Chapel Hill, North Carolina is one of the most picturesque towns in the country, with lush greenery and intricate landscaping around every corner. If you're looking to draw inspiration for your own outdoor spaces, take a look at some of our favorite Chapel Hill spots —the perfect place to explore creative and classic designs.
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The North Carolina Botanical Garden
A must-visit for nature lovers, the North Carolina Botanical Garden is a prime example of how native plants can be used in landscaping. With over 1,100 acres of gardens including many plants only found in NC, the space blends the beauty of natural habitats with thoughtfully cultivated gardens.
From wildflower meadows to woodland gardens, the botanical garden is all about sustainability and native plantings. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including those focused on carnivorous plants, orchids, and aquatic life, offering endless landscaping inspiration.
UNC-Chapel Hill Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus is home to a wide variety of beautiful landscapes. From the classic old-growth trees lining the quad to modern sustainable designs, the university blends tradition with innovation.
We recommend checking out The Old Well, where an original well is marked by a small building modeled after a structure in the Gardens of Versailles. This space has recently been redesigned to include species of native plants for a more sustainable, stunning landscape.
The Garden at Fearrington Village
Located just outside of Chapel Hill, Fearrington Village is home to a meticulously designed landscape that combines formal gardens with whimsical touches. The gardens feature everything from traditional boxwoods and topiaries to more casual, colorful beds of perennials.
What makes Fearrington’s landscape truly special is its attention to detail—stone pathways, charming garden structures, and breathtaking flower arrangements make it a truly picturesque spot.
The Carolina Inn Gardens
The Carolina Inn, one of Chapel Hill’s most iconic landmarks, is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The blend of mature trees, colorful flower beds, and carefully curated lawns creates a welcoming environment for guests and locals alike.
The gardens are particularly stunning during the spring and summer months when vibrant flowers like azaleas, daffodils, and hydrangeas are in full bloom, adding to the inn’s historic charm.
Southern Village
Southern Village isn’t just one of the best spots to hang out in Chapel Hill, it’s also one of the most beautiful. The movie theater, coffee shops, local dining and retail stores are all nestled in a beautiful landscape of native plants, tree-lined streets, and meticulously maintained lawns.
The central green space at Southern Village, often used for community events, features well-kept flower beds, wide walking paths, and seating areas under large, shady trees.
The Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market
The Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market is not only a great spot to buy fresh produce and local goods but also a place to admire thoughtful landscaping. The market is set against the backdrop of natural, locally sourced materials such as stone pathways, planters, and shaded seating areas. The outdoor space is designed to be both beautiful and functional, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors to linger, shop, and enjoy the surroundings.
Duke Forest
Though located in nearby Durham, Duke Forest is a landscape that Chapel Hill residents often visit for its stunning natural beauty. Spanning over 7,000 acres, this preserved forest area has a mix of wooded trails, native plants, and tranquil streams.
The layout and design focus on conservation and education, making it a perfect example of integrating landscaping with ecological preservation.
Why Landscaping Matters in Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill’s landscapes are more than just beautiful outdoor spaces—they also play a critical role in the overall quality of life for residents and visitors.
Contact Soto’s Creation Landscaping Today
If you're inspired by the beautiful landscapes of Chapel Hill and want to transform your own outdoor space, Soto’s Creation Landscaping can help bring your vision to life. Whether you're looking to design a lush garden, install hardscaping elements, or create a serene backyard retreat, our team of expert landscapers can create a beautiful, functional space for you to enjoy for years to come.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start designing your dream landscape in Chapel Hill!