Cary Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Cary, North Carolina with our comprehensive tour guide. Explore the cultural attractions, natural wonders, the food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Cary

Located in the heart of Research Triangle in Piedmont, Cary is a vibrant town in the south of the United States of America. The town is known for its rich cultural and natural attractions, including museums, historical sites, and scenic views. Cary also boasts an active outdoor recreation scene, with plenty of hiking and biking trails. The town’s food and drink scene is equally impressive, showcasing Southern cuisine and local beverages.

List of Places to Visit in Cary

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most popular cultural attractions in Cary is the Page-Walker Arts and History Center, which is housed in a renovated hotel that dates back to 1868. The center hosts various exhibits and events throughout the year, and it’s also a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions. The Cary Heritage Museum is another must-visit site for history buffs. Located downtown, the museum features exhibits that tell the story of Cary’s past.

Natural Attractions of Cary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s plenty to do in Cary. The Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a must-visit site, with its dense forests, hiking trails, and scenic views. The preserve is home to the Eastern Hemlock, a rare tree species that can only be found in a few places in the eastern United States. The White Oak Creek Greenway is another beautiful site, with its 4-mile paved trail that passes through forests and wetlands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cary

Cary is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. The American Tobacco Trail is a 22-mile rail-trail that passes through Cary, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Other popular hiking and biking routes include the Umstead State Park, the Green Hills County Park, and the Lake Crabtree County Park.

Best Things to Do in Cary: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for activities and tours in Cary, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. The Cary Theater is a popular venue for live music and theater performances, as well as independent cinema. Cary also has a vibrant craft beer scene, and you can take a tour of the local breweries like Bond Brothers Beer Company and Fortnight Brewing Company.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cary

Day 1: Visit the Page-Walker Arts and History Center and downtown Cary. Day 2: Explore the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and White Oak Creek Greenway. Day 3: Take a trip to Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital city, to tour the North Carolina Museum of Art and the North Carolina Museum of History. Day 4: Take a local brewery tour and enjoy some local craft beer. Day 5: Spend the day hiking or biking on the American Tobacco Trail. Day 6: Explore the local food scene, including Southern cuisine and sweet tea. Day 7: Visit the Cary Heritage Museum and finish your trip with a relaxing spa day.

Food and Drink Scene of Cary

Must-Try Dishes

Cary’s food scene is all about Southern cuisine. You can’t leave town without trying some Carolina BBQ, preferably from Danny’s BBQ, or enjoying some fried chicken from Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the famous peach cobbler from Mrs. Lacy’s Magnolia House.

Local Beverages

Cary is also known for its local beverages. Head to the Fortnight Brewing Company to try some of their English-style ales, or stop by Chatham Hill Winery and enjoy some North Carolina wine. In the summer, don’t miss out on some sweet tea, the unofficial state drink of North Carolina.

Where to Stay in Cary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options available in Cary, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a popular choice for those looking for a little luxury, while the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Raleigh Cary is a budget-friendly option.

What to Buy in Cary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For souvenirs and local products, check out the local farmers’ market, which is held on Saturdays. You’ll find plenty of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products. You can also visit the various boutiques and gift shops located downtown.

Local Culture and Customs of Cary

Cary is a diverse town with a rich cultural heritage. The town has a growing arts scene, and you can catch concerts, theater performances, and art shows throughout the year. Local customs and etiquette are similar to those of the wider Southern United States, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and politeness.

Best Time to Visit Cary

The best time to visit Cary is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Summers in Cary can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cary

Do:

  • Do visit the local museums and attractions
  • Do try some Southern cuisine
  • Do take advantage of the local hiking and biking trails
  • Do explore the local craft beer scene

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the natural beauty surrounding Cary
  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers and bartenders

Safety and Health

Safety in Cary

Cary is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, as with any town or city, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.

Health in Cary

Cary has a number of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. If you need medical attention during your stay, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Getting to Cary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cary

Cary is located near several airports, including Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), which is about a 20-minute drive from the town.

Bus Stations Near Cary

Greyhound and Megabus both have stations near Cary.

Other Options

If you’re driving, Cary is easily accessible via Interstate 40. There are also several rental car agencies in town.

How to Get Around in Cary

Cary is a relatively small town, and many of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to drive or take public transportation, there are plenty of options available. The town has a bus system operated by GoCary, and there are also several taxi and rideshare options available.

Where to Go Next from Cary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for nearby destinations and excursions, you can take a short drive to Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill. All of these cities offer plenty of cultural and natural attractions, as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Conclusion

Cary is a vibrant town with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or local cuisine, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your stay. So pack your bags and start planning your trip to Cary today!

Cary Arts Center Cary Arts Center