Attractions and Places To See around Hillsborough - Top 15

Hillsborough offers several natural attractions. You can visit the Sourland Mountain County Preserve, a beautiful woodland with miles of well-maintained hiking trails. The Eno River flows through Hillsborough, and the Riverwalk Greenway provides a pleasant path for strolling. Additionally, Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers scenic trails and vistas, while Brumley Forest Pond has singletrack trails along its shores.

Yes, Hillsborough is rich in history. You can explore the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath – Griggstown, which has historical context from the Lenni Lenape Indians and early European settlers. Other notable sites include the Alexander Dickson House, the Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail, the Old Orange County Courthouse, the Burwell School Historic Site, and Ayr Mount. The Downtown Historic District itself features over 100 18th and 19th-century buildings.

Hillsborough is known for its cycle ways. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is a popular, well-maintained gravel path suitable for various bike types, following a canal built in the 1830s. For more cycling routes, you can explore the Cycling around Hillsborough guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Hillsborough guide.

Many attractions around Hillsborough are family-friendly. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath and the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath – Griggstown are both suitable for families. The Red Trail at Six Mile Run Reservoir Site is also described as a paradise for novice riders, making it great for families. The Eno Riverwalk Greenway is another excellent option for a family stroll.

You'll find several trails for hiking and running. The Sourland Mountain County Preserve offers miles of well-maintained hiking trails. For mountain biking, the Intersection of Red and Blue Trail provides options for different lengths and difficulties. You can also find various running routes in the Running Trails around Hillsborough guide.

Hillsborough has a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit the Orange County Historical Museum to learn about the region's past. The town is also home to numerous art galleries, including the Hillsborough Gallery of Arts and Margaret Lane Gallery. Additionally, Hillsborough hosts various annual festivals and events, such as the Revolutionary War Living History Day and music festivals.

Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is praised for its beautiful scenery and excellent maintenance, connecting people and places. The historic district along the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath – Griggstown is valued for its rich stories. The trails, like those at Intersection of Red and Blue Trail, are enjoyed for being fun and offering choices for different skill levels.

Yes, the Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail is a unique landmark. It was once a NASCAR track and is now a walking trail where you can experience a piece of racing history, including original gates and concession stands. It's one of only two original NASCAR speedways still accessible to the public.

The downtown area of Hillsborough is known for its unique shops and award-winning restaurants. It's a great place to explore after visiting the historic sites or enjoying the natural trails.

Located along the Riverwalk, the Occaneechi Village Replica Site offers a glimpse into the lives and community of the indigenous Occaneechi people before European settlement. It provides an educational and immersive historical experience.

Yes, the Six Mile Run Reservoir Site features a trail network that includes options for mountain biking. The Intersection of Red and Blue Trail allows you to choose between two fun routes, and the Red Trail is particularly suitable for novice riders.

Ayr Mount is an 1800s Federal-era plantation house that has been meticulously restored and furnished with period antiques and fine art. It offers guided tours of its house and grounds, providing insight into the architecture and lifestyle of the early 19th century.