Arrowhead Inn, Durham, NC

Relax On a Historic Plantation Estate

by Brittney Storm | June 23, 2010

If you are visiting the Durham area and want to forgo a hotel in favor of something a more unique, The Arrowhead Inn is the perfect place to get away from it all.  The Arrowhead, a bed and breakfast located just 15 minutes from downtown Durham, is formerly a historic plantation estate, built in 1775.  Restored and renovated to include all the amenities of a fine hotel, the Arrowhead Inn is situated on six acres of …

Fourth of July Celebration, Raleigh, NC

Free Fireworks and Entertainment at N.C. State Fairgrounds

by Brittney Storm | June 21, 2010

The City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department are hosting a Fourth of July Celebration on Sunday, July 4, at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds.  Admission, activities, parking and entertainment are free of charge and will take place from 5-8:30 p.m. Fireworks will begin at 9:15 p.m. 

Activities include sports challenges, hat making, craft activities, Wii games, carnival style games, big truck display, paper airplanes and live music.

Entertainers include Lille Bronze, …

Crabtree Valley Mall, Raleigh, NC

Indulge In Retail Therapy at Raleigh's Largest Mall

by Brittney Storm | June 20, 2010

When Raleigh residents need a little retail therapy, they visit the Crabtree Valley Mall, located just off I-440, the Inner Beltline, on Glenwood Avenue.  The mall was built more than 35 years ago and since then has become one of the largest malls in the Southeast.  The mall is home to a great mix of  department stores, popular retails chains (Banana Republic, The Gap, Ann Taylor, J. Crew, for example), boutiques (Francesca's), luxury …

Carolina Brewery, Chapel Hill, NC

Oldest Brewery In The Triangle

by Brittney Storm | June 14, 2010

When you are visiting the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area, you have to stop by the Triangle area's oldest brewery, Carolina Brewery, located on Franklin Street in Chapel Hill and in Pittsboro.  The Carolina Brewery was founded in 1995 and will celebrate its 15th anniversary this year. 

Carolina Brewery is casual upscale and locally owned, and has won numerous awards for its handcrafted beer, including Flagship IPA (Gold Medal, Great American Beer Festival), Copperline Amber …

The Carolina Basketball Museum, Chapel Hill, NC

A Tribute To All Things Carolina Basketball

by Brittney Storm | June 09, 2010

If you are a Tar Heel basketball fan, the Carolina Basketball Museum is a must-visit.  (Full disclosure: I'm a UNC alum and a huge fan).  Located on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus on the first floor of the Ernie Williamson Athletics Center, the museum is a tribute to all things Carolina basketball.  The Williamson Center is adjacent to the Smith Center and Koury Natatorium on Skipper Bowles …

Raleigh Golf Association, Raleigh, NC

Walker-Friendly Course For All Levels of Experience

by Brittney Storm | June 07, 2010

The Raleigh Golf Association's course is the second-oldest in the Raleigh area and is located at 1527 Tryon Road in Raleigh.  The course has 18 holes open to the public and nine holes that are private, but open to the public at certain times.  The course was redesigned by David Postlethwaite in 1998 and hosts a variety of league play, fundraising and corporate events.  It is also a popular destination for seniors, women …

Locopops, Durham, NC

Handcrafted, Locally-Made Gourmet Frozen Pops

by Brittney Storm | June 06, 2010

Locopops, a gourmet frozen pop shop that first opened in Durham in 2005, is now located throughout the Triangle, with stores in Durham, Raleigh and Chapel Hill, plus several satellite locations.  All shops are open daily from 12-9 p.m. 

Locopops offers a wide variety of handcrafted pops from fresh, seasonal ingredients, separated into two categories: paletas de crema (dairy-based, ice cream on a stick) and paletas de agua (water-based, sorbet …

The Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill, NC

The University's Living Room

by Brittney Storm | May 31, 2010

The Carolina Inn, located in Chapel Hill, is fondly known as the "University's Living Room."  Located right on the edge of campus, the historic hotel is known for its southern charm, fine dining and top-notch service.  The inn was built in 1924 by UNC alumnus John Sprunt Hill.  He specified that after expenses were paid, all profits be donated to the university's library.

The Carolina Inn offers plenty of unique spaces for …

North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, NC

Take a Day Trip for Big Adventures

by Brittney Storm | May 24, 2010

The North Carolina Zoo, located just 75 miles from Raleigh, makes the perfect day trip destination when you are visiting the Triangle area.  Recognized as one of the best zoos nationally, the North Carolina Zoo is home to more than 1,100 animals and 40,000 plants.  Stroll along the zoo's five miles of shaded pathways and explore the wide variety of wildlife this zoo has to offer. 

The zoo is spaced out so …

The Lumina Theatre, Chapel Hill, NC

Outdoor Movies on the Village Green

by Brittney Storm | May 23, 2010

Take your family or friends to the movies this summer, but with a twist—see the show outdoors!  Many people love spending their summers at the movie theater—it is a great activity that the whole family can agree on.  The Lumina Theatre in Chapel Hill's Southern Village offers outdoor movies on the village green on Friday and Saturday nights in the summer months. 

All movies begin at sundown and …

Jordan Lake State Park, Apex, NC

Celebrate Memorial Day By the Water

by Brittney Storm | May 17, 2010

In addition to remembering those who have served our country, Memorial Day weekend also offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. What better way to ring in the start of summer than to spend the day with your family, friends and loved ones than on the lake? 

Whether you are a water sports enthusiast, a master griller, or just want to pack a picnic and relax in the …

Yogurt Pump, Chapel Hill, NC

Guilt-Free Treats in Chapel Hill

by Brittney Storm | May 16, 2010

Ask any Chapel Hill student or local for the best place to get ice cream on Franklin Street and their answer might surprise you since it isn't technically ice cream. Yogurt Pump, a tiny frozen yogurt shop tucked away behind a pizza shop, is hands down the most popular "ice cream" joint in town. 

You will typically find lines out the door, if not down the sidewalk, but don't let the wait …

William B. Umstead State Park, Raleigh, NC

A Peaceful Haven Near the City

by Brittney Storm | May 10, 2010

If you are looking for a quick camping getaway near the Raleigh area, the William B. Umstead State Park has plenty to offer. The park is close to Raleigh, Durham, Cary and Research Triangle Park, so whether you are on a business trip, traveling through the area with family or live in a nearby state and are looking for a camping trip close to the city, this park is a great option. 

Hike …

Spanky’s Restaurant and Bar, Chapel Hill, NC

Great Food on Franklin Street's Busiest Corner

by Brittney Storm | May 09, 2010

Spanky's Restaurant and Bar is located on one of Franklin Street's busiest corners and features some the best sandwiches and entrees you can find in Chapel Hill.  With caricatures of local celebrities (think Roy Williams, Mia Hamm and Michael Jordan) lining the exposed brick walls and plenty of seats both upstairs and downstairs, you have plenty to enjoy while waiting for your food. 

Spanky's has been a Chapel Hill institution since 1977 …

The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Cary, NC

Nature and Nurture For Total Relaxation

by Brittney Storm | May 03, 2010

If you are looking for a spa in the Raleigh/Durham area, you have likely heard of The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary.  Arguably one of the most famous spas in North Carolina, The Umstead is regularly featured in national publications as one of the most luxurious spas in the country.  It is situated on a three-acre lake and combines natural surroundings with nearly every spa treatment you can imagine in a professional …

Elmo’s Diner, Carrboro and Durham, NC

Comfort Food in a Friendly Atmosphere

by Brittney Storm | May 02, 2010

If you are looking for comfort food, Elmo’s Diner is the place to go.  With locations in both Durham and right outside of Chapel Hill in Carrboro, this locally-owned diner serves breakfast all day, as well as a fantastic lunch, dinner, and homemade desserts. With exposed brick walls, a year-round outdoor patio and one of the friendliest staffs in the Triangle, Elmo’s is the perfect place to relax with …

Vin Rouge, Durham, NC

Enjoy Indoor or Outdoor Dining at this French Bistro

by Ashley Kappel | April 29, 2010

Join Executive Chef Matt Kelly for a tour through an authentic French bistro located in the heart of Durham. Whether you're looking for a romantic, intimate dinner; a gathering for friends; or a way to show off the Triangle's best dining, Vin Rouge has just what you're looking for. The open-kitchen environment and warm, friendly wooden tables are reminiscent of eating in grandma's kitchen, so long as grandma lives in the South of …

The Pit, Raleigh, NC

Never tried Eastern-NC Barbecue? Prepare to become a believer.

by Brittney Storm | April 26, 2010

When friends and family come to visit the Raleigh/Durham area, the one place I tell them not to miss is The Pit, located in downtown Raleigh.

The Pit has been featured on The Food Network and its owner, Ed Mitchell, (who’s the stuff of barbecue legend) beat Bobby Flay in a barbecue cook-off.  The reason I love The Pit is simple—it’s THE place to go for a taste …

Allen and Son Pit-Cooked Bar-B-Q, Chapel Hill, NC

Stop in for Home Cookin' and Good Company

by Ashley Kappel | April 26, 2010

Whether you're in the Durham area for the day or just passing through on I-40, plan your trip around a stop at Allen & Son. My husband, an Atlanta boy, and I, an Alabama girl, are barbecue die-hards. We held the welcome dinner for our wedding weekend at the best barbecue joint in town, which just happens to have a front as a gas station (it keeps the fake 'cue seekers at bay). When we're …

Durham Museum of Life & Science, Durham, NC

Lemurs, Rockets, and Dinosaur Bones.... Oh My!

by Ashley Kappel | April 22, 2010

I took a few kids I baby-sit to the Museum of Life & Science in Durham, where we spent an entire morning aiming lasers at space stations, flying in a rocket, folding origami frogs, and dancing across a music room. It wasn't until it was time to go that I realized that I'd missed most of the museum, which is outside. I kid you not, if you have children (or nieces, or nephews, …

Carolina Mudcats, Zebulon, NC

Take Your Family Out for a Bargain

by Ashley Kappel | April 19, 2010

We've got a secret for you. Did you know that a family of four can still enjoy a night out for less than $30? It's true. Grab your kids and head to a Carolina Mudcats game, where General Admission is $6, kids get mega discounts (free under age 3, $3 for kids 4-6), and there's always something fun going on between innings. Toddler races, kids running the bases, and meet-and-greets with the players. …

World Beer Festival, Raleigh, NC

Bring Your "Must Love Beer" Attitude

by Ashley Kappel | April 15, 2010

For the fifth year in a row, All About Beer Magazine is hosting the World Beer Festival in Raleigh. Over 250 world-class beers? Check. Educational seminars? Check. Drinking beer during those seminars? Check! Drinking beer at a festival whose proceeds go to support local ventures such as Artsplosure? Double check.

Head to one of the two sessions: afternoon (12 - 4) or evening (6 - 10). Tickets are $40 for general admission …

Artspace, Raleigh, NC

A great spot for art, music, and more

by Ashley Kappel | April 12, 2010

Artspace is one of Raleigh's artistic gems. Whether you're interested in taking classes, listening to fun and inspired music, or perusing the latest exhibition in one of the two galleries, Artspace has something to suit every taste, desire, and artistic whimsy.

Visit before May 1 to catch New Works, the annual juried exhibition of artwork from Artspace Artists Association members. Members are encouraged to submit and display their most current and innovative …

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC

Grab Your Budding Scientists and Natural Lovers and Get to Raleigh Today

by Ashley Kappel | April 08, 2010

Do you have a curator in the making living in your home? A tot who begs to visit the zoo every week? A tween who is obsessed with what's going on under the dirt in the backyard? Make their days and plan a trip to Raleigh's Museum of Natural Sciences, where you'll find approximately 1.8 million examples of North Carolina's best zoology, geology, and paleontology.

Head for the Mammals section, …

North Carolina Botanical Gardens, Chapel Hill, NC

Welcome Spring with a Day in a Beautiful Garden

by Ashley Kappel | April 05, 2010

Plant fiends, unite! The North Carolina Botanical Garden offers a wealth of native-North Carolina plants just waiting for your springtime visit. Visit the display gardens, the Trotten Center, and many natural areas. The best part? It's free.

The Gardens are a lot more than just plants. Check out what's happening this April:

Blazing-Stars: After-School Nature Club (April 6)

Botanical Illustration: Advanced Watercolor, the first of a four-class series …

Mint Indian Cuisine, Chapel Hill, NC

Dig Into Delicious Indian Food Just Minutes from the UNC Campus

by Ashley Kappel | April 01, 2010

As you may have noticed, food is very important to me. I'm not picky-- it can be any cuisine in any style restaurant at most any price range just so long as it's delicious. When I moved to Durham, I got a craving for Indian food (amazing as I'd only sampled it once in my life). My husband did a little research and the advice was unanimous. Get to Mint in Chapel Hill! …

Duke Chapel, Durham, NC

Tour One of the State's Most Beautiful Churches

by Ashley Kappel | March 29, 2010

There are churches and then there are churches. If I blindfolded you, spun you around, and hid you in a small space for eight hours before taking you into the Duke Chapel, you'd believe that I'd dropped you into a European cathedral someplace deep in the heart of Italy.

Architecture nuts will love it; the Chapel was built in the neo-Gothic style with an English influence. Pointed arches, ribbed vaults, …

Nana’s, Durham, NC

Old World Meets New World at this European-Inspired Eatery

by Ashley Kappel | March 25, 2010

"Great food." "Nice atmosphere." "Amazing wine list." All answers to the all-but-redundant question, "Why do you love going to Nanas?"

The decor sets the stage for the menu. Deep hardwoods and classic lines bring out the best of Old World (much like the chef's use of delicious local ingredients), while the brushed steel columns and bar tops add a pop of New World style, a factor you'll note in the chef's unique …

Parker and Otis, Durham, NC

Eat Lunch, Shop for Gifts, and Sip Wine at this Hidden Durham Gem

by Ashley Kappel | March 22, 2010

Imagine the best way you can imagine to shop for that friend who has everything. What if you could go someplace that had a selection of gourmet coffees and chocolates, candy-themed games for kids, and ice cube trays shaped like Space Invaders? Sound good? What if I told you that it was possible to do all this fabulous shopping while sipping a glass of wine? Bingo! This wonderful place may just inspire you …

BUNS, Chapel Hill, NC

Grab a Burger at Chapel Hill's Best Late-Night Spot

by Ashley Kappel | March 18, 2010

It's a question for the ages: Does that burger that you're craving at 2am on Saturday night taste nearly as good if you eat it for lunch on Sunday? The answer, at least for Chapel Hill's favorite burger joint, BUNS, is absolutely yes.

There are a million reasons to eat at BUNS. Their burgers (veggie, beef or turkey) are made right in front of you and cooked to order. Get …

Taqueria La Vaquita, Durham, NC

This blink-and-you'll-miss-it Mexican eatery is a must-stop.

by Ashley Kappel | March 11, 2010

When my husband said we were going out to dinner, I dropped what I was working on and ran to change. When I came back, he eyed my skirt-and-boots combo and said, "I think you may have misunderstood me."

He knows I love Mexican food, so when he heard about a place with top-notch tacos and huge burritos, he knew this would be a great spot for our next date night. "Trust me," he …

James Joyce, Durham, NC

Sample the Best of the Irish at the James Joyce this St. Patrick's Day

by Ashley Kappel | March 08, 2010

St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner. Take this year's inspiring Irish holiday to get back to your green roots and head to James Joyce, Durham's favorite Irish pub and restaurant. It opens at 11:30 am Monday-Saturday and at noon on Sunday, so you're sure to find yourself with fellow would-be Irishmen kicking the lunch hour off right with an early celebration. Stick around until 10 pm on Friday and Saturday nights, …

Watts Grocery, Durham, NC

Eat Local at One of Durham's Tastiest Restaurants

by Ashley Kappel | March 04, 2010

Don't let the name fool you; Watts Grocery is anything but. If you go expecting to pick up a dozen eggs and a loaf of bread, you will be sorely mistaken. If, however, you go to sample some of the finest (and most locally grown) food in the area, your appetite will do a happy dance upon pulling into the worn parking lot.

Grab a few friends and head to Watts Grocery. …

Duke University, Durham, NC

Visit One of North Carolina's Best Universities

by Ashley Kappel | March 01, 2010

Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina, is the ideal blend of academic achievement, beautiful campus, active social life, and raging sporting success, especially on the basketall court. Thinking of coming to Duke? Schedule a visit; we promise you won't be disappointed.

One of Duke's most unique attributes is that it really celebrates the first year of college. Freshman are housed together on the East side of campus while sophomore and upperclassmen …

Tosca Ristorante Italiano, Durham, NC

Steal Away for a Romantic Dinner in Durham

by Ashley Kappel | February 25, 2010

If you're going to eat Italian, shouldn't you pick a spot that's named for a favorite Italian opera? Whether you go for the name, the food, or the best-of-the-best wine list, make a date tonight to go to Tosca for your next night out.

The menu changes daily, so check the one online then go with an open mind. For dinner, begin with a Primi course of fusilli alla pesto, then a caprese …

A Southern Season, Chapel Hill, NC

Visit this Legendary Shop; Just Don't Call it a Grocery Store

by Ashley Kappel | February 22, 2010

Since 1975, Chapel Hill has boasted a culinary hotspot gourmet market: A Southern Season. If you like to bake, cook, or decorate kitchens, A Southern Season should be number one on your "must visit" list. Labeled by Craig Claiborne of the New York Times as "wall to wall and floor to ceiling, a visual and gustatory delight," A Southern Season is just that. Um, and did we mention that it's over …

Mad Hatter’s Bakeshop & Cafe, Durham, NC

Words to Live By: Meet. Greet. Eat.

by Ashley Kappel | February 18, 2010

Get ready to up your calorie intake for the day. Mad Hatter's Bakeshop offers over-the-top cute cupcakes, delicious lunch and dinner offerings, and a festive atmosphere that welcomes studying students, friends playing catch up, and the occasional tourist seeking a nice cup of coffee.

When you arrive in the free-standing bakeshop, located in front of Whole Foods, take a peek at the bakery display first, then plan your lunch …

Travel Guide to Raleigh, Durham, & Chapel Hill, NC

Why You Should Visit Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill

by Ashley Kappel | February 15, 2010

When I moved to Durham, I had no idea where I was going. My husband was finishing his degree at Duke, so I obviously knew there would be colleges, and with colleges come the basics: malls, bars, movie theaters, and good, cheap food. Turns out I was right and oh-so wrong. Since the move I've discovered about 100 reasons to live, love, and visit the area. I'll spare you the full list and only hit you …

Guglhupf Bakery, Durham, NC

Spend an Afternoon with a Cup of Tea, a Slice of Cake, and Fresh-Baked Bread

by Ashley Kappel | February 11, 2010

Valentine's Day is right around the corner! Pick up a sweet for your sweetie at one of Durham's best bakeries: Guglhupf. Ok, every time I go in I ask the amazing bakers how to pronounce their shop's name and every time they tell me and I still can't keep the proper way of saying it in my head. No matter, so long as I have the delicious taste of the …

Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC

Get Outside this Weekend and Explore One of North Carolina's Famous Streets

by Ashley Kappel | February 04, 2010

Franklin Street, located in the heart of Chapel Hill and along one edge of the University of North Carolina campus, offers a host of unique stores, delicious eateries, and even a fun children's exploration museum, all located along about a mile of one of North Carolina's most famous street ways. The name of the street may stick out in your mind, as Franklin Street is legendary for its Halloween celebration, when tens of thousands of students, …

Doyle’s, Durham, NC

Catch the Big Game this Weekend

by Ashley Kappel | February 01, 2010

Every so often, the universe poses a distinct, must-answer question. This week's question? What could be better than a classic sports bar? The answer? A sports bar with a deli located less than 20 yards from the entrance. That's right friends, you can have your cold one and your footlong all under one roof. When hunger calls, you've got your options, which is a touchdown for everyone.

Besides the fabulous proximity to fresh food, reasons abound …

Kidzu Children’s Museum, Chapel Hill, NC

Get Out of the House for a Fun Afternoon with the Family Today

by Ashley Kappel | January 28, 2010

If the chill of winter is wearing your patience, and your carpeting, thin, then gather the kids and head to Kidzu located in the heart of Chapel Hill on Franklin Street for a fun morning or afternoon of exploring, creating, and, of course, fun!

Kidzu is a "please touch," hands-on style museum that welcomes creative play and imagination. Is it a building block? A bridge to China? Only your child really …

Arrowhead Inn Bed & Breakfast, Durham, NC

Escape to Arrowhead Inn for a Romantic Getaway This Weekend

by Ashley Kappel | January 26, 2010

Hold it! Before you press "purchase" on this year's online flower purchase or "add to cart" on those specialty chocolates, consider an alternative guaranteed to wow your valentine this year: A night away from the kids, the family, work, and the pressures of everyday life. That's right friends, whether you're treating a special girlfriend to a girls' weekend away or a special someone to a romantic overnight, Durham's Arrowhead Inn has you …

Nantucket Cafe, Chapel Hill, NC

Grab Your Fork! It's Time to Enjoy the Best Cake In Town

by Ashley Kappel | January 21, 2010

Brace yourself and prepare to indulge in the best cake in town. I'll admit, I'm biased. I love Nantucket Cafe. Sure, it has delicious lobster bisque and, of course, the chicken salad is every bit as delightful as you'd expect but, heaven help me, it's the cake that keeps me coming back, or perhaps I should say "cakes."

The strawberry shortcake is decadent, whether you select the vanilla or chocolate(!) …

Brightleaf Square, Durham, NC

Experience the Best of Old Town Durham with Upscale Dining and Unique Shopping

by Ashley Kappel | January 20, 2010

The city of Durham is quite the eclectic mix. You've got business, minor league baseball, a top-ranked University, plus a wonderful mix of old-school urban meets young married suburban that's on the road to becoming one of North Carolina's hip hot spots. Case in point? Brightleaf Square.

When going out in Durham, be it for a date, a drink, or a sunny afternoon, most folks make their way to the historic square, where you can spend …

Magnolia Grill, Durham, NC

Enjoy the Best of Deep South Flavor in a Casual White-Tablecloth Eatery

by Ashley Kappel | January 14, 2010

One of the best reasons to visit the South is the array of fine dining options you'll encounter. Now, we define "fine" a little differently than most; good barbecue (we're talking pit-smoked) can be "fine," as can perfectly flaky catfish. However, when you're looking for a casual yet elegant meal in the Raleigh Durham area, then to Durham you must go, where you'll find Magnolia Grill, a little slice of Southern-infused heaven on …

The Martin Luther King Water Monument, Raleigh, NC

Take a Moment to Reflect at a Monumental Monument.

by Ashley Kappel | January 11, 2010

Break out of the winter blues this week and visit an award-winning monument with the kids. The air may still be crisp, but the park will always be lovely and the time always perfect to enjoy a slice of Civil Rights history right here in Raleigh.

Located in the Martin Luther King Memorial Garden, this 12-ton granite structure pays tribute to the 25 area citizens who have made a change in this country's Civil Rights history. …

Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham, NC

Visit DPAC for a Night of Performance Art You Won't Soon Forget

by Ashley Kappel | January 07, 2010

If your stay in Durham includes a desire for world-class entertainment, head to the Durham Performing Arts Center, or "DPAC" as it's known locally, for a night of theater that's perfect for a date night, night on the town with friends, or a private exploration into the wonderful world of art.

The full schedule of events (as well as ticketing information, seating layout, and directions) can be found on the center's website, but …

The Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Durham, NC

Get Moving to Enjoy the Best of Outdoor Durham

by Ashley Kappel | January 04, 2010

Mark your calendars to spend a sunny day this Spring enjoying the best of Duke University's green spaces: The Sarah P. Duke Gardens. The Gardens span 55 acres of Duke's traditional, gothic-style campus, offering a broad expanse for students, faculty, families, and visitors alike to examine foliage, cruise the five miles of trails, or take a break lake-side for some fish watching and bird spotting.

Recognized as one of …

Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, Durham, NC

Steal Away for a Night at One of Durham's Finest Overnight Accommodations

by Ashley Kappel | January 01, 2010

Located across the street from the picturesque campus of Duke University and in the middle of over three miles of walking trails and 18 holes of golf, the four-diamond Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club truly has it all. While the Wa-Duke (as it's known to locals) is a given for the visiting parents of Duke students, it's also known as a romantic destination unto itself. Go for the gorgeous room views, stay for the golf, …

New Year’s Eve Acorn Drop, Raleigh, NC

Ring in 2010 with a Memorable Night in Downtown Raleigh

by Ashley Kappel | December 28, 2009

People celebrate the New Year in hundreds of ways. We drop peaches (Atlanta), glowing glass orbs (New York), and even Moonpies (Mobile, Alabama). But in North Carolina, we know how to do New Year's right. If you can't make it out to Mt Olive where, ironically, they drop a huge glowing pickle (though I would've expected a ginormous olive with to-scale martini glass to match) or to Kure Beach where they lower a large beach ball …

Foster’s Market, Durham, NC

Hit This Don't-Miss Durham Dining Hotspot for Breakfast, Brunch, & More

by Ashley Kappel | December 26, 2009

Sara Foster, namesake of this delicious casual eatery, is known for using fresh, "honest" food to produce authentic and impossible-to-beat flavors in dishes ranging from wraps and sandwiches to down-home country entrees.

Foster's Market, located in Durham, has made itself known for serving the best-of-the-best low-key food, an attitude that easily spilled over into the storefront, a old-school market with a sprawling porch area. Make yourself at home by sitting on the benches out front, at …

The Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill, NC

Don't Miss this Holiday Hotspot During the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

by Ashley Kappel | December 21, 2009

When the winter winds begin to nip and you've finished cruising the neighborhoods looking at lights, head straight to The Carolina Inn where you'll find a new, exciting holiday activity almost every afternoon.

The Carolina Inn is known for its spectacular display of the Twelve Days of Christmas, often featuring a few well-known University of North Carolina basketball stars to shine as the twelve lords leaping. This year, the Inn is hosting the Twelve Days of …

The Streets at Southpoint, Durham, NC

For Great Shopping, Fun Dining, and Tons of Atmosphere, Hit the Street!

by Ashley Kappel | December 17, 2009

Looking for a place to enjoy an afternoon of outdoor-indoor shopping with a boutique-style atmosphere, delicious upscale and quick-service dining options, and a movie theater? Head to The Streets at Southpoint located just off I-40 in Durham. Whether you're hoping for large chain department stores, smaller national brands, or local storefronts, The Streets at Southpoint has it all.

In town for the afternoon with a few kids in tow? The outdoor area of The Streets at …

Lake Myra Christmas, Wendell, NC

Watch 250,000 Lights Dance to Music in One of North Carolina's Largest Free Christmas Displays

by Ashley Kappel | December 14, 2009

The next time you're cruising for Christmas lights in the Raleigh-Durham area, skip the suburbs and head straight for Lake Myra in the city of Wendell, located about 20 minutes from downtown Raleigh. You'll enter a drive-through wonderland of merriment, …