Visiting Pittsboro, NC

This article outlines local attractions, shopping, and dining options and some history of the town, in case you find yourself with free time and would like to explore the local area while a guest in Pittsboro, NC.

We hope you enjoy your stay and will return again to see us soon!

About Pittsboro

Pittsboro is in the heart of Chatham County, one of the fastest growing counties in the state. It is the county seat and, as such, home to the Chatham County Government Complex employing more than 1300 people.

Residents of Pittsboro embrace small town values of respect for one another and a strong sense of community. Its' people are a diverse group of artists and farmers, merchants and students, and it is home to the North Carolina Zen Center. It supports software developers, bio-fuel research and production, antique shops and art galleries.

Central Carolina Community College offers a core curriculum as well as continuing education in such areas as Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Building Techniques.

Pittsboro is ideally situated at the intersection of US 64 and Hwy 15-501. It is 16 miles to Chapel Hill, 25 miles to Research Triangle Park, and 32 miles to Raleigh. It's a short drive to recreation areas at Jordan Lake State Park (visited by 1-2 million people annually). It is adjacent to the State's newest Natural Area - 960 acres along the scenic Haw River.

Population

2525 within town limits
2983 in extraterritorial jurisdiction

Growth Rate

38% from 1990-2000

Median Age

39.2 years

Climate

Continental, mild without extremes. Freeze free season is 200 days from mid-April to mid-October.

Our delightful little town was featured in the April 2004 issue of Southern Living.

Historic Pittsboro

In 1771 Chatham County was carved out of Orange County and the first county courthouse was built just south of what would become Pittsboro. On January 6, 1787, the North Carolina General Assembly authorized nine commissioners to purchase one hundred acres and the Town of Pittsborough was formed as the seat of Chatham County. The town was named for William Pitt the Younger, second son of the Earl of Chatham who had long defended American rights in the British Parliament.

Based on a Lancaster square plan, one hundred twenty five lots were laid out surrounding a public square bisected by four streets. Surrounded by inns and taverns, the public square was the central gathering place of the town and the county. "Courtweeks" became the social and commercial highlight of the calendar. County justices of the peace ruled on local cases and the crowds produced an open market for farmers, peddlers of jewelry, dry goods and medicines as well as itinerant actors, musicians and medical practitioners.

In 1881 a new brick courthouse was built in the square for $10,666. The Classical Revival brick edifice is elevated on a raised basement and is topped by a three stage cupola. It was restored to its original appearance in 1991 and functions as the aesthetic heart of Pittsboro's Historic District. The town is in the midst of rebuilding it again after a devastating fire this past summer. The district spans 59 acres and lists 92 principal buildings, 39 outbuildings, 3 cemeteries and a civil war monument.

At the turn of the century the business district began to evolve from frame buildings to fire resistant brick store fronts. The historic architecture of Pittsboro remains an important visual reminder of the town's growth since the late eighteenth century.

Things to do in the Pittsboro Area

The Fearrington Village Center
EXPLORE EXQUISITE SHOPS, RESTAURANTS, GARDENS, AN INN AND A SPA IN A TRANQUIL DESTINATION

Explore the stores and restaurants at Fearrington Village and discover a place far from the ordinary. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and farm pastures, our stores offer an exceptional range of gifts, accessories and items for the home and garden.

Our stylish shops and restaurants are nestled around a village green and offer ample parking. Located 8 miles south of Chapel Hill, Fearrington provides the perfect setting for a fun and relaxing day out!

Complete your visit with lunch at The Old Granary Restaurant, one of the Triangle's best daytime restaurants, and a pampering treatment at The Spa at Fearrington.

Stay informed about special events, trunk shows and other news from around the Village with our free email newsletter.

Please note that on Mondays several businesses are closed, including The Old Granary Restaurant,Haven and The Spa at Fearrington. Lunch can be found at our deli, The Belted Goat, seven days a week.

Fearrington Village
2000 Fearrington Village Center
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919.542.2121
www.fearrington.com

Carolina Tiger Rescue

Carolina Tiger Rescue
1940 Hanks Chapel Rd
Pittsboro, NC 27312
(919) 542-4684

This 55-acre sanctuary is home to over 75 animals, including tigers, ocelots, binturongs and more. Guided walking tours by reservation only on weekends, most holidays, and selected other dates and must be scheduled in advance. Twilight Tours for adults only (13+) are offered every Saturday night in season.

Fun on the Farm

Our area is a leader in the number of farms, nurseries, fresh produce, and flowers. So it is only natural to want to tour it all. Farmers' markets open in April and we have so much to offer that we have two farmers' markets in Pittsboro! Any Tuesday or Thursday from April through November, we invite you to take from our farms to your table: fresh corn, jams, strawberries, tomatoes, blueberries, and so much more.
www.ces.ncsu.edu/chatham/ag/SustAg/farmprofiles.html

Chatham Marketplace

480 Hillsboro Street
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919-542-2643

This is a great organic food store and supports local growers. There produce and meats are of the best quality and their cheese if wonderful.

Front Porch Music Series

The show begins at 7:30 PM (rain or shine) at Bynum General Store, 950 Bynum Road, in Bynum, 10 miles south of Chapel Hill. The concert is free, but the suggested contribution is $3 - 7 per adult. 100% of the donations goes to the artists. The Bynum General Store carries a selection of snacks, ice cream, and cold drinks just what you need to enjoy great music on a warm summer night. FMI: contact Jerry Partin, 260-4108. Alcohol is not permitted. Bring the whole family. 919.542.1858 www.carrboro.com/bynummusic

Fitness

DUKE CENTER FOR LIVING - Health and Fitness Center - Phone: (919) 545-2133
Located on the Galloway Ridge campus

A balanced life is key to having optimal health and well-being: the philosophy behind The Duke Center for Living at Fearrington. They are dedicated to helping men and women make positive, healthy and lasting lifestyle changes. But more than machines or equipment, this is about giving the body, mind and spirit time to recharge. They offer a variety of fitness programs and membership options to meet each individual's needs.

This health and fitness center offers:

v state-of-the-art exercise equipment

v a heated pool

v cushioned indoor track

v a professional and caring staff

v outstanding fitness programs

The Duke Center for Living is open:
Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Our area is home to the best in walking, hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and more. While exercise can be fun, we encourage you to indulge in our scenic beauty and see our stars at night, at an astronomy session at Jordan Lake State Recreational Area, with astronomers from Morehead Planetarium to guide you.

The Great Outdoors

Wineries

Chatham County is home to two wineries, Silk Hope Winery in Pittsboro and Horizon Cellars Winery in Siler City. Explore the scene at the vineyards, sip award-winning wines, enjoy live music, and taste great food accompanied with fine wine at a special barrel room dinner. Wine tastings are frequented events at both wineries as well as at Fearrington Grocery Co.

Golf

v Governors Club Golf Course
www.governorsclub.com/golf.php

v Jordan Lake Driving Range on US 64E

v The Preserve at Jordan Lake Golf Club & Junior Golf Club on Big Woods Road
www.thepreservegolf.com

v Twin Lakes Golf Course in North Chatham
www.golf-twinlakes.com

v The Golf Club at Chapel Ridge - Pittsboro
www.chapelridgegolf.com

Outdoors

v American Tobacco Trail runs through Wake, Chatham, and Durham counties

v Crosswinds Marina & Boat Rental on Chatham county's Jordan Lake

v The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. guided canoe and kayak trips.

v Potters' wheels and organic fields throughout Chatham County

v Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

v Jordan Lake Educational State Forest

v Om Ranch Stables

v White Pines Nature Preserve

The Town of Pittsboro currently has 3 parks/ recreation facilities:

• Town Lake Park ~500 Old Goldston Rd. A 36 Acre Park with walking trails, a soccer field, a picnic shelter and fitness equipment/ swings.
• Kiwanis Park at 309 Credle Street. A small playground for children under age 5.
• McClenahan St. Tennis and Basketball Courts at the corner of McClenahan St. & Pittsboro Elementary School Rd. The Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department handles programming at this facility, as they have the required staff.

Jordan Lake Pontoon Boat Cruises
Jordan Lake, N.C.
919.770.4654

Sunset Cruises, Wine Tours, Breakfast Cruise, Eagle spotting cruises, and much more.

Jordan Lake Boat Rentals
565 Farrington Rd
Apex, NC 27523
919-362-1615 www.crosswindsmarina.com

Restaurants

The Fearrington House Restaurant
Dinner Hours
Tuesday - Saturday, 6pm-9pm
Sunday, 6pm-8pm
(919) 542-2121

Inspired by their travels abroad, RB Fitch and his late wife transformed a central North Carolina farm just south of the university town of Chapel Hill into a charming, elegant village, surrounding the award-winning Fearrington House Inn and Restaurant. The farm-like setting with white facades, rocking chairs, lush landscaping and intimate courtyards will transport you to a place far away from the ordinary. Guests retreat to cosy inn rooms, dine in a former farmhouse surrounded by stunning gardens, browse exquisite gift shops, including one of the South's most celebrated independent bookstores, and marvel at the curious Belted Galloway cows in surrounding pastures. A magnificent retreat for lovers of good food, fine wine, and gracious hospitality. Children welcome from 6 years and they have a special children's menu.

The Belted Goat - Deli and Coffee Shop
2000 Fearrington Village Center, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Mon-Sat, 8am-6:30pm
Sunday 9am-6pm
(919) 545-5717

The Belted Goat offers a fine selection of coffee, wine, hand-made chocolate truffles, breakfast pastries and desserts from The Fearrington House Restaurant. You will also discover an outstanding selection of Panini, crepes, gourmet salads and freshly prepared meals. Located in the heart of the Village Center, The Belted Goat offers locals and visitors to the area a fun place to enjoy house-roasted coffee, a glass of wine, lunch, a light snack, Maple View ice cream, or a delicious afternoon tea. While you're here, browse our fun collection of Beltie goods in the adjacent Beltie Shop.

The Old Granary Restaurant
Fearrington Village
Winter Restaurant Hours:
Lunch: Wednesday-Friday, 11:30am - 2pm
Brunch: Sat., 11:30am - 2pm & Sun., 10am - 2pm
(919) 542-2121

The Old Granary offers a contemporary lunch and brunch menu and attentive, friendly service in the former granary of the Fearrington farm.

Under the direction of Chef Colin Bedford, the menu offers a delicious selection of handmade salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts. The building offers seating on various levels with views of the village shops, surrounding gardens, and the rolling pastures grazed by Belted Galloway cows.

Pittsboro General Store Café
(919) 542-2432

39 West St, Pittsboro, NC 27312

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER:
Monday - Tuesday 8 am - 3:00 pm
Wednesday - Thursday 8 am - 9:00 pm
Friday - Saturday 8 am - 11:00 pm
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Served Daily
BRUNCH:
Sunday 9:00am - 3:00pm

LIVE MUSIC :
Thursday - 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Friday & Saturday - 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm

How to get here: 39 W Street, Pittsboro is next to the downtown traffic circle, just west from the Pittsboro courthouse.

At the front of the store, there is a bar where you can order sandwiches, coffee drinks, and sides. This is a popular option for lunch. There are also tables here, and you can order from the full-service organic menu. In the back of the store, there is another section with a stage and more tables, plus a bar where you can order alcoholic beverages. You can buy fresh bread, herbal tea, home-made soaps and lots more. Free Wi-Fi hotspot.

Carolina Brewery & Grill
120 Lowes Dr (located in the shopping center with McDonald's and Lowe's on 15-501)
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919-545-2330

Carolina Brewery is a locally-owned brewery and restaurant that has drawn international attention for its handcrafted beers, their award-winning signature beers include Flagship IPA (Gold Medal, Great American Beer Festival), Copperline Amber Ale (Gold Medal, World Beer Championships), and Sky Blue Golden Ale (Silver Medal, World Beer Championships). They also offer a rotating list of seasonal brews. You'll discover authentic tastes in the glass and on the plate, a casual yet upscale atmosphere and affordable prices.

Whether you're looking for a place to grab a fresh beer with friends or enjoy a delicious meal, The Carolina Brewery & Grill is the right spot to be.

Allen & Son Inc Pit Cooked Bar-B-Que

5650 Us Hwy 15 501 N
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919-542-2294

Located just south of Galloway Ridge on 15-501. Here you will find quite possibly the best BBQ in North Carolina. It is always crowded so you know it's good!

Elizabeth's Italian Restaurant
160 Hillsboro St, Pittsboro, NC 27312
(919) 545-9292

Located south of Galloway Ridge on 15-501 closer to the traffic circle. You can order meals, pizza, and pasta.

Subway Sandwiches & Salads
Chatham Crossing Shopping Center (North of Galloway Ridge on 15-501)
US Hwy 15/501 at Manns Chapel Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27517
919-929-7827

Pizza Hut
919-542-1057
440 East St
Pittsboro, NC 27312 35.7199 -79.1696

Burger King

11620 US 15-501 N, Chapel Hill, NC
Just north of Galloway Ridge on 15-501

McDonald's
36 Lowes Drive Pittsboro, NC 27312
South of Galloway Ridge and just north of the traffic circle. In Lowe's shopping center.

Kentucky Fried Chicken

63 Lowes Drive Pittsboro NC 27312
South of Galloway Ridge and just north of the traffic circle. In Lowe's shopping center.

Grocery Stores

Harris Teeter - With a Starbucks
Chatham Downs Shopping Center along with Ace Hardware
Just north of Galloway Ridge on 15-501
(919) 960-0275

Lowes Foods
Just north of Harris Teeter on 15-501
North of Galloway Ridge
(919) 969-1464

Piggly Wiggly Grocery Store
317 East St, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Just east of the traffic circle in downtown Pittsboro
South of Galloway Ridge
(919) 545-0294

Hardware Stores

Ace Hardware

Chatham Downs Shopping Center along with Harris Teeter
Just north of Galloway Ridge on 15-501
(919) 969-1400

Lowe's Home Improvement Store
121 Lowes Dr, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Across from Powell Place - McDonald's, KFC, and Carolina Brewery area also here.
(919) 642-4030

Chatham Habitat Store and Re-Store
467 West St, Pittsboro, NC
Located just west of the traffic circle in downtown Pittsboro
(919) 542.0788

Shopping

Southpoint Mall
6910 Fayetteville Rd, Durham, NC

University Mall
201 S. Estes Street, Chapel Hill, NC

Tanger Outlet Mall
4000 Arrowhead Blvd. Mebane, NC 27302
P: (919) 304-1520

Movies

Varsity Theatre
123 E Franklin Street, Chapel Hill -> $3.00 Theatre (919) 967-8665

Lumina Theatre
620 Market Street, Chapel Hill NC (919) 932-9000

Regal Timberlyne
120 Banks Drive, Chapel Hill NC (919) 933-8600

Regal Beaver Creek Theatre
1441 Beaver Creek Commons Drive, Apex NC (919) 362-7342

Chelsea Theatre
1129 Weaver Dairy Road, Chapel Hill NC (919) 968-3005

Southpoint Cinemas
8030 Renaissance Parkway at Southpoint Mall, Durham NC (919) 313-6627

Other Arts and Attractions

Durham Performing Arts Center - DPAC
123 Vivian Street, Durham NC
919-688-3722
www.DPACNC.com

Durham Bulls Ball Park
409 Blackwell Street, Durham NC
919-956-2855 www.durhambulls.com