What a difficult task - Pick just 5 things to do in the Triangle area

I wouldn't have said that when I moved to the Triangle in 1991 but the Triangle has come a long way in such a short time and our area has so much to offer.   The Triangle area is now consistently receiving national attention as one of the Best Places to Live for its revitalization of the downtown Raleigh & Durham areas, consistent job growth, highly educated workforce, major universities, cultural activities, great nightlife, and much more. 

If you are planning to move to the Triangle area of North Carolina or your kids are considering attending one of the many universities in the area, I'm here to help you with a few things to do in the area.   With that said, it's time to visit the Triangle Area. 

Tracy Santrock's Top 5 Things to do in the Triangle

1.  Visit one of the three Major Universities in the Area - A visit to the Triangle would not be complete without a visit to one of the three major universities in the area.  North Carolina State University in Raleigh, Duke University in Durham, or the University of Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill.  UNC-Chapel Hill is nestled in the quaint college town of Chapel Hill and the college is one of the top public universities in the country.  A stroll down Franklin Street, a walk through campus, and a slice of pizza at Peppers Pizza downtown would make any tourists day complete.  Duke Universities' gothic style campus is reminiscent of the Ivy League schools in the Northeast.  While visiting Duke don't miss out on Duke Gardens, the Duke Chapel, or attendance at one of the many Blue Devil athletic events during the school year.  NC State, home of the Wolfpack, is a public university known for it's outstanding Engineering programs.  The campus is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh close to downtown.  With those visits out of the way I feel smarter already! There is no shortage of brain power in this area!

2. Take a tour of one of the many Triangle Museums - There are three you don't want to miss in the area in particular.  Each of the choices will not disappoint.  If you're in Durham visit the Museum of Life & Science which is a family friendly museum, bosts a 3-story tropical conservatory and a daily butterfly release for the children.  If your on a budget the North Carolina Museum of Art is home to over 5,000 pieces of Art and us free to the public.  Ackland Art Museum, at the base of the Univeristy of North Carolina, is considered to be one of the best small museums on any campus. If the kids are in tow go to downtown Raleigh to Marbles Kids Museum. 

3. Spend some time outdoors -With four distinct seasons, over 222 Days of Sunshine, and an average temperature of 58 Degrees it's hard not to enjoy some time outdoors on your visit. Whether your plans are for a short jaunt or a long hike in one of the many state parks in the area no visit would be complete without some time outdoors.  Here are a few of my favorites in the area-Pick one.  Duke forest, Umstead Park, Eno River State Park, or the American Tobacco Trail. Umstead Park would be my top pick with over 30 miles of jogging and biking trails and a fanstastic central location make this park a step above the rest.

4. Play a round of golf - With over 100+ area golf courses to choose from it's tough not to have a great golf experience.  If you're up for the best of the best head 50 minutes away to Pinehurst and challenge yourself on the famous Pinehurst #2 Golf Course. My local favorite is the Washington Duke Golf Course because I really enjoy dining at the Fairview Restaurant afterwards. 

5. Don't forget the nightlife.  What's a visit to any town without a night out on the town?  Each of the Triangle Towns now has a great downtown nightlife.  If your young and want the college atmosphere I recommend the nightlife in Chapel Hill.  Downtown Durham, in the old Tobacco district, has a number of great choices.  The NEW Downtown Raleigh has several restauraunts, bars, and fabulous venues.  My favorite night on the town has to go to Chapel Hill with fabulous restaurants, charm, character, and excitement.   

I hope you can see why I love to call the Triangle home!  It's an active and thriving area with lots of choices.  We hope you make it hear soon. 

If you are thinking of relocating to the Raleigh-Cary NC area I'd love to help you find the perfect home.  Visit my website at www.TriangleNCHomes4Sale.com for additional details and a free Relocation packet. 

Duke Chapel Photo & Umstead Park photo courtesy of Flickr.