If you are looking for a piece of charisma in these techno-filled days, I encourage you to play in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Established in 1754, this spot is a true destination for lovers of nostalgia, old beauty and remarkable history.
The town is brimming with pleasantries and just a short drive from the Raleigh / Durham area. It makes for a lovely day trip, with something to please everyone in your family. Take a drive through its Historic District, checkout the thriving art scene, shop small and spend time outdoors. Seriously, it can all be done in one precious North Carolina day!
Nothing shines brighter in Hillsborough than its longstanding history. It’s extremely tranquil to imagine our ancestors building this town. Native Tribes conducted business here, our forefathers had dreams of what America would look like here, families made memories here before, during and after the great wars.
Many homes, like the one above, are still standing today. Not only are they upright, but locals call them home, residing in these well-kept colonial homes in the heart of downtown.The Historic District is proud and boasts its antiquity with profound beauty. On the journey through town, you’ll see homes that belonged to members who signed the Declaration of Independence and Generals from the Civil War. The grounds of a few select homes are open for tours, giving visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors.
Perhaps the most acclaimed benchmark is the Eno Riverwalk. Hillsborough is home to a portion of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail, a pathway that spans from the Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks. Building a 1.8 Mile route was an astute way to dignify and honor the trail that was once traveled by Native Americans. In fact, much of the Tribes business and trades were administered along this pathway.
Today, residents and visitors alike can enjoy this trail by foot or bike. Situated right outside of downtown, it’s effortless to revel in this attraction after lunch, shopping and sight-seeing. Make it a point to checkout the many plaques along the walkway and gain an understanding of its charm.
In addition, Hillsborough has secured the reputation of being one of North Carolina’s most contemporary, modern and hippest towns. Artists and writers dwell here, giving this historical city a trendy overlook. Art studios have popped up on almost every corner. There’s even an organic grocery store at the trail head of the Eno Riverwalk. So, when I say there’s something for everyone here, I wasn’t misstating. Your history buff of a husband and hipster trend setting teenager will both be satisfied.
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Jacqueline Leigh 