Discover Cary, NC Like a Local
Cary, North Carolina is more than just the home of Tribeca Tavern—it’s a vibrant, growing town filled with hidden gems, local traditions, and welcoming spaces that make it one of the best places to visit or live in the state. We believe that dining at Tribeca Tavern is just one piece of the Cary experience, and we love helping our guests discover the places we visit ourselves.
Whether you’re new in town, just stopping by for the weekend, or a long-time local looking for fresh ideas, this guide highlights some of our favorite spots in Cary, NC—places to relax, explore, shop, sip, and enjoy before or after your meal with us.
Beautiful Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Cary
Cary is blessed with an incredible park system, perfect for families, friends, and solo adventurers. One of our favorites is Fred G. Bond Metro Park, a massive 300+ acre park that offers something for everyone. You can rent a paddle boat on the lake, hike scenic trails shaded by towering pines, let the kids loose on playgrounds, or find a quiet picnic spot to unwind. It’s a beautiful place to visit before grabbing dinner at Tribeca Tavern.
For nature lovers looking for something a bit different, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a hidden gem. Featuring a rare stand of eastern hemlock trees typically found in the Appalachian Mountains, this preserve offers boardwalk trails and interpretive signs explaining the unique ecosystem. It’s a serene place to get away from it all right in the heart of Cary.
Don’t miss the Downtown Cary Park either—a modern, evolving green space with landscaped gardens, water features, event spaces, and places to sit and watch the world go by. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch, enjoy an ice cream cone, or take in live music during local events.
Shopping Local in Downtown Cary
Cary’s walkable downtown is filled with independent shops and boutiques that make it easy to support local businesses while finding one-of-a-kind items. Browse artisan jewelry, handcrafted décor, boutique clothing, and gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
Many of these shops are family-owned and love to chat about their craft and the stories behind their goods. Exploring downtown before dinner at Tribeca Tavern is a great way to experience Cary’s small-town charm and commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs.
A Taste of Arts and Culture
Cary also has a surprisingly robust arts scene that adds color and vibrancy to the community. The Cary Arts Center, housed in a historic school building, offers classes, workshops, live performances, and gallery shows year-round. Even if you’re not planning to take a class, just wandering through its halls is inspiring.
The Page-Walker Arts & History Center is another must-see, located in a beautifully restored railroad hotel dating back to the 1800s. It hosts art exhibits, history displays, concerts on the lawn, and cultural events that celebrate Cary’s heritage and creative spirit. The manicured gardens are especially inviting for an afternoon stroll.
Breweries and Coffee Shops That Showcase Local Flavor
At Tribeca Tavern, we’re proud of our North Carolina craft beer selection, but Cary itself is home to some fantastic breweries worth visiting. Bond Brothers Beer Company is just a short hop away, famous for hop-forward IPAs and sours in a relaxed, dog-friendly taproom.
Fortnight Brewing offers English-inspired ales brewed with North Carolina sensibilities, and their taproom is a laid-back spot to unwind with friends. Both breweries often host food trucks, trivia nights, and community events that make them true gathering places.
If you’re more in the mood for a pick-me-up than a pint, Cary’s local coffee shops deliver exceptional brews and inviting atmospheres. BREW combines great coffee with craft beer for the best of both worlds, while Esteamed Coffee is not only known for quality drinks but also for its inclusive mission of providing employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.
Make Tribeca Tavern Part of Your Cary, NC Adventure
After exploring all the wonderful places Cary has to offer, we hope you’ll finish your day with us at Tribeca Tavern. We’re committed to showcasing the best of North Carolina with every dish we serve, from locally sourced ingredients to craft beers brewed right down the road.
Whether you’re planning a casual dinner with friends, a family meal, or a private celebration, you’ll find welcoming service, a warm atmosphere, and flavors that make you feel at home. Come see why we’re proud to call Cary, NC our home—and why so many locals make us their go-to spot.
