Day trips abound in Chapel Hill, Carrboro

By Hadassah Patterson

Chapel Hill, N.C. Looking for a fun day off-the-beaten path, but not too far from home? One legendarily fun place to spend the day is Chapel Hill and Carrboro. The city has oodles of uniquely-originated fun spots for all interests and ages, many of which can be accessed without leaving Franklin Street! Keeping in mind the fall terms are starting and hours may reflect recent changes, here are a few spots I visited recently that have a lot of day-trip power for your buck.

Morehead Planetarium Starting with a quintessential family-friendly venue, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center always has awe-inspiring and educational events for the whole group. Over 7 million people, including famous astronauts from NASA, would agree that this is one must-see stop in Tarheel Blue territory! Big Bird is back for the summer. They also have exhibits with extraordinary facts about ordinary things that we often take for granted, such as Water in Our World. All around, this is a great ecological and natural learning experience for kids. During the year, they offer very special seasonal versions of their star shows including: "Carolina Skies: Valentine Edition," "Our Vanishing Night" and "Scare-o-lina Skies."

Admission: Free for Members; Adults $7.68; Children, Students, and Senior Citizens $6.51

Hours are currently: 10:00 am 3:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday, and 1:00pm-4:30pm on Sunday

The Ackland Art Museum

Some places leave a lasting impression. Recalling a field trip to the Ackland many years ago, it was a pleasure to revisit their offerings. The paintings and exhibits are still inspiring. They also offer yoga classes and hands-on drawing activities such as Drawing in the Gallery, Music in the Gallery, and Drawing for Tweens. Not to be missed are showings for vintage and wonderful moviesup next is an Ackland Film Forum on Alfred Hitchcocks "Rear Window" on Sept. 9! The films introduction will be conducted by Henry Veggian, UNC-Chapel Hill Professor of English and Comparative Literature. Whether looking to be inspired, mystified, or thrilled, this is a great place to take a seat or ramble to ones hearts content.

Admission: Free; Most Events and Programs: Free

Hours are: 10:00 am 5:00 pm Wednesday through Saturday, and 1:00 5:00 pm Sunday

Dining But wait! What happens if one gets hungry?

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Day trips abound in Chapel Hill, Carrboro