The Research Triangle Region is home to numerous cultural and historic attractions. A sampling is provided here. For complete information on artistic, cultural, and historic attractions, contact one of the local Chambers of Commerce.
 Chatham | Moore |
| Durham | Orange |
| Franklin | Person |
| Granville | Vance |
| Harnett | Wake |
| Johnston | Warren |
| Lee |
Chatham County Attractions & Activities
B. Everett Jordan LakeJordan Lake is a man-made lake of more than 46,000 acres named for the former senator for North Carolina. It contributes to various attractions including water sports activities, quality fishing, and glimpses of the bald eagle. Fearrington Village Center
This 640-acre farm is famous for more than just its Belted Galloway dairy cows. The Fearrington House Restaurant and Country Inn is the only AAA Five Diamond award winner in North Carolina. The Fearrington Village consists of a variety of shops and restaurants reflecting a European charm. 919-542-2121 Festivals of Chatham County
Agricultural roots build the foundation for celebrations in Chatham County. These festivities include the three-day Siler City Chicken Festival, Silk Hope Old Fashioned Farmers Day, Flat Woods Festival in Bennett, the Pumpkin Festival in Goldston, the Deep River Park Festival in Gulf, the Haw River Festival, and the Pittsboro Street Fair helps the area draw crowds from miles around. Golf Courses
Siler City Country Club and the Governor's Club golf courses invite players to a more private, exclusive setting. The Siler City Country Club has an 18-hole facility. The Governor's Club features a 27-hole course designed by the great Jack Nicklaus. For more information on Chatham County attractions and activities please contact the Chatham County United Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-468-6242.
Durham County Attractions & Activities
American Dance FestivalThe festival is held at Duke University for 6 weeks each summer. Nationally renowned choreographers and dance companies gather for intensive classes, workshops, and performances (including world premieres) almost every evening. Recent participants have included Paul Taylor, Merce Cunningham and the Pilobolus Dance Company. 919-684-6402 Cameron Indoor Stadium
Home to the Duke Blue Devils Men's Basketball team. This indoor stadium seats a maximum of 9,314 people located on the campus of Duke University. 919-684-2120 Carolina Theater
This 1926 performance hall is a rich part of Durham's history - the last remaining of 13 original theatres in Durham. Lovingly restored, it is the only historic theatre in the country to boast as part of its complex two fully operating state-of-the-art cinemas and a video library. Fletcher Hall is the only live performance space of its beauty and intimacy in the Triangle. The Carolina Theatre's programs strive to unlock the imagination, challenge the mind and celebrate the rich diversity of our region through the cinematic and performing arts. The theatre is also a community gathering place that plays host to a number of special events from performances by regional artists to business meetings, wedding receptions, and United Way campaign celebrations. 919-560-3030 CenterFest
The weekend festival - the longest running of its kind in North Carolina - features high quality visual arts by more than 120 artists drawn from across the Southeast. A variety of performances on three stages provides the backdrop as families come to enjoy and participate in the arts. Great food is an important part of any festive happening, and CenterFest food vendors will be offering a tempting array of international flavors and traditional festival fare. 919-560-ARTS Chuck Davis' African-American Dance Ensemble
The AADE is a professional touring company of dancers and musicians whose mission is to preserve and share the finest traditions of African and African-American dance and music through research, education and entertainment. Led by founder Chuck Davis, the African-American Dance Ensemble performs on stages all over the area, showcasing traditional and contemporary West African steps. 919-560-2729 Durham Arts Council
The renovated Arts Council building downtown includes exhibit spaces and classrooms for arts instruction and theater, as well as performance space for local arts organizations.919-560-2787 Durham Blues Festival
A dynamic blues festival held each year to celebrate blues music. 1-800-845-9835 Durham Symphony
The Durham Symphony began in 1976 as an all-volunteer community orchestra, offering free concerts. The symphony was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1977. All musicians audition to perform with the orchestra, which is composed of professionally trained volunteers. Throughout its history, the DSO's mission has been to foster the appreciation of music through the production of high-quality music for and by the residents of Durham and surrounding communities. 919-560-2736 Festival for the Eno
The Festival for the Eno, now in its 21st year, has become a North Carolina Fourth of July tradition. The Festival has two purposes: first, to celebrate Independence Day, and second, to raise money to help purchase and protect parklands along the Eno River. This three-day, five stage event hosts musical performers, crafters, poets, authors, demonstrations and exhibits from all over North Carolina. The Festival is sponsored by the Eno River Association. 919-477-4549 North Carolina Museum of Life & Science
The newly expanded museum includes several outstanding science, technology, nature and environmental exhibits including the first American space capsule to orbit the earth, and a one-mile narrow gauge railroad passing through a 48-acre wildlife sanctuary. 919-220-5429 Sarah P. Duke Gardens
The extensive gardens and a native plant area are located on the grounds of Duke University. 919-684-3698 Wallace Wade Stadium
Home to the Duke Blue Devils Football team. Also includes an eight lane, synthetic rubber track surface and holds up to 35,000 people on the Duke University campus. It will also serve as the site for the 2000 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championship. 919-984-2120 For more information on Durham County attractions and activities please contact the Durham Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-446-8604.
Franklin County Attractions & Activities
Franklin County Arts CouncilThe Council serves as an "umbrella agency" for coordinating a diverse schedule of program throughout the year. These programs include dance, mime, drama, cinema-art, classical concerts, folk music and dance, and the sponsorship of artists-in-residence. 919-496-1191 Hill Ridge Farms
A 55-acre farm located 20 miles north of Raleigh in Youngsville. A recreational farm specializing in coordinating on site group and corporate outings, birthday parties and school field trips. Activities include: gem mining, petting barn, fish feeding docks, hayrides, and much, much more. 919-556-1771 Louisburg College
Louisburg College sponsors various concert and lecture series each year, such as the Folk Art Series and the Franklin County Arts Festival. 919-496-2521 Tar River Festival
Excitement is starting to build in Franklin County for the Annual Tar River Festival. Always on the third Saturday in September, downtown Louisburg and RiverBend Park is where you will want to be. This year expectations of over 20,000 people will come to enjoy rides, games, gem stone mining, pony rides, dancing, singing, crafts, informational booths and much more. We will have a 32 foot Carousel, pony rides, petting zoo, and other rides. Food will be plentiful with many vendors featuring their specialties. Entertainment is continuous and there will be performances by dance groups and dancers from local schools of dance. 919-496-3056 Whistler's Convention
Louisburg Junior College holds its national Whistler's Convention each April in Louisburg. This event has gained national notoriety and draws about 2,000 people. 919-496-3056 ZooFauna
Located just south of Youngsville on US 1A. Enjoy 30 plus acres of fun with hundreds of exoctic animals. Feed and pet baby animals in the petting barn. 919-562-8899 For more information on Franklin County attractions and activities please contact the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce at 919-496-3056.
Granville County Attractions and Activities
Blooming FestivalThe Blooming Festival is an annual spring time street festival, usually held the last Saturday in April. There is food, rides, entertainment, and arts & crafts available. 919-693-6125 Granville Arts Council
This council was chartered in 1977. It sponsors a yearly Performing Arts Series of music, drama and dance. The group also works with the school system to provide in-school performances, workshops and art exhibits. 919-693-6125 Granville County Museum and Harris Exhibit Hall
In addition to historical items on display, these facilities in Oxford offer traveling exhibitions on a variety of subjects, including science, arts, and culture. 919-693-5911 Granville Little Theatre
This volunteer group provides high-quality productions performed & managed by local residents. 919-693-6125 Kerr Reservoir
This 50,000-acre lake extends 39 miles up the Roanoke River. It is the perfect place to camp, fish, swim or boat. 252-438-2222 St. John's Day
The highlight of the year in Granville is St. John's Day in Oxford. In June each year, the Masons sponsor an all day gala event. The Masons feed the entire town of Oxford, plus thousands of other guests on the Children's Home grounds, which the Masons own and operate. 919-693-6125 For more information on Granville County attractions and activities please contact the Granville Economic Development Commission at 919-693-5911.
Harnett County Attractions and Activities
Annual Farmer's Day & Wagon TrainDuring the second week in October, this annual festival held in Coats, features arts, crafts, parade, street dance, pig cook-off, wagon train, and much more family entertainment. 910-897-6213 Averasboro Civil War Battleground
Historic markers outline the events of this March 1865 military action which highlights Lebanon, the 1825 plantation home used as a Confederate hospital, and the Chicora Cemetery, where the battle dead are buried. This battleground is included in the NC Civil War Trails. Reenactments of the battle are periodically held. 910-892-3282 Benson Mule Days
Held in Benson the fourth weekend in September in honor of the noted beast of burden. Events include mule pulling contests, rodeos, parade, blue grass music and clogging, and street dances. 910-894-3825 The Campbell House
The homeplace of James Archibald Campbell, founder of Campbell University, was built in 1890 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The home is used as a community meeting place and reception hall. 910-892-4113 Crepe Myrtle Celebration
This annual celebration, held the second weekend in September in nearby Angier, includes a golf tournament, crepe myrtle cuisine food tasting and judging, arts and crafts, food, entertainment, rides and fun for all ages. 919-639-2500 Denim Days
This celebration is held in nearby Erwin, "the Denim Capital of the World," the first weekend in October. It includes arts and crafts, car show, street dance, military displays and parachute jump, road race, children's games and loads of other entertainment. 910-897-7300 General William C. Lee Airborne Museum
The home of Dunn native Major General William C. Lee, "Father of the U.S. Army airborne" concepts and organization, is an early 20th century Neo-classical Revival house located at 209 W. Divine Street in Dunn. 910-892-1947 General William C. Lee Celebration
Held in Dunn during the first weekend of June to honor Dunn's hometown hero, General William C. Lee, "Father of the American Airborne". Festivities include a golf tournament, road race, pig cook-off, car show, veteran's breakfast and afternoon games, rides and entertainment in the park. 910-892-4113 Harnett County Indian Museum
Rustic museum includes a craft shop, artifact display and a log cabin, which highlights the early Harnett Indian villages and settler cabins, which once thrived along the Cape Fear River. 910-892-3282 Historic Summerville Presbyterian Church
Chartered in 1811 and built in 1845-1846, the church is maintained in its original architectural design and is the oldest building in Harnett County still used for its original purpose. The adjoining cemetery contains the grave of a mysterious stranger found dead beside the church steps. 910-892-4113 The Howard House
A Neo-Classical Revival house with a full-height portico built in 1908-1909 as a replica of the North Carolina building at the Jamestown Tri-centennial Exposition held in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1907. Maintained by the Dunn Women's Club, the home is on the National Register for Historic Places. It is located at 402 South Layton Avenue in Dunn's historic district. 910-892-4113 National Hollerin' Contest
Held in Spivey's Corner on the third Saturday in June, the contest features festive activities such as singing, dancing, games, arts and crafts, delicious food, and family entertainment. 910-892-4113 Old Bluff Church
Located off Highway 82, near the Averasboro Civil War Battleground, the church was formed in 1758. James Campbell, the first minister, was from Pennsylvania. The church discontinued activity in 1921, but is still home to annual homecomings held the 4th Sunday in September. 910-892-4113 Raven Rock State Park
Located nine miles west off U.S. Highway 421, the park features an immense crystalline structure rising 150 feet and stretching for more than a mile along the Cape Fear River. Experiencing the unspoiled, natural beauty of this 3,000-acre park through hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, camping, kayaking, picnicking and studying nature. 910-893-4888 For more information on Harnett County attractions and activities please contact the Harnett County Economic Development Commission at 910-893-7524.
Johnston County Attractions and Activities
Ava Gardner MuseumBorn on Christmas Eve, the Hollywood legend always looked forward to the holidays. The Ava Gardner Museum, located on South Third Street in Smithfield, welcomes the public to view her legacy on display in a vast collection from her career and celebrate the joyous season. 919-934-5830 Benson Mule Days
In Benson, the Mule is King...at least, he is on the fourth weekend in September during Benson's Mule Days celebration. Created to honor the noted beast of burden, the celebration is a more Wild West Rodeo than it is typical small town festival. A Southern tradition for nearly 50 years, this four-day festival is packed with mule pulling contests and rodeos, a street dance, a mule and horse parade, a barbecue cookoff, arts and crafts exhibits, and live entertainment, including bluegrass music and clogging. Benson's Mule Days has been recognized as one of the best festivals in the nation. 919-894-3825. Bentonville Battleground
The Battle of Bentonville, fought March 19-21, 1865, was the last full-scale action of the Civil War in which a Confederate army was able to mount a tactical offensive. This major battle, the largest ever fought in North Carolina, was the only significant attempt to defeat the large Union army of Gen. William T. Sherman during its march through the Carolinas in the spring of 1865. 910-594-0789 Clemmons Educational Forest
This forest offers a mix of pines and hardwood vegetation and a pleasant, rolling terrain. The well-marked trails have educational displays explaining the ecology of the forest. 919-553-5651 Ham & Yam Festival
Smithfield's street festival includes arts and crafts, exhibits, a carnival area, entertainment, rides and more. It is held each year in April. 919-934-0887 Tobacco Farm Life Museum
The museum recreates a way of life that is fast being forgotten. Exhibits and videos feature the lifestyle of tobacco farm families in the early 1900's with modern times. 919-284-3431 For more information on Johnston County attractions and activities please contact the Johnston County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-948-9381.
Lee County Attractions and Activities
Agricultural FairThis fair includes rides for young and old at heart, exhibit halls full of arts & crafts, clothing & needlecraft, fruits & vegetables, breads & cakes, poultry & livestock. 919-775-7341 Buffalo Presbyterian Church
The Scottish Highlanders founded this church in 1797. The present building states on the original site. It was built in 1880. 919-775-7341 Cumnock Bridge
Located at Deep River Park this bridge was originally constructed in Lillington in 1908 and moved to Cumnock in the early 1930's. The 160-foot bridge connects Chatham and Lee counties. 919-775-7341 Golf Courses
Conveniently located 25 miles north of the golfing Mecca of Pinehurst, Lee County has its own array of courses to choose from.
- Tobacco Road Golf Course was designed by Mike Strantz, the "Number One Architect in the World" and was voted "Top 10 You Can Play" in Golf Magazine. 877-284-3762
- Quail Ridge was designed in the late 60's under the consulting eye of Ellis Maples. A rolling terrain makes Quail Ridge different from other golf courses in the Sandhills area.
- 800-344-6276
- Sanford Golf Course is a Donald Ross original design. 919-775-8320
- Carolina Trace Country Club is member owned with two challenging Robert Trent Jones, Sr. courses. 800-898-2822
Founded in 1978 and serving Lee County and surrounding areas by "bringing arts to the community and the community to the arts". Many diverse groups receive funding or cultural guidance from this council including local choral groups, orchestras, artists, and theaters. 919-774-6139 Old Gilliam Mill
The mill, located on Big Pocket Creek, was built by Howell and John Gilliam in 1856. It is one of the largest grist and cotton mills in Central North Carolina. 919-775-7341 Pottery
Pottery has been a part of Lee County's heritage for many years because the clay found in the area made it an ideal location for early potters. Today, Lee County is the home to several potters, each individualizing their pieces with style, color, shape, and glaze. Railroad House Museum
The oldest house in Sanford, was originally built in 1872 for W.T. Tucker. He was designated by the House of Representatives to be Sanford's first mayor when the town was incorporated in 1874. 919-775-7341 Temple Theatre
This elegant movie and opera house located in Historic Downtown Sanford was built in 1925 and has been renovated. It is a professional theatre featuring programs and performances for all ages ranging from chamber music and jazz recitals to film and drama. The building has been designated a National Historic Site and stands as the cultural center of Lee County. 800-752-2765 For more information on Lee County attractions and activities please contact the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce at 919-775-7341.
Moore County Attractions and Activities
House in the HorseshoeBuilt around 1772, this plantation home shows the highlights of 18th century architecture. Annual events include a Revolutionary War Battle Reenactment the first weekend in August and a Christmas Open House. 910-947-2051 Jugtown/Seagrove
Visit some of the best potters in the nation, including Jugtown Pottery, Ben Owen Pottery, J.B. Cole Pottery and the Potter's Museum. This area is famous for its hand-thrown pottery and dishware. 910-692-4222 Malcom Blue Farm
Built around 1825, this farm features a farmhouse and barns, the old gristmill and a wooden water tower. Annual events include the Historic Crafts and Skills Festival the last weekend of September and the Christmas Open House on the second Sunday of December. 910-944-7685 Moore County Arts Council
The Arts Council of Moore County (ACMC) is a not-for-profit organization celebrating over 25 years of promoting awareness and appreciation of the arts in Moore County, North Carolina. By offering quality programs and services in the performing, visual and literary arts to residents of all ages, ACMC fulfills its mission: "Art for Everyone! Encourage, Create & Participate!" 910-692-4356 Pinehurst Resort and County Club
Many famous golfers including Nelson, Zaharis, Hagan, Jones, Hogan, Snead and Palmer have played this world-renown golfing resort. The resort hosted the Men's U.S. Open in 1999. Future plans include hosting the Women's U.S. Open in 2001 and the Men's U.S. Open again in 2005. 800-659-4653 Sandhills Horticultural Gardens-Sir Walter Raleigh Gardens
On the campus of the Sandhills Community College, this series of gardens include: the Ebersole Holly Collection, a specialized Confir Garden, the Sir Walter Raleigh Garden, which is a formal English garden, and the Desmond Wetland Trail. 910-695-3882 Shaw House/Garner House
The Shaw House is an ante-bellum house and is a prime example of the study simplicity of many of the 19th Century homes. Built around 1840 by Charles C. Shaw, this home is the office of the Moore County Historical Society. It is open Wednesday - Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The Garner House was built around 1770. This home features wideboard heart pine paneling, hand-forged hinges and board doors. Hours vary by season. 910-692-2051 Town Creek Indian Mound
Used by the Muskhogean speaking Indians of the Pee Dee area approximately 300 years ago, this ceremonial burial site has been archaeologically restored and offers a museum containing many relics of the past. 910-439-6802 Weymouth Center
The first James Boyd came to Southern Pines around the turn of the century from Pennsylvania where he was involved with the railroad and coal industries. He purchased 1,200 acres with an estate that included stables, tennis courts, gardens and a nine-hole golf course. He named his estate "Weymouth" because it reminded him of Weymouth in England. 910-692-6261 For more information on Moore County attractions and activities please contact the Sandhills Chamber of Commerce at 910-692-4222.
Orange County Attractions and Activities
Ackland MuseumThe Ackland Art Museum was founded through the bequest of William Hayes Ackland (1855-1940) to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Today, the museum exhibits from a permanent collection of more than 14,000 works of art from around the world. The Ackland's holdings are particularly rich in Old Master paintings and sculptures by artists such as Degas, Rubens and Pissarro; Indian miniatures; Japanese paintings; North Carolina folk art; and prints, drawings and photographs. In addition, the museum exhibits four to six temporary loan exhibitions annually. 919-406-9837 ArtsCenter
The ArtsCenter's intimate 300-seat theater offers a wide variety of musical and theatrical events throughtout the year, including plays, family shows, dances, and traditional blues, pop, world music, folk, and jazz concerts. 919-929-2787 Ayr Mount
Ayr Mount (ca. 1815) is one of North Carolina's finest Federal-era plantation houses. It has been carefully restored and exquisitely furnished with period antiques and fine art. Decorative arts enthusiasts and lovers of architecture and historic landscapes will enjoy this unique setting. 919-732-6886 Carolina PlayMakers Repertory Company
NC's only full-season, non-profit, professional theater. PlayMakers unites students in the conservatory training program at UNC-CH with professional actors in quality performances. The company performs in the Paul Green Theatre, a stunningly contemporary, state-of-the-art facility with superb acoustics, comfortably seating 500 patrons. 919-962-7529 Coker Arboretum (UNC Campus)
The Coker Arboretum, a quiet haven in the busy University of North Carolina campus, is the heart of one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation. It is the oldest of the Garden's tracts. In 1903, Dr. William Chambers Coker, the University's first Professor of Botany and the first chair of the University Buildings and Grounds Committee, began developing a five-acre boggy pasture into an outdoor University classroom for the study of trees, shrubs, and vines native to North Carolina. Beginning in the 1920s and continuing through the 1940s, Dr. Coker added many East Asian trees and shrubs. These species, closely related counterparts to many North Carolina native plants, enhanced the beauty and educational value of the Arboretum. Examples of conifers and extensive displays of daffodils and daylilies are located here as well. 919-962-0522 Dean E. Smith Center Complex (UNC)
The Dean E. Smith Center Complex opened in January 1986 and includes the Dean E. Smith Center and Koury Natatorium. The Smith Center is the third largest on-campus arena in the country, with a seating capacity of 21,572 for basketball games and 21,444 for concerts. This facility is the most widely known college basketball facility and houses the most successful basketball program, University of North Carolina Tar Heels, in the country. When basketball is out of season, it hosts other forms of entertainment like singers, sporting events, and comedy acts for fans across North Carolina. The Koury Natatorium, an Olympic-size pool facility, is home to the North Carolina Swimming and Diving teams. This facility has hosted nine ACC Championships and several national and international meets. This Complex also provides the offices of the UNC Athletics Department, Educational Foundation Office, UNC Sports Information Office, Athletic Director's Office, Men's Basketball Office, and the Operations/Facilities Offices. 919-962-7777. Horace Williams House
Only historic house in Chapel Hill that is open to the public. Also features changing art exhibits in its octagon wing plus chamber music throughout the house. 919-942-7818. Kenan Memorial Stadium (UNC)
Kenan Memorial Stadium is one of the most beautiful grass-turf sports venues in the nation, where the University of North Carolina Tar Heels football teams have played since 1927. Having undergone several major additions over the years, the stadium now seat 60,000+ people. It is nestled among the tall pines near the center or the Carolina campus. One national sports magazine rated Kenan Stadium one of the five best places in America to watch a college football game because of its atmosphere, scenery and charm. It also features the Hall of Honors, the Heavner Theater for football archives, display cases of historic artifacts, interactive kiosks, video presentations and vintage photographs. 919-962-1076. Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower (UNC Campus)
The tower, designed by McKim, Mead & White and given to the University in 1931 by cousins John Motley Morehead III and Rufus Lenoir Patterson, is 172 feet tall and stands 200 feet above the campus. Its 10-bell carillon calls students to classes, provides twilight music and serenades crowds departing the adjacent Kenan Memorial Stadium. 919-962-1630. Morehead Planetarium
The Morehead Planetarium, one of the largest planetariums in the United States, is located on the north end of the campus of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Morehead Planetarium Building and grounds, complete with a 68-foot, domed Star Theater and Zeiss Model VI Star Projector, scientific exhibits and classrooms, 24-inch Cassegrain reflecting telescope and observation decks, Visitor's Center, art galleries, rose gardens and the massive sundial were built for students of all ages with all interests. 919-962-1236 N.C. Botanical Gardens
The North Carolina Botanical Garden is the largest natural botanical garden in the southeast. Consisting of 600 acres of preserved land, it includes nature trails, carnivorous plant collections, aquatics and herb gardens. Collections of North Carolina and southeastern plants are arranged by habitats in simulated natural settings. 919-962-0522 North Carolina Collection Gallery (UNC)
Housed in specially designed facilities in the Louis Round Wilson Library, the North Carolina Collection preserves an incomparable assemblage of literary, visual, and artifactual materials illustrating four centuries of the colony and state of North Carolina. Its uniqueness is explained by a distinguished history of missionary zeal, unwavering leadership, and citizen support. The North Carolina Collection traces its origins back to the establishment of the North Carolina Historical Society, organized in 1844 by University President David L. Swain. Today more than 120,000 books and 78,000 pamphlets form the core of the North Carolina Collection, but these formats are supplemented by newspapers, journals, maps, broadsides, photographs, audiovisuals, microforms, and other materials. The Curator of the Collection is Robert G. Anthony, Jr. 919-962-1172 Old Chapel Hill Cemetery
Recently placed on the National Register of Historic Places in June 1995. The cemetery land was given as a land grant to the University of North Carolina by the State of North Carolina. The land encompassed 125 acres, and was sold for five shillings on October 21, 1776. The cemetery currently covers 6.98 acres. The first recorded burial was George Clarke, a Burke County student at the university, who passed away September 28, 1798. His headstone was not placed until several years later. By January 28, 1994, 1,621 burials had been performed. The cemetery is now almost full, and all of the plots have already been bought. In 1922, the town took over responsibility for maintaining the cemetery, and in 1988, the ownership changed over to the University. 919-967-7075 Old Orange County Courthouse
Designed and built by John Berry in 1844-45. Outstanding example of Greek Revival architecture with details of woodwork and stair brackets from Asher-Benjamin's pattern book. The courthouse is still in operation for county judicial business. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in June of 1971. Orange County Historical Museum
Museum exhibits the first hundred years of Orange County's history, which includes the collection of silversmith William Huntington; Colonial weights and measures-the only complete set in the US and portraits of notable Colonial figures. 919-732-2201. Orange County Speedway
Orange County Speedway is one of the fastest 3/8-mile paved ovals in the nation. The high-banked, wide turns make for fast, close competitive racing action. 336-364-1222. For more information on Orange County attractions and activities please contact the Orange County Economic Development Commission at 919-245-2325.
Person County Attractions and Activities
Burleigh PlantationThe Burleigh Plantation is located off the Semora Road near Hyco Lake. The current owner of the plantation is a descendant of the original owners. The home was built around 1830, consisting of eight rooms, four on each floor. The plantation consists of several remaining buildings; kitchen and laundry, carriage house, smoke house, pump house, floored slave house and an overseer's house. The plantation is not open to the public. 336-599-8333 Hyco Lake
Hyco Lake's 65-acre recreational park includes 58 campsites, five public boat ramps, a swimming area, public picnic grounds and shelters. Many beautiful permanent and vacation homes lie on Hyco's shores, most with private docks and immediate access to the water. Mayo Lake
Mayo Lake offers a somewhat different focus, with its two-lane boat ramp and its designation as North Carolina wildlife game land. This area is a fisherman's delight. 336-597-1752 Person-ality
On the weekend after Labor Day, Person County has its annual community festival, Person-ality. Attractions include crafts and arts displays, a wide variety of concessions, musical entertainment and live performances for children and adults. 336-599-8333 Person County Arts Council
The Person County Arts Council sponsors a popular Artist Series, quality educational programming in the schools, crafts classes for children and adults, and a juried art show. The Art Council has a calendar of events that range from plays for children to orchestras such as the Glen Miller Band. 336-599-8333 Person County Museum of History
Chartered in October 1992, as a result of the popular Person Co. Bicentennial celebration. For the first several years, the Museum was located in the "Old Post Office" building on S. Main St. in Roxboro. The museum is now located in the lovely and historic "Kitchen House". The house was built in 1901 for William Walton Kitchen. Collections on display at the museum are the Madeline Hall Eaker Research and Conference Room, Ms. Bessie Daniel Center, Two men from Person Co. who wore on the Titanic, Enos Slaughter Baseball Hall of Fame Center, Longhurst/Cavel Room, the War Room, Instruments belonging to Dr. David Long, Victorian Parlor, Dining Room and Bedroom. The Museum also features interesting displays of local commerce, health, education, entertainment, and daily life in Person Co. over the course of 200 years. In the museum village surrounding the house are the following buildings: a Tobacco Museum, Drs. William and John H. Merritt's original Medical Office, R.B. Brooks General Store and post office which now houses an extensive family doll collection, and the 1810 Van Hook Subscription School which is the oldest intact school in the state of North Carolina. 336-599-8333 Roxboro Country Club Golf Course
For the golf enthusiast, the county is home to a well manicured, 18 hole, par 70 semi-private golf course. In addition to this excellent year-round course, the Roxboro Country Club manages a modern clubhouse, tennis courts and a spacious pool. 336-599-2332 For more information on Person County attractions and activities please contact the Person County Economic Development Commission at 336-597-1752.
Vance County Attractions and Activities
ColorfestEach September, the Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce holds Colorfest in downtown Henderson. The festival is reminiscent of street fairs of the past, with crafts, food and art. Live entertainment and other activities are also part of the festival. 252-492-8231 Concert in the Park
Every Memorial Day weekend, a special concert in the park is held at Satterwhite Point on Kerr Lake. 252-438-2222 Independence Day Celebration
Everyone comes to Satterwhite Point and Bullocksville Park to view the fireworks on the 4th of July. 252-438-2222 Kerr Lake
Kerr Lake is also known as "50,000 acres of fun." As the largest lake in the state, it contains 800 miles of shoreline and 7 state parks with 2 marinas. People enjoy the lake by sailing, water-skiing, fishing and swimming. The lake has ample supplies of largemouth and striped bass, as well as crappie, catfish and bream to tempt cane poles and corks. More than four million people visit the lake each year. 252-438-2222 Parade of Lights
On Labor Day weekend, a lighted boat parade commences. The boats are decorated in themes of their choice. A competition is held for the best decorated boat. Fireworks light up the sky and reflect in the water after the winners are announced. 252-438-2222 For more information on Vance County attractions and activities please contact Vance County Tourism at 252-438-2222.
Wake County Attractions and Activities
ArtsPlosureNow in its 21st year, Artsplosure continues to showcase unique and impressive artists from across the country, along with exceptional local talent. Artsplosure's commitment to bringing art and the community together is exemplified every year by the Spring Art Festival, which attracts some 75,000 people to Raleigh. 919-832-8699 ArtSpace
A downtown renovation project, offering 26,000 square feet of studio and gallery space to working visual and performing artists. Visitors can tour the gallery and studios while the artists are working, providing an opportunity to talk to the creators about their work. 919-821-2787 Carolina Ballet
The Carolina Ballet, Inc. aspires to be one of America's premier arts organizations. Under the innovative direction of Artistic Director Robert Weiss, a talented company with fiscally responsible management and community support, the Carolina Ballet, Inc. exposes audiences to traditional ballets by legendary masters and new works by inventive choreographers. The inaugural season represented the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and ever increasing quality of life in Raleigh and the Triangle region of North Carolina. 919-363-7728 NC Museum of Art
The museum moved, in 1983, to a modern 164-acre site in West Raleigh. While known for its collection of European masters, the museum presents 12 to 15 exhibitions each year, including work by contemporary artists. A wide range of classes, workshops, films and lectures are offered for children and adults.919-839-6262 NC Museum of History
The North Carolina Museum of History Division promotes the understanding of the history and material culture of North Carolina for the educational benefit of North Carolinians. Through collections and historical interpretation, its museums encourage citizens and visitors to explore and understand the past; to reflect on their own lives and their place in history; and to preserve state, regional, and local history for future generations. 919-715-0200 NC Symphony
The nation's first state-supported symphony (since 1932), the 68-member symphony performs Classical, "Pops," Young People's concerts on Saturday mornings, outdoor "Summerfest" concerts in Cary, special performances of "The Nutcracker" with the NC School of the Arts' dance department and "The Messiah" with the Raleigh Oratorio Society. The symphony is based in Raleigh's Memorial Auditorium. There are 55 performances annually in the Research Triangle region area, with an additional 200 performances and 70 educational concerts statewide each year. 919-733-2750 North Carolina Theatre
A professional theater, established in 1972, brings productions of large-scale Broadway musicals to the area. The theater holds auditions in New York and North Carolina, giving local performers the opportunity to be paid and to work with seasoned professionals. Raleigh Little Theatre and Rose Garden
Established in 1936, the Raleigh Little Theatre is now expanding with private contributions and assistance from the city. Offerings include several performances each year, as well as classes for children and adults. The theater annually features more than 150 performances of 14 various productions. 919-821-4579 Raleigh Oratorio Society
Founded in 1941 as a non-profit association, the mission of the Raleigh Oratorio Society is to perform fine choral music, to promote the choral art, and to enrich the cultural life of the singers, audience, artistic community, and the community at large. The Raleigh Oratorio Society's 160-voice symphonic choir presents three performances each season. One concert is usually presented with the North Carolina Symphony as a part of the Symphony's Raleigh Classical Series. For other concerts in the series, ROS draws the orchestral ensemble from the North Carolina Symphony. 919-856-9700 Theatre in the Park
Theatre in the Park is a city-supported performing arts center located in Raleigh, North Carolina specifically, in the northern end of Pullen Park. In its twenty-five year history, Theatre in the Park has earned a reputation as one of our state's most exciting and innovative theatre centers.Theatre in the Park annually presents a wide range of productions in its intimate and totally flexible performance space. The best in comedy, musicals, Shakespeare and contemporary drama is offered during our Mainstage season. Theatre In The Park is second only to the celebrated Louisville Actor's Theatre in original works presented, having premiered over forty original plays, two of which toured off Broadway. 919-831-6058 Walnut Creek Amphitheater
An outdoor amphitheater on 212 acres with a seating capacity of 20,000-7,000 of which is theater-style seating under cover-Walnut Creek features several concerts each week during the spring, summer and fall of nationally renowned artists such as Lauren Hill, Bare Naked Ladies, Tom Petty and many others. 919-831-6400 For more information on Wake County attractions and activities please contact the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce at 919-664-7000.
Warren County Attractions and Activities
Kerr LakeKerr Lake's 50,000 acres of sparkling water with 800 miles of shoreline is NC's 6th largest tourist attraction, providing plenty of room for relaxation, water sports, and good spots for anglers to hook largemouth and striped bass. Two NC State Recreation Areas, Kimball Point and County Line, are located in Warren County, with campgrounds, boat launching, public swimming areas and covered pavilions for large gatherings. Lafayette' Tour
The 173-mile tour, part of the NC scenic byways program, takes motorists through several of the communities that General Lafayette, hero of the American and French Revolutions, visited on his 1825 tour of the United States. The western end of the tour passes through the town of Warrenton and Warren County. Brochure: 252-257-3114 Lake Gaston Seafood Festival
A dinner's annual delight in October along the shores of Lake Gaston, sponsored by the local Lion's Club. This cornucopia of music, dancing and seafood awaits thousands of hungry visitors. 252-586-5711 Lake Gaston
Lake Gaston measures 20,000 acres with approximately 250 miles of shoreline. The water of Lake Gaston has officially been classified "A-2," the highest rating in the eastern United States. One can fish, swim, sail, or water-ski on the lake, while golfing, camping and other recreation opportunities area available near the lake. The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center
The Lakeland Cultural Arts Center is located 15 miles east of Warrenton and features a full season of plays and dinner theater, from Shakespeare to Broadway musicals. Instructional programs and many other cultural activities are also offered. 877-330-0574 Norlina Fireman's Fall Festival
A fun-filled day on the first Saturday in October. The festival features arts, crafts and antique cars. Music and foods of the harvest season also fill the atmosphere. 252-257-3114 Walking Tour of Warrenton
The Town of Warrenton was created in 1779. Trademen, professional people and the wealthy planter gave the county seat a sense of sophistication while its lawyers contributed much to the growth of NC. Warrenton was home to many notable early Americans, including Horace Greeley, the Bragg Brothers, and John A. Hyman, NC's first African American congressman. By the early 1800's, works of carpenter Jacob Holt and masons Edward Rice and Francis Woodson were seen throughout the town. Over 90 percent of the downtown area is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Many antique shops scattered along Main Street and throughout the county enhance the historic appeal for visitors. Brochure and information about area events and house tours, please call 252-257-3114. For more information on Warren County attractions and activities, please call the Warren County Economic Development Commission at 252-257-3114.