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Hillsborough, North Carolina serves as the county seat of Orange County and offers a beautiful balance of small-town charm with plenty of entertainment options. Whether you want to take in the art scene, stroll through the historic district, or enjoy the natural beauty in one of the parks and greenways, there is something to do and enjoy. The town is home to numerous events, as well as several historic sites, a state park, and multiple state natural areas. It’s easy to travel around the area as the town offers easy access to Interstate 85 and Interstate 40. Whatever your interest, you are sure to find ways to enjoy it and connect with the town’s welcoming community. D.R. Horton offers a wide range of new homes for sale in Hillsborough, NC, with spacious open floor plans and smart home technology.

Community life in Hillsborough, NC

The town of Hillsborough sponsors a variety of celebrations and events for both social gatherings and holidays. These festivals are not the only entertainment in the city, however. There is public art throughout the town, as well as several historical sites to enjoy.

The Orange County Historical Museum showcases the county’s history and includes local artists’ work on the second floor. The Burwell School Historic Site is the site of one of North Carolina’s oldest schools for girls, where the buildings and gardens from the 1800s are preserved, offering an interesting glimpse into the past. Another fascinating area is the Occaneechi Village Replica Site, which provides a replica of the 17th-century village that lived on the banks of the Eno River. These sites offer a great way to engage with the past, and history buffs will thoroughly enjoy them.

Holidays in Hillsborough, NC are always a good time. With numerous events and festivals, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the seasons. The Hillsborough Halloween Spirit Tours detail the mayhem and mystery of one of North Carolina's oldest towns in the Triangle. Sponsored by the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough and in collaboration with the Orange Community Players, the tour walks visitors through the downtown district. The Christmas season is just as enjoyable, and the most popular event of the season is the Hillsborough Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting. Held in the historic district, the holiday parade features bands, fire engines, cheerleaders, and of course, Santa Claus. The parade is held in the evening and is followed by the annual tree lighting, accompanied by caroling and fun activities for all ages.

There are plenty of additional festivities beyond the holiday events in Hillsborough, NC as well. The Hillsborough Hog Day BBQ Festival is a two-day event filled with pork BBQ, featuring additional activities such as face painting, bounce houses, live music, and handcrafted gifts and home decor. The Solstice Lantern Walk brings residents together to walk along the Eno River with their paper lanterns, celebrating the solstice.

There are also other, more regular events in town. The River Park Concerts, held free of charge, feature live music, food, and local artists. The Last Fridays Art Walk, held downtown, includes special exhibits. Local galleries feature artists who share information about their work and process. The event is free, but local businesses and restaurants will also offer specials and features in celebration of the event.

Outdoor fun in Hillsborough, NC

Located near plenty of natural beauty, Hillsborough, NC offers numerous options for outdoor recreation. Whether you are interested in enjoying a peaceful hike or a cycling event with friends, you can find an outdoor activity to enjoy close to home in Hillsborough, NC.

The Carolina Tar Heels Bikefest travels through the countryside of Hillsborough and Orange County, offering a range of courses from 35 to 100 miles. There is also a free, fun ride that is only seven miles long and travels through the historic district. Of course, there are also plenty of options for cycling through town without a specific route or event. The Calvin Street Greenway offers access from downtown to nearby neighborhoods, welcoming both walkers and cyclists.

The Riverwalk Greenway is one of the most popular greenways in the area. It follows the Eno River and is handicap accessible. It also connects to the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, which offers a variety of beautiful views and vistas. The area provides additional trails and ponds, providing further options for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. The rangers in the area also offer educational programming.

Eno River State Park is another popular area for outdoor activities. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails in the park, and it’s also a popular location for fishing and wildlife observation. With over 2,500 acres of natural beauty, the park offers an excellent escape from the city's busyness.

Of course, there are plenty of neighborhood parks in town as well. The Hillsborough Heights Tot Lot Park features a playground designed for toddlers, and Fairview Park and Cates Creek Park both offer additional play options. Both Fairview Park and Cates Creek Park feature athletic fields, and Fairview Park also includes a playground. Whatever your preference for outdoor activities, you are sure to find a way to pursue it close to home in Hillsborough, NC.

New construction homes in Hillsborough, NC

As the county seat of Orange County and its location along the Eno River, Hillsborough, NC offers a unique combination of community events and outdoor recreation. There is always something to do and enjoy around town, and outdoor recreation options are abundant in the area. D.R. Horton offers a variety of new construction homes with open, spacious living and kitchen areas and smart home technology to make coming home comfortable and convenient after a day out enjoying all the town has to offer. Browse our listings of homes for sale in Hillsborough, NC, and contact us to learn more about becoming a homeowner today.