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5-Day Adventure: Explore Cary & Raleigh!

Experience southern charm and modern amenities in the heart of North Carolina with a visit to Cary.

22 April 2023

Cary, United States is a vibrant and charming city that is perfect for tourists eager to experience the best of North Carolina. With numerous parks, museums, restaurants, and shops, there is never a dull moment in Cary. Visitors can also explore the many cultural attractions of nearby Raleigh, which is just a short drive away.

Travel plan

• Check into the luxurious Umstead Hotel and Spa, known for its impeccable service and beautiful surroundings.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk around Symphony Lake, located within the hotel's 12-acre property.
• Dine at Herons, the hotel's award-winning restaurant, offering a farm-to-table dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.
• Visit the Koka Booth Amphitheatre, located next to the hotel, which hosts concerts and outdoor events throughout the year.
• Grab a nightcap at the cozy Umstead Bar and Lounge, featuring an extensive selection of artisanal cocktails and fine wines.

• Start the day with breakfast at La Farm Bakery, a local favorite for its freshly baked bread and pastries.
• Visit the Cary Farmers Market, located in the heart of downtown, offering a variety of local produce and handcrafted goods.
• Take a stroll along downtown Cary's Chatham Street, lined with independent shops and restaurants.
• Explore the Page-Walker Arts and History Center, a beautifully restored Victorian mansion and cultural hub in Cary.
• Treat yourself to a wine and cheese pairing at Sip Wine and Coffee, a cozy café offering an eclectic selection of wines and coffee drinks.

• Head to Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, a 140-acre nature reserve featuring rare plant species and scenic hiking trails.
• Visit the Bond Park Community Center, which houses the Cary Art Loop, a gallery showcasing works by local artists.
• Check out the new Downtown Park, a beautiful green space with a playground, splash pad, and outdoor performance area.
• Take a pottery class at the Center for the Arts, which offers a variety of art workshops and classes.
• Dine at Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen, a popular local restaurant serving up Southern classics like fried chicken and shrimp and grits.

• Take a short drive into downtown Raleigh, the state capital, and explore its vibrant cultural scene.
• Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art, featuring an impressive collection of classical and contemporary art, as well as extensive outdoor sculpture gardens.
• Check out the Raleigh Flea Market, a popular weekend market featuring vendors selling vintage and handmade goods.
• Take a tour of the historic State Capitol building, dating back to the late 1800s.
• Enjoy dinner at Beasley's Chicken and Honey, a casual Southern eatery serving up delicious fried chicken and other comfort foods.

• Treat yourself to a spa day at the Umstead Hotel's Spa, offering a variety of luxurious treatments and services.
• Have lunch at Belle Restaurant and Bar, a chic eatery located in a renovated historic mill building.
• Browse the aisles at Crossroads Plaza, a large shopping center featuring a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Enjoy a leisurely round of golf at Lochmere Golf Club, a scenic course located in Cary.
• Have a farewell dinner at Provence, a charming French spot offering authentic cuisine and an extensive wine selection.