Hillsborough, NC

It has been years since I have visited Hillsborough. A close family friend named Kathy took me to the famous Italian dinnerware outlet called Vietri outlet about 12 years ago and I have not been back since. During a visit this past weekend to this small town in Orange County, I realized how charming and quaint it is and that there are fantastic culinary finds and outdoor parks and walks. 

We started our trip at the Weaver Street market right as you enter Hillsborough from I-40 via exit 261 from Raleigh. As you come down the hill, you will see Weaver Street market on your left. There is a public parking deck and great location to access the town and Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is a path with about 1.8 miles of walkway along the Eno River and through Hillsborough. It also houses a pieces of natural artwork by Patrick Dougherty. 

      

Spring Flowers inside Weaver Street Market 

 I would definitely stop inside Weaver Street Market to check out the local foods and fresh items. The cheese from Hillsborough Cheese Company is available here and I found it at the Western Wake Farmer's Market in Morrisville as well. The goat cheese is some of the best around and goes perfectly with wine and thin crackers.  Another find that is local to Hillsborough is the Maple View ice cream. You can find it in the frozen aisle of Weaver Street market. I took home a pint of vanilla and a pint of chocolate and creamy and fresh, just how ice cream should be. Next time I will make it to the actual farm and get a waffle cone. 

From Weaver Street, you can walk and make a left on Churchton street. Walk to the light at King Street and make a right. You will pass the Orange County Courthouse and a few restaurants and shops. 

The Visitor's Center is a great place to stop and get some pamphlets, maps and information about the history of Hillsborough and surrounding areas. Inside there is artwork featured from a local artist, music playing on the TV, and a room to sit and listen if there are any lectures.