fine wine retailer. Owner Chala Boya is a licensed sommelier who offers concierge wine cellar services. 10511 Shadowlawn Dr., Ste. 111, Raleigh; 984-200-5423; uncorkedraleigh.com Vino!! Wine Shop Located on the second floor of a historic downtown Pittsboro shop, this family-owned wine shop features a selection of wines from all over the globe as well as beer and cigars. The shop hosts popular wine tastings and curated dinners with wine pairings in-shop and at local restaurants – reserve your spot early! Stop by on Friday evenings from 5-7 p.m. for free tastings with visiting vintners and purchase a glass or bottle of your favorite. 89 Hillsboro St., Ste. D, Pittsboro; 919-542-3922; vinowineshopnc.com Westgate Wine This wine store carries a worldwide selection of white, red and sparkling wines alongside sake, sampler cases, snacks and mixers. 6405 Westgate Rd., Ste. 115, Raleigh; 919-787-4290; westgatewinestore.com Wine Authorities Twenty-first century wine shop with a friendly staff focused on small, family-owned estate wineries. Limited selection of fewer than 500 wines, all less than $50. Open seven days a week. 2501 University Dr., Durham, 919-489-2884; and 211 E. Franklin St., Raleigh, 919-831-9463; wineauthorities.com The Wine Cellar South Durham wine shop in Sutton Station offering wine specials, a calendar of events and more. 5850 Fayetteville Rd., Durham; 919-806-3111; winecellarnc.com The Wine Feed Wine store and wine bar offering classes, special orders, deliveries and more, plus dog-friendly outdoor seating. Enjoy prepackaged eats and gourmet snacks at the Raleigh location or nosh on bites made in-house at the Durham store, which also features a reservable lounge area and the Pine & Poplar event venue next door.

602 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, 919-374-0036; and 307 S. Roxboro St., Durham, 919-748-4115; thewinefeed.com TW

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Let 's Do Brunch

Fuel up with coffee or a mimosa for everyone’s favorite early afternoon meal.

Antonia’s Head to historic Hillsborough for prime people-watching during brunch alfresco along West King and North Churton streets.

Offerings at the Italian restaurant include Cinnamon Toast Crunch French toast, smoked salmon Benedict and the “King Street Fry,” which features duck confit, potatoes and a sunny side up egg. Take your pick between half-priced bottles of wine on Sundays or bottomless mimosas and bloody marys.

Beasley’s Chicken + Honey You’ll think you died and went to Southern heaven at Ashley Christensen’s chicken-centric spot in downtown Raleigh.

Highlights include a chicken biscuit with a pickled green tomato, cinnamon biscuit bread pudding and a Sunday supper’s worth of sides, from sweet potatoes to pimento macaroni and cheese custard to creamed collard greens. Best of all for late risers, brunch runs till 3 p.m. on both Saturdays and Sundays.

Press Coffee, Crêpes & Cocktails

Tuck into a South by Southwest crêpe and Farmers Market crêpe paired with a Brandy 43 cocktail and a mimosa at Press Coffee, Crêpes & Cocktails.

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The popular Graham coffee shop and crêperie opened a Bull City location in summer 2021.

The breakfast menu, available on both Saturday and Sundays, has a bevy of sweet options like strawberry cheesecake with house-made cheesecake custard and graham crackers, topped with strawberry glaze and whipped cream. Team savory won’t be disappointed either: Fillings range from fresh veggies to North Carolina-smoked ham – and don’t sleep on the hash brown waffles.

Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten This Durham mainstay has been a fixture for more than two decades and is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy brunch on its expansive patio. You can’t go wrong with an iced Vietnamese latte while you peruse Guglhupf’s German specialties, from Alsatian potato leek tart to pork schnitzel. Eggs, sandwiches, and breads and pastries (of course), round out the rest of the morning menu.

EAT IT UP Our area is known for its stellar dining scene. Here are a few favorites based on your appetite and occasion.

By Jessica Stringer Photography by John Michael Simpson

Family-Friendly Restaurants These casual eateries have delectable options for family members of all ages.

Breadman’s

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

Breadman’s new location at 261 S. Elliott Rd. in Chapel Hill still serves up the diner favorites that longtime customers crave.

This classic Carolina restaurant has fed hungry UNC students and Chapel Hill residents their favorite breakfast dishes – from corned beef hash to pancakes – since 1974. Grab a booth and flip through the broad menu of omelets, Belgian waffles and kid-friendly fare. Craving an omelet for dinner?

Never fear – this down-home diner serves breakfast all day long.

Katarina Rosario-Soto digs into a slice at Pizzeria Toro with her dad, Jean Carlos Rosario-Montalvo.

Breakaway Cafe The crowd-pleasing kids menu at this Chatham eatery features fried chicken, pasta with cheesy sauce and plenty of sandwiches, from grilled cheese to the trusty PB&J. Parents will find just as many options, like a tofu banh mi or a Caesar salad with kale, lemon and Parmesan and – depending on the time of day – beverages from coffee to beer and wine. Stay tuned for its second location, slated to open in Carrboro in summer 2022.

Blue Dogwood Public Market Perhaps there’s no better choice for indecisive eaters than the food hall in downtown Chapel Hill. Blue Dogwood Public Market has something for everyone, from Senegalese and Asian options to vegan fare, plus both indoor and outdoor seating. There’s also live music occasionally during Saturday afternoons and Sunday jazz brunch.

Bull City Burger and Brewery Kids 10 and younger can take their pick from a burger, hot dog, grilled cheese or veggie burger at this downtown Durham restaurant. All are served with a small order of dirty fries and a drink or apple juice. 

Pizzeria Toro

“When we moved here from South Florida, we looked for a place that could satisfy everyone,” says Jean Carlos Rosario-Montalvo, a contributing graphic designer for Triangle Weekender. “[My children], Katarina and Carlos Andrés, are both pizza connoisseurs but my wife, Mirty, is a healthy foodie.

We found Pizzeria Toro hit the spot with high-quality ingredients, an assortment of unique pizzas (I love anything with good prosciutto di Parma) and its child-friendly atmosphere. It also helps that they are within walking distance of our family’s favorite dessert spot in Durham, The Parlour, where we can find dairy-free options to avoid tummy aches.”

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DINING

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PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

Meanwhile, the adults can sip a pint of Jack Tar Dry Irish Stout and have their own fun choosing among the more adventurous burger toppings, from Gruyere and poblano peppers to chimichurri and pimento cheese. And don’t miss the adorable “Future Beer Drinkers” corner stocked with all kinds of items to keep the kiddos entertained.

Dinner & a Show

Spend an entire evening out on the town with a meal and nearby entertainment.

Makus Empanadas

With four locations in the area, including the Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh – another ideal spot for kids thanks to its many options and quick service – and Hope Valley Commons in Durham, Makus’ warm pocket pastries are close to many in the Triangle.

Empanada fillings range from chicken or beef to sweet corn and are perfect for little ones who haven’t yet mastered utensils.

The family meal feeds plenty with 10 empanadas and four sides.

Trilogy Start your weekend early with half-priced shareables – mozzarella sticks, anyone? – at Trilogy from 3-6 p.m. on Fridays. If you’re looking for a bigger meal before catching a flick at Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill, the restaurant’s got everything from flatbreads and salads to miso-glazed salmon bites. Thanks to reserved seating inside the theaters, you can have a drink at the full bar without sweating that you’ll miss the previews.

Market and Moss Split a charcuterie plate and bottle of wine or enjoy the fresh catch of the day at this refined restaurant in Chapel Hill’s Southern Village. The menu changes daily, and it is just steps away from the Southern Village Green, where outdoor concerts and movies run late into the evening on most Saturday nights. Bring a blanket or folding chair – there’s not a bad seat in the house!

The Fiction Kitchen Seasoned and sauteed vegetables get the star treatment at this totally vegan restaurant. The flavorful main courses vary from a Carolina Gold rice risotto with peas and seasonal squash to (mock) chicken and waffles. It’s a short walk away from Red Hat Amphitheater, so you won’t miss a minute of your outdoor concert.

Romantic Evenings

Sometimes you need to recharge with a date night out. Turn to some of our area’s hotels for outstanding dining and book a room for a full-blown staycation.

Herons If you’ve been looking for an excuse to dress up for dinner, look no further than Herons’ 98-seat dining room, which boasts a private art collection and sumptuous views of The Umstead Hotel and Spa’s grounds and gardens. The four-course menu is seasonal and features artfully plated options like strawberry gazpacho, scallop with poached leeks and salmon with grilled cucumber. The wine list spans the globe while beer lovers will find local brews like Backspin IPA from Raleigh’s R&D Brewing.

PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

NanaSteak

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This downtown Durham restaurant is upscale dining at its finest with a menu chock-full of decadent entrees like prime ribeye and salmon.

NanaSteak is directly adjacent to the Durham Performing Arts Center, so go ahead and have that second glass of wine off its extensive list without worrying about missing showtime. Or, if your sweet tooth is aching, try the vanilla bean creme brulee before heading to your seat.

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The Fearrington House Restaurant

Counting House Bourbon and whiskey dominate the drink menu at this swanky hotel restaurant in the heart of Durham.

You’ll find pastas and grilled mains and enjoy them in a sophisticated setting. The 21c Museum Hotel

doubles as a museum so when you’re done with dinner, check out the exhibits and explore the former bank vault in the basement.

This awardwinning restaurant, which has offered fine dining for 40 years, is nestled in Chatham County’s Fearrington Village on acres of countryside.

Vegetables and herbs are harvested from the on-site gardens and integrated into dishes such as confit rutabaga with medjool date or roasted lamb loin with carrot. Come for the exceptional service, expertly crafted cocktails and multicourse meal; stay for the signature dark chocolate soufflé.

Spencer’s Tavern Recently restored, The Colonial Inn’s kitchen serves BLTs and hot roast beef sandwiches all day long and offers entrees like pecan-pesto salmon in the evening. Sit at the plush banquette and have a drink – the menu is full of Hillsborough-inspired cocktails, like the aptly named “Orange County,” with bourbon and orange liqueur. Or if the weather is nice, sit awhile on the welcoming historical porch. 

The Willard Rooftop Lounge

ABOVE Vicki Tong and Quann Bradley sip on a Joel Lane’s Refresher and an Old Fashioned, respectively, as they nosh on a caprese flatbread and roasted beet salad at The Willard Rooftop Lounge. ABOVE LEFT The Daly Double, a sweet tealemonade-vodka cocktail at The Fearrington House Restaurant.

Located atop the AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown, The Willard has gorgeous views of Raleigh’s skyline and then some.

With two heated outdoor terraces, there’s plenty of room to savor a creative cocktail – the “Donkey Kong,” for instance, is made with Durham Distillery’s Conniption Navy Strength Gin and housemade banana clove syrup. Food-wise, the menu takes cues from Spain for its shareables, from papas bravas to fried manchego with peach preserves.

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WEEKENDER PHOTO BY OWEN SCOTT JORDAN

Celebrate Good Times

Make a reservation to mark a special occasion or treat out-of-town visitors to an unforgettable meal.

The Sycamore at Chatham Mills

Shell, Yeah

Bernadette Lindemer and Annie Trant dine out at The Sycamore at Chatham Mills.

Saint James Seafood Housed in a stunning space with a soaring ceiling, this downtown Durham eatery serves killer cocktails and oysters aplenty.

Feeling fancy? Split a seafood tower, brimming with lobster, oysters, shrimp and more. Or just order a la carte from choices like deviled crab fettuccine, shrimp and grits (the same famed recipe from recently shuttered Crook’s Corner) and Old Bay fries.

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Crossroads Chapel Hill Known for its gracious hospitality, the nearly 100-year-old Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill is adjacent to UNC’s campus. That top-notch care extends into the dining room where you’ll find Southern specialities like sweet tea-brined, bone-in pork chop and beer from Carolina Brewery just down the road. As a bonus, the inn’s got plenty of backdrops for your next family photo.

Taverna Agora The rooftop dining at this establishment transports you from the middle of Raleigh to Greece thanks to the greenery and traditional fare like spanakopita, stuffed grape leaves and chicken souvlaki skewers.

Don’t forget to try the Greek wines by the glass and baklava.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LM RESTAURANTS

Dry-aged and prime steaks await you at this highend steakhouse in Pittsboro. The plates large and small feature thoughtful offerings like Joyce Farms chicken breast and shrimp salad while drinks flow behind the handsome copper bar. End the night with a slice of lemon-olive oil cake or ricotta cheesecake.

The North Carolina Coastal Federation and North Carolina Sea Grant partner with the North Carolina Shellfish Growers Association to administer the North Carolina Oyster Trail and support its mission of providing experiences that help sustain and grow the oyster and seafood industry throughout the state. Start your own oyster adventure and discover where you can enjoy oysters at restaurants, source your own oysters for delivery or tour a shellfish farm by utilizing the statewide map at ncoystertrail.org/map.

But you don’t have to go far for fresh shellfish – the Triangle is home to several oyster purveyors and restaurants that highlight the mollusks. The Locals Seafood crew, for instance, drives to the coast every week to bring back fresh seafood to their customers – and they’ve been doing so since 2010. You can find their offerings (like what’s pictured above) at the State Farmers Market every weekend or at the Locals Oyster Bar & Seafood Butchery inside the Durham Food Hall. Saltbox Seafood Joint in Durham, which features fresh seafood daily, puts a savory, flavorful twist on all manner of seafood – even some you may never have tried before! Mandolin, known for its seasonal menu and premier North Carolina cuisine by chef Sean Fowler, has an oyster happy hour from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday. Also be sure to stop by St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar, which carries one of the largest selections of oysters in Raleigh! Each stop along the trail brings a new way to indulge in our state’s seafood cuisine. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for NC Oyster Week, which takes place Oct. 10-16 this year and celebrates the history, culture, economy and ecology of oysters in our state.

– by Jessica Mirelli T W

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Wake County

Aviator Brewing Company Brewery visitors can take a tour, try samples and stay for a round of cornhole. Down the road at Aviator SmokeHouse, enjoy St. Louis-style smoked ribs and house-made onion rings paired with a selection of pale ales, stouts and Pilsners.

Or try a brick oven pizza at Aviator Pizzeria & BeerShop, which offers Aviator beers, international brews and a variety of wines.

Just across the street from the smokehouse and pizzeria is Aviator TapHouse. Located in an old train depot, the gastropub has outdoor dining and a menu featuring steamed mussels, burgers and white cheddar cheese curds. Brewery: 209 Technology Park Ln., Fuquay-Varina; SmokeHouse: 525 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina; Pizzeria: 601 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina; and TapHouse: 600 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina; aviatorbrew.com Bombshell Beer Company Founders Ellen Joyner, Jackie Hudspeth and Michelle Miniutti were three homebrewers who sought to reclaim women’s lead role in brewing. Try the year-round Head Over Hops IPA, Everyday Drinker Light American Ale, Lady in Red Amber Ale and more. A variety of specialty beers plus wines and ciders are also available. Keep an eye on its online events calendar, too, for food trucks and live music. 120 Quantum Dr., Holly Springs; bombshellbeer.com

PHOTO COURTESY TROPHY BREWING CO.

Bond Brothers Beer Company Whit Baker, Jeremy Bond and Jay Bond started the brewery in 2011 on a 15-gallon homemade brew system. Today, its 10-barrel system produces a wide variety of ales, sours

and lagers. The downtown Cary brewery and taproom also features an outdoor beer garden, and its Eastside music venue and bar hosts open mic nights, bingo, jam sessions, disc golf putting leagues and more. Brewery: 202 E. Cedar St., Cary; Eastside: 602 E. Chatham St., Cary; bondbrothersbeer.com 

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Trophy Brewing Co. What began as a private club started by friends David Meeker, Woody Lockwood and Chris Powers has since expanded to a full brewing company that’s evolved beyond the taproom. Visit Trophy Brewing & Pizza on West Morgan Street and enjoy a selection of specialty pizzas, salads, appetizer plates and limited desserts, with full bar access. Just on the hunt for a great beer? Head to Trophy Brewing & Taproom for a variety of drafts, a selection to take home or to try a limited selection of wines and ciders.

This location also offers a daily rotation of local food trucks. Trophy also operates State of Beer, a downtown Raleigh beer store and sandwich shop, plus Young Hearts Distilling. Brewing & Pizza: 827 W. Morgan St., Raleigh; Brewing & Taproom: 656 Maywood Ave., Raleigh; State of Beer: 401 Hillsborough St., Raleigh; trophybrewing.com

All Around

A guide to the Triangle’s new and established breweries, distilleries and cideries

By Hannah Lee and Isabella Reilly Illustrations by Christin King, designer at CK.Creation

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WEEKENDER is also home to a variety of local artwork for purchase and a 1910 piano available for guest musicians to enjoy.

307 S. Academy St., Cary; trianglebeer.co/location/cotton-house

PHOTO BY SAMANTHA BECHTOLD

Compass Rose Brewery The open-concept taproom in northeast Raleigh spans 5,500 square feet, perfect for business meetings, parties, anniversaries and wedding receptions.

The brewery hosts weekly trivia, live music and a rotation of food trucks. Try its award-winning “Tidal Break” IPA or the “Up & At ‘Em” Coffee Porter. 3201 Northside Dr., Raleigh; compassrosebrewery.com

Brüprint Apex’s first craft brewery has served the community since 2014. The family- and pet-friendly taprooms are open every day, featuring 14 brews at the Apex taproom and 16 in Cary, with frequent events, food trucks and specials. 1229 Perry Rd., Ste. 101, Apex; 3470 Kildaire Farm Rd., Ste. 162, Cary; brueprint.com

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Young Hearts Distilling Downtown Raleigh’s first restaurant and distillery opened in 2021 under the umbrella of Trophy Brewing Co. Young Hearts offers a wide variety of cocktails; white, red, sparkling, rosé and orange wines; draft beers; and spirits by the bottle. Complement your beverage of choice with a selection of menu items featuring local ingredients.

Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch options available on Friday and Saturday and brunch offered on Sunday. 225 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh; trophybrewing.com/ young-hearts-distilling

Crank Arm Brewing Crank Arm’s concept was inspired by owner Adam Eckhardt, who wanted to combine his love for cycling and desire for quality craft beer in downtown Raleigh. His idea became a reality in 2013, in partnership with fellow founders Michael Morris, Dylan Selinger and Bob High. Try Crank Arm’s bestselling draft, Unicycle Citra pale ale, or bestselling can, Road Hazard Hazy IPA. The brewery, which is looking to open a second taproom in the Triangle, also has its own race team that competes weekly in a variety of disciplines, including mountain biking, cyclocross, BMX and more. 319 W. Davie St., Raleigh; crankarmbrewing.com Fainting Goat Brewing Company Family friends MaryAnn Durborrow and Tim Reichert opened this brewery in 2015 and offer a range of core brews, specialty and seasonal flavors and a variety of other beers on tap. As a veteran-owned brewery, this taproom is committed to giving back to local charities that focus on supporting veterans and their families, such as the USO of North Carolina, American Legion Post 116 Fuquay-Varina

and more. Stop in for a taste of the pomegranate Witbier, a Belgian white brewed with honey and pomegranate juice, or a more classic sip of “What the Buck,” a 90-minute American pale ale with hints of tropical fruit flavors. 330 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; faintinggoatbeer.com

Burial Beer Co. Known as “the Exhibit,” this taproom and bottle shop in the Transfer Co. Food Hall explores the Burial art world with artistic creations and murals on display. Try IPAs, cream ales, stouts, porters and more on the 24 taps, or take packaged beer, wine and cider home. 500 E. Davie St., Ste. 170, Raleigh; burialbeer.com

Fortnight Brewing Company Stuart Arnold wanted to bring traditional English beer to North Carolina when he moved here from England. With the help of fellow Englishman David Wilkinson, Stuart drew from his three decades of beer knowledge to open Fortnight, which specializes in cask-conditioned beer. Brewery tours are available upon request, and Fortnight also offers several spaces for guests to host private events. 1006 S.W. Maynard Rd., Cary; fortnightbrewing.com

Cotton House Located at Cary’s historic Pasmore House, Triangle Beer Co.’s second location offers nine of its beers along with its semi-dry apple cider and a selection of red and white wines. Cotton House hosts food trucks on weekends, with mimosas available on Sundays. The space

Funguys Brewing A kid- and dog-friendly brewery with a focus on ales and lagers, this story again begins as a homebrewing hobby turned occupation in April 2018. Follow its social media for the latest releases!

2408 Paula St., Raleigh; funguysbrewing.com

Lynnwood Grill & Brewing Concern Located in the Grove Barton Shopping Center, this brewery offers both food and awardwinning brews like its classic Irish dry stout and American red ale. Try one of its year-round IPAs and golden ales or a seasonal porter or hefeweizen.

4821 Grove Barton Rd., Raleigh; lynnwoodbrewing.beer

beers, a selection of white and red wines and nonalcoholic cocktails.

Guests can also request a private tour of the 10,000-square-foot distillery with owner Brandon McCraney. 209 N. Arendell Ave., Zebulon; olderaleighdistillery.com Raleigh Brewing Company Kristie Nystedt, the first woman to own a brewery in North Carolina, now has three locations in Raleigh, Cary and at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Enjoy yearround beers such as Moravian Rhapsody, a Czech Pilsner; Hell Yes Ma’am, a Belgian golden ale; The Toll, an imperial oatmeal stout; and more. The Raleigh location has 32 taps, indoor and outdoor seating, an event space and food trucks. The Cary location hosts weekly specials, has 50 taps and is also dog friendly. 3709 Neil St., Raleigh; 2036 Renaissance Park Pl., Cary; raleighbrewing.com

Neuse River Brewing Company Nestled just outside the Five Points neighborhood, this brewery offers a wide selection including Belgian ales and IPAs. It opened its Brasserie in late 2019, serving up a European-bistro inspired menu with a North Carolina twist. Stop in for housemade pasta Fullsteam Brewery and $5 martini nights on Wednesdays or half-price The frontrunner of the “plow-towine night on Thursdays. 518 Pershing Rd., Raleigh; pint” movement, neuseriverbrewing.com Nickelpoint Brewing Co. Founded by two homebrewing brothers, this Five Points brewery and taproom offers a cozy space where guests can play foosball, Ping-Pong or cornhole and watch sports on the projector screen in the biergarten. Take advantage of the shaded patio to hang with friends. 506 Pershing Rd., Raleigh; nickelpointbrewing.com Norse Brewing Company Located in the heart of downtown Wake Forest, this brewery features craft beers, Scandinavian food with a Southern twist, three outdoor spaces and two full bars. Lunch and dinner options are available daily, or enjoy a Sunday brunch. Guests can also rent out the space for private dining or events. 203 Brooks St., Wake Forest; norsebrewingco.com Oak City Brewing Company Longtime friends Blake Cone and Matt Keeler opened this neighborhood spot that overlooks Knightdale Station Park in 2016. Join in a Tuesday Pint Night or a semiweekly beer run on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

616 N. First Ave., Knightdale; oakcitybrewingcompany.com Olde Raleigh Distillery Offerings include a selection of blended bourbon, available by the bottle or by the pour. Craft cocktails, such as the Signature Olde Fashioned, Strawberry Bourbon Smash, Bananas Foster, Simply Blushing Whiskey Sour and more are also available, in addition to North Carolina craft

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Heyday Brewing Chef Jonathan Schaffer and brewmaster Thorne Watkins serve up culinary delights and craft brews, respectively, at this brewery and restaurant – try the smash burgers or spicy chicken pizza alongside the house-favorite DIPA, “Bodacious.” 5301 Tin Roof Way, Raleigh; heydaybrewing.com

Fullsteam is the only North Carolina brewery to receive Good Food Awards for its beer – nine in total since its 2010 opening – and the James Beard Foundation has recognized the brewery as a fourtime semi-finalist in the Outstanding Wine, Beer and Spirits category.

Fullsteam has two Durham locations, both serving food: downtown and Boxyard RTP. 726 Rigsbee Ave. (downtown); 900 Park Offices Dr.; fullsteam.ag

Standard Beer and Food This family-friendly neighborhood space is known for its curated beer and food pairings. The menu includes tacos, wings, salads and more. Pair with the P.O.G. Gose (a collab with Neuse River), its “Westward” West Coast IPA or any of its wines or cider. 205 E. Franklin St., Raleigh; standardbeerandfood.com Southern Peak Brewery This traditional neighborhood brewery and taproom in Apex serves handcrafted German-style ales, lagers and IPAs out of its award-winning seven-barrel brewhouse. Its mission is to celebrate craft beer as a central part of a community, and the brewers continually experiment with new recipes.

950 Windy Rd., Ste. 100, Apex; southernpeakbrewery.com Triangle Beer Co. A family-owned brewery that features 15 locally sourced craft beers, including a Lazy Daze Lager, Key Lime Seltzer, Academy St. IPA and more. Enjoy your choice of brew alongside live music from a variety of visiting artists and a bite to eat from Craft Concepts Kitchen. 320 E. Durham Rd., Cary; trianglebeer.co Vicious Fishes Brewery A homebrewing hobby between two friends grew into this expansive Apex taproom, with two other locations statewide and a Cary location forthcoming in 2022. The brewery offers a variety of beers on tap, but guests can also enjoy a latte, cappuccino or drip coffee from the on-site Piranha Joe Coffee shop. Take in biergarten views and grab a bite to eat from one of three food trucks available daily, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Children and dogs are welcome. 2237 Old U.S. Hwy. 1, Apex; viciousfishes.com 

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WEEKENDER White Street Brewing Company Dino Radosta opened White Street in September 2012 and now serves up a well-known Kölsch, its Hoptastic Juicy IPA, Merideum Belgian Tripel, Hoptimist West Coast IPA and Tangled Oaks Amber Ale. 218 S. White St., Wake Forest; whitestreetbrewing.com Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing Offers unique craft beers made with locally sourced grain, cocktails, wine, chef-driven bar food, patio views of the Raleigh skyline and a cozy taproom 201 S. Boylan Ave., Raleigh; wyehill.com

Durham County The Brothers Vilgalys Spirits Company Offerings include Krupnikas, a Lithuanian spiced honey liqueur, plus four other liqueurs called Zaphod, Beebop, Beatnik and Jabberwock, all flavored with herbs, spices and other botanicals. 803 D Ramseur St.; brothersvilgalys.com Bull City Burger and Brewery A familyfriendly, independent craft brewery and restaurant featuring award-winning beer made from locally sourced ingredients. You can usually find the Parrish Street Pale Ale or the Bryant Bridge Gateway Golden Ale on tap, but check in at different points in the year for special variations. 107 E. Parrish St., Ste. 105; bullcityburgerandbrewery.com Bull Durham Beer Co. The brewery opened in Durham Bulls Athletic Park’s main concourse in 2015. It was the first beer company at a minor league baseball stadium. 409 Blackwell St.; bulldurhambeer.com

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Ponysaurus Brewing Co. Head to its twostory covered patio and spacious beer garden for a bite alongside both traditional and experimental American-, Belgian- and European-style beers, including its award-winning Biére de Garde, gose and Scottish ale. Grab some salty and sweet snacks for just $1 per scoop, or order Little Pizza Box pies, garlic knots, salad and cannoli!

219 Hood St.; ponysaurus brewing.com

PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

Dog-friendly with live music, open mic comedy and other events. 206 Broadway St., Ste. 104; durtybull.com Flying Bull Beer Company Ninth Street’s first nanobrewery and taproom opened in August 2020, which was followed by an outdoor beer garden. Founded by partners Joel Miles and Anna Bloch, Flying Bull offers a selection of 24 taps, which includes its own small-batch craft beer, plus a few other North Carolina favorites.

Flying Bull also sells 32 oz. crowlers and 64 oz. growlers of any beer on tap as well as pre-packaged craft beer to go.

752 Ninth St.; flyingbullbeercompany.com The Glass Jug Beer Lab This craft brewery, beer garden and retail beer and wine shop has 24 taps which rotate through new housemade beers, guest taps and ciders, with wine also available. Get crowlers and growlers to-go, or a six- or four-pack of Glass Jug cans, which are released several times a year. Beer enthusiasts may also visit The Glass Jug’s recently opened downtown taproom, which provides beautiful views of Durham Central Park.

Both locations host a weekly rotation of food trucks as well as live music, trivia and other events. 5410 Hwy. 55, Ste. V; and 545 Foster St., Ste. 10; glass-jug.com

Durham Distillery Founded in 2013 and opened in 2015 by Melissa Katrincic and Lee Katrincic, the craft gin and liqueur distillery produces premium gins using a two-step process, which combines traditional gin-making techniques with modern chemistry to create both classic and contemporary spirits. Under the flagship name, Conniption, its gins are among the most-awarded craft gins distilled in the U.S., earning more than 50 national and international awards. In 2018, it was named the No. 1 craft gin distillery in the nation by USA Today. The distillery also produces canned cocktails, cold-distilled cucumber vodka and liqueurs and opened its adjacent cocktail bar, Corpse Reviver, in fall 2020.

711 Washington St.; durhamdistillery.com

Graybeard Distillery The largest grain-to-glass distiller in North Carolina, Graybeard uses a process perfected over the past seven centuries by the owner’s Irish ancestors to create Bedlam Vodka, its flagship spirit, with a unique sweet floral nose and notes of vanilla. It recently opened its doors to tours and was named one of the 10 best vodka brands in the world by Liquorista in 2018. Bedlam was also awarded Double Gold status and named one of the Fifty Best Domestic Vodkas by The Fifty Best publication. 4625 Industry Ln.; bedlamvodka.com

Durty Bull Brewing Company Barrel-aged, sour and hoppy brews.

(Try the My Mom Still Packs My Lunch, an Imperial Stout Ale brewed with peanut butter and marshmallows – at 13% ABV, it packs a punch!)

Hi-Wire Brewing Co. The taproom at Golden Belt consists of more than 8,000 square feet of interior space, as well as a 1,600-square-foot outdoor covered patio and beer garden. There are full-sized shuffleboard

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courts, soccer pool tables, table tennis and more. The bar’s 24 taps feature the brewery’s full lineup of beers, including year-round staples, seasonal specials, sours and one-offs, as well as wine, local cider and guest taps from neighboring breweries. Directly outside the brewery is an outdoor stage that often showcases many local performing artists. 800 Taylor St., Ste. 9-150; hiwirebrewing.com/durham Honeygirl Meadery The meadery offers a unique glimpse into the world of the honeybee with award-winning, hand-crafted meads – wines made from honey using various ingredients. Its downtown tasting room and bottle shop offers a rotating seasonal lineup of meads ranging from dry to semi-sweet to lightly sparkling. Choose a flight or a guided mead tasting.

105 Hood St., Ste. 6; honeygirlmeadery.com Liberty & Plenty Distillery Named after the two robed figures in North Carolina’s state seal, this startup craft distillery is currently under development within a circa 1938 industrial brick building in downtown.

According to its owner and head distiller, Tina Williford of Raleigh, Liberty & Plenty will produce rum, whiskey, gin and flavored vodkas. The physical facility, designed by pod architecture + design, will accommodate product tasting, retail displays, bottle sales, and indoor and outdoor seating. 609 Foster St.; libertyandplenty.com Moon Dog Meadery and Bottle Shop Co-owners Derrick Forrest and Kenneth Thrower opened this meadery in 2021 with a commitment to supporting and building relationships with local distributors across the state to offer a large selection of North Carolina craft beers, wines, hard ciders, teas, lemonades, kombuchas and more. Moon Dog’s first batch of mead, Nektar of the Dogs, is now available along with more than 150 other brews in its bottle shop.

Guests are encouraged to bring their furry friends along and visit with moon dogs Mystic and Sherlock. 1104 Broad St., Ste. C; moondogmeadery.com Mystic Farm & Distillery Stop by for a cocktail made with fresh ingredients and handcrafted spirits on Friday evenings and Saturdays.

Reserve a tour for an in-depth look at the production of Heart of Mystic Bourbon Whiskey, Mystic Bourbon Liqueur and its Mystic 57 Navy Strength Gin. 1212 N. Mineral Springs Rd.; whatismystic.com

Starpoint Brewing The seven-barrel facility in the Rockwood Shopping Center is located in the same space as bottle shop and bar Beer Study. The brewery serves local brews for visitors to enjoy in the lounge areas, complete with arcade games and comfy leather sofas.

2501 University Dr.; starpointbrewing.com Tobacco Wood Brewing Company The Oxford-based, female veteran-owned brewery opened a second location in Research Triangle Park in June 2021. With 15 taps, it offers everything from a blueberry-lemonade hard cider and mixed berry gose to a coffee stout and session IPA. It also boasts a varied food menu complete with cheese curds, sandwiches, tacos and flatbreads. 2500 Meridian Pkwy.; tobaccowoodbrewing.com/twbc-durham

Orange County Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery Established in 1996, TOPO is the fifth-oldest brewpub in North Carolina and the first establishment in the South to have a full-time, cask-conditioned ale program onsite. Its awardwinning brews include the UNCthemed Frank Graham Porter, Bell Tower Blueberry Wheat, Kenan Lager and Old Well White.

100 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill; thetopofthehill.com

Botanist & Barrel North of downtown Hillsborough is Orange County’s first winery and cidery. Botanist & Barrel crafts a variety of ciders, sours and dry fruit wines using techniques from winemaking, brewing and mixology. Visitors can spend the day picking blueberries (June to August) and tasting cider, wine, local craft beer, prepared foods and the occasional food truck, all in a scenic farm setting.

105 Persimmon Hill Ln., Cedar Grove; botanistandbarrel.com Craftboro Brewing Depot This bottle shop and brewery opened at the South Green development in October 2019 with 10 taps of craft beer, including Damascus Steel Stout, Vitruvius IPA and Water Color Wheat. 101 Two Hills Dr., Unit 180, Carrboro; craftborobrewing.com Dingo Dog Brewing Company This nanobrewery operates on PlowGirl Farm, outside of Carrboro. Founded as a nonprofit brewing concern, it produces beverages using produce grown on-site in a zero-waste production facility and uses profits to fund grants for no-kill animal rescue organizations in North Carolina.

Its taproom, which opened in downtown Carrboro in October 2020, offers carryout and outdoor seating.

410 Greensboro St., Ste. 150, Carrboro; dingodogbrewing.com 

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WEEKENDER Top of the Hill Organic Distillery The first organic distillery in the South, producing award-winning vodka, gin, whiskeys and rum from scratch. 505-C W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill; topodistillery.com Vecino Brewing Co. Located next door to the legendary Cat’s Cradle concert venue, Vecino offers unique menu items and local brew options in the heart of Carrboro, with both indoor seating and patio service.

Vecino regularly partners with local organizations looking to raise awareness and improve the quality of life in the community through its Brewing Neighbors program. 300 E. Main St., Ste. C, Carrboro; vecinobrewing.com

Chatham County

Bear Creek Brews Discover this nanobrewery that’s off the beaten path, which boasts a Honey Pale Ale and Chief Lager as well as European-style brews like an Alt Bier and Red Irish Style Ale. Check out its brew-yourown program and pick up some of its beers from The Modern Life Deli & Drinks. By appointment only. 5429 N.C. Hwy. 87 N. Unit B, Pittsboro; bearcreekbrews.com bmc brewing This brewery opened in mid-2021 after more than 30 years in the making. Members of the Rice family, who own the brewery, formerly worked as scientists in fields ranging from drug discovery and cell biology to biochemistry and agriculture while also dabbling in homebrewing on the side. Their line of beers are inspired by their research, like Mendel’s Dominant Recessive Kölsch, named after the founder of modern genetics, or Hopper’s German Wheat Ale, named after female computer scientist Grace Hopper, one of the first female admirals in the U.S. Navy. 213 Lorax Ln., Pittsboro; bmcbrewing.com Chatham Cider Works This Pittsboro cidery uses North Carolina apples, pears and other fruits and works with local growers to make its Highway 64, Backyard Blend and First Flight ciders. Find these varieties and more in bottles and kegs throughout the Triangle and in the Fair Game tasting room, or schedule a tour at the cidery itself. 192 Lorax Ln., Pittsboro; chathamciderworks.com

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Fireclay Cellars Named after the red soil of Chatham County, the vineyard and winery grows its own grapes and produces award-winning wines. Its offerings include a red blend and chambourcin, a rosé, a chardonel, a traminette and a red reserve.

The winery has spacious indoor seating for wine tastings, as well as a deck and front porch for sipping. 1276 Bowers Store Rd., Siler City; fireclaycellars.com Steel String Brewery Inspired by the agricultural bounty of the Piedmont and the funky, free-spirited vibes of Carrboro, Steel String offers eclectic brews like the No Quarter Coffee Stout and Atlantic Beach Pie Gose. 106A S. Greensboro St., Carrboro; steelstring brewery.com

Fair Game Beverage Co. Fair Game specializes in small-batch rums, brandies, pepper vodka and seasonal cordials. The tasting room also offers a selection of North Carolina wines and beers on tap as well as a full pantry of locally made products. Fair Game’s cocktails and spirits are available on-site.

Bottles are at ABC stores. 192 Lorax Ln., Pittsboro; fairgame beverage.com

Red Moose Brewing Company This Pittsboro brewery aims to create an enjoyable environment for the whole family, complete with a children’s chalkboard, TVs for game nights and a back deck and patio area. Enjoy brews like its specialty IPA, mango wheat beer, Berliner Weisse, lager, Norwegian Pilsner and the Morning Beer, which includes local coffee. Red Moose also offers guest taps from Southern Pines Brewing Company, Thirsty Skull Brewing and Chatham Cider Works. 90 East St., Pittsboro; redmoosebrewingcompany.com Starrlight Mead The largest meadery in North Carolina is located at the Chatham Beverage District. These makers of honey wine produce award-winning meads, from fruitinfused choices like spiced apple and blackberry, to special reserve wines like chocolate orange.

Tours are offered Saturdays and Sundays. 130 Lorax Ln., Pittsboro; starrlightmead.com Thirsty Skull Brewing Established in 2018, the brewery offers IPAs, stouts and lagers – all brewed in Chatham County. Try a draft pour at many locations throughout North Carolina, including 580 Craft Beer, The City Tap and ODDCO in Pittsboro. 915 N. Second Ave., Siler City; thirstyskull.com

Triangle-Wide

Barrel Culture Brewing and Blending This brewery first opened in Durham in 2017 with 18 taps and a diverse list of in-house brews. It produces mixed fermentation ales like Peach Apricot and The Pie Time Series, along with hazy IPAs, lagers and pastry stouts.

Barrel Culture later opened a Raleigh location, which has 14 taps and also offers local cheese boxes from Raleigh Cheesy. 4913 S. Alston Ave., Durham; and 13100 Falls of Neuse Rd., Ste. 130, Raleigh; barrelculture.com

DINING

Carolina Brewery Boasting the slogan “First in Flavor,” the Triangle’s oldest brewpub has brewed beer since 1995 and expanded its distribution across North Carolina and two other states.

Its Copperline Amber Ale won Best of Show at the 2020 NC Brewers Cup, adding to its list of national award-winning beers, which includes the yearround varietals Sky Blue Kolsch, Oatmeal Porter and Flagship IPA. Scratch-made kitchen specials include North Carolina-focused foods like local burgers and house-smoked barbecue, perfect to enjoy on its patio in Chapel Hill. It also has a Pittsboro location, which houses The Hopshop, an adjacent quickserve spot selling Counter Culture coffee, breakfast, lunch and Carolina Brewery beer and merchandise.

460 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill; and 120 Lowes Dr., Ste. 100, Pittsboro; carolina brewery.com

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Clouds Brewing Based in Raleigh, this American-style restaurant and brewery with a German flair operates a taproom and two restaurant locations across the Triangle.

Each restaurant houses 40-plus rotating taps with local craft beer, including its own German-inspired brews – plus bar bites every day and brunch on the weekends. The taproom offers 18 beers on tap, with a focus on European-style lagers and ales. Taproom: 1233 Front St., Raleigh; 126 N. West St., Raleigh; and 905 W. Main St., Ste. 22, Durham; cloudsbrewing.com

Gizmo Brew Works At its inception in April 2013, Gizmo Brew Works inherited a two-barrel brewhouse in Raleigh, making it one of the smallest production breweries in North Carolina at the time. In 2019, it set forth on an expansion to quadruple its brewing capacity as well as open its first satellite taproom in Chapel Hill. In March, the brewery expanded further, opening an additional Durham taproom at University Hill. The shop provides a diverse selection of craft beer and cider in addition to Gizmo’s year-round and specialty beer. You can find its beer in retail shops and restaurants/bars throughout North Carolina. 5907 Triangle Dr., Raleigh; 157 E. Franklin St., Ste. 100, Chapel Hill; and 3109 Shannon Rd., Ste. 201, Durham; gizmobrewworks.com Lonerider Brewery First opened in Raleigh in 2009, the multiple award-winning beer is now distributed in nine states. Lonerider took home the bronze World Beer Cup in 2018 for its English-style brown ale,

Sweet Josie. The brewery was previously honored with a variety of gold, silver and bronze medals in The U.S. Open Beer Championship and the Great American Beer Festival, among other local and national competitions.

Come and visit one of its “hideouts” to judge a brew yourself or try another Bull City Ciderworks Lonerider specialty, North Carolina’s The cidery’s first Ranch Water, a Texas-style hard six year-round seltzer. Plus grab a bite – including pub mainstays include faves like chicken wings and fish and the Off Main chips – at its Five Points brewpub. Five (classic cider), Sweet Carolina Points: 1626 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh; (made with local Brewery: 8816 Gulf Ct., Ste. 100, honey), Cherry Tart Raleigh; and 1839 S. Main St., Ste. (Montmorency 600, Wake Forest; loneriderbeer.com cherries), Smooth Tobacco Road Sports Cafe Located in the historic Raleigh Electric Company Powerhouse

building, this Raleigh-based restaurant, which officially started brewing in 2017, offers its own beers, from a funky Fuzz Peach Sour Pale Ale to the classic Kilowatt Kolsch. Tobacco Road also has a Durham location that overlooks the Durham Bulls Athletic Park at the American Tobacco Campus.

505 W. Jones St., Raleigh; and 280 S. Mangum St., Ste. 100, Durham; tobaccoroadsportscafe.com TW

Hoperator (dry hopped), Rhize Up! (fresh ginger) and Orange You a Hippie (sweet orange peel and hibiscus flowers), plus seasonal varieties that include habanero peppers, cinnamon and many other ingredients.

305 S. Roxboro St., Durham; and 210 E. Chatham St., Cary; bullcity ciderworks.com

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Hockey

Ball hockey, also called street or dek hockey, is a modified way to learn the sport in a fun, competitive environment. Raleigh Ball Hockey League offers weekly pickup games and three divisions to play in.

There are 14 teams in the league, open to players of any skill level. raleighballhockey.com Polar Iceplex in Raleigh offers

hockey programs for ages 3 and older.

Take private lessons or join the PAHL Adult League. polariceraleigh.com The Carolina Stars are a USA Hockey – the governing body for ice hockey in America – club in Raleigh that started with just eight members in 2012. Young players train at the ice rink in the Field House at the Orange County Sportsplex. The team offers instruction from professional coaches and free hockey clinics. carolinastarshockey.com

The Carolina Hurricanes – or as we call them, the Canes – are Raleigh’s National Hockey League team. Formerly the Hartford Whalers, the Hurricanes have made 17 NHL playoff appearances (as of press time, the Canes are the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs) in 42 seasons, and won the Stanley Cup in 2006. On-ice action at the 700,000-squarefoot PNC Arena offers a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family and cheer as loud as you can! nhl.com/hurricanes

The Orange County Sportsplex also hosts four adult hockey leagues – three leagues are divided up by skill level, plus an Over-40 Division – and a variety of youth (ages 3-12) hockey classes, clinics and camps through its Sportsplex Hockey Academy. The Sportsplex is home to the Hillsborough Hogs youth hockey team, which is run by Triangle Youth Hockey of NC, a nonprofit, parent-run association that operates independently of the Sportsplex. oc-sportsplex.com/ice-rink

Baseball

Durham indoor baseball facility Riptide Baseball Academy offers group and individual lessons, clinics, equipment rentals and even has travel teams for players as old as 18. The facility has one full-size and two half-size batting cages, a new turf area and two pitching mounds. riptidebaseball.org

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With four fields located at 918 Junction Rd. in Durham, Bull City Little League provides baseball and softball experiences for youth of various ages and consists of a rookie (T-ball) team, youth baseball and softball and senior baseball and softball teams for ages 13-16. The league offers programs year-round. bullcitylittleleague.org

LET’S PLAY Whether you’re watching a game, teaching the kiddos a new sport, going the distance with a run club or throwing a disc around, there are plenty of ways to stay active and social in the Triangle!

Compiled by Caitlyn Yaede Photography by John Michael Simpson

Baseball Rebellion is a hitting and pitching training center for all,

Chapel Hill Parks & Recreation hosts softball and baseball leagues

whether you’re going pro or just starting off. This 12,500-square-foot stateof-the-art facility in Durham features six HitTrax systems and one pitchtracking system, projected on 65-inch TVs. Video analysis rooms allow trainees to track their performance. baseballrebellion.com

for boys and girls every spring season. The town offers peewee baseball leagues for boys ages 9 and older, softball for girls 6 and older, and a coed league for ages 7-8. townofchapelhill.org

Located at 5124 Revere Rd., Parkwood Ballfield is a great place to play and practice. It’s located within one of the first neighborhoods with a homeowners’ association in the state and is surrounded by a diverse planned community in South Durham.

The Holly Springs Salamanders are a summer collegiate baseball team that’s part of the Coastal Plain League. The Salamanders are made up of NCAA student-athletes, hosted by local families. Catch one of their home games at Ting Park this summer. salamandersbaseball.com Be sure to check out Zebulon’s Single-A minor league baseball team, the Carolina Mudcats, which are affiliated with the Milwaukee Brewers. Just outside of Raleigh, Five County Stadium hosts the team’s home games and offers group tours of the facility during the season. carolinamudcats.com Founded in 1979, the North Wake County Baseball Association helps develop the skills of players ages 5-12 by offering spring, summer and fall programs at the Factory Baseball Complex in Wake Forest. The nonprofit is partnered with the community and local businesses to support up to 1,000 players in any given program. nwcba.com The Wake County Club Baseball League is an interscholastic baseball program that uses volunteers to help middle school students in the Wake County Public School System prepare to play at the high school level. The league oversees games at 51 baseball fields in the county. wakecountyclubbaseball.com

Baseball and movie fans alike know all about the minor league Durham Bulls baseball team. The Triple-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays was featured in the iconic sports film “Bull Durham,” and the team is well known for its fun, interactive home games and signature community events at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Their season runs from April through September.

Come out for “Bark in the Park” with your fourlegged friend and Friday Night fireworks shows. durhambulls.com

Open to boys and girls ages 4-14, East Chatham Little League offers spring and fall seasons, beginning in March and September, respectively.

Games are played on fields at Pittsboro Elementary School, North Chatham Elementary School and Horton Middle School. East Chatham Little League works in coordination with local businesses, Chatham County Schools and the Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department. eastchathambaseball.com Hillsborough Youth Athletic Association teaches competitive play

and teamwork to young athletes ages 4-15 in its softball and baseball programs, which are run entirely by volunteers and are open to both boys and girls. Tryouts are not required for the association’s recreational teams. hyaabaseball.org

Soccer

Bull City Futsal Academy, founded by Durham native José Santibañez, offers futsal and soccer programs to

underserved schools and communities. The organization aims to provide free training programs and resource fairs and is centered around accessibility and affordability for young athletes and their families. bullcityfutsal.com Durham Parks and Recreation provides leagues and

clinics for players of many ages. The women’s adult leagues cater to those 30 and older, while the Durham Soccer Academy teaches the fundamentals of the game to boys and girls ages 5-12, and Durham Girls Soccer League hosts girls ages 6-13. dprplaymore.org Chatham Soccer League offers recreational teams,

academy teams for ages 7-10 and travel teams for ages 10-18 during its spring and fall seasons. Each league offers different levels of competitiveness and time commitment. chathamsoccer.org For those looking to play professionally, Peak Soccer Institute offers the expertise of Mollie Pathman, who has more than 10 years of coaching experience. The institute offers private and small group training, physical therapy and injury prevention services. Mollie, a former Division I soccer player for Duke University, can also help with college recruiting. peaksoccerinstitute.com With the goal of building confidence and sportsmanship, i9 Sports in south Orange County offers youth soccer programs. Every child gets to play every game, and trained officials oversee every game. I9 Sports also offers basketball, baseball, flag football and other youth athletics. i9sports.com 

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NC Courage midfielder Debinha winds up for a shot during the NWSL Challenge Cup match in which NC Courage defeated NJ/NY Gotham FC 2-0 at home on March 19, 2022.

Soccer Shots provides programs for children ages

2-8 in the Raleigh-Durham area. Leagues are offered at preschools and child care centers, as well as in local neighborhoods. soccershots.com/rdu There are plenty of places to practice your soccer skills in Wake County: WRAL Soccer Park, a 122-acre facility in Raleigh that is one of the nation’s largest youth soccer complexes, offers 22 soccer fields and an indoor fitness center; XL Soccer World, also in Raleigh, houses youth and adult leagues, clinics and camps (for more clinics, off-season development teams and private and group training, check out Soccer Genome on Durant Road); Smith Creek Soccer Center spans 17 acres in Wake Forest with three full-size fields.

Running

Healthy Kids Running Series is a five-week running

program held in the spring and fall for kids in prekindergarten to eighth grade. It takes place on Sundays at The Park at Briar Chapel in Pittsboro and offers age-appropriate running events, including 50- and 75-yard dashes, a quarter-mile, half-mile and 1-mile run.

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Stay active and motivated with local running groups!

Wake: Bond Brothers Beer Co. keeps you motivated with rewards based on number of check-ins for its 3- or 5-mile runs on Thursdays. Socialize with other runners in the Bond Bros Run Club and participate in its annual 5K for charity, which benefits the CAPTRUST Community Foundation.

Depart from Aversboro Restaurant & Sports Bar on a 3- to 6-mile run with Aversboro Run Club.

Take on the Capital Area Greenway with Big Boss Run Club, then reward yourself with the weekly beer specials from Big Boss Brewing and food truck fare.

Raleigh Brewing Run Club ventures out on the greenway every Wednesday from Raleigh Brewing Company on Neil Street.

Break a sweat and give back to the community with the nonprofit nOg Run Club. All the money raised via races and donations is given to local charities.

Founded in 2017,

North Carolina Courage is a decorated women’s soccer team in the National Women’s Soccer League, having won two NWSL Championships, three NWSL Shields and a Women’s ICC Championship.

Catch a home game at Sahlen’s Stadium in the WakeMed Soccer Park. nccourage.com

Girls on the Run Triangle is a program for third- through eighth-grade girls to help build confidence and promote physical wellness. The Triangle chapter encompasses Chatham, Durham, Johnston, Orange and Wake counties. gotrtriangle.org

Durham: Bull City Running Co.’s Run Club meets

every Wednesday and offers 3-, 4- and 6-mile distances for runners – all paces welcome! Early risers can try the Saturday Morning Run Club, and Trail Run Sundays are for lovers of nature jogs. Get the kiddos involved in its Kids Run Durham season at Northgate Park – a five-week, fun-focused running program for kids ages 4-12. It introduces them to running in the form of a loosely structured ‘track meet’ that allows participants to explore distances ranging from 100 meters to 1 mile.

Kids ages 6-18 can also get their run on with the Durham Striders Youth Association. The club’s goal is to promote health and wellness for Durham youth.

Durham NC parkrun – a free, timed 5K that takes place every Saturday at 8 a.m. at Southern Boundaries Park – has been going strong for nearly nine years.

Participants just need to register online and make sure they have their unique bar code to scan at the end of the run and log their time.

Girls on the Run: Flora Gering, Kaia Yorkery, coach Berkeley Yorkery, Adaora Spector, Lucille Botta and Sabrina “Breezy” Ingui race in Durham’s Carriage Hill neighborhood.

PHOTO BY CORNELL WATSON

PHOTO BY NC COURAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

LET’S PLAY

Triangle

WEEKENDER

LET’S PLAY

Semi-private Heritage Golf Course offers a driving range, private teaching tee, a chipping green and putting green.

If you’re looking for something more casual, Drive Shack is a high-tech driving range with food, drinks and events.

Orange: Located southeast of UNC’s campus, UNC Finley Golf Course is home to collegiate tournaments, including an NCAA

The goal of NC parkrun? Do your best, and enjoy the company. Anyone can do it.

Head out on a 2-mile or 5K run, walk or jog with The Glass Jog every Tuesday at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP. Join Ponysaurus Brewing and athletic store Fleet Feet for the Pony Run on Thursdays. Check in on Newman Street for a 3- or 5-mile run, and return back for a pint to celebrate.

In fact, Fleet Feet offers a variety of running programs across the Triangle. Join its women’s run club, train with its distance and personal record programs, or check out Fleet Feet’s other social running groups with RTP Run Club and Vecino Brewing.

Or, you can always check out Bull City Beer Runners to find your own group to run, jog and drink with. All experience levels are welcome.

Golf

Durham: Practice at Hillandale Golf Course’s driving range before

playing the 18-hole course, which also features four teeing areas, a pro shop and grill.

Located beside Duke University’s campus, the public Duke University Golf Club has more than 20 acres of practice facilities, a golf shop and driving range.

Formerly Willowhaven Country Club, the Umstead Pines Golf and Swim Club is equipped with an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts and clubhouse.

Try your skill at the unique layout of The Crossings Golf Club and the semi-private course’s famous island green 12th hole.

Hope Valley Country Club is home to a Donald Ross golf course as well as practice areas, tennis courts and swimming pools.

Housed on 400 acres of protected wetlands, Old Chatham Golf Club is a private club in Durham.

Wake: Located in Downtown Wake Forest Historic District, the Paschal Golf Club is a public golf course with 18 holes and a whole lot

of golf history. Professional golfer Arnold Palmer played here while attending Wake Forest University. His legacy is also felt at the Lonnie Poole Golf Course at N.C. State University. It is the only collegiate golf course in the world designed by Palmer.

Raleigh’s Wildwood Green Golf Club has both men’s and women’s leagues.

Situated on one of the highest points in Wake Forest, Brevofield Golf Links offers a scenic view and a course for golfers of any skill level.

men’s regional qualifying tournament in 2015. The course’s practice range is a great place to improve your golf skills.

Chapel Hill Country Club is the only private club in the Chapel Hill Historic District and features 18 holes, scenic views and instruction from PGA professionals.

Occoneechee Golf Club is a public course in Hillsborough and is home to the Occoneechee Golf Association, which was founded in 1968.

Chatham: Check out the adult and junior golf lessons available at the golf academy at Siler City Country Club.

The Golf Club at Chapel Ridge offers an 18-hole course, practice range, short game area, clubhouse and golf shop in Pittsboro. The Preserve at Jordan Lake Golf Club is a semi-private Davis Love III

signature course just south of Chapel Hill that offers coaching and lessons.

The nationally recognized Governors Club golf course is the only gated golf community and private club in the Triangle.

College Sports

College sports fans know they can’t miss Duke men’s basketball at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The team has won five NCAA national championships, all under former head coach Mike Krzyzewski. But basketball isn’t the only sport where the Blue Devils put on a show – the university offers 27 NCAA Division I varsity sports and has taken home 17 total national championships among them. goduke.com North Carolina Central University, a highly ranked HBCU in Durham,

is home to 310 student-athletes and 14 NCAA Division I sports.

Check out Eagles football at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium or basketball in McDougald-McLendon Arena. nccueaglepride.com Catch the Wolfpack play in one of the 21 varsity sports at N.C. State University. Head to Dail Soccer Field to see the men’s soccer team, which has made 13 NCAA tournament appearances. NCSU is also home to Carter-Finley Stadium, a football facility with 57,600 seats. gopack.com The Meredith College Avenging Angels have made 15 NCAA tournament appearances and taken home 26 USA South Championships. The women’s college is an NCAA Division III school.

Weatherspoon Athletic Center hosts basketball and volleyball while Meredith Athletic Field and Track Complex is home to its soccer, lacrosse, track and field, and cross-country teams. goavengingangels.com The Tar Heels are one of the biggest names in collegiate athletics, and it’s always a treat to see them in action. The Dean E. Smith Center is home to UNC’s six-time NCAA champion men’s basketball team. Carolina has 28 varsity programs, including 15 women’s and 13 men’s sports. The most recent sports to gain varsity status were women’s lacrosse in 1995-96 and rowing in 1997-98. goheels.com 

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LET’S PLAY

Triangle

WEEKENDER

Cycling Join Crank Arm Brewing Race Team to learn biking skills in disciplines like XC mountain biking, downhill runs, cyclocross, BMX and more.

Looking for something more leisurely (but still with the promise of a pint at the end)? Try out the social Pony Ride hosted at Ponysaurus Brewing on the second Tuesday of every month. The Glass Jug Beer Lab hosts Team on Draft Road Cycling for a 21-mile ride every Wednesday, April through October.

Gyros Cycling Club in Raleigh hosts rides for cyclists of any skill level. Rides are ranked as one of four levels of difficulty. North Carolina Bicycle Club promotes safe road cycling and participates in rides across Wake County.

More than 5,000 mountain bikers are members of the Triangle Off-Road Cyclists group. Besides advocating for more trails in the Triangle, TORC offers clinics, trail workdays, group rides and races throughout the year.

Take part in a social ride in Orange, Durham, Wake, Alamance or Chatham counties with the Carolina Tarwheels, a cycling club that’s been active since 1982. Starting locations vary and include popular jumping-off points like C.M. Herndon Park in Durham and Gold Park in Hillsborough.

Scheduled rides vary in length and speed, so there’s something accessible to everyone.

With nine holes and concrete tees located in the heart of N.C. State Centennial Campus, the Professional Disc Golf Association’s course is a must-try for disc golfers.

Spanning more than 48 acres, the 22-hole course at at Diavolo at New Hope in Cary also features local art and other amenities.

The six-hole PDGA course at Chatham County Community College is wide open and flat, spanning 2,165 feet.

Rock Ridge Park Disc Golf Course is on Old Sanford Road in Pittsboro that hosts tournaments and is home to many other amenities, including walking trails, a mini amphitheater and picnic areas.

UNC’s Outdoor Education Center includes an 18-hole professional disc golf course. It hosts the university’s disc golf team, but is also open to all players. Southern Community Park in Chapel Hill offers a disc golf course, which is accessible through the park’s south entrance at 1000 Dogwood Acres Dr. Be sure to also check out the 18-hole course at Anderson Community Park in Carrboro.

If you’re looking to join fellow Ultimate Frisbee players, adults and youth alike can play year-round with Triangle Ultimate. Walk on with no experience, join a league or participate in summer clubs. triangleultimate.org

Pickleball

The Durham Area Pickleball Players operates a Facebook group with more than 750 members, a calendar of pickleball courts open for play in Durham and a weekly clinic for beginners on Sunday afternoons at Piney Wood Park. This organization hosted the Bull City Open, a tournament at Bethesda Park, for the second year in 2022. durhampickleball.org Durham Parks and Recreation hosts pickleball Cyclists depart from Charles Herman Wilson Park in Carrboro on a chilly Saturday morning in March.

Disc Golf / Ultimate Frisbee

Durham Parks and Recreation offers many facilities with recreational and professional-level disc golf courses. Seven of Leigh Farm Park’s

82.8 acres belong to historical sites, but the park also features an 18-hole disc golf course managed by the Durham Orange Recreational Disc Association. At nearly 20 acres, Cornwallis Road Park features disc golf alongside basketball courts and playgrounds. Valley Springs Park offers 22 holes of disc golf and different three-course layouts, spanning various elevations. dprplaymore.org Another local favorite is Kentwood Park Disc Golf Course at 4531 Kaplan Dr. in Raleigh. The course hosts league events and is open every day.

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tournaments, leagues, clinics and more year-round for all skill levels and various age groups. Indoor drop-in pickleball is available at Walltown Park Recreation Center, and various weekly time slots are designated for pickleball at the tennis courts at Bethesda Park. dprplaymore.org/450/pickleball Raleigh NC Pickleball works with Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources, which operates 12 outdoor pickleball courts as well

as indoor courts at various community centers to support the growing sport throughout the county. raleighncpickleball.com The Raleigh-Cary Jewish Community Center hosts pickleball leagues, clinics, private lessons and mystery-partner tournaments at 12804 Northwood Rd. in Raleigh. Members have priority registration but nonmembers are welcome to register, too. raleighcaryjcc.org/pickleball Adults can take part in free pickleball open play at Chatham Grove Community Center at 1301 Andrews Store Rd. on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

Adventure Sports

Durham Parks and Recreation offers two ropes

courses to test your skills. Try the 13-element low ropes course in northern Durham County. Decide your own difficulty level at the 22-element high ropes course in Bethesda Park. Also in Durham, Xtreme Park Adventures offers 10 adventure attractions on its 50 acres, including airsoft, paintball, ropes courses, laser tag and other activities.

Most ages can partake in the eight aerial courses and more than 90 obstacles at TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park in Raleigh. Choose from five difficulty levels or make use of the Junior Park trails for ages 4-7. Go Ape zip line and adventure park in Raleigh’s Blue Jay Point County Park features aerial adventure courses and zip lines, including a 200-foot zip line on its Treetop Journey adventure.

Progression Climbing is

Chapel Hill’s only bouldering gym, spanning 3,500 feet of terrain. Take a yoga class, try a youth program or train with the staff. Rams Head Recreation Center on UNC’s campus features

three auto-belays, workshops and climbing classes. UNC Campus Recreation also offers bouldering and a climbing wall at Fetzer Gym. Try out the indoor climbing wall at Chapel Hill Community Center, too.

With locations in Raleigh, Morrisville and Durham, Triangle Rock Club offers yoga, Pilates, climbing and general fitness spaces. Try its state-of-the-art climbing walls, auto-belays and top-out

Ayanna Blake and her friends kayak down the Deep River.

bouldering. Phase I of the Durham location includes the largest indoor bouldering space in the state; Phase II of the site is slated to open in late 2022. trianglerockclub.com

LET’S PLAY

Pat Hoy, Janet Hoy, Linda Alexander, David Langmeyer and BJ Attwood take a break from a pickleball match at Ephesus Park in Chapel Hil.

The Chapel Hill Pickleball Association, which boasts hundreds of members, hosts morning gatherings on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and on Tuesday afternoons. The group caters to all levels of experience at Southern Community Park. Evening ladder leagues are offered for intermediate and advanced players, plus a weekly clinic for beginners after an initial orientation. The organization also hosts tournaments at Ephesus Park, Chapel Hill’s first dedicated pickleball facility.

It was constructed in 2016 and has six outdoor courts. chapelhill pickleball.org

Hiking, Kayaking, Canoeing

Entirely women-owned and -operated, Two ​​ Sisters Adventure Company offers small group and outdoor adventures in a welcoming space. Participate in a guided trip, a summer camp or classes designed to meet the needs of all skill levels. twosistersadventure.com Explore canoeing and kayaking with Frog Hollow Outdoors, which offers instructional classes, selfguided trips, private group adventures and more. froghollowoutdoors.com Family-owned Neuse River Outfitters in Wake Forest provides kayak rentals, fishing lessons and relaxing trips down the Neuse River. neuseriveroutfitters.com Bond Park Boathouse in

Cary rents pedal boats, kayaks, sailboats, canoes and life jackets to take out on Bond Lake. townofcary.org/recreationenjoyment/facilities/bond-parkboathouse TW

Explore a scenic route on the Deep River with Endor Paddle, which offers self-guided kayaking and tubing trips. An excursion typically begins at Deep River Park off of Highway 421 in Bear Creek and ends by the Camelback Bridge. For those looking to lazily float down the river with friends and family, Endor Paddle offers river tubing, too.

Children must be at least 3 years old to participate.

Wearing a bathing suit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet is recommended, along with sunscreen, secure shoes and a hat to protect from the elements. endorpaddle.com

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Brought to you by

Raleigh

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Felix Olivares, Chandrav De and Shaan Hassan tour the Historic Yates Mill County Park, a 174-acre park in the

southwestern part of Wake County. “A beautiful historic site,” Shaan says of the Yates Mill, which served Wake County as a water-powered mill for more than 200 years; it’s the only one of the 70 grist mills that served the county that is still in operating condition.

Annabelle Patton captures

sunflowers and part of the Raleigh skyline at the 308-acre Dorothea Dix Park, Raleigh’s largest city park.

READERS’ F Madeline Dixon searched for

Chatham

(and found!) rabbits during Main Street Pittsboro’s second annual Found It! Chatham Rabbit Hunt.

Morgan Cartier Weston

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spotted early signs of spring on the Creekwood Trail in Fearrington Village.

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“Taking my kids, Carter and Theo, to the Haw River to explore the trails in Bynum and watch the wildlife [is] always a great time!” says Caleb Smith.

Lee Sequeira’s West Highland White Terrier Nugget watches

her owner sip a cold one at

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Ponysaurus Brewing Co.

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Kaikho Paphro Chachei’s son Asao and his friend Aarav frolic among the tulip blooms at Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

Durham

Mother and daughter Patti Lingafelt and Hannah Lingafelt enjoy the American Tobacco Campus prior to a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

FAVORITES Locals share how they explore the Triangle on their days off

Anna Fowler, Tom Volk and Lisa Volk love the iconic fuschia penguins at 21c Museum Hotel – every 21c has

its own flock of penguins, each in a color that embodies the identity of their city. The penguins greet visitors in the lobby, elevators, restaurant, guest rooms and elsewhere throughout the hotel. Works of art themselves, the penguins are made using materials derived from petroleum products by Cracking Art, whose mission is to raise awareness of environmental issues and the use and misuse of natural resources.

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Daniel Howard says

he and his wife, Gracie, love exploring the trails along the Eno River just north of downtown Durham. 

➜ Brought to you by

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WEEKEND AT A GLANCE

Triangle

WEEKENDER Brought to you by

Orange Co. “The incredible, lively experience of being at Kenan Stadium [for a Carolina Football game] is a feeling like no other!” says Juliet Nowak.

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Katharine Bayer and her children, Nicson and Adrien,

spend an afternoon at the Museum of Life and Science, which is well known for its Magic Wings Butterfly House – there

are typically 30 to 50 different species of tropical butterflies housed inside!

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Jennifer Mumford and

her daughter, Catherine, create memories together at The Carolina Inn, which brims with festive decor and events every holiday season.

Ruth Little

➜

says that “even Rameses can’t help but dance” at

Fridays on the Front Porch,

a Chapel Hill favorite held April through October at The Carolina Inn.

Jordan Wilkins likes

➜

Cousins Bobbie Young, Phyllis Duzell and Lenora James enjoy a day in downtown Durham complete with soft serve from Simons Says Dip This.

to catch a little early morning sunshine at the North

➜

80

Ryan Sikora and his pup, Loki, grab some grub at Carolina Brewery on Franklin Street before a UNC game.

Carolina Botanical Garden. T W

CELEBRATE THE ARTS IN THE TRIANGLE. Our 22/23 season features a wide variety of performances, including THE SOUL REBELS with BIG FREEDIA, WHY NOT THEATRE Prince Hamlet, and BILL T. JONES/ ARNIE ZANE COMPANY What Problem?

CAROLINAPERFORMINGARTS.ORG

Live a healthy, active, fulfilling life.

Duke Lifestyle & Weight Management Center provides a one-stop-shop for those seeking weight loss services, and features a lifestyle-based approach that incorporates every aspect of your life.

Duke Lifestyle & Weight Management Center 501 Douglas St. Durham, NC 27705

Services Available: § Medical weight loss services § Nutrition consultations § Behavioral health § Low-calorie, meal replacement program - Optifast® § Body composition measurement with Bod Pod®

Call for an appointment 1-800-235-3853

DukeHealth.org/DLWMC