10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Cary, North Carolina
Planning a trip to
Cary, North Carolina in Wake County? Or maybe you just moved here and you’re wondering what locals actually do for fun. Cary is one of those places that quietly surprises you — it’s clean, friendly, easy to get around, and packed with parks, food, and culture.
Whether you’re visiting from out of state or exploring your own backyard, here are
10 great things to do in Cary and nearby that show off the best of this fast-growing town in the Raleigh area.
1. Stroll, Bike, Or Paddle Around Bond Park
If you only have time to do one thing in Cary, make it
Fred G. Bond Metro Park.
This huge park (over 300 acres) feels like Cary’s backyard. You’ll find:
- A peaceful 42-acre lake with boat rentals
- Walking and biking trails that loop through the woods
- Playgrounds and picnic shelters for families
- A boathouse where you can rent kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats (seasonal)
The main loop trail around the lake is pretty gentle, so it’s great for kids or anyone who doesn’t want a serious hike. On a sunny Saturday, you’ll see locals fishing, couples paddling on the water, and families grilling out.
If you like quiet mornings, grab a coffee from a local Cary shop and walk the trail while the lake is still calm. It’s a simple way to start your day and really feel what life in Cary is like.
2. Catch A Show At Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Looking for
live music in Cary? Head to
Koka Booth Amphitheatre, tucked among tall pine trees near Symphony Lake.
What makes this place special is the setting. It doesn’t feel like a big concrete venue. Instead, you’re sitting on the lawn or under a canopy of trees, listening to concerts, festivals, or outdoor movies.
You’ll often find:
- Outdoor concerts with national and local artists
- Summer movie nights under the stars
- Seasonal events like Brew fests or food festivals
- Holiday events and special performances
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, pack a small picnic (check current rules first), and enjoy the evening. It’s one of the best ways to spend a warm North Carolina night in Cary.
3. Explore Downtown Cary’s Shops, Murals, And Food
Cary’s downtown has been getting a serious glow-up over the past few years, and it’s quickly becoming a
must-see spot near Raleigh.
Walkable and charming, downtown Cary offers:
- Colorful murals and public art on side streets and alleys
- Locally owned coffee shops, bakeries, and restaurants
- Small boutiques and specialty shops
- Restored historic buildings and newer, artsy spaces
You can easily spend a half day here just wandering. Start with a coffee, stroll past the murals, pop into a shop or two, and finish with lunch or a craft beer. If you like taking photos, you’ll find plenty of Insta-ready corners without huge crowds.
4. Visit The Cary Arts Center And Local Galleries
If you enjoy art, the
Cary Arts Center is worth a stop. It’s housed in a big historic building right near downtown and serves as a creative hub for the community.
Inside, you’ll often find:
- Art exhibits featuring local and regional artists
- Theater performances and live shows
- Classes and workshops (from pottery to painting)
Even if you’re just visiting, you can walk around, check out the exhibits, and see what’s on the schedule. It’s an easy, low-cost way to add some culture to your trip.
Nearby, keep an eye out for smaller galleries and art spaces that change shows throughout the year. Cary’s arts scene is quietly growing, and you can feel that energy when you walk around the area.
5. Enjoy Nature At Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Want to escape the suburbs for a bit without driving far? Head over to
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve on the south side of Cary.
This 140-acre preserve is unique because it protects a rare stand of Eastern hemlock trees that usually grow in cooler mountain climates. Thanks to the shady bluffs and cooler slopes, they survive here in the Piedmont region.
At Hemlock Bluffs you’ll find:
- Well-marked nature trails with boardwalks and stairs
- Overlooks with views of the bluffs and Swift Creek
- Stevens Nature Center with educational displays
The trails are short but can include steps and hills, so wear decent shoes. It’s great for families, nature-lovers, and anyone who wants a break from traffic and shopping centers.
If you’re visiting in summer, the shaded trails can feel several degrees cooler, which is a big plus on hot North Carolina days.
6. Splash, Skate, And Play At Wake County’s Parks Near Cary
Cary sits in Wake County, which is known for its excellent park system. Beyond Bond Park and Hemlock Bluffs, you’ve got a bunch of other outdoor options just a short drive away.
Some favorites near Cary include:
- Lake Crabtree County Park – About 15–20 minutes away, near the airport. Great for mountain biking, picnicking, and walking by the water.
- Jordan Lake (a bit farther, but worth noting) – Roughly 30–40 minutes from Cary, popular for camping, boating, and beachy swim areas.
- Local Cary parks – Many have splash pads, playgrounds, and sports fields. These are perfect if you’re traveling with kids.
If you’re staying a few days in the Cary area, mix in at least one park day. Bring snacks, a frisbee, and maybe a soccer ball. It’s a simple, affordable way to enjoy the outdoors without a long drive.
7. Discover USA Baseball National Training Complex (For Sports Fans)
Sports lover? In nearby
Thomas Brooks Park in Cary, you’ll find the
USA Baseball National Training Complex. This is where some of the best up-and-coming baseball players in the country train and compete.
Depending on the season, you might catch:
- Amateur and collegiate tournaments
- Youth national team events
- Special showcase games
Even if you don’t have kids in travel ball, it’s a cool place to see high-level baseball in a well-maintained complex. If you’re in town for a tournament, plan extra time to explore Cary’s restaurants and parks between games.
8. Sample Cary’s Food Scene (From Southern Comfort To Global Flavors)
One of the easiest ways to get to know Cary is through its food. Because the Raleigh–Cary area is so diverse, you’ll find
global flavors tucked into regular-looking strip malls and shopping centers.
Around Cary you can enjoy:
- Classic Southern comfort food and BBQ
- Excellent Indian, Thai, Korean, and Japanese restaurants
- Trendy brunch spots with pancakes, biscuits, and loaded omelets
- Bakeries and dessert shops perfect for an afternoon treat
If you like trying new things, ask locals or your hotel staff what they recommend. You’ll often hear about small family-owned spots that don’t get a lot of national attention but are beloved in Wake County.
Tip: Plan a “food crawl” in one area, like downtown Cary or one of the busier shopping corridors, and share a few small plates at several places instead of one big meal.
9. Take A Day Trip To Raleigh Or Apex
One of the best parts of staying in Cary is how close it is to other fun towns in Wake County and nearby.
Within about a 15–30 minute drive, you can reach:
- Raleigh – The state capital, with museums, a lively downtown, and more nightlife. Great if you want a bigger-city feel but still sleep somewhere quieter.
- Apex – A charming historic downtown with antique shops, cafés, and small-town vibes.
- Morrisville – Known for international dining, especially Indian and Asian restaurants.
Think of Cary as your home base. Spend your days exploring the wider region, then return to Cary’s quieter, family-friendly neighborhoods in the evening.
10. Join Local Events, Festivals, And Farmers Markets
To really feel the heart of Cary, check out
local events and markets. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
- Seasonal festivals in and around downtown Cary
- Outdoor concerts and cultural celebrations in Wake County
- Farmers markets with fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts
Farmers markets are especially fun if you like to taste your way through a place. You can pick up North Carolina honey, homemade jams, or freshly baked bread. It’s also a great place to chat with locals and get more tips on things to do near Cary.
Before your trip, check Cary’s town website or Wake County event calendars so you don’t miss anything happening while you’re there.
Final Thoughts: Why Cary Belongs On Your North Carolina Itinerary
Cary, NC might not shout the loudest, but that’s part of its charm. It’s clean, safe, family-friendly, and close to just about everything in the Raleigh–Durham area.
From
lake days at Bond Park and
concerts under the trees at Koka Booth to
art, food, and easy day trips, there’s plenty to fill a weekend (or more). If you’re planning a North Carolina getaway, don’t skip Cary just because it looks like a quiet suburb on the map. Once you’re here, it starts to feel like home pretty fast.
Share Your Cary Experience
Have you been to Cary or somewhere else in Wake County?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you discover a hidden-gem restaurant or park?
- Are there any must-see spots I should add to a future list?
Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments so other travelers can plan an even better trip. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are thinking about visiting North Carolina or the Raleigh area.
Your stories and suggestions help keep this guide real, up-to-date, and useful for everyone planning a trip to Cary, NC!
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