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CHAPEL HILL and SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES |
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Chapel Hill, with a population of approximately 60,000, is part of the Research Triangle metropolitan area of almost 500,000 that includes Raleigh (with NC State University) and Durham (with Duke University). The Triangle is a major center for scientific research and is home to Fortune 500 giants like IBM, Data General, and General Electric, as well as major pharmaceutical firms such as Glaxo-Wellcome. Despite its location in the center of such economic and research activity, the town of Chapel Hill preserves a village atmosphere. Downtown Franklin Street is lined with low stone walls and charming shops and restaurants and is the site of outdoor festivals held each spring and fall. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the collection at the Ackland Museum of Art and can spend hours exploring the town's many galleries. The Playmakers Repertory Company, composed of professional and student actors, presents both classical and modern productions for over 33,000 theater-goers each year. And besides serving as the home of exciting Tar Heel basketball, the Dean E. Smith Center features concert performances by many of the country's biggest stars. There are many opportunities for those interested in outdoor recreation. Chapel Hill has four golf courses, twenty-one public tennis courts, and several private tennis and swim clubs. Nearby Jordan Lake is ideal for sailing and windsurfing, and the mountains and beaches are close enough for a weekend trip. These attractive features combine to make the Research Triangle, according to Rand McNally's Places Rated Almanac, one of the top three places in the nation to live. |
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