Discover all that downtown has to offer, and support amazing local businesses located in our downtowns! The Downtown Districts of Chapel Hill and Carrboro are thriving with distinctive bars, restaurants, shops, and services that make our community an extraordinary place to live. And, with new parking on Rosemary Street and free parking in Carrboro, getting downtown to support local businesses like these for shopping, dining, and entertainment is easier than ever!
Thanks for visiting the Chapelboro Downtown Shopping Guide! This is a new initiative for 2025 that is still a work in progress so check back for more updates soon! If you want to learn how to list your business below, click the button for more info.
– Featured Listings –
Al's Burger Shack
Cooking up burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and sides fresh-to-order with a hefty dose of Southern hospitality. Al’s uses 100% fresh ground chuck, the gold standard for cheeseburgers. They hand patty the beef, season it perfectly, and cook it to your preferred temperature. Specialty toppings are made in-shack. They always serve fresh, hot, and crispy fries and tots and the frosty shakes are made with frozen custard from local creameries. Come join us for a meal on the patio at the shack or let us bring the shack to you with our catering. Good is good, y’all!
The Baxter Bar and Arcade
The Baxter brings you an experience like no other bar in the NC Triangle Area. Its nerd-chic atmosphere provides the backdrop for over forty vintage and original arcade games, along with a priceless collection of pop-art. They serve quality libations at their full bar, which you can enjoy on the outdoor patio space, two indoor lounge areas, indoor high-top table areas, or at the bar itself while you soak in the sights and sounds. Kids and young adults are welcome before 6pm, but anyone under the age of 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
Belltree Cocktail Club
The Belltree Cocktail Club in Carrboro is a southern speakeasy experience that you can find on Brewer Lane behind the Carolina Car Wash. Discover their enchanting atmosphere for yourself, complete with cozy décor and accommodations, as well as amazing drinks and top-notch service. The Belltree is an homage to simpler times where you can leave your modern cares behind. Ask about their private event space for your next party. Meet at the ‘Tree!
Gray Squirrel Coffee Co.
At Gray Squirrel Coffee Co., they like to keep things simple: roasting coffee in small batches with care to bring out the best in the beans, crafting exceptional drinks and housemade treats, and nurturing great relationships with customers and community partners. Visit their café in downtown Carrboro for espresso drinks, drip coffee, tea, and mouthwatering baked goods made right here, from scratch, with love. And shop their website for coffee beans, home brewing supplies, and awesome merch shipped to coffee-lovers nationwide.
Italian Pizzeria III
IP3 has been a Chapel Hill tradition since 1980, with a full menu of fresh-dough pizza and other Italian specialties. Brothers Angelo and Vincenzo Marrone make authentic Italian Pizza with specialty dishes native to their hometown of Naples, Italy. Try a baked specialty such as manicotti, or some delicious fresh Shrimp alla Fradiavola. You can get delivery through Tarheel Takeout at 919-942-7678. And next time you’re in IP3, ask Angelo or Vincenzo about IP3’s catering services. IP3 is the place to be!
Lapin Bleu
Located in the heart of Midway on Graham Street, Lapin Bleu is a jazz bar with a hockey problem. Also known as “The Blue Rabbit,” enjoy local music and drinks with friends and catch the next Hurricanes or Tar Heel game on their big screen! Their inviting and eclectic decor features fun Chapel Hill memorabilia and a rotating gallery of local artists. And, if you start to get hungry, there are several very popular options for takeout just around the corner.
Max's Tin Can
Max’s Tin Can is a UNC themed sports bar located beneath Time Out on Franklin Street. Owned and operated by a UNC Alumni, the name is a tribute to a beloved pet, as well as the court where UNC Basketball played nearly 100 years ago. Featuring daily specials on drafts, shots, well drinks, and more as well as weekly events – discover it for yourself by following the blue stairs. All ages 21+ are welcome!
The Story Venue
The Story Venus is a newly renovated space that is perfect for your next event. It opens onto Franklin Street and features four spaces: the Ballroom, the Game Room, the Bridal Room, and the Rooftop, which overlooks Franklin Street. The Story is the start of a new chapter for a historic building. After a complete renovation in 2021, the space features exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and professional lighting throughout. This new space is brought to you by Mediterranean Deli & Catering. All reputable caterers are welcome. Send us a message to plan your next event!
YoPo
YoPo – aka The Yogurt Pump – has been a Chapel Hill institution since 1982 and is an iconic community destination as NC’s first frozen yogurt shop! They feature truly remarkable flavors that are updated daily and crafted with care using high-quality ingredients. And, now they’re serving up new no-sugar added flavors packed with all the great taste you love! Don’t miss weekly specials every Wednesday where you’ll find sweet deals all day long. YoPo is the place to chill on the hill. Check out what’s swirling!
Photo credits to the Town of Chapel Hill and Town of Carrboro.
Find more amazing local businesses in the Downtowns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro:
