Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC

Get Outside this Weekend and Explore One of North Carolina's Famous Streets

by Ashley Kappel | February 04, 2010

Franklin Street, located in the heart of Chapel Hill and along one edge of the University of North Carolina campus, offers a host of unique stores, delicious eateries, and even a fun children's exploration museum, all located along about a mile of one of North Carolina's most famous street ways. The name of the street may stick out in your mind, as Franklin Street is legendary for its Halloween celebration, when tens of thousands of students, locals, and tourists alike dress up in their costumed finest and gather on the closed street to chat, mingle, and admire this year's most unique costume creations. Don't wait for Halloween to enjoy this hot street. Plan a trip this spring while the weather is still cool enough to enjoy a scarf-and-mitten stroll down the block.

Start your tour with a cup of coffee, then stroll down the sidewalk and check out your fellow wanders. Franklin Street offers safe haven from the campus dining halls, beckoning the undergraduate set to cross the street and order off one of the many available menus. Try Buns for delicious burgers and top-notch sweet potato fries. Spanky's offers traditional American fare with something for everyone. Start with the barbecue nachos, then have the steak sandwich. It's a great midday dining destination. Looking for a little spice? Mint (located about a mile from campus on Franklin Street), an authentic, upscale Indian eatery, offers tasty main dishes at affordable prices.

If the kids are in tow, hit Kidzu, the creative children's museum, or simply cross to the campus side of the street to play on one of the sunny lawns of the main UNC campus. Looking to bring out the kid in you? Try Paint the Earth, a fun do-it--yourself destination for all ages.

Shopping is a must, so prowl the streets thoroughly before the stores close. Check out Modern Times on West Franklin Street for hip designer clothing. For more traditional blue-and-white duds, hit Chapel Hill Sportswear, where you'll find the largest collection of UNC gear located off campus. For festive home decor, try The Painted Bird.

When your feet are tired, head to Top of the Hill. This festive hot spot offers hands-down the best sites of Franklin Street; it's situated on the corner three stories up! Grab dinner on the back porch then head to its sister spot, The Back Bar, for a cocktail before hitting one of the more down-and-dirty collegiate bars, such as He Ain't Here.

Whether you're celebrating your 21st or only 21 at heart, there's something on Franklin Street for everyone to enjoy. Come for the history, stay for the food, and you'll find yourself returning for the friends you're sure to make.

Metered parking is available on the street. Garages and lots are located just off Franklin Street.