Plan the perfect day trip with reader favorites across three distinct Chatham County destinations
the Philip H. Kohl Mosaic Family Commons at Chatham Park. Photo by Kayla Davis
By Sharon Kinsella | Photography by John Michael Simpson
Summer often calls for far-flung escapes, but fall – with its crisp mornings and golden afternoons – is the perfect time to slow down and explore the treasures right in your own backyard. Whether you’re a local ready to see your hometown with fresh eyes or a visitor planning a laidback weekend getaway, we’ve gathered the best ways – all voted favorites by our readers – to enjoy a breezy autumn day in Chatham County, from the small-town charm of Siler City to the buzz of downtown Pittsboro and the modern verve of Mosaic at Chatham Park.
Mosaic at Chatham Park
If you’ve only got a couple of hours – or a whole afternoon – to spare, make your way to Mosaic at Chatham Park, a lively mixed-use community where dining, shopping and entertainment meet. Sip craft brews and catch the game at Hops & Berry Taproom or House of Hops, or linger on the patio at Cafe Root Cellar, sister spot to The Root Cellar Cafe & Catering in Chapel Hill, for fresh seasonal fare crafted by chef Sera Cuni. Craving takeout? Order queso and tacos from Mi Cancun or Mediterranean favorites from Greek Kouzina, then head to the Philip H. Kohl Mosaic Family Commons for a free outdoor film or concert as a part of the Moonlight Movie Series and QDR Homegrown Country Music Series, respectively, which take place on alternating Fridays through October. Bring blankets and chairs to enjoy entertainment under the stars, then pop across Hwy. 15-501 to Northwood Landing and treat yourself to a scoop or swirl from Jeremiah’s Italian Ice for a sweet finale.
Siler City
While you’re mapping out your weekend in Siler City, consider making the most of your time away from home. Schedule Landa’s Landscaping to give your yard a refresh while you’re gone and come home to a manicured lawn. For an overnight stay, book a room at The Inn at Celebrity Dairy, a charming bed-and-breakfast perched on a gentle knoll beneath 250-year-old oaks and surrounded by a 300-acre goat farm. Going the staycation route? Tysor Veterinary Clinic offers pet boarding so you can unwind worry-free. Spend a quiet morning soaking up the inn’s pastoral views, or head into town for shopping, dining and a dose of Chatham County character.
Start your Saturday with a burst of energy at Dynamic Artistry Dance Co.’s Fly Dance Fitness class. Once you’ve got the endorphins flowing, fuel up at Crossroads Grill with a breakfast sandwich on award-winning biscuits, or choose from a hearty menu of other morning favorites. Need a coffee boost? Stop by The Chatham Rabbit for a specialty latte and a quick history lesson (ask about its name!), then wander next door to browse local art inside the NC Arts Incubator – and if it’s the third Friday of the month, come back from 6-9 p.m. for a free outdoor concert.
Just down the street, you’ll find several shops worth exploring: Hunt for pre-loved furniture and home decor at Fragments, pick up thoughtful gifts at Oh To Be boutique, browse craft supplies and handwoven goods at Twin Birch, and score your new favorite outfit at Periwinkle on Chatham.
When it’s time for lunch, you’ve got plenty of options: Grab Japanese takeout from Akira Hibachi Express, load up on Southern comfort food at Bestfood Cafeteria’s all-you-can-eat buffet, keep it classic with burgers and fries from Chris’s Drive-In, or dig into a heaping helping of wings at The Boneyard.
After lunch, pamper yourself with a fresh cut or style at First Impressions Hair Studio or Luna Barber & Beauty Shop. Feeling refreshed, head to FireClay Cellars’ winery and vineyard and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun, glass in hand, while overlooking the rolling rows of vines. For dinner, take your pick – a plate of pasta at Elizabeth’s Pizza, succulent steak at Hayley-Bales Steakhouse, vibrant flavors and a bowl of award-winning queso at San Felipe Mexican Restaurant or a plate piled high with tender North Carolina barbecue from The Broken Spit. Save room for dessert at Creative Creamery, where hand-dipped ice cream and homemade waffle cones are worth the indulgence. Cap the evening with a craft pint at Thirsty Skull Brewing before calling it a day.
Downtown Pittsboro
If you’re looking to pick up the pace a little but keep it small-town, downtown Pittsboro is ready to deliver. Book your pup a spot at Green Beagle Lodge or Doggie Dude Ranch if you’re venturing out on a Friday, so they can enjoy their own day of play. While you’re at it, let the pros at Chuy’s Auto Repair, J & W Automotive, Performance Automotive & Tire or Sanders Automotive give your car a little TLC – you’ll return to a happy dog and a vehicle in top form – so you can venture around on foot.
Start the morning with a centering mat session at Yoga Garden PBO or an energizing workout at Lifted Lagree & Pilates Studio. Afterward, treat yourself to a hearty breakfast: Decadent French toast at Small Cafe B and B or a fluffy omelet from Virlie’s Grill will set you up for a busy day.
Then hit the shops. Deep River Mercantile offers beautifully curated home goods, while French Connections brims with eclectic antiques and imported textiles. Treasure hunters will love Screaming for Vintage and Reclamation Home Furnishings, plus the bargain finds at Chatham Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Chatham PTA Thrift Shop and Second Bloom of Chatham. Green thumbs can browse the lush selection at Cactus Cowgirl Plant Shop or stock up on supplies at Country Farm & Home. For jewelry, gifts and local art, step into Show of Hands Gallery, or find fresh fall duds at Chatham Outfitters and New Horizons Downtown. Wine lovers can stop by Vino!! Wine Shop, where owner Anna Lange curates a thoughtful selection of bottles to take home or enjoy in the shop’s welcoming space. Need a caffeine break between shops? Davenport’s Cafe Diem and Aromatic Roasters pour excellent coffee in cozy settings.
At lunchtime, build your perfect sandwich at S&T’s Soda Shoppe or The Phoenix Bakery, grab a slice of ’za from The Mod or Hoops Pizzeria or enjoy fresh vegetarian options from Chatham Marketplace Co-Op Cafe.
Spend the afternoon soaking in creative inspiration. Browse Pittsboro Gallery of Arts or pop into Katty Korner for unique finds. Or, sign up for a class at ClayWorx Studios and learn to shape and mold your own ceramics.
Afternoon sweet treat calling your name? Carolina Cravings Co. turns out irresistible cakes, pies and pastries while Circle City Ice Cream scoops up classic cones. If music and brews are more your speed, Thirsty Skull keeps the taps and tunes flowing with a spacious backyard – perfect for groups and dog-friendly to boot.
Wrap up your day with a memorable meal – refined Southern flavors at West End Kitchen or steakhouse fare at The Sycamore at Chatham Mills. Or visit Doherty’s Irish Pub & Restaurant for a warm, neighborhood pub ambiance featuring robust Irish-American dishes – from fish and chips and shepherd’s pie to savory boxty and Irish egg rolls – paired with an impressive lineup of Irish whiskeys (don’t forget to come back for Sunday brunch!). End the evening with a nightcap at The Beagle before heading home.
