Separated by just eight miles, Durham and Chapel Hill are famous for the heated rivalry between their respective universities, and both have plenty in store for your downsizing journey. 

Southern Village

If you want all the perks of a small town without leaving your immediate community, a condominium in Southern Village Neighborhood is the place for you. Residents boast on The Green, a central lawn for socializing and Movies by Starlite, as well as the annual Terra Vita Fall Festival. On Market Street, you’ll find a yummy beet salad at Market and Moss and classic Singaporean fare at Rasa Malaysia. And, locally-owned Southern Village Pharmacy is always at your disposal. Right down highway 15-501, you’ll find Merritt’s Grill, home of a famous BLT that’s famed with locals and students alike. 

Meadowmont Neighborhood

As you approach The University of North Carolina’s beautiful campus, you’ll pass Meadowmont, a neighborhood known for its cottage-style homes and walkability. Golfers will appreciate access Finley Golf Course on one side of the neighborhood and Chapel Hill Country Club on the other. Garden enthusiasts should carve out time for the Coker Arboretum on campus, which is kept in pristine condition throughout changing seasons, or the expansive plants and walking paths of North Carolina Botanical Gardens. If you’re a basketball fan, you won’t want to miss the Carolina Baskeball Museum. Grab a warm panini at Cafe Carolina & Bakery in Meadowmont Village Circle, or taste the highly reviewed curry at Fusion Fish. 

Downtown Chapel Hill

In the heart of Chapel Hill lie several historic districts that offer homes with character and authenticity, as well as several luxury condominium complexes. Absorb the many libraries and monuments of UNC’s campus, or indulge your curious side at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, the oldest planetarium in the southeast. Excited by free admission to an art museum with a collection over 19,000 works? Stop by the Ackland Art Museum just off Franklin Street. And if you need an activity for the grandkids, take them to Kidzu Children’s Museum. While you’re on Franklin, discover the Turkish cuisine and wine at Tallulas, or watch the big game over a beer at Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery. 

Southpoint

Known for its fabulous outdoor mall, The Streets of Southpoint, the Southpoint residential area is a conveniently located spot for a downsizer who loves a good day of shopping. After a long day, treat yourself to an upscale Italian meal at Maggiano’s, or Asian fusion at Jujube. Not into retail therapy? Head to Durham Performing Arts Center, the No. 4 ranked theater in the U.S., for hot topic off-broadway performances. Or, journey to the Sarah P. Duke Gardens on Duke’s campus for a quiet afternoon in the woods. Museum goers will enjoy spending an evening at Duke’s Nasher Museum of Art.

Triangle Township

Retirees looking for a community with dense suburban feel that’s also chock full of parks and ponds should consider Triangle Township. Though it offers distance from the noise of the city, you’re never far from the action. Eno River State Park is closeby, and offers hiking trails as well as breathtaking river views. Lake Crabtree is also a stone’s throw away, and offers a stunning spot to watch the sunset. Music lovers will want to keep tabs on the bands coming through the Carolina Theater, and golfers might want to check out Umstead Pines Golf and Swim Club. Enjoy breakfast sandwiches from scratch at Foster’s Market, or delight in dreamy garden when you eat outdoors at Namu. 

Downtown Durham 

Downtown Durham is the beating heart of a growing metropolis for artists, intellectuals, and downsizers in search of an upbeat next chapter. Baseball fanatics will enjoy access to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, home to Durhams minor league team. For a day of walking or biking, check out the American Tobacco Trail, which features over 20 miles of scenic trails. Animals lovers and those with young ones visiting should pay a visit to the Duke Lemur Center, once home to the beloved Zomboomafu. For the best empanadas around, try Luna Rotiesserie. And don’t miss Viceroy, whose daring take on Indian/English fusion will have you coming back for more.