Cary, NC, is a vibrant town offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and more. Whether you’re a resident or planning a visit, Cary has something for everyone. This guide highlights some of the best things to do in Cary, ensuring you make the most of your time in this dynamic community.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Bond Park
Bond Park is one of Cary’s largest municipal parks, featuring a beautiful lake, numerous trails, and picnic areas. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve offers a serene escape with its well-maintained trails and lush greenery. It’s an excellent spot for hiking and bird watching. The Stevens Nature Center within the preserve provides educational exhibits and programs about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Fred G. Bond Metro Park
This expansive park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including sports fields, a community center, and an amphitheater. With its extensive trail system, playgrounds, and picnic shelters, it’s a great destination for families and individuals looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Cary Arts Center
The Cary Arts Center is a hub for the town’s cultural and artistic activities. It hosts art exhibitions, theater productions, music performances, and a variety of classes and workshops. The center’s vibrant calendar ensures there’s always something happening to inspire and entertain.
Page-Walker Arts & History Center
Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century hotel, the Page-Walker Arts & History Center offers a glimpse into Cary’s past. The center features historical exhibits, art galleries, and hosts community events. It’s an excellent place to learn about the town’s history while enjoying contemporary arts.
Downtown Cary
Downtown Cary blends historical charm with modern amenities. Stroll through its streets to discover art galleries, public art installations, unique shops, and a variety of dining options. The area often hosts cultural events, making it a lively and engaging part of town.
Family-Friendly Activities
Marla Dorrel Park
Marla Dorrel Park is famous for its Kid’s Together Playground, an inclusive play area designed for children of all abilities. The park also features open spaces, picnic areas, and trails, making it a fantastic destination for family outings.
Cary’s Downtown Park
This centrally located park offers a variety of amenities, including a fountain, open lawn areas, and a performance stage. It’s a popular spot for community events, family gatherings, and casual relaxation. The park’s design encourages interaction and play, making it a favorite among locals.
Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park
For indoor fun, Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park provides a safe and exciting environment for children and adults alike. The park features trampolines, dodgeball courts, and other attractions that ensure an active and enjoyable experience.
Sports and Recreation
USA Baseball National Training Complex
This state-of-the-art facility is a must-visit for baseball fans. It hosts numerous amateur and professional baseball events throughout the year. The complex’s high-quality fields and amenities make it a premier location for watching and playing baseball.
Cary Tennis Park
One of the largest tennis facilities in the Southeast, Cary Tennis Park offers numerous courts, leagues, and programs for all ages and skill levels. It’s an excellent place to practice your game, join a league, or watch competitive matches.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Home to professional soccer matches and various athletic events, WakeMed Soccer Park is a key sports venue in Cary. It features multiple fields, a stadium, and training facilities. The park regularly hosts local, national, and international soccer events.
Shopping and Dining
Waverly Place
Waverly Place is a premier shopping and dining destination in Cary. It features a mix of boutique shops, popular retailers, and a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines. The center also hosts events and live music, making it a lively spot for both shopping and entertainment.
Park West Village
This large shopping center offers a wide range of stores, from fashion and home goods to groceries and electronics. Park West Village also features numerous dining options and an entertainment area with a cinema, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to spend time.
Downtown Cary Farmers Market
The Downtown Cary Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh, local produce and handmade goods. Open year-round, the market offers seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, crafts, and more. It’s a wonderful way to support local farmers and artisans.
Arts and Entertainment
Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Set in a beautiful natural setting, Koka Booth Amphitheatre hosts concerts, festivals, and community events. The venue offers a unique outdoor experience with its scenic surroundings and diverse programming. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying live music and cultural events.
The Cary Theater
The Cary Theater is a cultural landmark that showcases a mix of classic and contemporary films, live performances, and special events. Its intimate setting and eclectic programming make it a favorite among film and theater enthusiasts.
Cary Visual Art
Cary Visual Art promotes public art projects and exhibitions throughout the town. The organization works to enhance the community through the arts, offering installations, murals, and sculptures that can be enjoyed by all. Exploring Cary’s public art is a great way to experience the town’s creative spirit.
Health and Wellness Activities
Yoga in the Park
Cary offers several locations for outdoor yoga classes, providing a tranquil setting for wellness activities. Participating in yoga in the park is a great way to enjoy nature while improving your physical and mental well-being.
Local Gyms and Fitness Centers
Cary boasts a variety of gyms and fitness centers catering to different workout preferences and goals. Whether you’re looking for group classes, personal training, or specialized fitness programs, there’s a facility in Cary that meets your needs.
Running and Biking Trails
Cary has an extensive network of trails suitable for running, biking, and walking. Popular trails include the Black Creek Greenway and the White Oak Creek Greenway. These trails offer scenic routes and are well-maintained, making them ideal for staying active.
Annual Events and Festivals
Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival
This annual festival is one of Cary’s most popular events, featuring a wide range of arts and crafts from local and regional artists. The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, making it a must-attend event.
Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
Held in Bond Park, the Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival showcases the work of local artisans and crafters. The event also offers entertainment, food, and activities for all ages, celebrating the arrival of spring in Cary.
Cary Diwali Celebration
Cary’s Diwali Celebration is one of the largest in the Southeast, featuring traditional Indian music, dance, food, and cultural activities. The event is held at Koka Booth Amphitheatre and attracts visitors from all over the region, offering a vibrant and festive experience.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Just a short drive from Cary, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The park’s scenic beauty and recreational facilities make it an ideal destination for a day trip.
Raleigh
As the capital city of North Carolina, Raleigh offers a wealth of attractions, including museums, parks, restaurants, and entertainment venues. A day trip to Raleigh provides ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
Durham
Known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, Durham is another nearby city worth exploring. Key attractions include the American Tobacco Historic District, the Duke University campus, and the Durham Performing Arts Center.
Pet-Friendly Activities
Dog Parks and Trails
Cary is a pet-friendly community with several dog parks and trails where pets can enjoy the outdoors. Locations like Jack Smith Park and Godbold Dog Park provide safe and fun environments for dogs to play and socialize.
Pet-Friendly Events
Throughout the year, Cary hosts various events that welcome pets, including pet parades, adoption events, and outdoor festivals. These events offer opportunities for pet owners to engage with the community and enjoy time with their furry friends.
Discover Cary with No Sweat Services
Exploring Cary, NC, offers a diverse range of activities for everyone to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions, Cary has it all.
If you’re planning a move to this vibrant town, trust No Sweat Services to handle your relocation.
Contact us or request a free quote today and let No Sweat Services make your move to Cary, NC, a smooth and efficient experience.