Chapel Hill may be the smallest of the three Research Triangle cities, but that certainly doesn’t mean it’s forgettable. This city is the epitome of a college town, populated largely by college undergrads, grad students, and some young professionals looking for a more relaxed lifestyle. There are numerous activities in the area, whether it be eating at one of the many spectacular local restaurants, haunting one of the popular downtown bars, or shopping at one of the many quirky shops in Carrboro. Chapel Hill is densely built, meaning you can easily walk or bike to the many amenities this city has to offer. The other corners of the Research Triangle are also close by, putting the infinite possibilities of this vivacious region at your fingertips.
When to Search
Finding property in this high-demand town can get a little tricky. The apartment search usually begins in November, peaking around January and ending in August. It’s best to get ahead of the curve so you can have the best selection to choose from.
Searching for an apartment in Chapel Hill can be tough. That's why we scour the web to get all best listings around town. And our team of local experts verify the quality and accuracy of those listings to make sure that you have the best prices, images and information available. So unlike searching for an apartment on Craigslist, you can be sure that Rentable’s Chapel Hill apartment listings are safe, trustworthy and accurate.
Staying in the Know
Though it is the smallest of the Research Triangle cities, Chapel Hill is a popular place to live for a reason. Not only is it an extremely attractive place (well landscaped, lovely homes, and beautiful wooded areas), but it’s also brimming with a strong sense of community. The people here really know how to make you feel at home and are proud of their town.
Life in Chapel Hill
Transportation
If you’re a car owner, then you’re in luck! There is very little traffic to worry about in Chapel Hill, though parking can be scarce during the school year. Central Chapel Hill and Carrboro are highly walkable and bike-able. As for public transportation, you can check out Chapel Hill Transit (CHT), which provides bus lines throughout both Chapel Hill and Carrboro.
Where to play
You can find any number of unique shops, restaurants, and bars in this college town. Chapel Hill is known as one of the best small foodie towns in America, so if you’re looking for fabulous restaurants and bars, then you’ve come to the right place! Be sure to hit up Franklin Street for bumpin’ nightlife and great shopping, as well as Weaver Street Market for some fresh food and great live music.
Attractions
Chapel Hill offers many different activities for year-round enjoyment. On a lovely day, nothing can be more relaxing than heading over to the Coke Arboretum, a year round garden featuring tons of plants from around the world. You can also take a pleasant stroll through 14 stunning gardens at the NC Botanical Garden. History lovers can also take a tour of Ayr Mount, a historic 19th century plantation home nestled on picturesque grounds that are sure to impress. More interested in what’s in the sky than on the ground? Head over to the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center for a lovely star show or live demonstration.
Dining
Durham offers many culturally centered events that residents can enjoy year 'round. In April, the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival attracts international attention as one of America's largest fests. May brings the Durham Art Walk, a huge showcase of local artists' work right downtown. Each summer the city also hosts the American Dance Festival, the nation's largest contemporary dance fest. Lovers of diversity can also check out Bimbe Festival, a free African Harvest festival with out-of-this-world live music, a craft bazaar, and delicious food. These are only some of the awesome events that'll keep you occupied in Bull City!
Bars
It's no secret that you can find some of the finest college bars in the state along Franklin Street, such as The Cave and He's Not Here. Within walking distance of the University, you're sure to find tons of collegiate bars with intimate vibes and phenomenal drinking deals. Though the Chapel Hill bar scene has long since mastered the art of the dive, the city has also started to offer more sophisticated options. Whether you're sipping on a Tar Heel Tea at the Crossroads Bar or kicking back a beer at the Steel String Brewery, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your libations in Chapel Hill.
Culture
Chapel Hill's cultural destinations are all about quality over quantity. The Ackland Art Museum boasts a diverse collection that pulls from country across the globe. Those looking to explore more regional artists can head over to the Horace Williams House, a restored 19th century home that exhibits small art collections throughout the year. Theater geeks can look to the Carolina Performing Arts Theater on UNC's campus for a solid concert or play performance. Though the selection of cultural destinations in Chapel Hill is limited compared to its surrounding cities, the theaters and museums of Raleigh and Durham are only minutes away!
Events
Chapel Hill hosts events year 'round. Throughout the late spring and early summer, Historic Franklin Street offers a wide variety of local music and dance every Friday, as well as tasty concession stands. After all, nothing goes better with awesome tunes than some good eats. On the 4th of July, head over to Kenan Memorial Stadium for an independence day celebration unlike any other, including love music, games, and an out-of-this-world fireworks show! If you're more of an autumn lover, check out the Festifall Arts Festival, a downtown celebration featuring a vibrant art market and live street performances.
Shopping
Fashionistas and shopping mavens are sure to find a few fav spots in the Chapel Hill area, but it’s important to note that it’s not known for its national chains. Franklin Street offers a healthy combination of UNC stores, as well as a few designer boutiques, unique gift shops, and upscale jewelry stores. Meadowmont Village provides a quaint outdoor shopping center with a wide variety of shops and restaurants, making it a pleasant place to shop during warmer months. Even the Chapel Hill mall experience is untraditional. A Southern Season, one of the most famous gourmet food stores in the area, anchors the unusual University Mall. Though it seems to be a run-of-the-mill mall from the outside, it also contains a number of local boutiques and unusual shops, making it a true Chapel Hill shopping destination.
Sports
All of the sports culture in Chapel Hill revolves around UNC. The town adores its successful college basketball and women’s soccer teams in particular. Their basketball team is known as one of the best in the country, attracting a loyal following that’s rare among college teams. Hundreds regularly gather to watch the Tar Heels play against their other local NC teams in the Dean Dome (and kick butt, of course).
Outdoors
Nature lovers may not find tons of parks in Chapel Hill, but they will certainly contain some unique features that you're bound to love. Homestead Park is home to some cool amenities like a skate park, batting cages, and a dog park. For a more versatile experience, enjoy Southern Community Park, the second largest park in the city. This 72-acre piece of land includes beautifully paves trails, meadows, and a dog park, as well as several recreational fields for basketball, inline hockey, disc golf, and soccer. To immerse yourself in nature, head over to UNC’s Battle Park to take a stroll among 93 acres of wildflowers, trees, and nature trails.