Visiting Chapel Hill for the NCAA baseball regional is an exciting experience, but rain delays or downtime offer a perfect opportunity to explore this vibrant college town with your family. Here’s a practical guide to moderately priced, family-oriented accommodations, dining, and activities—rain or shine.
Family-Oriented & Moderately Priced Hotels, Motels, and B&Bs
Chapel Hill offers a range of comfortable, family-friendly lodging options that won’t break the bank:
- Hyatt Place Chapel Hill / Southern Village: Known for spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a central location, this hotel is ideal for families looking for convenience and comfort12.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Chapel Hill/Durham, Area: Offers free breakfast, indoor pool, and attentive staff—great for families with young kids12.
- Aloft Chapel Hill: Features a 24-hour fitness center, bar, and modern amenities in a vibrant setting12.
- Quality Inn Chapel Hill – University Area: Provides free parking, an outdoor pool, and complimentary WiFi, making it a budget-friendly choice for families2.
- Local Bed & Breakfasts: For a more personal touch, consider one of Chapel Hill’s B&Bs. While options are limited, nearby Durham’s Arrowhead Inn offers a unique, family-friendly experience with gourmet breakfasts and charming accommodations47.
Places to Eat: Family-Friendly and Local Favorites
Chapel Hill’s dining scene is diverse and welcoming for families:
- Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen: A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, known for its Southern-style biscuits and drive-thru convenience.
- Merritt’s Grill: Famous for its BLTs and casual outdoor seating, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal with kids.
- Al’s Burger Shack: Offers classic burgers, hot dogs, and shakes in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
- Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar: For families seeking something different, this spot serves flavorful Indian cuisine with a kid-friendly menu.
- Buns Chapel Hill: Build-your-own burgers and salads, with plenty of options for picky eaters.
Most of these restaurants are located near Franklin Street, the heart of Chapel Hill’s dining and entertainment district.
Things to Do—Especially During Rain Delays
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, Chapel Hill still offers plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained:
- Kidzu Children’s Museum: An interactive, hands-on museum perfect for younger children, featuring creative play areas and educational exhibits.
- Morehead Planetarium and Science Center: Offers fascinating shows and exhibits about astronomy and science, suitable for all ages.
- Ackland Art Museum: Free admission and a wide variety of art from around the world make this a great indoor activity.
- Bowling at The Alley on West Franklin: Classic bowling fun in a modern setting, ideal for families during a rainy afternoon.
- UNC Campus Self-Guided Tour: If the rain lets up, stroll through the historic campus and visit landmarks like the Old Well and the Bell Tower.
Additional Tips
- Many hotels in Chapel Hill offer flexible booking and family suites, so check for special rates during event weekends235.
- For a quieter stay, consider accommodations just outside Chapel Hill, such as in Durham or Carrboro, both a short drive away7.
AI Disclaimer:
This blog post was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence and is based on up-to-date information from reputable travel and hospitality sources. Please verify availability, pricing, and hours directly with hotels, restaurants, and attractions, as details may change during special events or due to weather.
Enjoy your time in Chapel Hill—whether you’re cheering at the ballpark or exploring all the town has to offer!
Sources:
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g49021-zff4-Chapel_Hill_North_Carolina-Hotels.html
- https://www.hotels.com/de1512337-ty2/family-friendly-hotels-chapel-hill-north-carolina/
- https://www.expedia.com/Chapel-Hill-Hotels-Family-Hotel.0-0-d7163-tFamilyHotel.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g49021-c2-Chapel_Hill_North_Carolina-Hotels.html
- https://nsfp.unc.edu/families/local-hotels/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_name_changes_due_to_the_George_Floyd_protests
- https://arrowheadinn.com
- https://www.abacademies.org/articles/jiacsvol21no5.pdf
- https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/charles-r-goeldner-j-r-brent-ritchie-tourismz-lib-org-pdf