Did you know that Cary, North Carolina consistently ranks among the top 5 safest mid-sized cities in America? This charming town, nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, offers visitors a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With over 30 public parks covering more than 2,600 acres, Cary boasts more green space per capita than most American cities of similar size, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise that still flies under the radar for many travelers.

Getting to Cary, North Carolina

Cary is conveniently located in the heart of North Carolina’s Triangle region, making it easily accessible by various transportation methods. Whether you’re flying in from across the country or driving from nearby states, reaching this charming town is straightforward.

By Air

The closest major airport to Cary is Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), located just 7 miles northeast of Cary. This modern airport serves numerous domestic and international destinations with daily flights from major carriers. From the airport, you can reach Cary in about 15-20 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

By Car

Cary is easily accessible via several major highways. Interstate 40 runs east-west through the region, connecting Cary to cities like Wilmington and Asheville. Interstate 440 and Highway 64 also provide convenient access to the town. If you’re driving from nearby cities, approximate driving times include:

• From Charlotte: 2.5 hours (170 miles)
• From Greensboro: 1.5 hours (80 miles)
• From Richmond, VA: 3 hours (170 miles)
• From Washington, DC: 4.5 hours (280 miles)

By Train

Amtrak provides service to Cary via the Carolinian and Piedmont routes. The Cary Amtrak station is located in downtown Cary at 211 N. Academy Street, making it a convenient option for travelers coming from the Northeast Corridor or other parts of North Carolina.

Rental Cars in Cary

While downtown Cary is walkable, having a car gives you the freedom to explore the wider Triangle area at your own pace. Numerous rental car companies operate at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, making it convenient to pick up a vehicle upon arrival. Alternatively, several rental agencies have locations in Cary itself if you prefer to arrange transportation later in your trip.

Best Time to Visit Cary

Cary experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm and activities. The best time to visit depends largely on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your stay.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is arguably the most beautiful time to visit Cary. Temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18-24°C), and the town comes alive with blooming dogwoods, azaleas, and cherry blossoms. This season brings several popular events, including the Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival in April. Spring is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve or exploring the town’s many parks.

Summer (June to August)

Summers in Cary are warm and humid, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s°F (29-35°C). While it can be hot, this is a great time to enjoy outdoor concerts at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, splash pads at Downtown Cary Park, and the town’s many festivals. Summer evenings are perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Cary.

Fall (September to November)

Fall brings pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18-24°C) and stunning foliage displays. This is an excellent time for hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration. The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival typically begins in late November at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, creating a magical experience as the weather cools. Fall also features the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, one of Cary’s signature events.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Cary are relatively mild compared to northern states, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s°F (7-13°C). Snow is rare but possible. The Chinese Lantern Festival continues through January, offering a spectacular winter attraction. Indoor activities like visiting the Cary Arts Center or enjoying the town’s excellent restaurants make winter visits enjoyable despite the cooler temperatures.

Getting Around Cary

Navigating Cary and the surrounding Triangle area is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available to visitors.

By Car

Having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Cary and the wider Triangle region. The town is well-connected by major roads and highways, making navigation simple. Most attractions offer ample parking, often free of charge. Traffic is generally manageable outside of rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays).

Public Transportation

GoCary provides bus service throughout the town with routes connecting major shopping centers, downtown, and residential areas. The Triangle’s regional transit authority, GoTriangle, offers routes connecting Cary to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Single rides on GoCary cost $1.50, while GoTriangle fares are $2.25. Day passes and multi-day options are also available.

Rideshare and Taxis

Uber and Lyft operate throughout Cary and the Triangle area, providing convenient on-demand transportation. Traditional taxi services are also available but less commonly used by visitors.

Biking

Cary boasts an extensive network of greenways and bike-friendly roads, making cycling a pleasant option during good weather. The town has over 80 miles of greenways connecting parks, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods. Bike rentals are available at several locations throughout Cary.

Where to Stay in Cary

Cary offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From upscale hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find comfortable places to rest after exploring all that the town has to offer.

Downtown Cary

Staying in downtown Cary puts you within walking distance of charming shops, excellent restaurants, and attractions like the Cary Arts Center and Downtown Cary Park. This area offers a mix of boutique accommodations and vacation rentals, perfect for travelers who prefer a more local experience. Downtown accommodations tend to book quickly during festival weekends, so plan ahead if your visit coincides with major events.

Crossroads/Walnut Street Area

This bustling commercial district offers numerous mid-range and upscale hotel options. Staying here puts you close to Crossroads Plaza shopping center and provides easy access to both Cary’s attractions and neighboring Raleigh. The area features several well-known hotel chains with amenities like pools, fitness centers, and complimentary breakfasts.

Cary Parkway/Kildaire Farm Road

This central location offers convenient access to attractions like Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and Bond Park. Accommodations in this area range from extended-stay options to standard hotels, making it suitable for both short visits and longer stays. The area provides a good balance of natural surroundings and proximity to amenities.

Western Cary/Morrisville

The western edge of Cary, bordering Morrisville, offers several hotel options close to Raleigh-Durham International Airport. This area is ideal for travelers with early flights or those who plan to explore the wider Triangle region. Many hotels here offer airport shuttles and cater to business travelers with amenities like meeting spaces and business centers.

Top Attractions in Cary, North Carolina

Cary offers a diverse range of attractions that appeal to nature lovers, art enthusiasts, families, and foodies alike. Here are some of the must-visit spots during your stay in this charming North Carolina town.

Downtown Cary Park

Opened in recent years, Downtown Cary Park has quickly become the crown jewel of the town’s public spaces. This 7-acre urban oasis features beautiful water features, a nature-inspired playground with wooden cardinal structures (North Carolina’s state bird), an amphitheater for concerts, a dog park, and interactive features like table tennis and foosball. The park hosts regular events, including the popular Toddler Tuesdays program. In the evening, many structures are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere, especially during holiday seasons.

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

This 140-acre natural area offers a peaceful retreat with three miles of mulched trails winding through upland forest and featuring scenic overlooks of the namesake bluffs. The preserve is home to a rare stand of Eastern Hemlock trees, typically found in the Appalachian Mountains rather than the Piedmont region. The Stevens Nature Center provides educational exhibits about local flora and fauna. The Children’s Nature Trail delights young visitors with log tunnels, stepping stones, and toadstool seats. This shaded haven is perfect for a morning hike, with most trails being stroller-friendly.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre

Set against the picturesque Symphony Lake, this outdoor performance venue hosts concerts, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. The amphitheater accommodates approximately 7,000 people and features both reserved seating and a spacious lawn area where visitors can bring blankets and picnics. Summer brings the North Carolina Symphony’s Summerfest Series, while winter transforms the venue with the spectacular North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival. Check their when planning your visit to catch a performance during your stay.

Fred G. Bond Metro Park

Bond Park spans 310 acres and offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. The centerpiece is a 42-acre lake where visitors can rent pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks from the boathouse. The park features multiple playgrounds, including the popular Lazy Daze Playground with climbing towers and tunnel slides. Miles of trails wind around the lake and through wooded areas, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. During summer, the park hosts Bands, Bites, and Boats on select Fridays, featuring live music by the water.

Page-Walker Arts & History Center

Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century railroad hotel, this cultural center offers a glimpse into Cary’s past. The Cary Heritage Museum on the third floor chronicles the town’s evolution from a small railroad stop to a thriving community. The center hosts rotating art exhibitions, concerts, and educational programs throughout the year. Don’t miss the Anne B. Kratzer Educational Gardens surrounding the building, featuring a perennial garden, herb garden, and Victorian garden that showcase plants typical of the late 1800s.

Family-Friendly Activities in Cary

Cary is an excellent destination for families, with numerous activities and attractions designed to entertain visitors of all ages. From interactive playspaces to outdoor adventures, here are some of the best family-friendly experiences in Cary.

Kids Together Playground at Martha Dorrel Park

This inclusive playground was designed with input from children and offers play structures for all abilities. The shaded playground features multiple play areas suitable for different age groups, sensory play elements, and accessible equipment. The surrounding park includes picnic shelters, walking trails, and open green spaces, making it perfect for a family day out.

Indoor Play Spaces

Cary boasts several indoor play options perfect for rainy days or beating the summer heat:

• Over the Moon – A space-themed indoor playground designed for children from crawling age through 9-10 years, with a separate area for babies and toddlers.
• Bumble Brews – A cozy play space ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, with the added bonus of excellent coffee for parents (and even beer and wine options).
• Notasium – A music-themed play space featuring a giant “guitar slide,” bounce houses, and interactive music elements.
• Angel Island Fun Park – Soft play areas with ball pits, slides, and trampolines designed for children 9 and under.

Jack Smith Park and Splash Pad

Located on the border of Cary and Raleigh, Jack Smith Park features one of the area’s most popular splash pads during summer months. The spacious water play area offers various sprayers and water features to keep kids cool. The park also includes a playground, climbing boulder, and walking trails, making it a complete family destination.

Phillips Farms

This family-owned farm hosts seasonal events throughout the year. In fall, their pumpkin patch and fun park attract families with giant slides, jumping pillows, a cow train, and farm animals. Summer brings berry picking and special festivals, while winter offers Christmas trees and festive activities. Check their for current events during your visit.

Library Story Times

The Wake County Public Libraries in Cary offer regular story times for children of various ages. These free events combine stories, songs, and activities in a welcoming environment. Cary Regional Library, located next to Downtown Cary Park, hosts multiple weekly sessions. Check the library events calendar for the latest schedule.

Outdoor Recreation in Cary

With its abundant green spaces and mild climate, Cary offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and stay active throughout the year.

Greenways and Trails

Cary boasts over 80 miles of greenways connecting parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. These paved paths are perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and rollerblading. The Black Creek Greenway spans 7.1 miles from Lake Crabtree to Bond Park, while the White Oak Creek Greenway connects to the American Tobacco Trail, offering longer-distance options for ambitious cyclists and hikers.

Lake Crabtree County Park

This 520-acre park features a beautiful lake with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and sailing. The park offers boat rentals during warmer months, making it easy to get out on the water. Mountain bikers enjoy the 16 miles of trails winding through the woods, while hikers appreciate the 6-mile loop trail that follows the lake’s edge and ventures into forested areas.

William B. Umstead State Park

Located on the border of Cary and Raleigh, this 5,600-acre state park offers an immersive forest experience with over 20 miles of hiking trails. Three man-made lakes provide fishing opportunities, while bridle trails welcome equestrians. The park’s size and varied terrain make it feel like a wilderness retreat despite its proximity to urban areas. Sycamore Trail (7.2 miles) and Company Mill Trail (5.8 miles) are particularly popular with hikers looking for longer routes.

WakeMed Soccer Park

Home to the North Carolina FC and NC Courage professional soccer teams, this complex features a 10,000-seat stadium and multiple practice fields. Catching a live soccer match here offers an exciting way to experience Cary’s sporting culture. The complex also hosts college tournaments and international matches throughout the year.

Disc Golf

Cary offers two disc golf courses for enthusiasts. Middle Creek Disc Golf Course features 18 holes winding through woods and open areas, while Robert V. Godbold Park offers a 9-hole course suitable for beginners. Both courses are free to play and provide a fun way to enjoy the outdoors while testing your disc golf skills.

Arts and Culture in Cary

Cary has a thriving arts and cultural scene that belies its suburban setting. From performing arts to galleries and festivals, the town offers numerous ways to experience creativity and cultural expression.

Cary Arts Center

Housed in a beautifully renovated historic school building, the Cary Arts Center serves as the town’s cultural hub. The center features a 431-seat theater, multiple gallery spaces, classrooms, and studios for various art forms. Year-round programming includes theatrical performances, concerts, art exhibitions, and classes for all ages. The building itself is worth admiring for its blend of historic architecture and modern amenities.

The Cary Theater

This historic cinema dating back to 1946 has been lovingly restored to serve as both an art house movie theater and live performance venue. The Cary screens independent and foreign films, hosts film festivals, and presents live music and comedy shows. The charming Art Deco façade adds to downtown Cary’s historic character, while the interior offers modern comfort with a nostalgic ambiance.

Festivals and Events

Cary’s calendar is packed with cultural events throughout the year:

• Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival (August) – One of North Carolina’s largest arts festivals, featuring hundreds of artists, live music, and food vendors.
• Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival (April) – A celebration of art and spring with over 170 artists, entertainment, and environmental education.
• Cary Art Loop (Final Friday of each month) – An evening art crawl where galleries and businesses stay open late to showcase artwork.
• Pimento Cheese Festival (June) – A culinary celebration of the “caviar of the South” featuring creative dishes from local restaurants.
• Diwali Celebration (October) – A festival of lights celebrating Indian culture with performances, food, and activities.

Public Art

Cary has invested significantly in public art, with installations throughout downtown and in parks across town. The Downtown Cary Park features several commissioned pieces, while murals adorn buildings along Chatham Street and Academy Street. The town offers a self-guided public art tour map available at the Cary Arts Center or downloadable from the town’s website.

Dining and Drinking in Cary

Cary’s dining scene reflects its diverse population, offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. The town also boasts a growing craft beverage scene with breweries, a cidery, and wine options.

Downtown Dining

Downtown Cary offers a concentration of excellent dining options within walking distance of each other:

• Academy Street Bistro – An approachable fine-dining establishment with a seasonal menu and elegant atmosphere, perfect for date night.
• Scratch Kitchen – Known for creative comfort food, including an entire menu section devoted to different types of mac and cheese.
• A’verde – A vibrant Mexican restaurant with an impressive tequila library and flavorful seasonal guacamole.
• Big Dom’s Bagel Shop – A popular spot for oversized hand-rolled bagels with creative toppings and fillings.

International Flavors

Cary’s diverse population has created a rich international food scene:

• Himalayan Range – Authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine with excellent vegetarian options.
• Seol Grille – Korean barbecue where you can grill your own meats at the table.
• Taipei 101 – Taiwanese specialties in a casual setting.
• Nazara Indian Bistro – Upscale Indian dining with a modern twist on traditional dishes.
• Bosphorus Restaurant – Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine with house-made bread and mezze platters.

Bakeries and Cafes

Cary offers several outstanding options for baked goods and coffee:

• La Farm Bakery – An authentic French bakery founded by master baker Lionel Vatinet, offering artisanal breads, pastries, and a cafe menu.
• Annelore’s German Bakery – Traditional German breads, pretzels, and pastries made with authentic recipes.
• Esteamed Coffee – A community-focused coffee shop housed in a 1940s cottage that provides employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
• Fount Coffee + Kitchen – A modern cafe with specialty coffee, breakfast, and lunch options in a bright, airy space.

Craft Beverages

Cary’s craft beverage scene continues to grow, offering locally-made beer, cider, and wine:

• Bond Brothers Beer Company – A popular brewery in downtown Cary with a wide selection of craft beers and a spacious taproom and patio.
• Cotton House Craft Brewers – Located in a restored 1900s boarding house, offering craft beer in a historic setting with two original fireplaces and a double-tiered back deck.
• Chatham Hill Winery – The Triangle’s first winery, producing wines from North Carolina grapes with a tasting room and tours available.
• Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage – A bottle shop and bar in a renovated former pharmacy, offering craft beer and fine wine.

Sweet Treats

Satisfy your sweet tooth at these local favorites:

• Andia’s Ice Cream – Handcrafted ice cream in creative flavors, including their famous monster milkshakes.
• Two Roosters – Small-batch ice cream with rotating seasonal flavors and innovative collaborations with local businesses.
• Vida Dulce – Authentic Mexican ice cream, paletas (popsicles), and churros.

Shopping in Cary

From charming boutiques to major shopping centers, Cary offers diverse retail experiences for every shopping preference.

Downtown Cary Shops

Downtown Cary features independent boutiques and specialty stores in a walkable setting:

• Good Day Cary – A delightful gift shop offering jewelry, candles, baby items, and unique home goods.
• Gather Goods Co. – A thoughtfully curated selection of books, candles, pottery, cards, and a flower shop.
• City Garden Design – A plant shop and gift store with unusual air plants, succulents, and custom moss wall designs.
• Ashworth Drugs – A historic pharmacy with an old-fashioned soda fountain and gift section.

Shopping Centers

Cary is home to several shopping centers offering national retailers and local businesses:

• Fenton – A newer mixed-use development featuring upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options around a central green space.
• Waverly Place – An open-air shopping center with a mix of retailers, restaurants, and a fenced playground, making it family-friendly.
• Crossroads Plaza – One of the area’s largest shopping centers with over 60 stores, restaurants, and services.
• Cary Towne Center – Currently being redeveloped as the future headquarters for Epic Games.

Farmers Markets

Support local farmers and artisans at these markets:

• Cary Downtown Farmers Market – Open Saturday mornings year-round at 135 W. Chatham Street, featuring local produce, meats, baked goods, and crafts.
• Western Wake Farmers Market – Located at Carpenter Village, this producer-only market operates on Saturday mornings.
• Phillips Farms Market – Seasonal market with farm-fresh produce and local vendors, plus special events throughout the year.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Cary hosts a variety of special events and festivals that showcase the town’s community spirit and cultural diversity. Planning your visit around these events can add a unique dimension to your Cary experience.

Spring Events (March-May)

• Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival (April) – Held at Bond Park, this festival features over 170 artists, live entertainment on multiple stages, children’s activities, and environmental education.
• Cary Food & Flea (Monthly) – An outdoor market featuring local makers, vintage vendors, and food trucks in downtown Cary.
• Ritmo Latino Music, Art and Dance Festival (May) – A celebration of Latin American culture with music, dance performances, art, and authentic cuisine.

Summer Events (June-August)

• Pimento Cheese Festival (June) – Downtown Cary celebrates the “caviar of the South” with creative pimento cheese dishes from local restaurants, live music, and activities.
• July 4th Celebration – Featuring a parade, concert, and fireworks display at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.
• Bands, Bites and Boats (Select Fridays) – Evening concerts at Bond Park with food trucks and boat rentals available.
• NC Symphony Summerfest Series (June-July) – Outdoor concerts at Koka Booth Amphitheatre featuring the North Carolina Symphony.

Fall Events (September-November)

• Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival (August/September) – One of North Carolina’s largest arts festivals, spanning multiple days in downtown Cary.
• Diwali Celebration (October) – A festival of lights celebrating Indian culture with performances, food, and activities.
• Fall Fun at Phillips Farms (October) – Pumpkin patch, corn maze, and fall activities at this family-owned farm.
• Zombiepalooza (October) – A zombie-themed film festival at The Cary Theater.

Winter Events (December-February)

• North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival (November-January) – A spectacular display of illuminated lanterns at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, featuring cultural performances and food vendors.
• Heart of the Holidays (December) – Downtown Cary’s holiday celebration with tree lighting, Santa visits, and seasonal activities.
• Kwanzaa Celebration (December) – A cultural celebration at the Cary Arts Center.
• Ice Skating at Fenton (Winter) – Seasonal ice skating rink at the Fenton development.

Day Trips from Cary

Cary’s central location in the Triangle makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Here are some worthwhile destinations within easy driving distance.

Raleigh (15 minutes)

North Carolina’s capital city offers numerous attractions, including the free North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, North Carolina Museum of History, and North Carolina Museum of Art. The warehouse district features trendy restaurants and breweries, while Pullen Park provides family fun with its historic carousel and miniature train.

Durham (25 minutes)

Home to Duke University, Durham has transformed from a tobacco town to a culinary and cultural destination. Visit the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, catch a Durham Bulls baseball game, or explore the former tobacco warehouses now housing restaurants and shops at the American Tobacco Campus.

Chapel Hill (30 minutes)

This college town is home to the University of North Carolina. Stroll through the beautiful campus, visit the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, or shop and dine along Franklin Street. The North Carolina Botanical Garden offers beautiful displays of native plants.

Historic Towns

• Hillsborough (40 minutes) – A charming historic town with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, antique shops, and the Riverwalk along the Eno River.
• Pittsboro (30 minutes) – Home to the Carolina Tiger Rescue sanctuary and Fearrington Village, a unique shopping and dining destination built around a historic farm.

Outdoor Adventures

• Jordan Lake (25 minutes) – A 14,000-acre reservoir with swimming beaches, boat rentals, fishing, and camping.
• Falls Lake (35 minutes) – Offering similar recreational opportunities to Jordan Lake, with 12,000 acres of water and 26,000 acres of woodlands.
• Eno River State Park (40 minutes) – Features hiking trails along the scenic Eno River, including the popular Hanging Rock and Cox Mountain trails.

Practical Tips for Visiting Cary

Weather

Cary experiences four distinct seasons with generally mild weather:

• Spring (March-May): 60-75°F (15-24°C) with occasional rain showers. Pollen season can be intense in April.
• Summer (June-August): 85-95°F (29-35°C) with high humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
• Fall (September-November): 65-75°F (18-24°C) with generally dry, pleasant conditions.
• Winter (December-February): 45-55°F (7-13°C) with occasional freezing temperatures at night. Snow is rare but possible.

Local Etiquette

Cary residents are known for their friendliness and community pride. A few cultural notes to keep in mind:

• Southern hospitality is real – expect friendly greetings and conversations with strangers.
• Cary has a reputation for being particularly tidy and well-maintained – residents appreciate visitors who respect this culture.
• The town has a diverse international population – you’ll encounter various languages and cultural traditions.
• “Sir” and “Ma’am” are commonly used in respectful conversation.

Safety Information

Cary consistently ranks as one of the safest mid-sized cities in America. Crime rates are very low, but standard travel precautions still apply:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight in parked vehicles.
• Be aware of your surroundings when using trails or parks, especially if alone.
• During summer, stay hydrated and use sun protection when outdoors.
• In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Visitor Resources

• Cary Visitor Information – Located at the Cary Arts Center (101 Dry Avenue), offering maps, brochures, and local recommendations.
• Town of Cary Website – Visit the events page for current happenings during your stay.
• Mobile Apps – The “Experience Cary” app provides information on attractions, dining, and events.

Ready to Experience Cary?

From its beautiful parks and cultural attractions to its diverse dining scene and friendly community, Cary offers visitors a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, culinary experiences, or cultural enrichment, this gem in North Carolina’s Triangle region delivers memorable experiences for every type of traveler.

As you plan your visit to Cary, remember that the town’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider Triangle area while enjoying a more relaxed pace than its neighboring cities. With its safe streets, abundant green spaces, and year-round events, Cary welcomes visitors with Southern hospitality and modern convenience.