It’s the final week of our August road trip series. So far, we’ve shared our recommendations for drivable getaways to Asheville and Beaufort, North Carolina and Roanoke, Virginia. For our final installation, we’re returning to our home state to discover a hidden gem that’s less than 100 miles away: Pittsboro.

From tigers to fine dining, this small town offers a bit of everything — making it the perfect end-of-summer vacay.

Before you hit the road, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~1 hour and 10 minutes

Est. population: 4,752

Avg. high in August: 89°

🎟️ Things to do

Carolina Tiger Rescue, 1940 Hanks Chapel Rd.

We’ve got the eye…of the tiger. Take a walk on the wild side and schedule a unique guided tour of this rescue, which is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. Learn about what it takes to care for about 50 exotic carnivores + experience up-close encounters with tigers, lions, caracals + cougars while hearing about individual rescue stories.

Starrlight Mead, 130 Lorax Ln.

Sip on something special at this award-winning meadery. Take a free tour of the oldest meadery in the state then sip on a flight of pre-selected meads (honey wine) in the backyard by the fire pit.

Deep River Mercantile, 115 Hillsboro St.

Nestled in downtown is this modern-day general store, where you can shop goods like cookbooks, candles, gifts, and NC favorites.

McIntyre's Books, 220 Market St.

Browse through a wide selection of novels at this cute bookstore located in Fearrington Village (we suggest grabbing a book by a local author).

See one of these majestic tigers up close. | Photo by Carolina Tiger Rescue

🍲 Memorable eats

The Fearrington House Restaurant, 2000 Fearrington Village Center

Pinkies up for this fine dining restaurant located in the Fearrington Village. Enjoy a three- or four-course seasonal dinner sourced from local farms and on-site gardens. Or, sip on a pot of tea while enjoying sweet and savory bites during the restaurant’s afternoon tea service.

The Modern Life Deli and Drinks, 46 Sanford Rd.

For a more casual dining experience, grab a spot on the patio to share a wood-fired pie and a fun, craft cocktail from this family-owned spot. Pop in next door to the other side of MOD for corn hole, pool, and live entertainment. This may be controversial, but we recommend trying the pineapple bacon pizza.

Carolina Cravings, 84 Hillsboro St.

Visit this downtown bakery + coffee shop to cure your sweet tooth. This shop specializes in southern baked goods with a multicultural twist. Pick up goodies like pie bars, macaroons, flan, and tres leches cake — or stay for a while and enjoy the warm atmosphere of this cafe.

The Beagle, 53 Hillsboro St.

On a light note… snack on charcuterie and small plates at this doggone fun cocktail bar in downtown. This modern bar specializes in classic and innovative libations.

Starrlight Meadery is the oldest meadery in North Carolina. | Photo by the Meadery Tasting Room

🏨 Accommodations

The Fearrington House Inn, 2000 Fearrington Village Center

Every room at this historic inn is unique with luxurious features like garden views, antiques, and access to a full service day spa. During your stay, stroll through the Fearrington Gardens featuring 60 carefully curated garden beds, plus you might see belted goats and cows.

The Rosemary House, 76 West St.

Feel the small-town charm at this historic bed-and-breakfast. Located in downtown, you’ll be just steps away from the best of what Pittsboro has to offer. Stay in one of Rosemary House’s six cozy bedrooms and experience their full-service and personalized amenities.