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Five (More) Things to Try in Downtown Cary This Summer

There is always plenty to do in Downtown Cary with its restaurants, bars, shops, and more all within walking distance of each other.

The other week, we published an article on Five Things to Try in Downtown Cary This Summer, but that only scratches the surface. So here’s a list of five more things that you should try at some point this summer in Downtown Cary!

Grab a Coffee in the Morning at Esteamed Coffee

Open since 2017, Esteamed Coffee is a nonprofit business that employs adults with disabilities and provides opportunities. They offer a variety of coffees, drinks, and treats! Find a seat inside or enjoy your coffee on the patio overlooking Academy Street.

Expect a warm welcome and a charming environment when you walk in! It’s a great way to kick off the day and it is for a great cause.

Make a Splash at the Splash Pads at the Downtown Cary Park!

It can get pretty hot in North Carolina! If you are planning a day trip to Downtown Cary with children, it might be a good idea to have swimwear or shorts you don’t mind getting damp on hand.

In the Downtown Cary Park, by the Market 317, and in a designated area of The Nest playground, there are splash pads that squirt water up from the ground. It is entertaining for kids and helps cool off your dog if you are walking by (if you don’t mind the smell of wet dog, of course!).

For more information and locations of other splash pads, click here!

Get Lunch at Serendipity

A deli shop that will turn 50 soon, Serendipity has been the ultimate spot for lunch in Downtown Cary. They are a local favorite that will always have a line during the weekend, but it is well worth the wait. With a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, plus indoor and outdoor seating, stop by and give them a try when you start to get hungry!

Learn Mahjong and Sip Mocktails at Gather Goods

Gather Goods is a cute little gift shop that also hosts classes. And in one of these classes, join Gather Goods Co shop owner Michelle Smith and Mahjong instructor Mahjong With Elizabeth in this laid-back and fun mahjong class.

You’ll learn how to make a simple mocktail that you’ll get to drink in class while learning how to play mahjong! Tea, seltzers, and light snacks are also provided. Feel free to bring your own food and BYOB if you want. For more details and to book a class, you can visit their website here!

Browse Local Vendors at the Monthly Night Market and/or Vintage Market

Once a month, the Night Market is held at Downtown Cary Park, and the Vintage Market takes place at the West End Biergarten (next to Southline Brewing). The Night Market usually takes place on a Friday and the Vintage Market happens on Saturdays.

They are a great excuse to get out of the house, grab a drink to go, and have fun browsing from the tents of local vendors! It’s great for family outings and date nights!

Upcoming Dates for the Night Market

  • August 21
  • September 18
  • October 16
  • November 20

The next Vintage Market will be on June 20 (4-9 PM). Check out our events page to make sure you don’t miss the next one or follow them on Instagram (@caryvintagemarket).


We hope you get a chance to try a few of these bucket list items this year and be sure to check back in next week to see what is in store for Downtown Cary!

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