When I moved to Cary in May 2017—just two months after welcoming my second child—I wasn’t just unpacking boxes. I was unpacking questions. Where do I go for the best parks? Will I find a community here? Will this feel like home? The answers came quickly. Neighbors waved from porches. Strangers became friends over coffee. And summer in the Triangle, with its easy warmth and everything-in-bloom energy, wrapped me up like I already belonged. Seven years later, that feeling hasn’t faded—and it’s a big part of what 5 West is here to celebrate.
This issue is filled with that spirit of welcome, discovery, and summer fun. You’ll meet Carybased artist Shalimar Waffa (“Artist at Work,” page 10), whose vibrant, imaginative works channel everything from motherhood to music in bold, expressive strokes. We also take a peek inside The Blind Pelican (“From Brunch to Bucket List,” page 18) to see how they’re building buzz with over-the-top bloody marys that double as meals—and conversation starters.
For families with little ones, we know that summer often means seeking both fun and function. If swim lessons are on your list, we’ve got you covered with a rundown of trusted swim schools in the area—because learning water safety should feel just as inviting as a pool on a 90-degree day. And if you're craving a little escape from the heat, try a high-octane option: an indoor kart-racing facility that delivers all the speed and thrills—without the sunburn.
Of course, summer wouldn’t be complete without a few classic indulgences. Dathan Kazsuk tracked down some of the best hot dogs in Western Wake and beyond (“The Hot Dog Days of Summer,” page 44), from nostalgic ballpark-style bites to creatively topped dogs. And speaking of baseball, don’t miss our feature on the Holly Springs Salamanders—a college summer league team bringing small-town charm, big-league talent, and plenty of family-friendly fun to the region.
And if you're itching to hit the road this summer, Marilyn Jones mapped out a charming Virginia getaway (“Blazing a Trail to Yesterday in Virginia," page 52) that strings together historic cities, scenic views and hidden gems—all within an easy 11-hour round trip. It’s proof that you don’t need to go far to feel far away.
If you’re new to Western Wake—or know someone who is—be sure to check out our Newcomer’s Guide. It’s filled with local essentials, school info, and a few of our favorite tips to help new residents feel right at home. Think of it as a neighborly nudge in the right direction. This includes choosing your sports allegiance—those in Western Wake aren't exempt! As you can see from my photo, we became Wolfpack fans right away.
It’s an honor to share these stories with you and to celebrate the people and places that make Western Wake so special. If you have a story idea, a neighbor doing great things or a favorite hidden gem—we’d love to hear about it.
See you around town,
Kyle Marie McMahon Editor
With husband James at an NC State football game in 2018.
OWNER AND PUBLISHER
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EDITOR
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CONTENT EDITOR
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5 West magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher.
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ARTIST ATW
Cary artist Shalimar Waffa brings color, music and joy to her canvases
STORY BY DOLLY R. SICKLES
PHOTOS BY JESSICA BRATTON
Aregistered nurse by training, Shalimar Waffa was on track to become a nurse anesthetist when she became pregnant with her daughter, Rowan, during the pandemic. “Rowan was my fourth pregnancy,” she says, “and a miracle baby.” Pregnancy gave her the perfect opportunity to step out on faith and completely shift the trajectory of her life.
“I’ve been painting for 16 or 17 years now,” she says. Beyond a ninth-grade art class, Waffa hasn’t had any formal training—just experimentation. In college, she started “playing around with acrylic paint,” and over time developed a love for texturized art and impasto style. “Really, for the last 10 years, I’ve just done oil painting.”
She posted photos on Facebook, and her work was a hit. It was selling, and its popularity began to soar when COVID-19 shut down the world. The pandemic ultimately presented the perfect opportunity for Waffa to reinvent herself as a full-time professional artist. She found a prime location in downtown Cary and hasn’t looked back since her gallery opened in October 2021.
Originally from San Diego, Shalimar grew up in Durham and graduated from Jordan High School. Her adoptive mother, Letlet Crosby, is a medical technologist at Duke Hospital and still lives in the Hope Valley Farms community. Her husband, Brad Waffa, owns Truss Vet, and Shalimar’s paintings adorn the walls of its clinic locations in Cary, Durham and Greensboro. They have their one daughter, who just turned four. Rowan is a fan of Sleeping Beauty and, of course, her mom.
Shalimar Waffa makes her art using oil paint and a palette knife, applying thick strokes of vibrant color to the canvas. Her downtown Cary studio is both gallery and workspace.
ORK
“I don’t like to have a piece that looks like a photograph on the wall. I want you to look at a piece in a much different way, as a scene and escape.”
THIS PAGE: Shalimar’s studio is filled with a variety of pieces, many from her upcoming fall collection titled “Pink Pony Dreams,” which she created with her daughter, Rowan. The fall exhibit is tentatively set for November 8, with a portion of each sale donated to a children’s foundation of the buyer’s choice.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Shalimar and Rowan painted Pink Pony Club,” a piece in the collection, by throwing glitter and building layers of oil paint over a vibrant acrylic base.
Waffa was named after her mother’s favorite perfume. Like her namesake, Shalimar is mythic and memorable, and a “daring gem,” though she’s not a fan of the scent. Her mother died when she was seven, and Waffa was adopted by her aunt Letlet, who raised her. “My imagination saved me,” she says. It’s the founding principle for her inspiration and aesthetic. “Nature is a huge inspiration,” she continues. “And any sort of grueling journey.”
HEALING THROUGH ART
Waffa’s own grueling journey started with her mother’s passing and followed her as she navigated fertility issues and motherhood. But this Renaissance woman found respite in painting and the fantastical worlds she creates on canvas, and it provided a much-
needed balm from her stressful days in the nursing unit. “I was a code blue nurse in the ICU. In medical responses, I was the first nurse on the scene,” she says. “At any time, I could’ve walked into something so risky.”
Trauma surrounded her, but art allowed her to heal and, in turn, help the community bounce back from the isolation of quarantining. “People were staring at blank walls; they were working from home. I made more in sales as an artist than I did as a nurse for the whole year. It was a significant time for me.”
ART BY SHALIMAR
A rt by Shalimar is the perfect location to exhibit her modern fantastical escapes. “I looked at getting into galleries, and they wanted fifty percent—so that’s how I decided to do things on my own,”
she says. “There were so many guidelines to becoming an artist and putting yourself out there. I’ve done everything, just, rogue.” But her persistence as a working artist and arts entrepreneur enabled her to connect with intention to the community, where art enthusiasts and collectors found a kindred spirit on her canvases.
“My artwork and stories are very personal to me,” says this visual storyteller. “You have to put yourself out there to make stories that connect. One of the most successful collections I’ve done was based on my fertility journey,” she says. “It was a 10-piece collection based on every single hurdle of the fertility battle I had. It was the lowest moment of my entire life, and I feel like I’m still recovering from it.”
“Creating
these kinds of joyful memories together adds so much meaning to the work, and I truly believe art made with love and joy brings that same energy into a home,” Shalimar says of painting with Rowan.
Her fall 2024 collection, Fantastical Escape, allowed the audience to “go into a place of imagination, [to] things that brought them joy as a child.” They were very Disney-inspired themes that encouraged viewers to escape from the grind of everyday life.
PROCESS AND INFLUENCES
Waffa paints with oils, creating pieces with deep personal meaning. She paints straight to canvas, with no prep or sketching, and sees the palette knife as an extension of herself. The thick, textured, impasto style is redolent of the Impressionists and her favorite painter, Claude Monet. “I don’t like to have a piece that looks like a photograph on the wall. I want you to look at a piece in a much different way, as a scene and escape.”
S ynesthesia guides her hand as well. She sees color with music and has done collections based solely on music. “If I have an idea in my head, I can paint it pretty quickly.”
A rt is an investment, and Waffa works on creating generational art that appeals to broad audiences, resonates joy and will stand the test of time. “My goal in all of my art is for my paintings to have energy.” Benjamin Franklin said, “Energy and persistence conquer all things.” Waffa’s paintings share her trauma, struggles and triumphs with the community, enabling her, in turn, to continue on her own healing journey.
Shalimar’s gallery and studio is located at 121 E. Chatham Street in downtown Cary and welcomes walkin visitors or by appointment.
You may visit her website at artbyshalimar.com or @artbyshalimar on Instagram.
BRUNCH From to BUCKET LIST
The Blind Pelican’s Bloody Mary Revolution
BY JENNIFER PRIMROSE
PHOTOS BY JESSICA BRATTON
In Holly Springs, something wildly unexpected has been happening, and we had to get to the bottom of it—a bloody mary revolution!
Enter Joshua Self, proprietor and manager at The Blind Pelican, who, alongside assistant bar manager Brianna Scott, has been turning heads with the restaurant’s classic bloody mary—piled high with bacon-wrapped scallops, lobster tails, grilled cheese sandwiches, filet mignon or whatever you might find on their current menu. What started as a necessity during the pandemic has now grown into one of the Triangle’s most viral culinary experiences.
“ We originally started with a beach theme,” Self says, recounting the restaurant’s early days. “We had a couple of mojitos on the menu, and then Covid hit— and things went south fast. The place was like a ghost town. We had to figure out something else to do.”
Brianna Scott and Joshua Self are the ones behind the wild creations at Blind Pelican— bloody marys adorned with anything from lobster tails and crab legs to grilled cheese and filet mignon.
T hat something else became a bloody mary menu unlike anything else in the region. First came bacon and shrimp. Then grilled cheese sandwiches. Then, one night during service, a lobster tail. “I was working the bar and just building them one after another like a conveyor belt,” Self remembers. “Then someone shouted from the kitchen that we were out of lobster tails and said to throw some crab legs on. I put it together—totally backward—and when I set it on the bar, people stood up from their tables to take pictures. That’s when I knew we were onto something.”
T he drink went from creative to outrageous. A staff contest was held to see who could be the first to sell a bloody mary with a filet mignon. They’ve since included raw oysters, shrimp skewers, even side dishes. And now? Guests can add just about anything. “We’ve done everything from simple waters and mocktails for the kids to smoked old-fashioneds with food pairings,” says Scott.
T he evolution has turned the bloody mary into a blank canvas. Patrons customize them with a full food menu—everything from okra to lobster claws. The highest tab to date? A jaw-dropping $2,122. “People come in and say, ‘I want to spend $2,000—just surprise me,’ and we do,” Self says with a smile.
It’s more than just the toppings. The house-made bloody mary mix is a secret blend of 17 ingredients, spicy and bold enough to stand on its own. “You can tone it down with Clamato or pickle juice, but most people want the full kick,” says Scott.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Self came up with the idea of the Ultimate Bloody Mary during Covid. Here, he prepares one of the more popular toppings, a full pound of crab legs.
ABOVE: Customers can opt for an old-fashioned underneath their own build-your-own toppings, or choose from recipes with names like The Kraken, Lobstrocity and Kratos. Or opt for a simpler, yet still tasty Classis Bloody Mary.
I n 2022, their concoction earned the title of Best Bloody Mary from T he Indy’s Best of the Triangle awards—a win so commanding that the category was removed the following year. “We would’ve won it every time,” Self jokes.
But their creativity doesn’t stop with tomato juice. The Blind Pelican was initially conceived as a bourbon bar, and the cocktail menu reflects that DNA. Take their signature old-fashioned: made with Woodford Reserve bourbon, cinnamon bitters and house-made orange simple syrup, smoked on a cedar plank and finished with a charred orange zest. “We age our own cherries in a bourbon molasses combo—usually for 60 to 90 days,” Self adds.
T he drinks have become a performance piece. “It’s like a show,” Scott says. “People gather around to watch. It’s not just a drink—it’s an event.” And then, as if scripted by fate, a visitor from Maryland walked in during the interview, unknowingly reinforcing the story being told. Her timing was serendipitous.
Nicole Brooks, a visitor from Eldersburg, Maryland, had just driven over 300 miles after seeing the restaurant’s bloody mary on her Facebook feed. “I was scrolling and saw this insane bloody mary with a lobster tail on it,” she said, laughing. “I told myself, ‘I need one of those in my life.’ I was on vacation anyway, and I have some friends in the area, so I just decided to come down.”
W hen asked if she had already ordered, Brooks admitted she was still studying the menu. “I’m leaning toward The Kraken,” she said. “But I also heard I can build my own old-fashioned. So I might need to do both. I just need to make sure I can still drive afterward.”
“ We’ve had visitors from over 30 countries,” says Scott. “Germany. Australia … It’s gotten to the point where we had to start writing in names of countries around the borders of our U.S. map on the wall.”
For many, it’s more than just brunch—it’s a pilgrimage.
Self recalls one guest in particular. “He showed up in full Tennessee orange and said, ‘I’m going to take up your bar all day, but I’ll make it right in the end.’ He was drinking, buying rounds for strangers, asking for pictures with the staff. And then he took his shirt off, pointed to our merch wall and said, ‘I want one of those
Don't fool yourself: Those over-the-top additions aren't covering for a lack of flavor. Self's bloody mary and old-fashioned drinks are just as delicious on their own.
shirts!’ Turns out, he was dying of cancer. This was part of his bucket list—he just wanted to come here, sit at the bar and watch us build bloody marys. His wife sat patiently next to him the whole time, letting him enjoy it. That’s when it hit me—what we’re doing here actually matters to people.”
Not every story is as heavy. Scott recalls the day she built her record-breaking $2,050 bloody mary. “It was this group at a community table, and one guy said, ‘I just want something big.’ He didn’t even like bloody marys. I convinced him to go for it and we started adding more and more items. By the time we wheeled it out, the entire restaurant was watching, cheering and taking pictures. It felt like this communal moment— people from different states, maybe countries, all bonding over this crazy drink.”
Building one of these monsters takes time—up to 25 minutes depending on the complexity. The restaurant has even reorganized its kitchen and bar to function like a conveyor belt. A dedicated bloody mary bartender comes in each weekend to keep the process flowing.
“This is all we do,” says Self. “We’ve trained our staff specifically for it. We had to shut down for a couple of days and retrain everyone when we realized how big this was getting.”
T he kitchen team prepares the ingredients, but it’s the bartenders who assemble these masterpieces right at the bar—often on a stage in full view of the dining room. “It’s become a part of the restaurant’s identity,” Self adds. “We’ve designed the whole service model around it.”
But don’t forget the food. The Blind Pelican is also a full-service seafood restaurant, offering dishes such as lobster and shrimp, cavatappi pasta and Cajun grilled mahi-mahi. Chef Tyren Parker, with over 25 years of experience, helms the kitchen. And weekly specials— like Taco Tuesday and Lobsta’ Night—keep the menu fresh and approachable.
A s the drinks go viral and the flags on the wall continue to grow, Self and Scott remain focused on one thing: making people feel welcome.
“ Whether you’re from down the street or across the globe,” Scott says, “we want you to leave here with a story.”
WHAT EACH SWIM SCHOOL OFFERS MAY SURPRISE YOU
What to know before you choose
STORY BY SARAH MERRITT RYAN
When our son was 18 months old, my husband and I wanted him to learn to swim. We just chose the first swim school that came to mind—one that was reasonably close to our house. I assumed all swim schools were alike and that they were there to do one thing—teach kids to swim, and that’s it. You go for the 30-minute lesson each week and then go home. So we reviewed pricing, location, convenience and timeslot availability and signed the contract.
It turns out there is much more to swim schools than I thought, including the one we go to. While we are happy with our choice, and all swim schools in this area have a good reputation, each one offers a variety of programs that may interest you and could factor into which swim school you choose.
T here are four national swim school chains in the area. Each chain location consistently offers the same programming and terms as the others and are always accepting new students.
GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL
Cary; Morrisville location opens November 2025
G oldfish’s swim team, Swim Force, holds quarterly competitive swim meets where they learn all four strokes. This program is available to children after they have moved beyond Pro 2 status. They offer general open swim sessions to members and nonmembers (who pay a nominal fee), plus a special Friday night open swim with a theme, where kids can paint a pot or do pajama story time, for example. Goldfish also does water safety presentations by request for organizations such as schools or moms’ groups as well as Safer Swimmer Pledges in the month of May, where kids color and draw their pledge to be displayed on walls for all to see. Goldfish also partners with the Carolina Swims Foundation to offer free swim lessons to children in need.
AQUA-TOTS SWIM SCHOOL
Cary; Holly Springs
Aqua-Tots offers a swim club, which is different from a swim team. It is a competitive practice for advanced swimmers, which is used as a time to practice laps and be social with others. They host Swimfest in the fall and spring, where members and their guests can participate in open swim. Aqua-Tots offers swim lessons in several formats: group, semiprivate and private lessons for all
ages, including those with special needs. They also have Fast Track, a one-week intensive session to speed up muscle memory and skill development. With a small registration fee, a nonmember—perhaps even at another swim school who needs this service—can sign up for it regardless.
BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL
Apex
Big Blue’s curriculum focuses on proficiency instead of skills, emphasizing endurance and distance versus just how to do it. They divide their swim lessons into four groups: Babies, Brights, Bold and Bigs. Bold and Bigs are both six years and up; however, Bigs is a slightly longer class at 45 minutes for children who want to learn the foundational steps of being on a swim team. Select Big Blue swim associates are trained to be Swim Whisperers through Swim Angelfish, a national organization created to teach swimming to children with special needs, while also being trained intensively through Big Blue’s curriculum. Starting in June, they began offering Super Improver Clinics—30-minute sessions where you, as a parent, tell the instructor what your child needs to work on and how they can help you troubleshoot. You don’t have to be a member to enroll in Super Improver Clinics. They also offer classes to adults. Big Blue is the only swim school in Apex, and this national franchise is looking to place swim schools in other 5 West suburbs as well.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Sarah Merritt Ryan and her child are taking swimming lessons. Photo courtesy of Sarah Merritt Ryan. BELOW: Young swimmers can receive either private or small group lessons. Photos courtesy of Goldfish Swim School.
SAFESPLASH
Holly Springs; Morrisville
SafeSplash offers swim lessons to people of all ages. They focus on promoting swimmers according to skillsets versus age, and offer group, private and semiprivate lessons. Their Wave program is geared toward individuals interested in joining a swim team. Using a technology called SwimLabs, the team can provide video analysis to improve swim techniques for Ironman competitors, Olympians, college teams and more. During school breaks, children can take SwimJams, an intensive one-week program where your child takes daily one-hour intensive sessions for muscle memory. They also offer aqua fitness classes, open swim, and corporate or birthday party rentals with private rooms.
O ur son is finally sticking with swimming lessons, and we are so relieved that he is making progress. He’s been doing just one swim class per week, but we were curious how to kick it up a notch. We would love for him to fully be able to swim without a life preserver by this July, when we go to the beach. It’s good to know that swim schools offer a variety of options, especially for a family like ours that does not live in a neighborhood with a community pool.
It’s also nice to know there’s a next step where your child has opportunities to be challenged once they become proficient, and can even compete if they are so inclined. Since so many of these swim schools allow you to take advantage of certain programs, even if you belong to another under a contract, they are actively positioning themselves to be part of the community through giving back by providing a safety prog ram.
Photo by Stock.Adobe.com-Monkey Business
Photo by Stock.Adobe.com-FOTO_STOCKER
BONUS BASEBALL
It’s not quite the minor leagues, but the Holly Springs Salamanders give local players and fans a hometown summer experience
STORY BY KURT DUSTERBERG
If you drive along NC Hwy 55 Bypass in Holly Springs on a summer evening, you might catch a familiar slice of Americana. On the east side of the highway, stadium lights splash across Ting Park, a modern baseball venue where the seats are often brimming with fans.
A t first glance, the view gives off a minor league baseball vibe. But the park is home to the Holly Springs Salamanders, a team of college players from the Coastal Plain league. The stadium is among the newer venues in the 15-team league, which has teams in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Georgia.
“For us, we try to treat it as close to a minor league game as possible, whether it’s the Durham Bulls or you’re going to Zebulon to see the Mudcats,” says Salamanders general manager Michael Villafana. “We try to do everything they do, if not better.”
For the fans, that means contests and giveaways in-between innings, along with theme nights and promotions. “It’s all about the entertainment—the
on-field promotions,” Villafana says. “We will mix them up every single night. You can come to all 32 games, and every night you’re going to get a different show. That’s important to us.”
T he experience has a local flavor, too. Many of the Salamanders either grew up in the Triangle or currently play for area universities. Daniel Stephens is enjoying his second summer with Holly Springs. The third baseman played at Rolesville High School before attending Crossroads Flex High School in Cary and playing for Pro5 Baseball Academy, which is based out of Ting Park.
“I live at home, 40 minutes away in the Wake Forest area, and I come here on game days around 1 p.m.,” says Stephens, who has played at Georgia Gwinnett College and plans to play at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke next year. “It’s about the memories you make here with your team, the bond. Being in the moment. Coach was telling us yesterday, your baseball career compared to your whole life is just a smidge of your time.”
Triangle
local Daniel Stephens is enjoying his second season with the Salamanders as third baseman.Photos courtesy of the Holly Springs Salamanders. OPPOSITE PAGE: The Holly Springs Salamanders play at Ting Park, and this guy is hopefully belting out a home run.
Jake Stanley played at Heritage High School before finishing at Crossroads Flex and Pro5. After a freshman redshirt season at George Mason University, a Division I school, he is happy to play more baseball on his home turf. “It definitely makes it easier being close to home,” Stanley says.
“I also have a lot of friends in the Holly Springs and Apex area. You can invite them to a baseball game and they can be part of this atmosphere. It’s just awesome.”
T he local flavor is part of what makes the experience work for the Salamanders.
“Any time we can have more local talent, it’s a positive for us,” Villafana says. “Not only are they familiar, but it’s also good for family and friends to come and see them play throughout the summer. The players know that the expectation is for them to be as well-connected to our fans as they are to their own teammates.”
Stephens enjoys the atmosphere of the 1,800-seat stadium, where the spectators can interact with the players—even during the games sometimes. “You see a bunch of families out here with kids,” he says. “You sign a bunch of autographs. These kids, it means the world to them to watch you play. They look up to you.”
T here are dozens of collegiate summer leagues spread across the country, often referred to as “wood-bat” leagues. Because the players are accustomed to using composite bats in college, the chance to play with wood bats is an early audition for professional baseball—and that’s the goal for most of the players.
“It’s definitely a big dream for me, but the process has always been the fun part,” says Stanley, who is 19 years old. “I get to go out there and work every day. I try not to think about what’s ahead of me as much.”
For Stephens, who is 23, this is his fourth summer in a wood-bat league.
“I would love to get signed by an MLB ballclub,” he says. “Realistically, I won’t be drafted because I’m too old. I would have to put a great season together. But there’s no guarantee how long you get to play. It’s a blessing being here, day in and day out, just meeting a lot of fans. It’s a crazy atmosphere.”
For a decade now, the Salamanders have been part of the Holly Springs summer experience—thanks in part to a home that has some big-league appeal.
“ This stadium is definitely one of the best in the league,” Villafana says. “It’s a full turf field, so it’s always in pristine condition. But also the seating bowl has a lot of shade for our fans in the Carolina heat during the summer. There’s a lot of concourse space, so we bring in a lot of vendors, whether it’s food or merchandise. We try to provide the best experience possible.”
Members of the Holly Springs Salamanders wait at home plate for their teammate after hitting a home run.
So you’ve landed in Western Wake County— welcome! Whether you moved for a new job, top-rated schools or just a more balanced lifestyle, you’ve picked a great spot. Western Wake includes some of the Triangle’s fastest-growing towns: Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina and charming spots just beyond. With easy access to Raleigh, Durham and Research Triangle Park, you’re perfectly positioned for both big-city perks and small-town ease.
Here’s a guide to help you settle in and feel right at home.
NEW
RESIDENT ESSENTIALS
First things first, get all the boring stuff out of the way so you can breathe easy.
• DMV and Driver’s License: Visit ncdot.gov/dmv for information about transferring your license and vehicle registration and getting a NC REAL ID. Pro tip: Make an appointment early!
• Electricity: duke-energy.com
• Water and trash: Varies by city. Start at wake.gov
• Internet: Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, Google Fiber, T-Mobile and more
• Voter Registration: Head to ncsbe.gov to register online or update your address
OTHER KEY RESOURCES:
• Wake County: wake.gov
• Chatham County: chathamcountync.gov
• GoTriangle Transit Info: gotriangle.org
GET TO KNOW THE AREA
Western Wake is part of the Piedmont—the central belt of North Carolina—which means you’re never too far from the mountains or the coast. Cary and Apex offer walkable downtowns with history and heart, while Morrisville and Fuquay-Varina are growing rapidly with new neighborhoods, parks and schools. Holly Springs is known for family-friendly festivals and green space, and a short drive to Pittsboro finds a slower pace, creative spirit and easy access to Jordan Lake.
With Research Triangle Park just minutes away, many residents work in tech, health care, education and innovation. And thanks to the region’s top universities—North Carolina State University, Duke University and the University of North Carolina—education and research shape much of the local culture.
Town of Cary. Photo by stock.adobe.com - David
THE FOUR SEASONS (YES, REALLY)
One of the first things new arrivals notice? We get all four seasons. Spring bursts onto the scene with azaleas, dogwoods and a whole lot of pollen. Summer is hot and humid but perfect for trips to the pool, local lakes or beaches. Fall brings crisp nights, pumpkin patches and football. And winters? Mild, with maybe one or two snow days (maybe some with actual snow).
HIKING TRAILS AND GREENWAYS
Western Wake is an outdoor lover’s dream. Cary alone has over 80 miles of greenways, and Apex is home to the scenic Apex Community Park trail. The American Tobacco Trail cuts through parts of Western Wake for walking, running and biking. Just west of the area, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers boating, hiking, fishing and camping. It’s nature without the long drive.
GETTING AROUND
Most residents rely on cars, but the area is steadily expanding transit and greenway options. GoCary, GoApex and GoWake Transit offer local routes, while GoTriangle connects you to Raleigh and Durham. Major roads include US Hwy 1, I-540 (a toll road), NC Hwy 55 and I-40. Traffic can be busy at rush hour, but many towns are designed with convenience in mind.
SHOPPING AND DINING
Western Wake’s growth has brought a wave of excellent
shopping and dining. Downtown Cary is now home to the new Downtown Cary Park and dozens of locally owned shops, bakeries and restaurants. Fenton, a mixed-use development near WakeMed Soccer Park, features stylish boutiques and chef-driven dining. Apex’s revitalized Salem Street is a favorite weekend stroll, and Holly Springs’ Town Hall Commons is growing rapidly with new businesses.
Hungry? From classic Southern fare to Korean BBQ, you’ll find it all. Cary is especially known for its wide variety of international cuisine. Weekly farmers markets pop up in nearly every town, including longrunning markets in Apex and Pittsboro.
COMMUNITY AND CULTURE
Each town has its own flavor, but community connection is strong throughout. Town-sponsored events like Cary’s Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival and HollyFest in Holly Springs bring neighbors together year-round. Local YMCAs, libraries and parks departments offer classes, youth programs and adult leagues that help you plug in.
SPORTS AND REC
If you’re into sports—watching or playing—Western Wake delivers. Cary is home to WakeMed Soccer Park, where the NC Courage and North Carolina FC play as well as the USA Baseball National Training Complex. Apex and Holly Springs have competitive youth baseball
programs and high-end recreation centers. Morrisville Cricket Ground supports the region’s growing cricket scene. And whether you’re a Duke, UNC or NC State fan, you’re in the heart of ACC country. Pro tip: Choose one!
FAIRS, FESTIVALS AND FAMILY FUN
From food truck rodeos to outdoor movie nights, there’s something for everyone. The Apex PeakFest is one of the region’s longest-running arts festivals, while The International Festival in Cary showcases global cultures. Don’t miss the North Carolina State Fair in nearby Raleigh each October, or the music-filled Bynum Front Porch Fridays just outside of Pittsboro.
MUSEUMS AND LEARNING
Families and curious minds can explore history and science across the region. The Halle Cultural Arts Center in Apex offers rotating exhibits and performances. Nearby Raleigh museums—like the North Carolina Museum of Art and Marbles Kids Museum—are a short drive away, as is the Carolina Tiger Rescue in Pittsboro, which offers guided wildlife tours.
GO-PLAY-SEE
One of the biggest perks of living here? You’re perfectly placed for adventure.
• Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach: 2–2.5 hours (surf and seafood)
• Charlotte: 2.5 hours (urban buzz and pro sports)
• Boone/Blowing Rock: 3.5 hours (mountain hikes and cozy cabins)
• Asheville: 4.5 hours (eclectic downtown and Blue Ridge beauty)
• Atlantic Beach: 3 hours (quiet coastlines and fishing)
EDUCATION GUIDE
If you’re raising a family in Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Morrisville or Fuquay-Varina, you already know Western Wake County is one of the most desirable areas in the state for education. But with so many public, charter and private schools nearby—not to mention multiple school calendars—it’s hard to know where to begin.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Most residents of Western Wake are zoned for schools in the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), one of the largest and most highly rated in North Carolina. When you enroll, your student is assigned a base school based on your home address. These base schools vary in size, focus and calendar—so the first step is learning what your neighborhood school offers. Wake County uses three different calendars:
• Traditional: A long summer break, plus breaks in fall, winter and spring
• Modified: A shorter summer and longer breaks throughout the year
• Year-Round: Four staggered “tracks” that rotate throughout the year, with frequent breaks
Jordan Lake. Photo by stock.adobe.com - JJ
Your assigned calendar is based on your base school, but you may request a transfer to a school with a different schedule (space permitting).
MAGNET SCHOOLS AND EARLY COLLEGES
WCPSS offers magnet schools that provide themed curriculums like STEM, world languages or the arts. These programs can offer a great fit for students who thrive in a more specialized or exploratory environment. Admission is through a lottery system, and availability varies based on where you live.
Students entering high school may also be eligible for early college programs through Wake Technical Community College or NC State. These schools offer dual-enrollment opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school—and in many cases, at no cost.
CHARTER AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Western Wake has a variety of public charter schools, including Peak Charter Academy and Cardinal Charter Academy. These tuition-free schools operate independently and require an application.
Private schools range from faith-based campuses to Montessori programs, with several located throughout
Cary, Apex and Holly Springs. Tuition and enrollment vary, but many offer financial aid.
HOMESCHOOL SUPPORT
Families who choose to homeschool will find strong support in Western Wake, including academic co-ops, arts and sports programs, and active community groups. The North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education handles registration and reporting.
TIPS FOR NAVIGATING THE PROCESS
• Start with wcpss.net to find your base school
• Visit open houses and take virtual tours
• Talk to neighbors and teachers
• Consider your child’s personality, interests and needs
WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Relocating is a big step, but Western Wake makes it easy to feel at home. With charming downtowns, friendly neighbors and everything from pickleball courts to public concerts, there’s plenty to love and lots to do. We’re glad you’re here.
For a more extensive list of resources, check out our online guide: 5westmag.com/the-newcomers-guide-towestern-wake/.
THE HOT DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
STORY BY DATHAN KAZSUK
Let’s get one thing straight: There’s no shame in loving a good hot dog. Sure, it’s not caviar and an expensive bottle of French Champagne. It’s not a handcrafted sushi roll placed delicately on artisan rice. But when that frankfurter hits the grill, when the snap of that casing gives way to juicy, smoky perfection— suddenly, you remember why hot dogs have been America’s guilty pleasure for as long as I’ve been on this Earth.
And here we are again. The dog days of summer. It’s hot. It’s humid. You could steam a bun on your forehead. What better way to embrace this than going on a hot dog pilgrimage through the Triangle?
Now, before I dive into the “where,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why are hot dogs so beloved? The story, as with many American food legends, starts with immigration. German immigrants introduced their beloved frankfurters and hot dogs, also known as wieners, to the United States in the late 1800s. (And yes, there’s still a feud over whether Frankfurt or Vienna— Wien—gets the naming rights.) By the early 20th century, these sausage sandwiches were popping up on street carts across New York City.
Legend has it that a vendor named Charles Feltman opened the first hot dog stand on Coney Island in the 1870s. His former employee, Nathan Handwerker, later opened Nathan’s Famous. You know, the one with Joey Chestnut smashing wieners in his mouth during that hot dog–eating contest that makes you queasy just thinking about it. But we’re not here to watch people inhale 60+ hot dogs in 10 minutes. We’re here to savor.
Speaking of savoring, what about this so-called “Carolina-style” hot dog? Chili, mustard, onions. Sometimes slaw if you’re fancy. It’s as much a rite of passage here as sweet tea and pulled pork. But Carolina didn’t invent the idea of topping a dog with chili.
Depending on who you ask (and how much you want to start a bar fight), that honor goes to the Coney Islands of New York and Michigan.
In Michigan, a “Coney Dog” means a grilled hot dog topped with a meaty chili sauce (never beans), raw onions and mustard. Sound familiar? That’s because it’s basically what we call Carolinastyle. The key difference is the chili itself—Carolina chili tends to be thinner, with more of a vinegar tang to complement the vinegar-based slaw that sometimes joins the party. Up north it’s a thicker, heartier chili, meant to stick to your ribs— and your shirt.
Another fun hot dog fact to impress your friends at the next cookout: During peak grilling season, Americans consume about 7 billion hot dogs. That’s right, billion. Enough to stretch from Raleigh to my home state of California more times than you’d like to think about. And while ketchup is allowed on burgers, in many hot dog circles— especially here in the South—putting ketchup on a hot dog after age 10 is considered a crime against humanity.
B ut the magic of the hot dog isn’t just in its toppings. It’s in the nostalgia. The simplicity. The pure, unpretentious joy of biting into something that’s been around since Ulysses S. Grant was on the $50 bill—and somehow still hasn’t gone out of style.
S o, with that in mind, I wanted to track down some local stops for hot dogs around Wake County. From Cary and Holly Springs to Apex, I’ll be hitting up the local legends one bun at a time. Whether they stick to the Carolina classic or go rogue with wild toppings, I’m ready. And I might miss your favorite, so please don’t hold it against me. Just let me know so I can eventually add it to my list.
B ut before I do, let’s look into those Raleigh staples that put hot dogs on the map here in Wake County.
L ET’S START IN RALEIGH
W hen it comes to iconic hot dog joints, three names always seem to sizzle to the top—Snoopy’s, Char-Grill and The Roast Grill. Each one holds a piece of the city’s culinary soul, serving nostalgia one chili dog at a time.
S noopy’s got its start in 1978 when Steve and Sarah Webb turned an old gas station into a roadside haven for steamed bun hot dogs and chili cheeseburgers. With its classic red-and-white awning and no-nonsense eastern North Carolina flair, Snoopy’s built its name on mustard,
onions and chili—and being one of the first fast-food spots to stay open after midnight.
C har-Grill has been flame-broiling into hearts and stomachs just a few blocks away since 1959. Founded on Hillsborough Street with a humble cinder block building and a genius idea—write your order on a slip and drop it through a slot—Char-Grill became a fixture for its charred burgers and dogs, cooked over an open flame.
T hen there’s The Roast Grill, arguably the purist of the trio. Opened in 1940 and still owned by the same family, this no-ketchup-allowed institution serves dogs burnt to a crisp on purpose and topped with a century-old chili recipe, mustard and onions. The tiny downtown joint hasn’t changed much in decades—and that’s precisely why people love it.
Together, these three spots represent the holy trinity of Raleigh hot dog culture—each with its own style, history and loyal fan base.
W ESTERN WAKE HOT SPOTS
Founded in 2013 by Corbett Shope in Cary, Corbett's Burgers & Soda Bar is a burger and hot dog joint that was born on the idea of the classic soda shop. But what began as a single location has now grown into five locations— including here in Holly Springs, where I’ll feast on the Southern Dog (red hot dog, chili, coleslaw, mustard and
diced onions), New York Dog (Nathan’s hot dog, spicy brown mustard, grilled onions and sauerkraut) and the Philly Cheese Dog (Nathan’s hot dog, grilled onions and peppers with melted American cheese).
A ll three dogs brought the flavor and held their own. The Southern nailed that classic combo of chili and slaw like it was born on a tailgate. The New York dog flexed with grilled onions and ’kraut, and the Philly brought the heat with gooey American cheese. And with plenty more franks on the menu, folks in Western Wake don’t need to look far—Corbett’s has their dog game locked down.
O ver in Apex, you’ll find TapStation parked right off South Salem Street—assuming you can actually find a parking spot. It’s a madhouse on the weekends—and for good reason. The place cranks out eight different dogs, from the Carolina Dog loaded with chili, mustard and slaw to a Popper Dog that’s practically a dare—stuffed with jalapeños, wrapped in bacon and dripping in beer cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous (or just watched an Anthony Bourdain rerun), there’s even the Korean Slaw Brat topped with kimchi and Asian slaw.
want them—this
PAGE 44: Corbett's in Holly Springs has a long list of hot dogs, including the Southern Dog, New York Dog and Philly Cheese Dog. Photo by Jessica Bratton. Order up a side of fries and grab a vintage glass bottle of Cheerwine from the cooler. PAGE 46, LEFT: The Chicago Dog at BottleDog Bites & Brews in Cary has all-beef dogs wrapped in bacon. Photo by Dathan Kazsuk. PAGE 46, RIGHT: The Southern Dog at Corbett's is smothered in chili. Photo by Jessica Bratton. ABOVE: Char-Grill's dogs can be ordered just as you
dog goes all the way with chili, mustard and onions. Photo by Dathan Kazsuk.
MINDFUL MERCHANT FULFILLS COUPLE'S DREAM
Cary's popular low-waste store, Mindful Merchant, started off as little more than a dream shared by a young couple.
STORY BY SAMANTHA CARSON
Jacqueline and Dillon Tucker met while working for a large advertising company in California. Dillon was in the A/V department, while Jacqueline was in the print department. They worked on a few projects together and hit it off. Eventually they married and changed jobs, moving to cities like Denver and Salt Lake City. When they chose to start a family, though, they decided to look east.
SOMETHING MISSING
Born in Charlotte, Jacqueline has roots in North Carolina but grew up in Pennsylvania. In contrast, Dillon was born and raised in Texas. Though they’ve lived all over the country, they each have family in North Carolina, and ultimately the desire
to be around them led the Tuckers to settle here. But one thing about Cary stuck out during the move.
“ We’d noticed there wasn’t a refill shop,” Dillon says. The refilleries allow customers to fill their own used containers for things like cleaning supplies in order to minimize waste. “We had always shopped at stores like this throughout our lives—especially in Utah and Colorado, and in California, too. Since we were used to shopping at shops like that, we looked for one here, and there wasn’t one.”
A MEANINGFUL ENDEAVOR
The Tuckers had wanted to open a business together for years. But they didn't want it to be just any kind of business—
Jacqueline and Dillon Tucker started Mindful Merchant as a way to reduce plastic waste in the community. Photo courtesy of Mindful Merchant.
they wanted it to be something impactful. “We always wanted it to be something that would mean something,” Dillon says. “Let’s just make a little bit of a difference in the community we live in.”
They knew this could be their opportunity. They were familiar with the area and did some research. There was another store focused on sustainability in Cary—Green4Life—but Jacqueline and Dillon wanted to go further. They wanted to go as close to plastic-free as possible.
LOW WASTE IS EASIER
Surprisingly, reducing plastic in the lifecycle of the products they sell hasn’t been a problem. The couple started by looking for local vendors and small businesses. They knew about Durhambased company Fillaree, which promotes a circular economy by producing refillable soaps and other cleaning products. To find other vendors, they went to local markets such as the Cary Night Market and Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival. “That’s how we found a lot of candle makers, soap makers, and gifty trinket things,” says Jacqueline.
But finding vendors was just the first step. Vendors then had to agree to the couple’s low-waste requirements, such as little-to-no packaging and,
in particular, no plastic packaging. However, this hasn’t been an issue.
“ The great thing that we found is that businesses—especially small [ones]—are mostly focused on trying to survive as a business, so maybe low waste isn’t even on their radar,” Dillon says. “But we just talked to them and said, ‘Hey, can you just give this to us without packaging?’ They’d be like, ‘Yeah, sure.’ That makes it easier for them. And so now all of a sudden we’ve turned a product where no one’s even thought about reducing waste with into a zero-waste product.”
A NEW LIFESTYLE
Customers are also making low-waste changes on their own thanks to Mindful Merchant. Some customers come in for the first time without knowing much about living a low-waste lifestyle. Others are skeptical that such products can work as well as traditional items. Customers on both ends of the spectrum often find something they like and keep coming back. Refillables are one such product. Metal and glass bottles line wooden shelves above long wooden tables set against the back wall of the shop. On the table sit large glass jugs filled with shampoo, hair conditioner, hand soap and more. This refill station is one
of the most popular parts of the store.
“ That’s the number one thing,” says Jacqueline. “And customers will be like, ‘Oh, wow, I can just come back and refill my lotion or my toothpaste!’ And then we keep seeing them coming back.”
FAMILY MATTERS
While some might have considered it risky to open a brand-new business while just starting a family, it’s working out well for the Tuckers. Mindful Merchant opened in 2022 to a supportive community. Since then, support has only grown, and the last six months have been the shop’s most successful yet.
The couple prioritize work-life balance and take Sundays and Mondays off to spend time with their children and with each other. Their kids enjoy visiting them at work and helping to run errands. This flexibility is key in running the shop together.
“A big part of the reason we wanted to do it in the first place was because we moved here for our kids, our family,” says Dillon. “This is just the right fit for us at this time in our lives.”
LEFT: Handmade soaps from small businesses are just one of many sustainable products offered at the shop. ABOVE: Customers can use the refill station to fill up an old container rather than buying more plastic. Photos courtesy of Mindful Merchant.
THE ORIGINS OF
WESTERN WAKE
STORY BY ERIC MEDLIN
W ith so many new residents arriving in the Triangle daily, it’s fun to take a step back in time to learn a little history about the five towns we now call home. Even those born and raised here may learn something new about how each town received its moniker.
APEX
Apex, the “Peak City,” is one of Wake County’s many railroad towns. It was incorporated in 1873 as a stop on the Chatham Railroad. The town is not at the highest elevation in Wake County; that honor belongs to Holly Springs. Instead, Apex’s name is derived from its status at the highest point of the railroad line. A similar reasoning also influenced the naming of High Point and Terminus, the original name for Atlanta, Georgia.
Apex’s position on the railroad led to quick growth for a 19th century Wake County town. It currently has the largest historic downtown district in the county outside of Raleigh and Wake Forest. The district is centered around the 1912 Apex Town Hall and the 1914 Apex Union Depot, exceptional examples of early 20th century architecture on Salem Street. Apex did not substantially grow beyond its downtown until the 1980s and 1990s, when Research Triangle Park led to the beginnings of a population boom that has continued to this day.
THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT: A house in historic Morrisville. The Leslie-Alford-Mims House in historic Holly Springs.
Photos by Eric Medlin. An 1887 map of Morrisville. ABOVE: The Historic Apex Town Hall. Photo by Eric Medlin. OPPOSITE PAGE: The Page-Walker Hotel in downtown Cary. Photo by Eric Medlin. The Fuquay Springs Tobacco Barn. Photo courtey of the Library of Congress.
CARY
Cary is the second-largest town in Wake County, with over 180,000 residents according to a 2023 estimate. It is the home of multinational corporations, famous schools and the tallest Rajagopuram—a type of entry to a Hindu temple—in the United States, located at the Sri Venkateswara Temple of North Carolina. But it was not always this large!
Cary began as a stop on the North Carolina and Chatham Railroads. One of its oldest buildings is the Page-Walker Hotel, built in 1868 and famous for its mansard roof. It was owned by the Page family, which counted among its members Congressman Robert N. Page and ambassador to Great Britain Walter Hines Page. The town was incorporated in 1871 and named for Samuel Fenton Cary, an abolitionist and Prohibitionist leader from Ohio whom the town founders admired. This anti-liquor heritage is ironic today, given that Cary and its bustling Fenton district are known for their bars, taverns and bottle shops.
FUQUAY-VARINA
Fuquay-Varina is actually a hybrid of two towns, much like WinstonSalem and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Fuquay, incorporated in 1909 as Fuquay Springs, became a tourist attraction for its healing mineral springs, which can still be visited today off South Main Street. But the vast majority of early residents were farmers, primarily in tobacco. The community’s rural heritage is remembered at Ashworth Park downtown, which is home to a reconstructed 100-year-old tobacco barn.
Varina was the neighboring railroad community founded around the same time. The two towns were never distinct entities, with the community and post office of Varina always located within the city limits of Fuquay Springs. But their close proximity, combined with decreased tourism to the springs, led to the towns combining names in 1963. The original campus for Wake Technical Community College, founded in 1963, was located at the campus’s modernist Holding Hall.
HOLLY SPRINGS
As befits its name, Holly Springs was named after a natural freshwater spring that became the site of a rural community in the late 1700s. The community remained small throughout the 19th century, defined by businesses, schools, and stately homes like the Leslie-Alford-Mims House. In 1949, a profile by Mary Hicks Hamilton in the The News & Observer called Holly Springs “lazy and sleepy” and noted that “almost each house has its small farm and garden with blooming peas, white potatoes and corn.”
The community was still rural for decades after the arrival of Highway 55. Holly Springs hesitated to join in the growth affecting the area in the 1980s and even considered merging with Cary at one point. But now, Holly Springs is growing like few other towns in the country; its population grew by nearly 1,000% in the 1990s.
MORRISVILLE
For many decades, Morrisville was Wake County’s smallest town. It was established in 1875 on the railroad line and named for a local landowner. The area was the site of one of the last battles of the Civil War in April 1865, when Union soldiers attacked a westbound train carrying supplies and wounded soldiers. This battle was the final skirmish involving troops of General William T. Sherman. After Morrisville, both Union and Confederate soldiers went on to Bennett Place in present-day Durham—the site of one of the last surrenders of the war. A local historical marker and a Civil War Trail marker on Morrisville-Carpenter Road commemorate the battle near the railway line where it occurred.
Morrisville was a rural town centered around the current intersection of Aviation Parkway and Chapel Hill Road, the site of several historic homes today. It remained small until recent decades, with only 251 residents counted in the 1980 census. Morrisville’s status in Wake County has certainly changed in recent years; the town’s population grew by 2,800% between 1990 and 2020, one of the highest growth rates in the nation over that period.
BLAZING A TRAIL TO YESTERDAY IN VIRGINIA
STORY BY MARILYN JONES
Over the course of eight days, I wandered the paths of history. I walked the grounds of James Monroe’s Highland. I explored Jamestown, the battlefields of Yorktown and an 18th century community in Colonial Williamsburg. I visited the homes of Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. Broken into four manageable segments, I was able to make it from Raleigh to Charlottesville, Richmond, Williamsburg, Jamestown, Yorktown and Fredericksburg, and back to Raleigh with just 11 hours of driving time.
RALEIGH > CHARLOTTESVILLE (3.5 hours)
Historically, Charlottesville is best known as the home of Thomas Jefferson and his Monticello residence—and the crowds prove it. Several different tours are available, including the home, the gardens, and the Slavery at Monticello tour. I took the Highlights Tour—an excellent 45-minute introduction to his plantation (including the enslaved servants), the enslaved Sally Hemings and their six children, and his accomplishments as a statesman and the third president of the United States.
Adjacent to Monticello is James Monroe’s Highland. Tours include the 1818 guesthouse as well as outdoor spaces, including a scavenger hunt for kids. The “A Window to a New America” installations provide insight into the daily lives of the enslaved people, told with the aid of the Highland Council of Descendant Advisors, whose ancestors were enslaved on the property.
CHARLOTTESVILLE > RICHMOND (1 hour)
A great way to begin your tour is the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. A special exhibit, Give Me Liberty, which runs through January 4, 2026, commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Paintings, displays, dioramas and exhibits tell the story of the Revolutionary War.
From here, pay a visit to St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry gave his “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” speech. A guide dressed in 18th century clothing explains the history of the meeting and the fiery speech given to the Second Virginia Convention meeting on March 23, 1775. Before you leave, tour the cemetery dating back to 1741. Notables include George Wythe (one of the United States’ Founding Fathers), Elizabeth Arnold Poe (Edgar Allan Poe’s mother) and several Virginia governors.
Travel back to 1611 at the Henricus Historical Park, the second successful English settlement in the United States. Excellent guides take guests back in time to a soldier’s cabin, church, plantation, hospital and other sites to highlight the major activities here. Two inns, Hanover Tavern (1733) and The Half Way House (1760), also showcase the area’s history. On my tour of Hanover Tavern, guide Mary Parker delved into the lives of nearly 300 years of guests. In one story, Patrick Henry married Sarah Shelton, the daughter of the tavern’s owners. Working at the tavern exposed Henry to the legal world, and in April 1760 he obtained a license to practice law.
During the Revolutionary War, The Half Way House— named so because it lies halfway between Richmond and Petersburg—was the Marquis de Lafayette’s military headquarters. During the Civil War it served as Union General Benjamin Butler’s headquarters. The tavern often welcomed famous guests, including George Washington, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant. Both inns offer excellent cuisine, although The Half Way House does not offer tours.
RICHMOND > HISTORIC TRIANGLE (1 hour)
The next leg of the trip took me to the Historic Triangle: Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown. I had planned to spend two days here, but there was not enough time to explore as much as I wanted. I recommend planning at least a full day for each of the three destinations.
Historic Jamestown, founded in 1603 as the first permanent English settlement, includes sites managed by Preservation Virginia (Jamestown Rediscovery) and the National Park Service (Colonial National Historical Park). Along with the Jamestown Glasshouse (where artisans create glassware) and Jamestown Settlement (a living history museum of 17th century Virginia history and culture), Colonial Williamsburg offers original and recreated houses and businesses that stretch along several streets. Perioddressed interpreters explain trades, gardening and daily chores. It’s like walking through living history.
Like Jamestown, Yorktown offers the Yorktown Battlefield; part of the Colonial National Historical Park; and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown—a living history museum complete with exhibits, galleries, a continental army camp and a Revolution-era farm.
In addition to the three main slices of history, there are many 21st century amusements, including Busch Gardens Williamsburg, shopping and excellent restaurants.
HISTORIC TRIANGLE > FREDERICKSBURG (2 hours)
The last stop is the northernmost at Fredericksburg, a small community of 28,000 that offers a surprising number of history lessons. Start with the trolley tour, a 75-minute guided tour of the downtown historic district and the Fredericksburg Battlefield. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop is a fun way to learn about 18th century medicine, including leeches.
Other attractions include the Mary Washington House (George visited his mother in the House several times), Rising Sun Tavern (once the home of Charles Washington, George’s brother), and George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm.
After enjoying these 18th century attractions, enjoy a stroll on Caroline Street with its many specialty and antique shops and restaurants.
FREDERICKSBURG > RALEIGH (3.5 hours)
After a busy week of history, it’s a short jaunt back to the Triangle. The route takes you back through Richmond, so you could plan an extra stop to take in additional sites. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, it’s a great time to visit Virginia’s historic offerings.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. Photo courtesy of the Charlottesville Albemarle CVB. BELOW, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: A Drummer's Call takes place daily at Colonial Williamsburg. Photo by Brendon Sostak. A Henricus Historical Park interpreter talks about being a soldier in 1611. A jeweler at Colonial Williamsburg. Mary Washington's home in Fredricksburg. A horsedrawn carrige at Colonial Williamsburg. A St. John's Church guide. Photos by Marilyn Jones.
IMMERSIVE, EXCITING ACTION AT RUSHHOUR KARTING
STORY BY MARIO BOUCHER
For ten minutes, you feel the rush—driving a state-of-the-art, high-speed electric kart pushing over 30 miles per hour through winding turns and sharp curves of the 1,000foot racetrack.
RushHour Karting features a two-story indoor karting track, guaranteed to give you a heartpumping experience. It is easy to underestimate the power of the electric karts. Once you get used to handling the wheel, there’s exhilaration as you navigate the three track sections, going down and around a tight corner.
“The racing can definitely be intimidating at the beginning, as this is real racing,” says Adam Saad, owner and operator of RushHour Karting. “But once
you push the throttle and start going around the track, you feel a sense of excitement, and an adrenaline rush that is intense and exciting to the max!”
Numerous safety precautions are in place to ensure everyone is safe. “Our crew members detail the safety guidelines for our guests,” says Ryan Wagner, director of sales and marketing, “so the racer can just concentrate on having fun. The first time can be a little overwhelming until you get the hang of it and a sense of the track itself.”
VR
IMMERSIVE ENVIRONMENT
Next on the docket was a virtual reality (VR) experience that captivates the imagination, transporting you to another dimension. State-of-
From speeding around the racetrack to dueling against one another in a game of virtual reality, RushHour Karting is a full day of entertainment.
the-art goggles and handsets place you in a truly immersive environment. In this 20'x30' free-roam VR experience, you can play one of six games with up to four players, either as opponents or as teammates. “I can see the players on the screen and remind them when a round is almost over,” says Ian Aquino, track manager. “If they play as a team, I might warn them about opponents like zombies.”
We played Versus by Phenomena—a laser tag unlike any before. Your opponent can hide behind walls as you walk around trying to hit your target. It is a fast-paced 10-minute game where every move counts!
MUCH TO CHOOSE FROM
When you enter RushHour Karting, you face a multitude of options. Hungry? There’s a chef-driven restaurant with plenty of tables, multiple bigscreen TVs and a 50-foot Jumbotron. The two-level
REOPENING IN GARNER
RushHour’s Garner location at 5335 Raynor Road has been closed for major renovations, but is reopening for its 20th anniversary celebration beginning in July. The completed redesigned and longer track—now 1,600 feet—will be one of the largest tracks in the U.S. for gas-kart enthusiasts.
“ With all turns being 20 feet wide, it allows more room for passing and a safer ride experience,” says Saad. “And a compelling elevation change, as this track is multi-level, for a whole new type of racing experience!”
The Mission Box is a new immersive gaming room where you interact with fully lit-up LED lights on the floor and walls. You can choose between nine games for two to six
racetrack occupies a large portion of the building. You can also choose the VR room, arcade games, axe throwing with virtual targets, race simulators and a full-service bar. For golf aficionados, a golf simulator allows you to practice on multiple course options, such as the course at Tobacco Road Golf Club in Sanford.
“ We’ve created an environment where families, friends, first dates, and even companies and teams can dive into something unique,” says Saad. “Guests can compete in the most high-tech axe-throwing system, complete with self-scoring and interactive games. Racing fans love our professional-grade racing simulators, which are used by real drivers and offer an incredible range of cars and tracks. Golf lovers can play on cutting-edge simulators that factor in elevation changes, making the experience feel like the real course.”
players, featuring up to 18 matrix screens and 260 floor tiles.
They’ve also added more than 60 of the latest video games, axe throwing, a high-end restaurant/sports bar, a 50foot Jumbotron TV and more.
Being part of the Garner community has always been important to Saad. The original intent was a place “that companies could take their employees to, and experience true team bonding—and not from a ‘room only’ type of attraction, but one that was designed for adults and to help organizations develop a deep and real connection,” says Saad.
For the latest on the reopening of the Garner location, please visit rushhourkarting.com/garner-renovation.
