Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Cary, North Carolina

Numerous elements contribute to Cary being recognized as one of America’s premier cities for residence. At first glance, its low crime rate and proximity to esteemed educational and research institutions stand out notably; however, upon arrival, visitors are often astonished by the abundance of parks and greenery that enrich the locale.

Within Cary, one is never far from serene woodlands, scenic hiking trails, or tranquil boating lakes. Culturally, Cary presents a remarkable tapestry, featuring a significant performing arts complex housed in an elegant building within downtown, as well as an amphitheater that regularly hosts prominent performers throughout the year.

1. Fred G. Bond Metro Park

For those seeking to understand Cary’s high ranking among America’s most livable cities, Fred G. Bond Metro Park serves as a commendable introduction. This calming natural area, centrally located in the city, provides opportunities for active pursuits, quiet contemplation, or leisurely picnics during warm summer afternoons.

At the heart of the park lies Bond Lake, complete with a public boathouse, while more than four miles of trails weave through lush greenery.

The park also features the Lazy Daze Playgrounds, where young visitors can delight in a variety of activities.

2. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

It becomes increasingly evident that Cary is abundant in natural beauty and open spaces. Hemlock Bluffs represents a vast area of dense hemlock forest, so tranquil that visitors may easily forget their proximity to an urban environment.

The trails in the preserve are well-maintained and free of obstructions, allowing for a leisurely walk where remnants of past farming operations and mills can be observed, harking back to the area’s historical rural landscape.

For an expert perspective, the Stevens Nature Center offers informative exhibits about the wildlife inhabiting the preserve.

3. Koka Booth Amphitheatre

This venue, operated by the city of Cary, is named in honor of one of the town’s former mayors. Located in Regency Park, it hosts an engaging lineup of live musical performances.

Concert-goers may enjoy a variety of artists, from classic rock legends like Styx and Ringo Starr to the North Carolina Symphony, which often performs Beethoven’s masterpieces as well as John Williams’ iconic soundtracks.

The Movies by Moonlight program encourages families to bring a picnic and enjoy classic and contemporary films on warm summer evenings.

4. Cary Arts Centre

Arts and culture play a significant role in Cary’s identity. Adjacent to the amphitheatre, this expansive facility houses a 393-seat theatre dedicated to drama and ballet, along with gallery spaces, rehearsal rooms, and studios for textile arts, woodworking, pottery, jewelry, and fine arts.

Encompassing a total of 48,000 square feet, the Cary Arts Centre provides a platform for art exhibitions and theatrical performances, reflecting the city’s commitment to nurturing its artistic community.

5. Chatham Hill Winery

Demonstrating Cary’s sophisticated character, the city boasts its own winery, the first established in the Research Triangle. This compact establishment produces wines using traditional French methods, exclusively sourcing grapes grown in North Carolina.

The winery’s selection includes Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, and Cabernet Franc. Tasting sessions offer engaging insights from knowledgeable staff, while comfortable outdoor seating and table-top board games create an inviting atmosphere for those wishing to relax with a glass of wine.

6. Sri Venkateswara Temple

The Research Triangle is home to a sizable Hindu community, numbering in the tens of thousands. In 2009, this impressive temple was established to foster a sense of community and belonging.

The chief architect, Nand Gopal Sachdeva, dedicated years to visiting and studying temple designs in India to finalize the ornate architectural style. The temple’s intricate facade was crafted with assistance from 14 artisans who were specifically brought in from South India.

Today, the temple stands as a center of vibrancy for the South Asian community in Raleigh, serving as a welcoming venue for individuals of diverse backgrounds and even producing a monthly publication dedicated to community news.

7. Apex Community Park

Apex Community Park represents yet another example of Cary’s exceptional public green spaces, making it an ideal location to enjoy a sunny afternoon.

You may encounter dog walkers, joggers, and families enjoying picnics here. The park features Lake Pine, which includes a launching ramp for kayaks and boats alongside a modest fishing pier. Soccer pitches, a baseball diamond, and tennis courts are available for those looking to engage in sports. Children’s play areas are equipped with swings, slides, and sand pits to keep younger visitors delighted.

8. Golf

It is fitting that a town of Cary’s caliber boasts five distinctly appealing golf courses. The semi-private Lochmere Golf Club represents the most accessible option for visitors, while the others are exclusive private clubs. Lochmere is an 18-hole, par 71 course set amid trees and bordered by the waters of Swift Creek, presenting unique and interesting obstacles alongside bunkers that protect many greens.

The club also features a pro shop and a driving range, complemented by an on-site grill restaurant that serves satisfying meals to enjoy after a rewarding round of golf.

9. USA Baseball National Training Complex

Cary has become a notable hub for America’s pastime. The USA Baseball National Training Complex, constructed at a cost of $11 million, serves as a training facility for the national collegiate team, the Women’s National Team, and various youth squads.

This complex consists of four fields that meet Major League Baseball specifications, equipped with stadium seating and electronic scoreboards. For those interested in witnessing a game, these fields host various events throughout the season, encompassing national tournaments and selection trials.

10. The Cary Theater

In operation since 1946, this was Cary’s first indoor cinema. After experiencing a decline following its peak in the 1950s, it transitioned through various ownerships until it was repurposed for different businesses, including clothing retail and as a recording studio.

In keeping with Cary’s commitment to preserving its history, the theater was recently reacquired and renovated, restoring its original marquee and concession area.

Currently, the theater operates as an art house, showcasing independent and foreign films while also serving as a venue for live music events.

11. Page-Walker Arts and History Center

This charming Victorian structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and originally completed in 1868 to serve as a railroad hotel. In the 1990s, the facility was remodeled into a museum and arts center dedicated to Cary’s cultural heritage.

Today, the center features a varied program of performances by local artists and provides a welcoming environment for community gatherings and evening classes.

Visitors can explore art exhibitions and a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that narrate the social history of the city.

12. Raleigh

Recently recognized by Business Week as America’s “best city,” Raleigh is a vibrant college town featuring five renowned institutions of higher education. Its reputation for learning and personal development is further supported by a plethora of museums.

The North Carolina Museum of Modern Art showcases an impressive collection of Renaissance artwork, while other notable institutions include the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, which is home to a 10,000-gallon aquarium, and the Marbles Kids Museum, a hands-on science museum featuring an IMAX theater.

13. Greensboro

A short drive west of Cary leads to Greensboro, a city that played a pivotal role during critical historical events, including the American Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.

In April 1865, as the Confederacy faced defeat, Greensboro emerged as the final stand against Union forces, hosting the last meeting of the Confederate government.

Another important site is the International Civil Rights Center and Museum, situated in a former Woolworth’s branch, where in 1960, four African American students initiated a sit-in protest against the establishment’s whites-only lunch counter.

14. Furniture shopping in High Point

In proximity to Greensboro lies High Point, which proudly proclaims itself as the “Furniture Capital of the World.” This claim is supported by the High Point Market, which was established in 1909 and takes place biannually in April and October.

As the world’s largest furniture trade show, High Point Market boasts 2,000 exhibitors across 180 distinct buildings. Attendance can reach up to 80,000 individuals every six months, with the main venue being the expansive International Home Furnishings Market, which has been operating since 1923.

Organizers assert that if one cannot find a desired item at the High Point Market, it likely does not exist.

15. Eno River State Park

For those interested in an outdoor escapade, the picturesque banks of the Eno River in Durham County provide an ideal backdrop. This state park follows the winding paths of the Eno as it flows through ancient woodlands and past various significant historical landmarks.

One such site includes a historic mill with a waterwheel; visitors should remain attentive, as they might spot remnants of fords created by some of Durham’s initial European settlers.

Campsites are available for both secluded backcountry camping and more communal group camping experiences under the starlit sky.