🏃♀️Running brought us to Cary, but it wasn’t what made us want to return
🚗 Arriving in the Research Triangle
My husband, John, and I could feel the energy shift as we hit the bumper-to-bumper metallic river of I-40. Earlier, we had driven through sparse traffic as we passed rolling hills of idyllic farms and pastureland. Like marquee lights, exits to various tourist attractions—Big Walker Lookout, New River Trail State Park, Pilot Mountain State Park, and Mt. Airy—stood out in bright contrast against the serene landscape. Eastern redbuds, their branches bursting with pinkish-lavender blossoms, waved their welcome as we traveled farther south toward our weekend destination, Cary, NC.
We knew little about the area other than that it was the host town of the Tobacco Road Marathon and Half Marathon, an event in which I would be running. However, we left wondering why more people weren’t talking about Cary as a long-weekend escape.
Before arriving, I conducted a bit of research. I learned that Cary is known for being part of the Research Triangle region. It has close proximity to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, as well as the three universities they represent—NC State, Duke, UNC—and Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
🪻🌷Spring in Full Bloom
Spring had already adorned itself in Cary. Dogwood trees lined the orderly, sidewalk-edged streets, and their distinct pink and white petals danced in the March breeze. The splayed arms of the sunny-yellow branches of forsythia seemed ready to hug passersby on an early evening stroll or jog. Throughout the hotel parking lot, thousands of white plum blossoms, with their pungent, spicy scent, vibrated in the blustery winds as we made our way inside.
The mild spring weather continued throughout the weekend as John and I discovered what makes Cary a hidden gem. We first noticed that it is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks spanning much of the town. Just as striking was the number of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores—many locally owned and distinctly unique. Cary also seamlessly blends modern development with historic charm in a way from which many other towns could learn.
🏫⛪️Why Downtown Cary Works So Well
Downtown Cary showcases that balance perfectly. Historic homes and buildings sit alongside murals and public art, the Cary Arts Center, and a restored 1964 theater. At its heart is Downtown Cary Park, a seven-acre family-centered space featuring a walkable botanical garden, dog park, recreation areas, a pavilion, open lawn, and a children’s play area remarkable for its creativity. Adjacent to it, a spacious public library further reinforces the sense of community.
🌮🍕🍞A Surprisingly Great Food Scene
Cary’s dining scene is just as inviting. With our very different approaches to eating, John and I appreciated the wide range of options, from local gems to familiar favorites. Though we sampled only a few, each proved memorable.
On our first night, we chose Toreros Family Mexican Restaurant, highly recommended by locals and hotel staff. After enjoying excellent service and flavorful dishes—Nachos Toreros for John and veggie fajitas for me—we understood why!
Famous Toastery earned two visits from us for brunch, offering gluten-free and plant-based options for me alongside hearty homestyle fare for John. We also dined at Cary’s Mellow Mushroom, a national chain that embraces local culture through its décor, local emphasis, and menu. It’s one of the best locations we’ve visited, with both food and service exceeding our expectations.
Another standout was Goji y Agave, also known as Goji Bistro, where two kitchens—one Asian, one Mexican, create a uniquely blended menu. The result felt like a culinary story of two distinct traditions meeting in surprising harmony. For me, the highlight was a robust gluten-free selection that extended well beyond the usual limited offerings.
😂Yes, We Ended Up at Bass Pro Shop🎣
Of course, John spied the Bass Pro Shop as soon as we drove into town, so I knew a visit was inevitable. As a freshwater angler, John relishes any opportunity to connect with fellow anglers. I didn’t mind; he always supports my running, and since this trip was centered on my race, I was happy to indulge him. Besides, the store’s assortment of outdoorsy curiosities never fails to entertain.
📝Reasons We’d Go Back
Our weekend in Cary passed quickly. With race events taking up much of one day, we ran out of time to explore everything—proof that Cary deserves more than a brief visit. We hoped to hike trails in Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and wander the JC Raulston Arboretum. We also missed the Fenton district, a 92-acre social “Eat. Shop. Play.” destination, and Bond Brothers Brewery, where John might have sampled local craft beer.
We came to Cary because the Tobacco Road Marathon and Half-Marathon coincided with the start of our school’s spring break. We left knowing that even without a race, this unassuming town is well worth the trip. Running brought us to Cary, but it wasn’t the only thing that made us want to return.
Cary is a quiet masterpiece hidden in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle. We were captivated by the warmth and diversity of the people we encountered, the town’s charm, and its unexpected offerings. It rewards both careful planners and those, like us, who simply wander. Perhaps your travels will lead you there one day too.
📑Quick Travel Notes:
Best season to visit: Spring
Closest airport: RDU
Best for: Couples, runners, foodies, weekend travelers
Don’t miss: Downtown Cary Park
Steph Simply 