Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carthage, North Carolina to Cary, North Carolina

Are you tired of the same old highways and the boring views of the landscape? A road trip is a perfect way to get out of the monotony and explore new places you never knew existed. If you're looking for an exciting drive between Carthage, North Carolina and Cary, North Carolina, then you're in for a treat.

The round trip distance between the two cities is approximately 80 miles and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The drive includes a scenic view of rural North Carolina and some of the best-hidden gems of the area. The best part about this trip is the various unexpected places where you can stop and explore.

Halfway Destination: Siler City, NC

As you embark on this exciting journey, your halfway destination will be Siler City, NC, a town that has transformed itself from an industrial hub to a vibrant, culturally diverse community.

Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour of downtown Siler City, which showcases its impressive murals that depict the town's history and culture. One mural worth checking out features the town's unique tradition of 'chicken dreaming,' where a group of people sit in a circle, holding a sleeping hen, and interpret its dreams to determine whether the coming year will be fruitful.

1. Carolina Tiger Rescue: Pittsboro, NC

Carolina Tiger Rescue, located in Pittsboro, NC, is a sanctuary for big cats. The sanctuary works to rescue and rehabilitate tigers, lions, cougars, and other exotic cats from abusive situations, while also raising awareness about the importance of preserving their habitats in the wild.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, learn about the different species, and view them from a safe distance. The enrichment activities for the animals, including food puzzles and toys, keeps visitors engaged and captivated.

Favorite Food: Not Applicable

2. Fearrington Village: Pittsboro, NC

Fearrington Village, located in Pittsboro, NC, is a charming village with over 200 residents. The village was originally a dairy farm that was converted into an English-inspired village with shops, restaurants, and a bed and breakfast.

Visitors can walk through the shops and galleries, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants, and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. The village is a perfect spot for a tranquil afternoon escape from the bustle of the city.

Favorite Food: Goat Cheese Grits at The Granary

3. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area: Apex, NC

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, located in Apex, NC, is a perfect stop for nature enthusiasts. The parks boast over 1,000 acres of hiking trails and wildlife observation spots. Additionally, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and camping.

An unusual attraction at the park is the Jordan Lake Dam, which controls flooding in the area. The dam is an impressive structure, with a height of 98 feet and a length of over 10,000 feet.

Favorite Food: Picnic Lunch at the Shore

4. American Tobacco Campus: Durham, NC

The American Tobacco Campus, located in Durham, NC, is a national historic landmark that has been transformed into a mixed-use development, with offices, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Visitors can explore the history of tobacco production in North Carolina, as well as enjoy a meal at one of several upscale restaurants in the area. The campus also features a beautiful waterfront park and is home to the Durham Bulls (a minor league baseball team), whose games are held seasonally.

Favorite Food: Barbecue Sandwich from The Pit

5. SAS Campus: Cary, NC

SAS Campus, located in Cary, NC, is the headquarters of SAS Institute, a multinational software company. The campus is a unique blend of modern architecture and nature, with over 500 acres of green space, trails, and a lake.

Visitors can take a walking tour of the campus, learn about the history of the company, and enjoy the natural surroundings. The campus also features several art installations, including a striking sculpture by artist Richard Hunt.

Favorite Food: Cafeteria-style Lunch at the SAS Cafe

Conclusion

If you're looking for an adventurous road trip, then the drive between Carthage, NC, and Cary, NC, is an excellent option. The scenic drive includes many unexpected stops where visitors can explore North Carolina's unique culture and nature.

From big cats to community gardens, the variety of places to visit is both impressive and exciting. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road to discover the best hidden gems of North Carolina.