Apex NC

Celebrating its turn-of-the-century railroad heritage, the charming town of Apex NC features more than 60 commercial and residential structures dating from 1870 to 1940. Take a stroll through the quaint, pedestrian-friendly downtown area to see colorfully restored buildings that house thriving businesses. Downtown Apex is home to bustling antique shops and specialty stores, including the locally-adored Rusty Bucket, as well as restaurants like the award-winning Anna’s Pizzeria. History buffs can tour historic Hughes and Salem Streets, part of a district recognized by the National Register of Historic Places that includes the circa-1914 Apex Union Depot, an iconic example of late Victorian architecture.

You can also enjoy small-town theater and artwork at the Halle Cultural Arts Center, with three galleries, two studio classrooms and a 150-seat theater. Further south, the North Carolina Railroad Museum offers rides on restored historic steam engines and self-guided tours where visitors can learn about historic railroad equipment.