Chapel Hill, North Carolina is part of Durham County and The Research Triangle Park. It located about 30 minutes from Raleigh and makes for the perfect day trip! I love it because even though Chapel Hill is a principal city of a large metropolitan area, it retains a relatively small-town feel.
With tons to do in Chapel Hill, you’re always discovering new fun places. Plus, It’s home to the campus of the University of North Carolina, which is known for its basketball team. Meaning it’s a very young “hip” area. Yes, I just used the word hip.
Some of my favorite places to go include the Honeysuckle Tea House, Cat’s Tales, and Rumors. Find out why.
Honeysuckle Tea House
When you’re in need of a quick escape or the perfect day trip, Honeysuckle Tea House is tucked away in the outskirts of Chapel Hill for some peace and relaxation. The Tea House sits on sixteen acres of serene farmland and is filled with tons of cute spots to cozy into, hammocks swaying in the breeze, and butterflies passing through blooming sunflowers. The Honeysuckle’s atmosphere is unmatched by anything in the Triangle. Don’t believe me? Just check out some of the photos from my most recent trip.
The Tea House is welcoming to ALL — it’s pet and family-friendly! Kids can enjoy their playground, maypole, or explore the sprawling farmland (perfect for tag and other adventures). Honeysuckle actually encourages its visitors to explore the land. Lined with 40+ tea beds, blueberry bushes, and muscadine grapes, it’s a naturalist’s paradise.
Hurry up and make your way to the Honeysuckle Tea House because it is only open during the Summer season! Additionally, Honeysuckle doesn’t JUST offer tea. Their menu is also made up of smoothies, acai bowls, and sometimes muffins! Their offerings change frequently, but you’re always guaranteed to find a soothing sip, a little nosh, and homemade mead for the 21+ crowd.
Cat Tales Cafe
Cat Tales Cafe is now open in Downtown Chapel Hill! The Cafe is an aMEOWzing place for guests who want to spend time in the company of adoptable cats. I didn’t know what to expect (as it was my first visit) but was blown away by the cuteness. The Cafe is a two-story building with tons of places to lounge about and relax with a furry friend. All the cats at the cafe are friendly and looking for their forever home! Basically a large foster home for these cats!
The cats that come to the cafe are from The Goathouse Refuge of Pittsboro. When a person is selected by a cat, they can fill out an adoption form provided by the shelter. The Goathouse Refuge then takes over the adoption process. This includes application review, home visit and follow up. Once everything has cleared, the adopter will come to the Cafe to pick up its new family member. The Goathouse receives a $125 adoption fee which helps to cover the costs of getting the cat adoption ready. All cats at the Cat Lounge are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and have had a final health screening. They are ready to go!
Cat Tales also offers food and drinks to human friends! No feeding the cats. So, you’re able to enjoy a coffee or muffin while petting a Calico. Get to know 12 cool cats by reserving your visit today. Check out Cat Tales Cafe online and get excited to have the PURRfect day!
Rumors Thrift Shop
Rumors is a cute clothing boutique in downtown Chapel Hill that has tons of great vintage finds! Women AND men can pick up hand-picked, pre-loved items for sale. There is a wide and varying selection of clothing at cheap prices. You can find everything from dresses, shoes, accessories, and more!
If you’re interested in making some money, Rumors also buys clothes for 35% cash or 55% store credit. However, they only buy items that are on-trend and do not buy outdated styles. Only light worn, stylish clothes or unique pieces will be looked at.
You may have to dig a bit more when thrifting but the good finds are always worth it!! I found my awesome vintage pair of glitter jelly shoes here! Look at the window rack in the front for some of their very own pieces. Rumors also sell some new items that are from their very own brand. (Though it is more expensive.)
There is so much more to do in Chapel Hill that I can name! Chapel Hill is home to the University of Chapel Hill which has the most beautiful campus. Plus, the North Carolina Botanical Garden resides in Chapel Hill.
If you end up checking out any of these places, please let me know! I’d love to hear if you enjoyed any of my recommendations. And if you live out of state… which place sounds most fun to you??
