Exploring the Top 14 Attractions in Hillsborough, North Carolina

Exploring the Top 14 Activities in Hillsborough, North Carolina

This incredible diversity that North Carolina boasts is what we adore the most. From the breathtaking Atlantic beaches to the majestic Western mountains, and the bustling central metropolitans, there's something for every type of traveler. If you're a fan of North Carolina's smaller towns, you simply cannot miss out on Hillsborough, located just a 20-minute drive away from both Chapel Hill and Durham. Many have perhaps forgotten about this town, but it played a pivotal role in the Civil War. It was the location of the largest Confederate army surrender, which significantly aided in the war's conclusion. Today, the historic downtown district in this charming riverfront community is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With over 100 homes, schools, churches, and buildings from the late 18 and 19 centuries, it offers a rich historical experience. However, Hillsborough is not just about history. It is also famous for its beautifully maintained state parks and outdoor attractions, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and fantastic local shopping. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Hillsborough, North Carolina.

What To Do In Hillsborough, North Carolina

Visit The Occaneechi Village Replica Site

Learn about Hillsborough's rich history that dates back even before its establishment as Orange in 1754. This historical replica site provides a glimpse into an Occaneechi village as it would have appeared on the banks of the Eno River in 1701. It's a fascinating opportunity to delve into the past and understand a native culture.

E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278

Take A Stroll Down The Riverwalk

The replica site is located on Hillsborough's Riverwalk, a popular three-mile paved trail that connects the town's east and west sides. The trail lies between two significant attractions: the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area and the Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail, a 44-acre site that houses a four-mile trail, including the only surviving dirt speedway from NASCAR's inaugural 1949 season.

320 Elizabeth Brady Rd., Hillsborough, NC 27278

Explore The Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area

The Riverwalk's other terminus is the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, an idyllic outdoor escape famous for its two serene fishing ponds, three miles of hiking trails through forests filled with rhododendrons and mountain laurels, and spectacular overlooks of the Eno River. It's an excellent place for hiking, fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying some fresh air.

ncparks.gov; 625 Virginia Cates Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278; 919-383-1686

Attend A Hillsborough Arts Council Event

Art is an essential part of the Hillsborough community, and one of its strongest advocates is the Hillsborough Arts Council. The council sponsors various events throughout the year, but its most celebrated event is the Last Fridays & Art Walk, a town-wide celebration that includes live music, dance, poetry, gallery exhibits, and marketplaces for local artists on the last Friday of each month from March to October. If you're not in town during that period, you can always visit the council's gallery and gift shop that features artworks from over 65 local artists.

hillsboroughartscouncil.org; 102 N Churton St., Hillsborough, NC; 919-643-2500

Visit The Eno Mill Gallery

To immerse yourself in Hillsborough's thriving arts scene, head to the Eno Mills Gallery, a 1,000-square-foot exhibit space at the Eno Arts Mill, a historic mill that now serves as a multidisciplinary art gathering space. The gallery showcases the works of over 30 Orange County artists who both create and display their work in the space.

artsorange.org/enomill/gallery; 437 Dimmocks Mill Road, Suite 17, Hillsborough, NC 27278; 919-245-2129

Discover The Historic Sites

History is a fundamental aspect of Hillsborough's identity, so it's essential to set aside some time to explore the town's past. Begin at the Orange County Historical Museum, located at the heart of downtown Hillsborough, providing a solid foundation of knowledge about the area. Then, proceed to other major points of interest, such as the Burwell School Historic Site, an essential site in the fight for women's education in America, and the Alexander Dickson House, a remarkable Civil War-era home that now serves as the Hillsborough Visitor Center.

Shop In Downtown Hillsborough

The charming window displays and picturesque streetscapes in Hillsborough's historic downtown district can easily absorb your time, so plan to spend ample time exploring its offerings. If you'd like a bit of a guide before going, mark Uniquitiques for unique vintage fashion and goods (including an impressive boot collection); Carlisle & Linny for vintage jewelry; Re-Invintage and Dwell for home decor; Purple Crow Books for reads from an independent seller; and Volume for an extensive record selection complete with an attached taproom and lounge.

Where To Eat & Drink In Hillsborough, North Carolina

Savor The Wings At Wooden Nickel Public House

For over two decades, this neighborhood eatery and pub has served as a local staple. Committed to serving delicious food, craft beers, and fostering community, Nickel Pub enhanced its mission by establishing its own farm where it focuses on humanely raising animals. The menu offers a variety of tasty options, including the fried banana pepper appetizer with smoked onion ranch, and burgers. However, the undisputed standout and best-selling item is the chicken wings, available in 10 housemade sauces, offering a crispy, juicy, and flavorful experience.

thnp.com; 113 N Churton St, Hillsborough, NC 27278; 919-932-0134

Indulge in a Sweet Treat

Steps away from Wooden Nickel, Kim’s Bake Shop is a dessert haven led by pastry chef Kimberly Mayer. Available daily are layer cakes, pies, donuts, muffins, and scones, as well as other expertly crafted baked goods. For specialized offerings, explore Hillsborough Bakeshop & Pasta Co. where you can start your morning with sourdough chocolate babka or a Swedish cardamom Kanelbullar, or visit for dinner to enjoy handmade pasta dishes such as black campanelle with chopped shrimp, saffron cream, and Calabrian chiles.

Delve into Salvadorian Cuisine at Samantha's Pupusas

Venture beyond Hillsborough's historic district to savor the scrumptious stuffed pupusas at Samantha's Pupusas. These Salvadorian specialties consist of masa or cornmeal patty or dough cake stuffed with a variety of fillings such as meat, beans, cheese, and veggies. Drop by with a friend or two to sample as many filling options as possible. The Revuelta with fried pork, beans, and cheese remains a popular choice.

facebook.com; 117 Cornelius St, Hillsborough, NC 27278; 919-241-4644

Explore Global Flavors at The Nomad

Unfamiliar with a world of flavors, but without the need to travel far? The Nomad offers a revolving culinary adventure, changing with each visit. Start your meal with Indian pakoras filled with spicy chorizo, then choose your destination for dinner. Dinner options range from Greek chicken souvlaki to Szechuan fried rice.

thenomadnc.com; 122 West King Street, Hillsborough, NC 27278; 984-217-0179

Savor Local Treasures at Hillsborough BBQ

Eastern North Carolina barbecue is in a league of its own, and a visit to Hillsborough would not be complete without tasting this local favorite. Hillsborough BBQ is the go-to spot for succulent hickory-smoked and chopped pork in a thin, vinegar-based sauce, served with red, white, or yellow slaw, alongside regional delights such as Brunswick stew, hush puppies, corn pudding, fried okra, and collard greens.

hillsboroughbbq.com; 236 S. Nash St., Hillsborough, NC 27278; 919-732-4647

Wet Your Thirst

For a refreshing beverage, make your way to Yonder, Hillsborough's unofficial living room. Here, you'll find handcrafted cocktails, beers, and wine, accompanied by live music and rotating art installations. With the opening in 2023, Eno River Bring offers a selection of rotating local craft beers. But the must-visit destination is The Rookery, which opened in December 2024, boasting both a charming garden and cozy lounge.

Where to Stay in Hillsborough, North Carolina

Stay at a Historic Inn

Located in the heart of downtown, the Colonial Inn, established in 1838, is one of the oldest operational boutique hotels in the state. After undergoing a loving restoration in 2020, the historic inn now offers 28 beautifully decorated rooms and an on-site restaurant called Spencer's Tavern, where you can enjoy lunch or dinner.

colonialinn-nc.com; 153 W King Street, Hillsborough, NC 27278; 984-789-4455

If you're planning a trip to North Carolina and love exploring historical sites, don't miss Hillsborough, a charming riverfront community that's rich in history and arts.
Southern Living magazine has highlighted Hillsborough as a must-visit destination, praised for its artistic and historical attractions, as well as its vibrant shopping scene and local dining options.