For most people who live in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, there is nowhere else in the state they can see themselves living. That's because many people in Chapel Hill see the rest of the state the way the ancient Athenians saw their city, as an island of intelligence and culture in a sea of stupidity. To be fair there are other pockets of sensibility in North Carolina and indeed many people in the rural areas are now getting the feeling that they were duped in their support of Jesse Helms, perhaps the worst Senator in US History who pretended to be a man of the people while supporting big business and right wing dictatorships with records of torturing and killing poor people. It was Jesse Helms who opposed the creation of the North Carolina Zoo by suggesting they just put a fence around Chapel Hill and referred to UNC as the "University of Negroes and Communists". But ole Jesse is gone now and there may be hope for the rest of the state in its quest to join the 21st century. As fair or unfair an appraisal this may be, Chapel Hill still acts as a magnet for anyone whose intelligence, politics and creativity make them a poor fit for small-town (and narrow-minded) life.
First read my Introduction to Chapel Hill which will give you some general information about the town and community. Then go through my Chapel Hill Photo Album and see some nice pictures of people, places and things. Then take a look at the Historic Houses of Downtown Chapel Hill. Don't forget to visit The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill too. There is also a little tour of the Apple Chill Street Fair. Then when you are done go visit Carrboro, right next door. Also take a look at my Reviews of Chapel Hill/Carrboro Restaurants and my reviews of Chapel Hill/Carrboro Clubs Bars and Nightlife. If you are looking for a place to stay see Chapel Hill Hotels or North Carolina B&Bs.