Things to do in Chapel Hill

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Visit Chapel Hill

Types of activities

Chapel Hill Travel Guide

This free botanical garden is on the UNC campus although you would not know it as a visitor. The gardens are beautiful and have a huge assortment of sculptures. I was impressed with the amount of information the garden had on the plants as well as the art. A great activity to do if you are in the area! Peaceful, natural, beautiful, and full of inspiring art! There is a free parking area and an information center with everything you could need.

Thanks for always keeping the doors open!

University Gardens is a conservation garden to understand, appreciate and conserve plants and to advance a sustainable relationship. There are a few short trails along the way that will take you to beautiful sceneries and each plant has a tag with name and country of provenance.

Miles of trails in this southern slice of heaven. #carolina #carrboro #viewfromarun #reflections

Chapel Hill Attractions

You won't have any problem finding exciting things to do in Chapel Hill. Delve into the local history and check out all the best sights in this delightful city. Sort out your must-do list now so you can hit the ground running when you arrive.

Discover the sights of Chapel Hill with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {15 fun activities in Chapel Hill fun activities in Chapel Hill}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can relax and focus on planning your dream vacation.

Recommended things to do in Chapel Hill

Number of things to do	15
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Astonishing University hunt: Duke University Books and Basketball: $15
Top 5 things to do	Axe Throwing Training Downtown Durham Historian-Guided Walking Tour Durham African American History Tour Waterfall Adventure Tour Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham
Under $25	Downtown Durham Historian-Guided Walking Tour Durham African American History Tour Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham Durham True Crime Tour Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour
With kids	Axe Throwing Training Waterfall Adventure Tour Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham Astonishing University hunt: Duke University Books and Basketball Durham Candle Pouring Workshop at Paddywax

What to do in Chapel Hill

Free Things to Do in Chapel Hill

Taking a break in Chapel Hill on a budget? The following can be experienced for nothing.

Ackland Art Museum - Approach the friendly staff or curator and learn all about the interesting collections housed at this museum.

University of North Carolina - Be inspired by the originality and design of this impressive example of modernistic architecture.

UNC Medical Center - Introduce yourself to a local and discover why many sightseers visit this place.

Coker Arboretum - Grab your blanket, pick up a snack and find a cozy area to relish nature.

Things to Do in Chapel Hill with Kids

There are plenty of fun activities to do with the kids in and around Chapel Hill. Keep the crew happy with our family friendly experiences.

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Chapel Hill? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Chapel Hill

The Old Well at UNC Chapel Hill during the spring with azaleas blooming

University of North Carolina

4.5/5(913 reviews)

Explore the campus of University of North Carolina, during your travels in Chapel Hill. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.

Franklin Street

4.5/5(349 reviews)

During your visit to Chapel Hill, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Franklin Street. Visit the area's cathedral, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

North Carolina Football Stadium- #footballstadiumtour

Kenan Stadium

4/5(196 reviews)

Catch an event at Kenan Stadium during your trip to Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

Morehead Planetarium

5/5(4 reviews)

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Morehead Planetarium during your trip to Chapel Hill. Discover the area's entertainment choices and stunning cathedral.

North Carolina Botanical Garden

1/5(1 review)

Explore the great outdoors at North Carolina Botanical Garden, a lovely green space in Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

UNC Medical Center

4.5/5(120 reviews)

Though UNC Medical Center might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Chapel Hill while you are here.

Dean Smith Center

4.5/5(93 reviews)

Catch an event at Dean Smith Center during your trip to Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's stunning cathedral.

The Preserve at Jordan Lake

Enjoy a round of golf in Chapel Hill at The Preserve at Jordan Lake. Attend a sporting event or visit the stunning cathedral in this family-friendly area.

William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education during your stay in Chapel Hill. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Chapel Hill

Apex

Durham

Graham

Carrboro

Hillsborough

Raleigh

Early foliage on Haw River at Swepsonvile River Park

Mebane

Pittsboro

Frequently asked questions

Is Chapel Hill worth visiting?

Chapel Hill offers an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or local culinary flavors, there are many things you'll find here.

How do I spend a day in Chapel Hill?

Start your adventures with a visit to The Carolina Basketball Museum and North Carolina Botanical Garden. Then, check out different areas of Chapel Hill for local dining and some souvenir shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Chapel Hill?

You can't go home without visiting The Carolina Basketball Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Chapel Hill.

Is three days enough to stay in Chapel Hill?

You can easily visit leading attractions like Memorial Hall, The Carolina Basketball Museum and Ackland Art Museum with a three-day stay in Chapel Hill. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and head to Raleigh.

What are some activities to do in Chapel Hill with kids?

If you're searching for sights and activities for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Chapel Hill with kids.

What to do in Chapel Hill for adults?

There are lots of things to do in Chapel Hill, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Franklin Street.

Are there free things to do in Chapel Hill?

One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Chapel Hill is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without getting your cash out. The Carolina Basketball Museum is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.